October 10, 2006 16:00

Slayer album pulled after protests Slayer Tickets

The thrash metallers cause uproar in India

Slayer's latest album 'Christ Illusion' has been withdrawn in India after protests by religious groups.

EMI Virgin India have recalled all copies of the LP due to the Christian organisation, the Catholic Secular Forum taking offence to the album cover's depiction of Christ and the lyrics to the track 'Skeleton Christ', reports Billboard.

The organisation also argued that the record "will affect the sensibilities of Muslims on the track 'Jihad' and secular Indians who have respect for all faiths."

Following the protests, EMI India marketing manager Kaveri Khullar said: "We met with the CSF and were apologetic while assuring them that all copies of the album will be pulled out. We have no plans of re-issuing it in any way."

The thrash metal veterans are due to embark on a UK tour at the end of the month.

They will play:

Cardiff International Arena (30 October)
Birmigham NEC (November 1)
Glasgow SECC (2)
Manchester Evening News Arena (3)
Dublin Point (5)
London Brixton Academy (19,20)

For ticket availability go to NME.COM/Gigs.