Slipknot have been confirmed as the third headlining act at next year's Download festival. They'll bring their masks and pyrotechnics to the Castle Donington stage on Friday 14 June, followed by Iron Maiden on the Saturday night and Rammstein on the Sunday.
As is traditional for Donington headliners, the Iowa band issued a statement of delight at being asked to play. "We are extremely honored to have been asked once again to headline the Download festival," said percussionist Clown, AKA Shawn Crahan.
"This most definitely will be an experience not to be missed. Every time we've played Download we have created memories. Its always good to have the church of the Knot, the altar of the Knot, giving the sermon of the Knot to the congregation of the Knot, the culture of the Knot. This summer cannot come soon enough. Partake in the imagination or don't bitch."
Since Slipknot's last Download headline slot in 2009, they have been hit by the death of founder member and bassist Paul Gray. He died of an accidental overdose of morphine and fentanyl, and his doctor has been charged with involuntary manslaughter relating to the death.
Slipknot also recently announced they are recording their first album since Gray's death.
