Usually a man of many words, it’s quite some time before Corey Taylor addresses the ever-growing crowd directly, admitting he lost a £20 bet with the rest of the band at just how unhinged the Donington faithful would be (very, it turns out). Welcoming the hordes to the ’Knot’s record-equalling fifth Download headline set, the loudest ovation is reserved for Clown who managed to fly in this morning, having been home to support his wife through health issues.
Slipknot are at their best when emotions are high and it’s clear Clown needs this, hammering all holy hell out of his drums like they owe him money. The undiluted catharsis usually found coursing through the veins of the legions down front is just as visible onstage, with all nine members – including Craig’s unnamed and unannounced replacement – pouring every ounce of energy and emotion into the 18-track career-spanning set.