Burnin’ Up: Slipknot Brings the Heat at Dos Equis Pavilion in Dallas

Legendary metal band, Slipknot, stops in Dallas for an unforgettable evening of headbanging, moshing, and singing.

The evening was just beginning as all ages of metal-heads and hardcore fans rushed through the gates of Dos Equis Pavilion. Some wearing full Slipknot style suits, some with face paint, and others wearing merch from the bands playing that night. Regardless of how each fan showed up, it was obvious from the very beginning of their intentions, to spend a night rocking out to amazing music with the most energetic and exciting crowd. While a handful of fans rushed to the merchandise tables for a chance to get their favorite designs, others found themselves in the pavilion area, preparing for a show to remember. 

To start off the evening with a heavy note, Iowa native band, Vended, was able to make the crowd break a sweat with an energetic and crazy stage presence. Founded in 2018, this nu metal style band not only brings a highly passionate experience for the metal sound, but also a unique stage presence. Carrying the metal legacy from father to son, with Griffin Taylor (Corey Taylor’s son) on vocals and drummer Simon Crahan (Shawn Crahan’s son), these young musicians make the jaws of many fans unfamiliar of the bands drop. It won’t be a surprise as the band hits major growth from their impressive live performances mixed with their newest studio album Vended being released this month. As the band wrapped up their exciting set, they left the early audience begging for more.

As if being in the presence of Corey Taylor’s son wasn’t enough, the crowd roared as the lights dimmed and the banner reading “KNOCKED LOOSE” was dropped. Knocked Loose, known for their chaotic crowds and hardcore sound, is from a county in Kentucky and formed in 2013. With signature screams and vocals from the energetic stage presence of Bryan Garris, mixed with guitar Issac Hale and Nicko Calderon, a heavy bass from Kevin Otten, and a hard and fast tempo from Kevin Kaine makes the perfect recipe for an amazing hardcore show.

As Knocked Loose let out all their energy into a 50 minute set, so did the hardcore fans in the crowd, with plenty of moshing, kicking, screaming, and jumping. They covered some of their most well known songs including “Suffocate” in which Garris had the crowd scream the lyrics which caused a wave of sound to echo throughout the pavilion. Although it was an almost 60 minute set, time flew by as the band performed lively tracks. Fans were ultimately blown away as Knocked Loose provided the most ideal musical pregame for Slipknot.

As the clock got closer to showtime, a wave of echoing the word “Slipknot” was being chanted by fans all over the venue. The chants quickly turned into screams of exhilaration as the main lights began to dim and eerie sounds took over the speakers. Then, a feeling of chaos and elation came through the air as the men in the distinguished masks and eminent orange jumpsuits fled on stage. Screams echoed from the audience and smiles of anticipation were seen from what seemed like miles away all over the venue.

As the guitar began to rip and the heavy vocals fled from lead singer Corey Taylor, the live performance was even better than listening to the studio albums. Seeing the crazy, creepy, and energetic band members do their part to combine together in a way unlike any other band. The band played classics like “Eyeless” and “Wait and Bleed” while the crowd formed mosh pits and jumped as the heavy music pumped through their veins. 

Overall, the fans left the show with disappointment, due to the fact that their perfect night of heavy metal had to come to an end. Although the lights went out at Dos Equis Pavilion that night, many venues across North America and Europe are preparing to host Slipknot while they are on their 2024 Here Comes the Pain tour.