Band: Slipknot
Album: Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)
Released: 25th May, 2004
So the 'Knot boys are back with their third and final studio release. Now, I am not a big fan. I haven't even listened to Slipknot or Iowa, but I did however manage to hear 3 of their demos for this album, which made me think twice. Now I've got the full thing, I thought I would review it. So here goes:
Prelude 3.0 - 7/10
A pretty strange track. It's a slow song, which is weird for them. Corey's lyrics are pretty good to relate to with the mood set with the music. It does pick up a bit later, but keeps the mood. Overall, a nice intro track.
The Blister Exits - 6/10
Now this is better. Proper full on Slipknot sound. It's fast, it's heavy and it's raw; pretty much what I expected. The chorus is pretty cool though, and the marching band drum solo is kinda cool too.
Three Nil - 4/10
It sounds so similar to the last song, so I'm hoping the sound is carried on throughout the album. I don't like Corey's fast vocals too, he has a pretty good voice and doesn't show it well here. Not that good of a song for me.
Duality - 8/10
I really like this. From the piano intro to the deep lyrics and raw guitar, this song has it all. The verses are really creepy as well with the sound effects. One of my favourite songs on the album in my opinion.
Opium Of The People - 7/10
Woah! Sick intro, that's all I have to say. The song is pretty cool, but sounds pretty similar to The Blister Exits for me, but like I said, the intro rocks! Also, the chorus is again cool, slows down a bit.
Circle - 7/10
A very freaky intro, but goes straight into... acoustic?!? The lyrics are kinda cheesy and predictable after Stone Sour, but the song itself isn't bad. Their attempt at acoustic could've been better though.
Welcome - 6/10
I can't describe this again really. The music is pretty boring and sounds like you've heard it before, but the lyrics aren't half bad. I have to say the solo is amazing though! You should check the song out just for that. You'll be impressed...
Vermillion - 4/10
The intro is freaky. Sounds like some sci-fi soundtrack, but it's pretty cool. The vocals aren't as good, however. Corey's low voice is so bad. And the chorus is a major letdown for me. Not their best song.
Pulse Of The Maggots - 9/10
I hate to say it, but is seems their radio singles are the best. Nice shredding, decent vocals and a solo to blow people away. Also, the intro little speech is pretty motivational. Nice work, Corey and co!
Before I Forget - 7/10
It's pretty mediocre, but not half bad. The lyrics are very graphic, and Corey's screaming actually sounds good here. But other than that, everything was as expected musicwise. They have 9 members. Why don't they use them!
Vermillion, Pt. 2 - 9/10
More acoustic? I think they are going soft on us! Much better than Vermillion, much more visual and in some way soothing. It is almost, dare I say, emo! Look out Jesse Lacey, Corey is in town!
Nameless - 7/10
More of the same, really. Ultimately just shredding, screaming and smashing. But I must admit they do it well. Well, until the chorus, where they get emo again. Then it goes back to hardcore "ROAR! BIATCH!" mode. Then it's back to the chorus...
Virus Of Life - 4/10
I don't know what this is, but it isn't Slipknot. I must say it's experimental, and I like that. But it can be a huge disaster waiting to happen in some cases. Virus Of Life proves that theory. Boring music and badly sung vocals.
Danger, Keep Away - 6/10
Even more acoustic. Seems the Stone Sour side of Corey has gotten to him. I'm not saying it's bad, it's just predictable. The music isn't bad, and the drums in an acoustic song is pretty cool. But the lyrics... ew!
Overall, this album for me was a huge letdown. After hearing Duality and Pulse Of The Maggots, I expected full on hardcore Slipknot sound. But this isn't the commercial album that Iowa was. This is full on new stuff, kinda like a cross between Radiohead and Slayer. You expecting to hear more of Slipknot and Iowa? Well slip them in the CD player, you won't find that here.
Kif's OFFICIAL verdict: 3 and a half smiley faces
:D:D:D:):upset:
Best songs:
Duality
Opium Of The People
Pulse Of The Maggots
Vermillion, Pt. 2
