I never got too into Slayer. They were just a casual listen kind of band. I still hold Metallica's first 2 albums close to heart. Early Megadeth and Sodom (ANGELRIPPER!) as well.

Agree with what you said about Death (and the same could go for Iced Earth). Way too many lineup changes between albums. Although I have a feeling that the latest IE lineup might stay for a while (Night of the Stormrider is still my personal favorite).

Ever listen to Anata (Swedish tech death)? They've been pumping out of my speakers non-stop for the past month or so.