New Slipknot drummer Eloy Casagrande has adopted a striking masked persona akin to his bandmates. In a recent interview with Modern Drummer, he shared insights into the significant elements of his mask design.
Casagrande’s Distinct Mask Design
For those unfamiliar with Casagrande’s look, the drummer showcases a white mask featuring a bullet hole in the forehead, along with furrowed brow wrinkles and contrasting black lines radiating from the eyes and nose.
Inspiration Behind the Mask
The creation of Casagrande’s mask involved collaboration with founding percussionist Shawn “Clown” Crahan, who had a specific vision. “The mask was something I did with Clown,” Casagrande explained. “The first thing he asked me was, ‘Can we have a white mask for you?’ This was a tribute to Joey [Jordison] and a way to honor his legacy.”
Joey Jordison’s masks, like those of other band members, evolved over time, yet they consistently featured a white base with various black accents.
Personal Touches in the Design
While the white mask pays homage to Slipknot’s history, Casagrande infused his own cultural elements into the design. “I suggested the black lines to represent the Brazilian indigenous people, bringing a piece of my Brazilian heritage into the mask,” he noted.
Clown contributed to the mask’s facial expression, drawing inspiration from Casagrande’s playing style. “He observed my expressions while I played without the mask and decided to incorporate that into the design,” Casagrande shared.
The Meaning Behind the Bullet Hole
One of the most eye-catching features of the mask is the bullet hole in the forehead, which carries a profound personal significance for Casagrande. “I came up with the idea of the bullet hole after a traumatic experience,” he recounted. “Two years ago, I was robbed in São Paulo. A gun was held to my head, and I was fortunate that they chose not to shoot. This experience changed me significantly.”
He elaborated, “The bullet hole symbolizes a philosophy that conveys I have nothing to lose. In a way, it gives me a sense of freedom when performing. It’s both inspirational and liberating.”
Upcoming Performances
Casagrande’s full interview will be featured in the January 2025 issue of Modern Drummer, which is now available. He will also be seen performing live with Slipknot as they kick off their 2025 tour on February 28 in Melbourne, Australia, followed by a European tour in June. The band’s only scheduled U.S. performance for 2025 is on July 19 at the Inkcarceration Festival in Mansfield, Ohio. Fans can find all tour dates and ticket information on the band’s official website.
Conclusion
Eloy Casagrande’s mask not only represents his individuality but also serves as a tribute to the band’s legacy and his Brazilian roots. As he steps into the spotlight with Slipknot, his unique persona and the stories behind his mask will undoubtedly resonate with fans around the world.
FAQs
Who is Eloy Casagrande?
Eloy Casagrande is the new drummer for the band Slipknot, known for his dynamic playing style and unique masked persona.
What does Eloy Casagrande’s mask represent?
His mask symbolizes a tribute to former drummer Joey Jordison, incorporates elements of Brazilian culture, and reflects a personal experience with trauma.
When does Slipknot’s tour start?
Slipknot’s 2025 tour begins on February 28 in Melbourne, Australia.
Where can I read the full interview with Eloy Casagrande?
The full interview can be found in the January 2025 edition of Modern Drummer magazine.
