Mick Thomson’s নাম is synonymous with the bone-crushing guitar riffs and intensely heavy sound that define Slipknot. For over two decades, his signature de-tuned guitar work has been a cornerstone of the band’s aggressive and innovative metal music. With millions of albums sold and sold-out tours across the globe, the Grammy-winning, multi-platinum Slipknot remains a dominant force in modern metal, largely thanks to the sonic assault crafted by guitarists like Mick Thomson. This exploration delves into the world of Mick Thomson, the enigmatic #7 of Slipknot, and the guitar mastery that fuels the band’s relentless energy.
The Des Moines Metal Roots of Mick Thomson
Born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, Mick Thomson’s origins are deeply intertwined with the birthplace of Slipknot itself. It was in Des Moines that the seeds of this groundbreaking metal band were sown in September 1995. Thomson joined the fold in 1996, solidifying the lineup that would soon take the metal world by storm. Staying true to his roots, Thomson continues to reside in Des Moines, a testament to the band’s strong connection to their hometown and the fertile metal scene that nurtured their beginnings. This loyalty grounds the intensely global reach of Slipknot back to the heartland of America.
Number Seven: More Than Just a Designation
Within the unique numbering system of Slipknot, where each member is designated by a number from 0 to 8, Mick Thomson proudly holds the number seven. This numerical identity is more than just a label; it’s part of the band’s carefully constructed persona, emphasizing unity and anonymity. While the numbers serve to de-emphasize individual identities in favor of the collective force of Slipknot, the distinct talent and guitar prowess of #7 are undeniable to any fan familiar with their music. Mick Thomson, or #7, is a crucial and recognizable element of the Slipknot machine.
The Evolution of Mick Thomson’s Mask: From Obscurity to Icon
Slipknot’s visual identity is as crucial as their sonic attack, and the masks worn by each member are central to this. From the beginning, the band declared they were “not about our names or our faces,” and the masks served to reinforce this message. Mick Thomson’s mask has undergone a significant evolution. Initially, he sported a simple, store-bought hockey mask, a common and somewhat unassuming choice. This evolved into a darker, more provocative black leather gimp mask, signaling a shift towards the band’s increasingly menacing aesthetic. Today, Thomson’s mask is a truly menacing silver visage, complete with angry, narrowed eyes and a five-bar grill across the teeth. This iconic mask perfectly reflects the aggressive and unforgiving guitar sound he delivers.
Mick Thomson: Credits Beyond the Core of Slipknot
While best known for his crucial role in Slipknot, Mick Thomson’s guitar skills have extended to collaborations and projects outside the band. He, along with the late Slipknot bassist Paul Gray, contributed to a Death tribute album curated by James Murphy, showcasing his respect for metal’s pioneers. Thomson’s lead guitar work can also be heard on Malevolent Creation’s track “Delivery My Enemy,” where he laid down the second guitar solo. Further demonstrating his versatility within extreme metal, he guested on lead guitar for Necrophagia’s Deathtrip 69 album and even made an appearance in the music video for “No Pity on the Ants” by Lupara. These side credits highlight Thomson’s respected status within the wider metal community and his willingness to explore different facets of heavy music.
Fun Facts: Mick Thomson, The Raiders Diehard
Beyond the mask and the menacing stage persona, Mick Thomson has personal passions like any other musician. Notably, he is a devoted fan of the Oakland Raiders. This fun fact offers a glimpse into the person behind the persona, revealing a connection to a major American football team and adding another layer to his identity beyond the stage and studio. This relatability, despite the extreme nature of his art, helps fans connect with Mick Thomson on a more personal level.
The King V Dream: Forging a Guitar Icon
Mick Thomson’s journey as a guitarist is also marked by his relationship with Jackson guitars, particularly his first custom King V. In his own words, “After saving for several years after high school, I was finally able to take out a loan and placed an order for a custom King V. It was my perfect guitar.” He describes it as “Charcoal metallic grey, black hardware, Floyd Rose tremolo, shark tooth inlays and an active pickup circuit.” This King V was more than just an instrument; it was the culmination of years of aspiration and hard work. Thomson used this cherished guitar extensively, including on Slipknot’s debut record. While he eventually retired it from touring to protect it from damage or theft, it remains a prized possession at home. This story underscores the deep connection between Mick Thomson and his guitars, especially his iconic Jackson King V, which has become visually and sonically linked to his powerful guitar style.
Mick Thomson’s guitar work is integral to the Slipknot sound, a sound that has resonated with millions and solidified their place in metal history. From his Iowan roots to his iconic mask and devastating guitar riffs, Mick Thomson continues to be a force in the world of heavy metal guitar.
