We Are Not Your Kind World Tour

Lore & Background

The visual language of this era drew heavily from dystopian industrialism and visceral horror, creating an immersive environment that blurred the line between performance and nightmare. The masks were no longer just disguises but armor plating for soldiers in a war against the mundane. Fans attending these shows were not passive observers but initiates into a chaotic religion where the only sacrament was the deafening roar of distorted guitars and pounding drums, cementing this tour as a defining moment in the band's mythology.

In Their Own Story

The air inside the arena tasted like copper and static. As the lights died, nine figures emerged from the shadows, their masks gleaming under the strobe. There was no introduction, only the sudden eruption of sound that shook the very foundation of the floor. In the center, a figure raised a hand, signaling the start of the ritual. The crowd screamed in unison, a living organism feeding on the chaos. For two hours, time ceased to exist; there was only the rhythm, the pain, and the collective realization that they were not alone in their darkness.

Reader's Guide

The tour began with an intense focus on the new material from 'We Are Not Your Kind,' weaving these tracks seamlessly into a setlist that honored the band's classic hits. The stage design evolved into a sprawling industrial landscape, featuring towering structures and dynamic lighting rigs that created a claustrophobic yet expansive atmosphere. As the tour progressed, the spectacle intensified with more elaborate pyrotechnics and interactive elements involving the crowd. Notable incidents included moments of raw emotional release where band members interacted directly with fans, breaking the fourth wall to emphasize their shared humanity amidst the chaos. The visual effects became increasingly surreal, utilizing projections that transformed the stage into a shifting nightmare. By the tour's later legs, the setlist had matured, balancing high-energy bangers with atmospheric interludes that showcased the band's dynamic range. The final shows were often described as cathartic experiences, where the energy between the band and audience reached a fever pitch, solidifying this era as one of the most memorable in Slipknot history.

Did You Know?

• Shawn Crahan had already returned for the 2015 tour cycle, so this tour continued his presence rather than marking a first-time return.
• The stage design incorporated a unique 'pit' layout that allowed for greater interaction between the band and the mosh pit, enhancing the chaotic energy.
• Several new mask designs were debuted during this tour, reflecting the individual personalities of the returning and new members while maintaining the group's cohesive aesthetic.
• The tour featured extensive use of live video projection mapping to create immersive visual backdrops that changed with every song.