Slipknot are continuing to push the boundaries of their music. Originally lumped in with the Nu Metal wave of the late 90’s. Slipknot have now differentiated themselves enough to transcend themselves beyond the heavy metal sub genre. And their new album ‘The End, So Far’ is a prime example of why.
Over the last 23 years, Slipknot have evolved to expand what they do. Demanding growth and accessibility. Without sacrificing their heavy sound. That’s what they mean by pushing their own boundaries. Not necessarily pushing heaviness. But pushing what they as a creative unit can create musically. And it’s immediate apparent with the opening track ‘Adderall.’ A thoughtful ballad containing smart melodies and strong vocal harmonies. The next three tracks: ‘The Dying Song (Time To Sing),’ ‘The Chapeltown Rag’ and ‘Yen’ run the gamut of what Slipknot has to offer. Mixing moments of death, thrash, Nu, groove and melodic metal seamlessly.
‘Hive Mind’ brings in the blast beats. Which drummer Jay Weinberg (yes, Max Weinberg’s son) pulls of in spades. Frankly, I’m not a huge fan of the blast beat. Fortunately, Slipknot use it tastefully. And never abuse it. ‘Warranty’ is classic Pantera sounding 90’s metal. While ‘Medicine For The Dead’ has progressive metal tendencies. ‘Acidic’ is pure Slipknot. Heavy, with a perfect balance of guttural metal growls and vocal melodies and harmonies. The bridge is sure the get the crowd raging if the song makes the set in the upcoming tour. Slow and low baby.
‘Heirloom’ is a near perfect melodic metal song. Something that never sacrifices its dignity or heaviness. But is also accessible to a wider audience that may not listen to the genre. Catchy as all hell. ‘H377’ brings back early sounding Slipknot. While the album closes out with a one two punch of ‘De Sade’ and the appropriately titled ‘Finale.’ Bringing in some major Ghost vibes. A band that has clearly inspired veterans and newbies alike.
All in all ‘The End, So Far’ is a banger. A perfect combination of what Slipknot has to offer. An effortless combination of numerous metal sub genres. Riding the edge of insanely heavy and commercially appealing. But never crossing the line. Taylor, Root and co. are back with a vengeance. And it shows with ‘The End, So Far.’
