Description
Slipknot – .5: The Gray Chapter – Double 180 Gram Vinyl Record
.5: The Gray Chapter is the fifth studio album by American heavy metal band Slipknot, released on October 21, 2014. This album marks a significant moment in the band’s history as it is their first release following the death of bassist Paul Gray in 2010 and the departure of drummer Joey Jordison in 2013. The album’s title pays tribute to Gray, whose influence and presence are deeply felt throughout the record.
.5: The Gray Chapter represents a period of transition and reflection for Slipknot. It showcases their ability to blend aggression and melody, creating a powerful and emotive listening experience. The album is a testament to the band’s resilience and commitment to their music, despite the challenges they faced during its creation.
The album opens with ‘XIX,’ a haunting and somber intro that sets the tone for the emotional journey ahead. This track, with its eerie atmosphere and introspective lyrics, serves as a prelude to the intensity that follows.
‘Sarcastrophe’ and ‘AOV’ are classic Slipknot tracks, featuring brutal guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and Corey Taylor’s signature vocal style. These songs capture the raw energy and aggression that the band is known for, while also incorporating more complex arrangements and varied dynamics.
‘The Devil in I’ stands out as one of the album’s most notable tracks. It combines heavy, chugging riffs with melodic elements and introspective lyrics, reflecting on inner turmoil and the duality of human nature. The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, showcasing Taylor’s vocal range and emotional depth.
‘Skeptic’ and ‘Lech’ continue the album’s exploration of anger and loss, with lyrics that address the band’s grief over Gray’s death and their determination to carry on. These tracks are intense and relentless, highlighting Slipknot’s ability to channel their emotions into their music.
‘Killpop’ offers a change of pace with its more melodic and introspective approach. The song addresses themes of obsession and self-destruction, blending haunting melodies with heavy instrumentation. It demonstrates the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles.
‘Custer’ is a high-energy, aggressive track that features some of the album’s most intense moments. Its chant-like chorus and explosive instrumentation make it a standout, capturing the chaotic and cathartic essence of Slipknot’s music.
The album closes with ‘If Rain Is What You Want,’ a slower, more contemplative track that provides a fitting conclusion to the emotional journey of ‘.5: The Gray Chapter.’ The song’s melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics reflect on loss and the process of healing, bringing the album to a powerful and poignant end.
.5: The Gray Chapter was well-received by both fans and critics, praised for its raw emotion, musical complexity, and the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their core sound. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, reaffirming Slipknot’s status as one of the leading bands in the metal genre.
.5: The Gray Chapter is a powerful and emotional album that captures Slipknot’s journey through grief and renewal. It stands as a tribute to Paul Gray’s legacy and a testament to the band’s enduring strength and creativity.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
XIX
Sarcastrophe
AOV
The Devil In I
Killpop
Skeptic
Lech
Goodbye
Nomadic
The One That Kills The Least
Custer
Be Prepared For Hell
The Negative One
If Rain Is What You Want
