SLIPKNOT / ARSENAL
Whilst we’ve seen a wave, in recent years, of nostalgia acts, returning icons and world tours by bands that ruled the early 2000s, Slipknot remain exclusive to this, as despite their tenure on the death metal scene, they’ve continually retained their place as music royalty. I don’t even mean metal royalty, as they’ve transcended their genre and despite the sound or aesthetic, Slipknot are heavily recognised as one of the greatest bands on planet earth.
However, in a move that somewhat compromises the previous point, we have seen Slipknot return to their original look with masks and boiler suits reminiscent of their debut album phase. When their self titled first record was released, it took over the world, unleashing anthems like ‘Wait and Bleed’ and ‘Spit it Out’ and the band became a household name that continues to define a generation. Who could have known the body of work that’d follow and 31 years after their formation, Corey Taylor and the gang have endured change, loss, evolution and much more.
So, when new single ‘Arsenal’ was released last week, it came as a great surprise that not only was their debut aesthetic being re-adopted but so was the sound, with the track being heavily comprised of samples, scratching turntables and a vocal style reminiscent of the peak of the Nu-Metal era. This would massively appeal to die hard fans and lifers wouldn’t it?
Sadly not…
Reviews have been harshly critical and it’s apparent why, but also, it’s far from terrible. Slipknot have created music that’s lyrically poetic, melodically stunning and intelligently crafted whilst maintaining a hard edge and brutal approach. ‘Arsenal’ does feel more abstract and a departure from the quality we’re used to, but it does still feature much of what make Slipknot special and with a brief 3 minute run time, it may well be an introduction to what may come. It does conjure up memories and images of a quarter of a century ago when they first began their world domination and whilst it’s far from my favourite release, it has certainly piqued my interest, and makes its point.
What’s next to come from Slipknot? I’ll be keeping an eye on this for certain
Article by Stuart Green
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