LIVE REVIEW: Slipknot @ Utilita Arena, Birmingham
The name SLIPKNOT is infamous. Whether it’s praise or criticism uttered, SLIPKNOT has carved out a legendary reputation since the release of their self-titled album in 1999. With multiple critically acclaimed albums since then, it all comes full circle as the band takes their debut album on tour to celebrate twenty five years of Slipknot.
Before SLIPKNOT takes the stage, the one and only support band warms up the crowd. Many bands could have taken this coveted slot, but BLEED FROM WITHIN was chosen. With nearly twenty years in the industry, the Scottish quintet are no strangers to playing big shows.
The excitement on their faces is evident as they launch straight into Hands Of Sin. The chunky riffs explode through the Utilita Arena, instantly waking the crowd. With powerful riffs and vocals, BLEED FROM WITHIN make their mark in just a few moments.
However, the band senses the crowd isn’t giving enough energy. Vocalist Scott Kennedy cheekily goads them, saying, “Glasgow has been the best show on the tour so far.” A resounding boo follows, and he doubles down: “Birmingham is second best after just three songs.”
This unsubtle nudge works, and the energy in the room skyrockets as they dive into Into Nothing. The classic BLEED FROM WITHIN riffs keep the crowd moving and engaged. With a forty minute slot, the band has just enough time to cater to everyone, whether you’re an old fan, a new one, or a casual listener, there’s something familiar in the set list for you.
Closing with The End Of All We Know solidifies their position as the perfect support act for this tour. BLEED FROM WITHIN proves they deserve a headlining arena tour of their own soon.
Rating: 9/10
As Corey Taylor has said, “This tour isn’t for the casual SLIPKNOT fan,” and a quick glance at the set list confirms it. A full play through of the self-titled album isn’t for the faint-hearted.
Things begin slowly with a haunting version of Dream Weaver by GARY WRIGHT, seamlessly blending into 742617000027. The band walks onto the stage like members of The Walking Dead. Trepidation ripples through the arena as they stand still, unmoving. The eerie original masks amplify the unease, with Corey Taylor’s glowing red eyes piercing through the darkness. Then comes the whiplash. The band explodes into a furious opener of (sic), Eyeless, and Wait And Bleed. The crowd becomes a rabid mass of movement; headbanging, screaming, and reaching for the band like the undead come to life.
The raw energy of the first album is palpable, and you can see the band relishing it. Corey’s vocals shine, leaning heavily on the aggressive style that defined their early work. For fans of the cleaner vocals present in newer SLIPKNOT material, there are brief teases throughout the set but just enough to keep you wanting more.
The setlist masterfully balances high-energy tracks like Liberate and No Life with mellow interludes that give Sid Wilson a chance in the spotlight. The dynamic pacing keeps the crowd on edge in the best way possible. There’s no rest for the audience: when the heavy songs return, the floor is a writhing sea of bodies. Crowd surfers cascade over the barriers, and mosh pits erupt across the arena floor. No one is safe.
The stage setup reflects the tour’s throwback vibe. Despite being in an arena, the theatrics are stripped back; no pyro, no confetti cannons. The stage is simple but effective, with spots for all nine members, a dynamic light show, and nothing more. The band’s performance takes centre stage.
Corey stays mostly central, with drums and turntables commanding the back. Guitars and bass weave around each other, standing tall and almost challenging the crowd. Meanwhile, the percussionists, Clown and Michael Pfaff, add layers of rhythm and mischief. They playfully hype up the crowd, trade off extra vocals, and even mess with each other’s drum setups.
An almost nighty minute set is over in almost a flash and this performance reminds us why SLIPKNOT remains one of the best metal bands in the world.
Rating: 10/10
Check out our photo gallery of the night’s action in Birmingham from Serena Hill Photography here:
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