Slipknot - Slipknot (A throwback review)

This throwback review centers on Slipknot's debut album, released in 1999, which has proven to be a timeless classic even 25 years later. The album still stands strong for its heavy sound, with brutal, uncompromising, and hard-hitting songs. The tracks on this full-length incorporate elements of various genres, such as hardcore punk, industrial, metal, and nu-metal, thanks to the clever use of sampling and electronics to augment the soundscape of the band.

One of the defining songs of the album, "Eyeless," features breakbeat sampling within the context of a hard-hitting metal song, and the combination of different elements still sounds fresh and innovative to this day.

The band's trademark sound is characterized by furious down-tuned guitars, fuzzy bass, driving percussion, and Corey Taylor's unhinged vocals. Already on the band's debut, the lead singer's vocal style showcases versatility, blending intense screams with melodic clean tones and showcasing excellent quiet-to-loud dynamics, which help drive the songs.

The album also includes elements of rap-rock, which has slowly worked its way out of the band's sound as they progressed to incorporate different influences into their formula. The lyrics are equally angsty as the music, with the band positioning itself as a voice for the disenfranchised. This album spoke to a generation of kids who felt like they didn't belong and wanted to react against the stagnation of societal norms.
With a signature mix of brutality and catharsis, this album has spoken to many people and set strong foundations for the band's identity and career. Slipknot is not the same band, and the group managed to introduce new ideas with every release continually. Still, their 1999 debut has allowed them to maintain their core identity as a great platform to build upon.

For more musical recommendations, check out our Spotify playlist too! Home to many alternative, post-punk, and shoegaze songs. Hey, it's not as heavy as Slipknot, but if you're into some of the most textural stuff as well, it might be right up your alley.

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Dead Rituals released a stripped-down acoustic take on "How Easily"

Dead Rituals (artist-producer Andrea Caccese) released a single titled “ How Easily ” back in June. The song delves into the passage of time and the uncertainty of the future as we move on. "How easily we forget our hopes and dreams," Caccese sings with resignation - An attempt to reignite that spark that's slowly fading away as our days go by. While the lyrics might appear like a gesture of surrender, the instrumental has plenty of fight left in it. " How Easily " combines the mist of shoegaze with the roaring angst of post-punk, tipping the hat off to artists such as Slow Crush , Narrowhead , or even Nirvana . The newly released acoustic version of the song brings a contrasting view, stripping it all down to its bare essentials. With nothing but vocals and guitar, the urgency of the original remains, but a newfound level of intimacy takes center stage. Spotify / Bandcamp / Youtube

Dead Rituals explores the link between shoegaze and post-punk on "How Easily"

"How Easily" is a new single by Dead Rituals , the post-punk outfit led by singer-songwriter Andrea Caccese. With its unapologetic rawness, this song encapsulates the essence of punk while infusing it with the nuanced ambiance of shoegaze. From the opening notes, " How Easily " is relentless and energetic. The driving rhythm section provides urgency and momentum, with a throbbing bass line that drives the song. The wall of guitars takes center stage in "How Easily," weaving a hazy tapestry of distortion and melody. The sharp, biting guitar riffs surge through, contrasting with the ambient textures serving as a backdrop. Amidst the chaos, Caccese's guitar work occasionally dips into atmospheric textures, introducing elements of shoegaze into the mix. These ethereal moments contrast the track's abrasive nature, adding a touch of introspection and depth. Listen via Spotify or Bandcamp .

Dead Rituals deals with the pain of feeling trapped, with their shoegaze-inspired single “Prisoners.”

"Prisoners" is a hauntingly beautiful song by Dead Rituals . The track highlights the band’s post-punk edge while still bringing its shoegaze roots to the forefront. The throbbing bass line locks in with the drums, as the soaring guitar and vocals fill the room with so much ambiance and depth. The song speaks to the experience of feeling trapped in circumstances that seem impossible to escape. Despite its melancholy tone, "Prisoners" is ultimately a hopeful song. It acknowledges the pain of feeling trapped but also encourages listeners to break free from their self-imposed limitations. Overall, "Prisoners" is a moving and thought-provoking song that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt trapped. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics make it a standout track in Dead Rituals' discography and a must-listen for fans of introspective indie music. Check out "Prisoners" on Spotify.

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