Slipknot’s groundbreaking metal debut turns 25. To them, it’s still ‘this festering thing’

As a music enthusiast who appreciates the raw energy and emotional depth that bands like Slipknot bring to the table, I find their story deeply inspiring. It’s fascinating how music, particularly rock ‘n’ roll, has played a pivotal role in forging connections and providing solace not just for the band members but also for those who resonate with their message.

Approximately a quarter century back, the heavy metal group from Iowa known as Slipknot visited the picturesque location of Indigo Ranch studio in Malibu to produce one of the grittiest albums of the ’90s amidst one of Earth’s most stunning landscapes.

Clown (Shawn Crahan), the percussionist and founder, recalled our journey along the PCH, where the Pacific Ocean shimmered, as we drove up Barrymore Drive towards Solstice Canyon in our heavy-duty truck filled with equipment. He mused, ‘We felt so out of place here.’ He described it as a stark contrast, experiencing such breathtaking beauty while creating something dark and troubled.

1999 saw the release of their self-titled first album that significantly upped the ante for rough yet melodic guitar riffs. During this period, nu-metal and teen pop were in fierce competition for dominance on the music charts and MTV’s “Total Request Live.

With their nine-member lineup and masks concealing their faces, the band quickly gained notoriety by releasing three No.1 albums without altering their unique sound. Instead of conforming to mainstream rock trends, they evolved into a distinct subculture. The drum position in Slipknot is a highly contested one within heavy music; being selected for Knotfest solidifies your status within the scene.

Two years following their seventh studio album titled “The End, So Far”, the band is commemorating the anniversary of their self-titled debut album. This groundbreaking record, with its raw imagery and innovative experimentation, continues to shape the metal genre today. The tour will make a stop at the Intuit Dome on September 13th and 14th, marking the first hard rock concerts in the newly built arena.

In this article, The Times had a conversation with Clown, along with the band’s latest powerhouse member, Eloy Casagrande (aged 33 and previously from Sepultura), discussing the influence of their debut album, the annoyance of phones during concerts, and Clown’s surprising leisure time in Palm Springs.

If only I could’ve joined the crowd at Pappy & Harriet’s back in April, witnessing Eloy’s debut! Who would have thought such an intimate setting would host a band like Slipknot? Truly, it would have been an unforgettable experience as a fellow movie buff and music enthusiast.

Clown: We ascended through venues that provided an intriguing platform for us. On reaching our 25th anniversary, which is equivalent to half my life span, I aimed to demonstrate that we could still excel. I sought a location that was unique yet offered great vantage points. After setting up a billboard, one of the followers [Slipknot’s fans] captured it and shared it widely. The atmosphere surpassed all expectations as soon as we set foot on the premises.

Eloy Casagrande: When management phoned me for the first time, I went absolutely bonkers! I had to maintain my silence, only my wife and mother were privy to this exciting secret. Ever since I was a child growing up in South America, Slipknot has been a band that captivated me; I never dreamed they’d pick a drummer from the very continent I hail from.

For four months, I meticulously prepared for that performance, and the preparations were incredibly demanding. Throughout the day, I was left in a state of disbelief. My wife and I spent a few hours exploring the city, and just 20 minutes before we went on stage, an unexpected sense of tranquility washed over me. The band greeted me with a warm hug, and that show turned out to be one of the best performances I’ve ever given.

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“The tour we have here takes us back to the self-titled album from 1999, which was notoriously demanding during its recording. Nowadays, many bands could produce that same album in the comfort of their homes using a laptop. Do you think anything is missing in the process?

Clown: Few individuals would create a record like that now due to its high cost. We invested numerous weeks in pre-production, followed by 10-hour days meticulously crafting the entire album onto 2-inch tape, which was quite madness. We were fortunate to collaborate with producer Ross Robinson, but he was extremely intense. It’s beneficial to be under pressure, it’s beneficial to have someone pointing at you and making you feel scared because it forces you to think differently.

