The Making of We Are Not Your Kind by Slipknot

Introduction

Slipknot’s sixth studio album, We Are Not Your Kind, released on August 9, 2019, is a testament to the band’s unyielding commitment to pushing the boundaries of heavy metal. Emerging from a turbulent period in the band’s history, this album not only reaffirms Slipknot’s status as a powerhouse in the genre but also marks a significant evolution in their sound. As an exploration of themes both personal and societal, it has been lauded for its bold experimentation and raw intensity.

This article will delve into the genesis of We Are Not Your Kind, exploring the context of its creation, the intricate recording process, and the commercial reception that followed. We will also analyze the album’s track list, its critical reception, and the enduring legacy it has cemented in the music industry.

Upon its release, We Are Not Your Kind was hailed as a landmark in Slipknot’s discography. It debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, marking the band’s third consecutive album to achieve this feat. The album’s bold approach and innovative sound have left a lasting imprint on the heavy metal landscape, inspiring both fans and fellow musicians alike. In the words of Corey Taylor, “It’s probably the most autobiographical I’ve been in years, and I think it’s some of the best music we’ve ever made.”

The Genesis of “We Are Not Your Kind”

In the lead-up to the creation of We Are Not Your Kind, Slipknot found themselves at a crossroads. The band’s previous album, .5: The Gray Chapter, had been a cathartic release following the death of bassist Paul Gray. However, the subsequent years were marked by internal tensions and the departure of longtime percussionist Chris Fehn, which created a sense of uncertainty within the band.

Slipknot’s evolution leading up to this album was marked by a desire to push creative boundaries. The band’s guitarist, Jim Root, and percussionist, Shawn “Clown” Crahan, began writing new material as early as 2017. Their goal was to create an “art record” with a level of ambition akin to Pink Floyd’s The Wall. This vision laid the groundwork for an album that would blend Slipknot’s signature intensity with experimental elements.

The main creative forces behind We Are Not Your Kind included Root and Crahan, alongside vocalist Corey Taylor, who penned some of his most personal lyrics to date. Greg Fidelman, who had previously worked with the band, returned as producer, bringing his expertise to the project.

Below is a table of the band members and their respective instruments:

The recording costs for the album were financed by Roadrunner Records, with a substantial budget allocated to ensure the album’s ambitious vision could be realized. However, the financial pressures of creating such an expansive project were significant, requiring careful management to avoid overruns.

The album’s title, We Are Not Your Kind, was inspired by a lyric from the standalone single “All Out Life”. The phrase encapsulates the band’s defiance and individuality, a sentiment echoed in the album’s themes. The artwork, created by Alexandria Crahan-Conway, reflects this ethos with its striking and unsettling imagery.

Recording Process

The recording of We Are Not Your Kind was a meticulous process, taking place over several months at EastWest Studios in Hollywood, California. Known for its rich history and state-of-the-art facilities, EastWest provided the perfect backdrop for Slipknot’s ambitious project. The sessions began in November 2018 and concluded in April 2019, with the band working tirelessly to perfect their sound.

Key personnel in the recording process included producer Greg Fidelman, who brought his extensive experience to bear on the project. Fidelman, known for his work with Metallica and Black Sabbath, challenged the band to explore new sonic territories while maintaining their core intensity. The engineering team at EastWest, renowned for their expertise, played a crucial role in capturing the album’s dynamic range.

The studio’s equipment likely included Neumann U87 microphones, SSL 9000J mixing desks, and Urei 1176 compressors, although specific details are not confirmed. EastWest’s renowned live rooms, designed by Bill Putnam, offered an unparalleled acoustic environment that contributed to the album’s distinctive sound.

Despite the meticulous planning, the recording process was not without its challenges. The departure of Chris Fehn and the introduction of a new percussionist, known as “Tortilla Man,” added a layer of complexity to the sessions. However, the band embraced these changes, using them as an opportunity to inject fresh energy into their music.

