Slipknot Unleashes “Before I Forget” in a Blistering Set That Left Pioneertown Shaking

On April 25, 2024, Slipknot delivered an unforgettable performance at Pappy & Harriet’s in Pioneertown, California. This intimate venue, known for its rustic charm and storied past, offered a stark contrast to the massive arenas the band typically commands. The show was part of their 25th-anniversary celebration, marking a quarter-century since their explosive debut. Fans were treated to a raw, unfiltered experience that felt like a nod to the band’s chaotic and fearless early days.

The setlist was a carefully curated journey through Slipknot’s discography, touching on brutal fan favorites and atmospheric deep cuts alike. Songs like “People = Shit,” “Eyeless,” and “Disasterpiece” ignited the crowd with fury, while “Vermilion” and “Prosthetics” showed the group’s dynamic control and emotional weight. But it was the performance of “Before I Forget” that brought everything full circle, reminding everyone why Slipknot became a defining force in modern metal.

This concert also marked the live debut of drummer Eloy Casagrande, formerly of Sepultura, who had joined the band earlier that year. His aggressive yet intricate playing style brought a fresh fire to the rhythm section, blending seamlessly with Slipknot’s chaotic energy. Casagrande’s performance was immediately embraced by fans, signaling the start of a new and exciting era for the band.

For the occasion, the band returned to a visual style that honored their roots—classic red jumpsuits and updated takes on their original masks. This throwback look sparked a wave of nostalgia throughout the crowd, blending the past and present in dramatic fashion. Corey Taylor’s mask, in particular, evoked memories of earlier tours while still reflecting the darker maturity of the band’s current outlook.

Despite the venue’s modest size, the energy was nothing short of massive. There were no pyrotechnics, no rotating drum kits, and no massive LED screens—just the band, the music, and 850 die-hard fans packed shoulder to shoulder. That stripped-down approach only amplified the intensity, reminding everyone that Slipknot doesn’t need grand spectacle to command a stage.

The small crowd created a charged atmosphere that bordered on spiritual. Fans, some of whom traveled across the country just to attend, screamed every lyric back at the band with pure devotion. The intimacy of the space allowed a level of connection and emotion rarely felt in large-scale concerts.

Adding to the meaningfulness of the night, tickets were priced at only $9, with all proceeds donated to local charities including the Joshua Tree No Kill Shelter and the Boys & Girls Club of the Hi Desert. The gesture reflected Slipknot’s deep respect for their fan base and their genuine commitment to the communities they visit. It also helped cement this performance as something more than a concert—it was a gift.

Throughout the show, the band played with the hunger and ferocity of a group with something to prove. Corey Taylor’s vocals were a mix of venom and vulnerability, as he pushed through signs of strain from intense rehearsals. His performance, though slightly ragged, felt all the more powerful for its honesty. The chemistry between members, both veterans and newcomers, was undeniable.

The night ended with the one-two-three punch of “Duality,” “Spit It Out,” and “Surfacing,” sending the crowd into a frenzy. These final songs captured the chaos and catharsis that define Slipknot’s sound. Fans jumped, screamed, and cried—completely swept up in the moment as dust and emotion hung heavy in the air.

This intimate gig served as a warm-up for Slipknot’s Sick New World festival appearance in Las Vegas, but it became much more than that. It was a reminder of the band’s ability to adapt, scale down, and still deliver something monumental. Whether it’s in front of 800 or 80,000, Slipknot never phones it in.

The performance also showed the band’s deep understanding of balance—between honoring their history and embracing the future. The choice to bring back old aesthetics while introducing a new drummer symbolized a band that still has its roots deep in the underground, even as it evolves. That duality is part of what has made them so enduring.

Critics and fans alike raved about the show in the days that followed, calling it one of the band’s most honest and gripping performances in years. The stripped-down format allowed the music—and the musicians—to shine without distraction. It was Slipknot laid bare, and it was beautiful.

The surprise concert also reminded the metal world why Slipknot continues to matter after 25 years. They’ve survived lineup changes, personal tragedies, industry shifts, and still return to the stage with fire in their eyes. This night proved that their connection to fans remains unbreakable.

As videos and clips of the show spread across social media, it became clear this was more than just a concert—it was a landmark. A reminder of where the band came from, how far they’ve come, and just how much further they can still go. For those who were there, it wasn’t just music—it was history.