The evolution of music, from Roy Orbison to Phil Spector, Aretha Franklin, Muddy Waters, and beyond, represents a rich legacy of sound experimentation, transforming raw vibrations into electrical signals. From John Lennon’s era to simply uploading records onto YouTube, the trajectory has significantly changed. How much of this will persist in a year or even ten? My band remains vital 25 years later because we emerged from that very lineage. When music loses its authentic essence, I can sense it.

Was metal enjoying success on the pop music charts during that period? Did crafting such a notably difficult album feel like a significant challenge to you?

Clown: As a group, each of you has mental landscapes. I envisioned a foreboding forest, graves, and an intense sulfurous odor. We discovered unique paths to access these images, and when you listen, it feels like it could revolutionize the world. Initially, people would look at our CD cover, see us and think, “What on earth am I listening to? Who are these bizarre characters on the cover, are they circus performers or bank robbers?” Once they recognized our faces along with our instruments, their curiosity was piqued, and we captivated them.

Eloy, what struck you about that album when you heard it as a kid?

Casagrande: What makes this energy unique is that it’s recorded almost live. I collaborated with Ross Robinson on an album for Sepultura, and I understand his style. They were struggling for their survival, for their creative expression. The history surrounding it is intense, and upon first listen, it was a shock because it was so unlike anything else – raw, aggressive, genuine, and human.

People often perceive metal music as mechanical or robotic, but Slipknot defies that notion by embodying a very human sound. I don’t strive to mimic machines; instead, I aim to honor the present moment. We don’t rely on metronomes in our performance, using them only for reference and synchronization at the appropriate tempo. In contrast to most bands who employ backing tracks and metronomes, we perform entirely live.

How do you mesh the band’s style with your own Brazilian music background?

In my own words: Initially, I felt a bit apprehensive, but the group encouraged me to introduce fresh concepts and unique aspects. Shawn even told me to inject my personal touch into it, to simply be authentic.

I really respect what Joey [Jordison, Slipknot’s original drummer] and [former drummer] Jay [Weinberg] did for the band, they were both so special and they are legends. But I grew up playing Brazilian music, that’s in my blood. When I play metal, Brazilian stuff is inside of it. It’s only been six months, but Slipknot’s changed the way I play my instrument too. We designed my mask together that fits my personality, and when you put on that makeup and play a show, it changes you.

What keeps resonating with new generations, 25 years after its inception, is the essence and fan culture that defines Slipknot’s unique style?

As a Movie Buff: Year after year, I see high schoolers craving aggressive tunes as their anthems – it’s almost like they’re searching for something to identify with amidst the turbulence of teenage life: parental divorces, peer pressure, and the struggle against isolation. And here comes Slipknot, a band that’s been passed down through generations, keeping us hooked with their raw energy. I can feel the legacy we’ve built – grandkids are now attending our concerts, and newborn babies are brought to shows by their parents. It’s quite something, isn’t it?

As you grow older, you might have been a fiery young man, later learning from inspiring figures and gaining self-assurance, but your past always remains with you. Metal music enthusiasts often revisit our ideology, and I truly believe that metal is more about behavior than just music. When something like Slipknot resonates deeply within you, it’s a connection you never let go of.

In modern popular music, few artists still use live drummers in their recordings. However, Slipknot stands out as a band that heavily emphasizes drumming. So, where can we find impressive drumming these days? Eloy, I’d be curious to know.

Bands that specialize in rock and metal music tend to hold traditional views. Compare this to pop music, where it’s common practice to assemble a group of musicians without much regard for their prior connections. Creative drummers abound in every corner, and there’s an abundance of good music being produced. However, when it comes to the innovative aspects of jazz, fusion, and metal genres, one must seek out individuals who are passionate about creating such music. In the realm of metal, musicians often know each other well, and fans who follow metal closely recognize and value the band members, paying particular attention to the drummers.

