Slipknot are seemingly teasing a new member

Slipknot are seemingly teasing the addition of a new member.

READ MORE: Knotfest Melbourne 2023 review: explosive proof that metal is alive and well

Today (June 8), the band took to social media with an image of an unknown hooded member in a new mask. The post did not come with an accompany caption, leaving many fans confused.

The unnamed member’s mask is that of a black leather hood, with a zipper mouthpiece and red paint around the eyes and mouth.

Check out the new mask below.

pic.twitter.com/6oShnmaHXc

— Slipknot (@slipknot) June 8, 2023

Prior to posting the image, Slipknot posted a statement on social media saying that longtime sampler and keyboardist Craig Jones has parted ways with the band. They said nothing more about the situation, expect that they wish him the best of luck. Slipknot have since deleted that post.

However, a post on the Knotfest website – Slipknot’s own music festival – remains active, and includes a statement on Craig Jones’ departure. Jones has been a member of the band since 1996, providing samples and keyboard support. He has recorded and performed with the Iowan metal outfit through all of their seven studio albums to date.

The developments come shortly after the band kicked off their European tour yesterday (June 7). Before the tour’s kickoff, percussionist and backing vocalist Shawn “Clown” Crahan took to social media to announce that he would be sitting out of the tour to support his wife “through health issues”. He added that he would return to the stage as soon as possible.

Jones’ departure and replacement – if confirmed – would mark the fourth time a new member has been brought on in place of an original member. Most recently, the brand brought on Michael Pfaff as percussionist Chris Fehn’s replacement in 2019, only revealing his identity in March last year.

Prior to that, Slipknot welcomed drummer Jay Weinberg and bassist Alessandro Venturella in 2014 to replace Joey Jordison, who died in 2021, and Paul Gray, who died in 2010.

Slipknot’s ongoing European tour will see the nine-piece perform 17 shows throughout June, including a headlining slot at Download on June 11. Check out the weather forecast for Download here.

Slipknot’s remaining 2023 European tour dates are:

June 08 – Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic – Rock For People
June 10 – Interlaken, Switzerland – Greenfield
June 11 – Donnington, UK – Download
June 13 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
June 14 – Esch Sur Alzette, Luxembourg – Rockhall
June 16 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Copenhell
June 17 – Dessel, Belgium – Graspop
June 18 – Clisson, France – Hellfest Open Air
June 20 – Hamburg, Germany – Barclays Arena
June 21 – Berlin, Germany – Mercedes Benz Arena
June 23 – Hockenheim, Germany – Download
June 24 – Munich, Germany – Königsplatz
June 25 – Bologna, Italy – Knotfest
June 27 – Nîmes, France – Arena of Nîmes
June 29 – Lisbon, Portugal – Evil Live
June 30 – Viveird, Spain – Resurrection Fest