Metal band Kreator had been around for awhile before they released Pleasure to Kill in 1986. Many in the underground metal scene were already paying special attention to the German outfit's proto-death sound, but the cult status was shed after this critically and commercially successful sophomore effort hit record-store shelves. As fierce and unyielding as the group's debut, Endless Pain, was, Pleasure to Kill provides double the sonic carnage and superior material. Standout tracks include the syncopated "Riot of Violence" and the sprawling closer "Awakening of the Gods." Pleasure to Kill might not be the best recording from Kreator, but in many ways, it could be the most significant. Fans of the group simply must own this seminal European metal offering. ~ Vincent Jeffries, All Music Guide
The tracks marked with an asterisk are bonus tracks from the re-released and remastered versions. They are taken from the Flag of Hate EP.
"Choir of the Damned" is extended on the CD version (the running time listed is this version). The version on the LP is about a minute shorter and is missing the harmonised prelude from the CD version.
The original release of this album was on vinyl but it was then re-released on limited red vinyl and CD.
