October 2025 Featured Release - The Gateway Edition

o just like that we find that a new month is upon us which of course means that we’ll be nominating a brand new monthly feature release for each clan. This essentially means that we’re asking you to rate, review & discuss our chosen features for no other reason than because we enjoy the process & banter. We’re really looking forward to hearing your thoughts on our chosen releases so don’t be shy.

This month's feature release for The Gateway, nominated by me (Shadowdoom9 (Andi)), is the 2001 sophomore album by nu metal masters Slipknot named after their homestate, Iowa. Despite my recent departure from The Gateway, I still think this is an excellent nu metal offering that shows Slipknot at their best and should convince even the strongest nu metal hater that there's still goodness in the genre.

https://metal.academy/releases/5212

Here's my review summary:

I think just found my new favorite nu metal album. There are so amazing songs that sound as fresh as they did 24 years prior. These 9 members perform in great synergy, especially in the rhythm section, not just from Wilson but also two percussionists, as well as drummer Joey Jordison and bassist Paul Gray. RIP the latter two... Many of the tracks are prime examples of nu metal, some of which have a more rock-ish tone while unleashing their usual rage in everything. Then it all ends with the 15-minute closing title epic, an incredible journey for those who are patient and never restless. Truly an offering of pure in-your-face extreme nu metal!

4.5/5

Recommended tracks: "People = Sh*t", "My Plague", "Everything Ends", "Left Behind", "I Am Hated", "New Abortion", "Iowa"

For fans of: Stone Sour, Korn, early Linkin Park

I don't mind "Iowa". It's my favourite record from a band who I generally find to be pretty enjoyable without ever really pushing out into essential territory.