Swollen Teeth, the masked collective backed by heavy hitters like Slipknot DJ Sid Wilson, trap-metal artist Ghostemane, and the “Godfather of Nu-Metal” Ross Robinson, have made waves in the heavy music scene.
Their latest release, “Family,” marks a significant step in their rise, showcasing not only their brutally chaotic sound but also a deeper message of connection, belonging, and empathy. Released under Ghostemane and Ross Robinson’s label, Blowed Out Records, the track continues the band’s mission to create a safe space for those who feel discarded by society.
Swollen Teeth first emerged into the spotlight with their self-titled debut EP last year. Produced by Wilson and Robinson, the EP was an explosive introduction to the band’s aggressive fusion of metal, hardcore, and industrial sounds. Now, with their new track “Family,” the band maintains the sonic intensity they’ve become known for, but with an added emotional depth that sets them apart from other metal acts.
The Message Behind “Family”
At first listen, “Family” comes across as a blistering assault of sound—raw, unrelenting, and dark. But underneath the layers of distorted guitars, growling vocals, and thundering drums lies a message of solidarity. According to Ross Robinson, who has worked with genre-defining bands like Slipknot, Korn, and Deftones, Swollen Teeth’s music is driven by their empathy. “The incredible empathy these guys possess,” Robinson says, “Their main concern is to be a place of safety and home for the ones who are or just feel thrown away.”
This sentiment is echoed by the band themselves. In a joint statement about the song, Swollen Teeth said, “New flowers bloom only once the wilted return to soil. This is our way of saying WELCOME to the world. FAMILY.” The metaphor of withered flowers returning to soil to give birth to new life suggests themes of rebirth and renewal, ideas often associated with personal transformation. For Swollen Teeth, “Family” is about creating a community where people can shed their past pains and struggles and emerge stronger—where they can feel like they truly belong.
Sid Wilson, who has played a significant role in shaping the band’s overall aesthetic, further elaborated on the band’s ethos, calling Swollen Teeth a “horns-down movement.” He explains that the band aims to provide a space where individuals can express their emotions and evolve into better versions of themselves. “A safe space created to express and shed your feelings, and become a new, better version of yourself for your Family,” Wilson said. This focus on emotional catharsis and collective healing is what sets Swollen Teeth apart from other heavy music bands, and it’s a message that resonates deeply with their growing fanbase.
Visual Representation: The Music Video
The release of “Family” was accompanied by a striking music video, which juxtaposes live performance footage with more abstract and impressionistic clips. The stark contrasts between the visceral energy of their stage presence and the more artistic, contemplative imagery create a captivating visual experience. The video serves as a reflection of the band’s dual nature—on the surface, they are fierce and aggressive, but there is also a deeper emotional and artistic layer that offers something more meaningful for those willing to engage with their message.
The Production Team Behind the Sound
The production team of Sid Wilson and Ross Robinson has been pivotal in shaping Swollen Teeth’s unique sound. Robinson’s history as a producer in the nu-metal and hardcore scenes brings an authenticity to the band’s sound that appeals to fans of aggressive music. His ability to bring out raw emotion in the bands he works with is legendary, and Swollen Teeth are no exception. His production on “Family” emphasizes the band’s chaotic energy while also allowing moments of vulnerability to shine through.
Sid Wilson’s influence, meanwhile, can be felt not only in the band’s sound but also in their overall presentation. Known for his work as the DJ for Slipknot, Wilson has been instrumental in shaping the visual identity of Swollen Teeth. The masked personas, the gritty aesthetic, and the dark yet inclusive atmosphere all bear his signature. Wilson’s involvement has helped the band carve out a distinct identity within the heavy music scene, one that appeals to both metal fans and followers of artists like Ghostemane, who blend elements of trap, industrial, and metal in their music.
What’s Next for Swollen Teeth?
Swollen Teeth’s rise continues with their upcoming performance at Slipknot’s Knotfest Iowa, one of the most anticipated events in the metal calendar. Their presence at Knotfest speaks to the level of support they’ve received from influential figures in the scene, particularly Sid Wilson, who has been a mentor to the band from the beginning. Performing at such a prestigious event will undoubtedly expose Swollen Teeth to an even larger audience, further cementing their place in the modern metal landscape.
While they may still be considered newcomers, Swollen Teeth’s combination of brutal soundscapes, emotional depth, and visual artistry has quickly set them apart from other rising acts. With each release, they seem to be building a narrative around inclusion, catharsis, and transformation—ideas that resonate deeply in the often misunderstood world of heavy music.
As Swollen Teeth continue to grow, both in terms of their music and their message, it will be exciting to see where they take their unique blend of metal, hardcore, and industrial sounds next. Whether through future releases or live performances, one thing is certain: the band is here to provide a home for those who feel like they have nowhere else to turn. With “Family,” Swollen Teeth have firmly established themselves as more than just a band—they are a movement.
Their collective mission, backed by the support of figures like Sid Wilson, Ghostemane, and Ross Robinson, promises to push boundaries and challenge expectations in the heavy music scene. As they continue to evolve, fans can expect Swollen Teeth to keep delivering their brand of raw, unfiltered emotion while creating a space for everyone who feels left behind.
