SLIPKNOT’s recent performance at Madison Square Garden during their “Here Comes The Pain” tour marked a significant milestone for the band and their fans.
Taking place on Monday night, August 12th, this show was the fifth stop on the North American leg of the tour, and it coincided with the 25th anniversary of their groundbreaking debut album, Slipknot. This iconic album, which originally hit the shelves in 1999, is considered a cornerstone in the evolution of modern metal. To celebrate this anniversary, SLIPKNOT crafted a setlist that was a nostalgic journey for long-time fans, featuring 14 songs exclusively from their debut album, including two tracks that hadn’t been performed live in nearly 25 years.
A Setlist From the Past, Revived for the Present
The setlist for the Madison Square Garden performance was a deliberate nod to the band’s early days. Fans were treated to live renditions of songs that defined the sound of late 90s metal and pushed SLIPKNOT into the spotlight. The performance opened with “(sic),” a track that immediately set the tone for what was to come. The energy in the room was palpable as the band moved through other fan-favorites like “Eyeless” and “Wait and Bleed,” tracks that have become anthems for SLIPKNOT fans worldwide.
But what made this performance particularly special were the rare inclusions in the setlist. “No Life” and “Scissors” were performed live, much to the delight of the audience, marking their return to the stage for the first time since 2000. These tracks, known for their raw intensity, have always been cherished by fans but were rarely played in recent years. Other surprises included “Get This,” which hadn’t been played since 2019, “Me Inside,” last heard live in 2015, and “Only One,” which was resurrected from a hiatus dating back to 2012.
The inclusion of these rarities gave the performance a unique edge, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those in attendance. For many, it was a chance to relive the past, hearing songs that had helped define their youth and shaped their love for heavy music.
A Visual Throwback: The Return of Classic SLIPKNOT
In addition to the carefully curated setlist, SLIPKNOT’s stage presence was a visual homage to their origins. The band adopted a classic look for the tour, donning the red jumpsuits that had become synonymous with their image during the late 90s. These jumpsuits, coupled with elements of their early masks, created a powerful visual statement that tied in perfectly with the anniversary theme. The decision to bring back this look wasn’t just about nostalgia; it was a reminder of the band’s roots and how far they’ve come since those early days.
The visual aesthetic of the show was further enhanced by the band’s modern stage production. While the red jumpsuits and masks were a throwback, the use of cutting-edge lighting and pyrotechnics brought a contemporary flair to the performance. This fusion of old and new highlighted SLIPKNOT’s ability to evolve while staying true to their identity.
The Band’s Enduring Legacy
SLIPKNOT’s debut album, released on June 29, 1999, was a game-changer in the world of metal. It introduced a new level of aggression and intensity that was unlike anything else at the time. The album’s success wasn’t just about its raw sound; it was also a result of the meticulous craftsmanship that went into its creation. The jaw-clenching riffs, coupled with Ross Robinson’s venomous production, made it an instant classic. But what truly set the album apart was the attention to detail in the songwriting, which elevated it from being just another metal record to a benchmark in the genre.
Reflecting on the album’s impact, guitarist Jim Root recalled, “We loved what we did with the first record, but we didn’t even know if there was gonna be anything after that. We just wanted people to hear it.” The success of Slipknot exceeded the band’s wildest dreams, leading to sold-out records, successful tours, and a fanbase that would grow to become one of the most dedicated in the world of music.
Over the years, SLIPKNOT’s popularity has only continued to grow. They’ve managed to stay relevant by constantly pushing the boundaries of their music and live performances. Their influence on youth culture and the metal genre as a whole is undeniable. With tens of billions of streams, millions of followers, and numerous awards, SLIPKNOT has solidified their place as one of the most important bands of the 21st century.
Knotfest: A Legacy Beyond Music
One of the most significant achievements in SLIPKNOT’s career has been the creation of their own festival, Knotfest. Launched in 2012, Knotfest is more than just a music festival; it’s an immersive experience that reflects the band’s ethos and vision. With 28 editions held in various countries, Knotfest has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting fans from all over the world.
Knotfest isn’t just about the music; it’s about creating a community for like-minded individuals. It’s a place where fans can come together to celebrate their love for heavy music and everything that SLIPKNOT represents. The festival has also become a platform for emerging artists, giving them a chance to reach a wider audience and be part of something bigger than themselves.
In recent years, Knotfest has expanded beyond the physical festival to become a multimedia empire. Knotfest.com has become a hub for all things SLIPKNOT, offering exclusive content, interviews, and more. It’s a place where fans can stay connected to the band and the broader metal community, even when there’s no live show to attend.
The Road Ahead: SLIPKNOT’s Future
As SLIPKNOT celebrates their 25th anniversary, the band shows no signs of slowing down. The “Here Comes The Pain” tour is a testament to their enduring appeal and their commitment to delivering unforgettable live performances. For the band, this tour is not just about looking back; it’s about re-connecting with their fans and reaffirming their place in the world of music.
Founding member Shawn “Clown” Crahan summed it up best when he said, “Every time I’ve walked on stage, it’s never been about how many people have been there because my culture, the maggots, always show up. But as we’ve grown as a band, we have had fewer and fewer of those intimate, personal moments, trading them for massive ones. So we’re gonna make it more personal on the anniversary, but how remains to be seen. Just get ready to have your face kicked in. Because we just do what we do, spread that maggot culture – that disease. And you’ve been infected.”
With the “Here Comes The Pain” tour, SLIPKNOT is not only celebrating their past but also laying the groundwork for the future. The band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots is what has kept them at the forefront of the metal scene for 25 years. As they continue to push the boundaries of their music and live performances, there’s no doubt that SLIPKNOT will remain a dominant force in the world of heavy music for many years to come. The maggots wouldn’t have it any other way.
