Jim Root Teases Progress on Next Slipknot Album
- Chris Collett
- May 27
- 3 min read
Six Tracks Locked In, More in the Works
Slipknot fans, the countdown to the next era has unofficially begun. In a revealing new interview on the Turning Wrenchespodcast, guitarist Jim Root pulled back the curtain on the band's next studio album. While things are still in the early stages, it’s clear there’s serious momentum building behind the scenes.
Root confirmed that he currently has six fully arranged songs ready, with four more in progress. He’s aiming to have between 20 and 25 strong ideas mapped out before entering pre-production. That number might sound ambitious, but the goal is to give the band room to explore, edit, and refine as a group.
“If we have 20 to 25 ideas that are all cohesive, we can whittle that down to 12 to 15,” Root said. “That way, we’re not trying to force half-baked ideas into final tracks.” The band’s collaborative style thrives when there’s time to jam, experiment, and push boundaries. Root stressed how important it is for Corey Taylor and Shawn Crahan to bring their voices into the process after the initial structure is laid down.
This shift in process comes with a shift in priorities. Root spoke openly about the toll that constant touring takes on his creativity. “It’s really hard for me personally to be creative when you know you have a tour looming over your shoulder,” he said. The pressure of live schedules, travel, and gear logistics can be a major block when trying to write freely. Because of this, he’s requested a break from touring once Slipknot finishes their European run so they can focus fully on the next record.
One of the most exciting elements of the upcoming album is that it will be the first to feature drummer Eloy Casagrande. He officially joined Slipknot in 2023 following a standout run with Sepultura. While he’s already impressed fans on stage, this will be his first opportunity to contribute creatively in the studio. Root said one of his biggest priorities is getting Eloy into a room with the rest of the band and just jamming. Chemistry and raw energy have always been key to Slipknot’s sound, and Root wants to capture that as organically as possible.
Fans will also be watching this album closely because it’s the first full-length since the group parted ways with longtime sampler Craig Jones and left Roadrunner Records. Their last record, The End, So Far, saw the band pushing into more atmospheric and experimental territory. Some loved it, others were more divided. Wherever this new material lands stylistically, it feels like a reset point for the band. New lineup. New label situation. And from the sound of it, a new way of working.
Root didn’t give any hints about song titles or lyrical themes yet, but he did say the music needs to feel inspired and honest. No gimmicks, no filler. Just heavy, thoughtful songs that reflect where the band is at now. If that means slowing the process to make it right, that’s exactly what they’ll do.
Slipknot has always been a band that thrives on conflict, tension, and catharsis. Their best work has often come during times of internal change, and this moment feels like one of those pivotal creative windows. With Root steering the writing and the rest of the band set to add their voices soon, the pieces are in motion for something big.
There’s no official timeline for release yet. But as Root put it, this isn’t about rushing out content. It’s about making a real Slipknot record that hits on every level.
Stay tuned.
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