Slipknot � Iowa 
Label: Road Runner
Rating: 
 

I didn't have high expectations for this CD. To be honest the Slipknot debut just didn't do it for me. Much to my surprise IOWA has given me a whole new appreciation for Slipknot. First put the masks aside, we're here to talk about the music. I do understand that in the music biz these days you have to use any edge you can find to get noticed. If you take a look at the pioneering costumed band KISS even the most critical have to admit that the band put out some great songs through the years. While Slipknot's debut came across as what some people not so affectionately call "Mall-Core" on this CD Slipknot leaves behind any semblance of the mall and instead march head first into the territory dominated by Pantera and Slayer.  Gone are the raps and over use of samples, what you get instead is full-on metal that aims straight for the throat. When Slipknot promised that this CD would be heavy they weren't kidding. The songs have an intensity only a multimember rhythm section can deliver. While this may scare away some of the more timid nu-metal fans the heaviness of IOWA just may open doors to hard core metal fans if they give it half a chance. IOWA is a worthy sophomore effort and great new direction for the band.