Slipknot Eye Studio Time Soon As Writing For Next Album Slowly Takes Shape

Slipknot haven’t fully shifted into album-writing mode just yet, but the wheels are beginning to turn.

Speaking recently with NME, percussionist M. Shawn “Clown” Crahan explained that the multi-platinum masked metal outfit are currently enjoying a deliberate break after completing an extensive touring run tied to both their 2022 release ‘The End, So Far’ and the 25th anniversary of their self-titled debut.

According to Crahan, the band have intentionally resisted rushing back into a full collaborative process, opting instead to reset after years of nonstop activity.

“We’re doing the biggest thing we can do right now, which is taking a much-needed break. We’re taking some real human time. Everybody is writing all the time, but we have not got into a place to work on what’s been written.”

That downtime, however, may soon be coming to an end. Crahan revealed there are tentative plans for the band to regroup in the studio this month and begin assembling ideas for what would become Slipknot’s eighth studio album.

“It feels very positive and everyone is looking forward to getting back at it.”

The next record will also mark a significant turning point for the band. ‘The End, So Far’ closed the chapter on Slipknot’s long-running partnership with Roadrunner Records, meaning their upcoming material will usher in a fully new era—both creatively and professionally.

Outside of Slipknot, Crahan has been keeping busy with an unexpected passion project: a Minecraft-based video game titled ‘Vernearth’. He’s also been composing music for a potential soundtrack tied to the game, an experience he says has reignited his creativity.

“I’m in the studio almost every week making music without any of the usual pressures or expectations, which is very fulfilling. I’ve also gotten back into drums in a big way to make sure I’m ready for what’s up next [with Slipknot]. I’m really trying to take things to that next level. Music is dead important to gaming.”

Crahan’s conversation with NME also touched on his long-standing interest in video game development, including several past concepts that never made it past the pitching stage. One scrapped idea—a rock & roll-focused game—remains a sore spot after years of effort.

“That still pisses me off because it’s such a no-brainer [coming from a member of a huge rock band]. I reckon it would be as influential as ‘Grand Theft Auto’.”

For now, Slipknot fans may need to remain patient—but signs point toward the band slowly aligning their ideas and preparing to move forward together sooner rather than later.

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