Over the past few years, the band has faced numerous difficulties, including significant personnel changes and [singer] Corey Taylor’s battles with manic depression. Tragically, their former drummer Joey Jordison passed away in 2021. Clown, you experienced the loss of your daughter in 2019. Slipknot provides solace for many during difficult times – does it resonate with you in a similar way?

Clown: Over the past few years, Slipknot has faced many challenges. It requires patience and open dialogue. We’ve encountered difficulties, but we continue to persevere. I’ve been through a great deal, including losing a child. It’s crucial to admit when you’re not feeling well, stand tall, and strive to be a decent person for the right reasons.

As a devoted cinema-goer, discussing the 25th anniversary without Joey and Paul feels strangely empty. Their voices were integral to the symphony, and I yearn to hear their insights. Yet here I am, forced to speak, which feels quite peculiar. However, I find solace in the music itself – it’s my dance partner, my god. The company of these remarkable musicians never fails to amaze me. Without the 90 minutes onstage, there would be no ‘me’.

Growing up, my dad had a severe alcohol problem, yet he remains my closest friend. Music, particularly rock ‘n’ roll, has played a significant role in bridging that gap between us and connecting me with others who face similar struggles. Whether or not we are recognized as a major rock band, our music will always be seen as a cultural phenomenon.

Have the live audiences for metal changed in the film-everything-on-your-phone era?

Clown: The original pioneers, or OGs, are those who educate others about what’s happening. It can be challenging to grasp the mood when you’re constantly moving from one thing to another on your phone. However, despite the advancements in technology, aggressive music will always remain a constant, reflecting a consistent aspect of human behavior – our need to express and release aggression.

Casagrande: Attending a concert brings enjoyment, energy, and excitement. However, some audience members prioritize capturing videos they’ll likely never revisit over fully immersing themselves in the experience – an aspect we consistently strive to foster in the realm of metal music.

People are worried about young men drifting into antisocial subcultures. To me, a band like Slipknot is crucial to channel those feelings into something creative and communal. What does your band understand about the disaffected?

Clown: Through conversations with soldiers and law enforcement officers, I discovered their preferred music that keeps them motivated. It’s essential for men to find an outlet to release tension. Growing up, I faced numerous challenges, but luckily, I found solace in music and the drums. As soon as I began drumming, it offered a physical means of venting my emotions. I ended up with broken knuckles and damaged cymbals, but eventually, I mastered technique, which started with controlling my breath. The drums helped me channel my negative energy and keep my temper in check. Despite the hardships I faced, music provided stability and balance in my life.

Eloy, you spent almost half your life in Sepultura. Do you see yourself in Slipknot until the end?

Casagrande: I’d cherish spending the remainder of their band days with them. My departure from Sepultura was due to the band disbanding, but at that time, I was too young to retire from playing music. I hold them in high regard, and I am deeply grateful for the 13 years we shared, but I felt compelled to seek new opportunities. I yearn for a band that will energize me, a dynamic group that’s open to exploring everything and continues to evolve.

Hey there, I heard you recently relocated to Palm Springs. Given that it’s not typically associated with heavy metal bands like Slipknot, I’m curious about how you came to settle there. Care to share your story?

Clown: Three years ago, my spouse and I yearned for a change from Des Moines, seeking a warm location as our new home. We ventured to Palm Springs to discern its charm, and the heat there was nothing short of spiritual, seeping into your very bones. After a fortnight, we found ourselves relaxing by the poolside, and she remarked, “I could see myself residing here.” Owing to some misfortunes, we desired an escape to a unique haven, and Palm Springs turned out to be the ideal sanctuary for us – devoid of clouds, offering only bright, sun-kissed days.

Do your more straitlaced neighbors know you’re Clown from Slipknot?

Clown: As of now, it’s still a mystery to many, and even those who have some idea about it won’t truly grasp it until they experience it in person. There are people from our everyday lives who visited Pappy’s, and once you witness Slipknot, you become a fan. However, we keep a low profile here – I’ve got a swimming pool, it’s my sanctuary where I can unwind, relax, and I find immense joy in it.

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2024-09-11 13:32