Metal Hammer Celebrates Slipknot’s 25-Year Legacy: A Tribute to Chaos, Change, and Metal’s Evolution
The new issue of Metal Hammer magazine is not just a publication—it’s a celebration, a tribute, and a tribute to one of metal’s most influential bands. As Slipknot marks the 25th anniversary of their groundbreaking self-titled debut album, Metal Hammer delves deep into the origins, struggles, and triumphs of the band that revolutionized metal with their chaotic energy and masked personas. In this issue, we have exclusive insights from Clown (Shawn Crahan), Jim Root, and the band’s producer, Ross Robinson, offering a rare glimpse into the early days of Slipknot.
The Origins of Chaos
Slipknot’s journey began in the basements and clubs of Des Moines, Iowa. It was here that The Nine—Slipknot’s original lineup—developed their unique sound and identity. Their music was raw, aggressive, and unapologetically intense. Despite their potential, the path to success was far from straightforward. It was a mix of determination, raw talent, and a bit of chaos that eventually set the stage for their groundbreaking debut.
In 1999, Slipknot recorded their self-titled debut album at Indigo Ranch studio in Malibu, a choice that was instrumental in shaping their sound. The studio, known for its unique and secluded atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for Slipknot’s intense and innovative approach to metal. The album’s production was a labor of love, with the band and producer Ross Robinson pushing the limits of what metal could be.
Before the album was even released, Slipknot made their first major mark on the music world at Ozzfest in May 1999. This festival was their grand introduction to the mainstream, and it was a moment of both nervous anticipation and explosive excitement. Clown, the band’s percussionist and a central figure in Slipknot’s identity, recalls the electrifying experience of distributing demo tapes and hearing them blaring from car stereos across the festival’s parking lots.
“Wherever I went, all I could hear was our tape being played on hundreds of car stereos,” Clown recalls. “Bro, my brain just melted. I was thinking, ‘Might all these people buy our album?’ It was unreal, just incredible. We were nobodies, anonymous and faceless, with no record out, but in that moment it felt like maybe we had a shot.”
The Magic of Slipknot’s Debut
The debut album, released in June 1999, was a sonic assault that challenged the conventions of metal. It was an album that captured the raw energy and emotion of Slipknot’s live performances, a feature that quickly became a hallmark of their music. The self-titled album was more than just a collection of songs; it was a statement of intent, a declaration of the band’s mission to push boundaries and redefine what metal could be.
Jim Root, one of the band’s guitarists, reflects on the making of the album and the impact it had on the metal scene. “We were pushing ourselves to the limits,” Root says. “We wanted to create something that was not just heavy but also innovative and unique. There was a sense of urgency and passion in the studio that you can still hear in the album.”
Producer Ross Robinson played a crucial role in capturing the essence of Slipknot’s music. Known for his work with other influential bands, Robinson understood the need to preserve the raw intensity of Slipknot’s live performances while also crafting an album that would resonate with a wider audience. “Slipknot was unlike anything I had ever worked with before,” Robinson says. “Their energy was infectious, and their desire to push the envelope was something I wanted to capture in the recording process.”
Remembering the Fallen
As Slipknot celebrates their 25-year legacy, it’s impossible to ignore the profound impact of two key figures who are no longer with us—bassist Paul Gray and drummer Joey Jordison. Both were integral to the band’s success and left an indelible mark on its history.
Clown reflects on his late friends with a mix of nostalgia and reverence. “Paul was a genius and Joey was a genius,” he says. “And they wanted to change the world. Those were my dudes. There was a lot of fighting and a lot of tears, but it was all love. It was the three of us going crazy for our dream.” Their contributions to Slipknot’s music and legacy continue to be felt, and their influence remains a powerful force in the band’s ongoing journey.
A Special Issue
The new Metal Hammer issue is more than just a retrospective; it’s a celebration of Slipknot’s impact on metal and their journey over the past 25 years. The magazine is available both on UK newsstands and online, and it comes with special commemorative items, including an official 25th anniversary patch and a silver logo charm.
Within its 28 pages, the issue provides an in-depth look at Slipknot’s beginnings, from their scrappy performances in Des Moines to their first cover appearance on Metal Hammer. It also includes an exclusive feature on their legendary show at London’s Astoria, told from the perspective of those who witnessed it firsthand. Additionally, nine musicians share their personal experiences and explain why Slipknot has had such a monumental impact on their own musical journeys.
This special issue serves as both a tribute to Slipknot’s past and a testament to their enduring influence. It’s a chance for fans old and new to relive the chaos and brilliance that defined the band’s early years and to appreciate the ongoing legacy of Slipknot’s groundbreaking debut album.
Conclusion
As Slipknot celebrates 25 years of their self-titled debut, Metal Hammer’s latest issue captures the essence of the band’s journey—its highs, its lows, and its moments of sheer, unfiltered brilliance. It’s a reminder of how Slipknot’s raw energy and unrelenting spirit changed the landscape of metal and continues to inspire new generations of fans and musicians alike.
