The scourge of "true metal" fans the world over, Slipknot took
America by storm with the release of their self-titled album in
1999 (actually their second following a less-well-known
release three years prior), the album racking up unprecedented
sales figures for an independent label and without major
radio airplay.
Slipknot's style is undeniably nu-metal, but more intense than
most in the field, as
they actually have
more old-school metal sensibilities than they are often given
credit for (those who label this band another
Korn
clone, or just another nu-metal bandwagoner, are really missing
the mark).
The band followed up Slipknot two years later
with Iowa, an equally intense album, if a shade less revolutionary,
and continued to gain popularity.
The following years saw some members occupy their time with other
projects
(Stone Sour,
Murderdolls),
amidst rumors that the longevity of the band was seriously in
question.
Recruiting renowned producer Rick Rubin, the band released
Vol 3: The Subliminal Verses in May 2004.
Unquestionably the band's most diverse album yet, Rubin has
really brought out the best in the band, tapping into potential
hinted at on the earlier albums but not realized.
Though the long-term plans of the band may still not be fully
known, Vol 3 stands as one of the most important releases of
2004.
