Slipknot recently released their new single and music video “Arsenal,” prompting some fans to urge the band to retire. The surprise release, which marks the band’s first new song in over three years, was shared via YouTube.
The new track arrives with a music video directed by Slipknot’s M. Shawn “Clown” Crahan and starring Jackson White. However, many fans expressed disappointment with the song’s sound, especially following the recent departure of the band’s longtime DJ, Sid Wilson.
Listeners shared their reactions to the track’s chaotic production and prominent use of scratching.
“This sounds like each band member wrote their own song and you played them all at the same time,” one fan commented.
Another listener pointed out the irony of the song’s style following Wilson’s departure.
“Kicked out Sid and then released a song with more scratching than any other Slipknot song,” they wrote.
Other longtime followers said the band’s musical direction has shifted too far from its original sound.
“I’m 50 years old and have been following you since 1995,” another fan shared. “In my opinion, Slipknot is the best album you’ve ever made… you could really feel the true essence of Slipknot in it; then the sound took a Stone Sour turn. It’s time for you to retire… you’re just shadows of your former selves.”
The band has not yet responded to the fan feedback regarding the new release. However, “Arsenal” arrives during a significant period of change for Slipknot, both in its lineup and its creative plans.
“Arsenal” is Slipknot’s first new song in more than three years and the band’s first release since parting ways with Wilson. The song also marks the group’s first formally released track featuring drummer Eloy Casagrande, who joined Slipknot in 2024.
Slipknot’s split with Wilson became official on August 14, 2026, after the band ended its association with the DJ and keyboardist. TMZ had first reported in late July that Wilson had been permanently removed from the group.
The band is also working on new material for a forthcoming studio album. Slipknot is recording with producer Matt Wallace, while guitarist Jim Root has described approximately 50 song arrangements in progress. No album title or release date has been announced.
Despite reports about Slipknot’s 2026 plans, the band currently has no tour dates listed. For now, “Arsenal” remains the clearest indication of the band’s next musical direction, even as it continues to divide listeners.