Greg Fidelman’s production discography is extensive, reflecting his diverse range of collaborations across the music industry:

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, We Are Not Your Kind achieved impressive commercial success, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 and topping charts in several other countries. This marked Slipknot’s third consecutive album to reach the top of the Billboard 200, cementing their status as one of the leading acts in heavy metal.

The album’s sales were bolstered by strong performances in key markets. In the UK, it earned a silver certification with sales exceeding 60,000 copies, while in Canada, it achieved gold status with over 40,000 units sold. The album’s total sales reached approximately 110,979 copies across various regions.

Below is a table of Slipknot’s album sales:

The album’s release coincided with a competitive year in heavy metal, with notable releases from other artists adding to the landscape. However, Slipknot’s unique blend of intensity and experimentation allowed We Are Not Your Kind to stand out.

Other albums released in 2019:

• Fear Inoculum by Tool [Physical Sales: 388,000]
• Strength in Numbers by The Fever 333 [Physical Sales: 10,000]
• Empath by Devin Townsend [Physical Sales: 30,000]

We Are Not Your Kind received several awards and recognitions, further cementing its place in Slipknot’s storied career. It was named one of the best metal albums of the year by multiple publications and received nominations for various industry awards.

Singles and Track Analysis

The singles from We Are Not Your Kind played a crucial role in building anticipation for the album. The first single, “Unsainted,” was released on May 16, 2019, and quickly gained traction with its catchy hooks and anthemic chorus. It was followed by “Solway Firth,” “Birth of the Cruel,” and “Nero Forte,” each showcasing different facets of the album’s sound.

Below is a table of the album’s tracks, their lengths, and writing credits:

Note: Songs marked with * were released as singles. “Unsainted” reached number 10 on the US Billboard Mainstream Rock chart, while “Solway Firth” also performed well internationally.

Influences and Legacy

The musical influences behind We Are Not Your Kind are as diverse as they are impactful. Drawing from a wide range of genres, Slipknot infused elements of nu metal, alternative metal, and groove metal into their sound, creating a unique blend that resonates with listeners worldwide.

Below is a table highlighting the influences on the album and the artists it has influenced:

The year 2019, when the album was released, was marked by significant cultural and global events. Although specific data on events from the year is unavailable, it was a time of great change and evolution in the music industry, with digital platforms continuing to reshape how music was consumed and distributed.

Five Things about We Are Not Your Kind

Here are five intriguing facts about We Are Not Your Kind:

Media and Television Usage

While Slipknot’s music often finds its way into various media, no songs from We Are Not Your Kind have been identified in specific media usage to date.

Unable to find any uses of songs from this album.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

We Are Not Your Kind was met with critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its bold experimentation and emotional depth. Critics noted the album’s ability to balance Slipknot’s signature aggression with new sonic elements, creating a compelling and cohesive listening experience.

Below is a table of notable reviews and their insights:

After We Are Not Your Kind

Following the release of We Are Not Your Kind, Slipknot continued to evolve both musically and as a band. The album’s success reinforced their position as leaders in the heavy metal genre, allowing them to embark on extensive tours and connect with their global fanbase.

The band’s lineup remained stable after the departure of Chris Fehn, with “Tortilla Man” stepping in as a permanent member. This change brought a fresh dynamic to their live performances and creative process.

As of October 15, 2024, Slipknot remains an active force in the music industry, having released their seventh studio album, The End, So Far, in 2022. The band continues to tour and engage with fans, solidifying their legacy as one of the most influential acts in heavy metal.

Remasters and Reissues

While We Are Not Your Kind has not yet seen any official remasters or reissues, the album’s enduring popularity suggests that future editions may be considered.

Below is a table of potential future remasters or reissues:

Conclusion

We Are Not Your Kind stands as a testament to Slipknot’s enduring creativity and influence in the world of heavy metal. Its blend of aggressive riffs, experimental elements, and deeply personal lyrics continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. As the band reflects on their journey, they remain committed to evolving their sound and pushing the boundaries of their artistry.

For further reading, visit the Wikipedia page for “We Are Not Your Kind”, the official Slipknot website, and the Roadrunner Records website.

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