Slipknot

Lyrics

[Intro]
Yeah!

[Verse 1]
Insane, am I the only motherfucker with a brain?
I'm hearing voices but all they do is complain
How many times have you wanted to kill
Everything and everyone, say you'll do it but never will

[Chorus]
You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes
Can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes
You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes

[Verse 2]
I am my father's son
'Cause he's a phantom, a mystery and that leaves me nothing!
How many times have you wanted to die?
It's too late for me, all you have to do is get rid of me!

[Chorus]
You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes
Can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes
You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes

[Post-Chorus]
It's all in your head
It's all in my head
It's all in your head
Yeah!
[Verse 3]
I tried, you lied to me for so long
Everywhere I go, there's a sense of it
Freak on my antics and give me a choice
Doesn't matter if I give a shit, it's shit that you gave me

[Chorus]
You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes
Can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes
You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes

[Post-Chorus]
It's all in your head
It's all in my head
It's all in your head
Yeah!

[Bridge]
Do you wanna feel pain? Takin' my name in vain
Caring never felt so lame inside
Anybody else got pride? Do you wanna take my life?
Maybe I'll reverse my ride
Who the fuck are you? Fuck you!
Better suck it up 'cause you bled through
Better get away from me
Stay the fuck away from me
[Outro]
I feel safe; seems you're saved
I feel safe; seems you're saved
Look me in my brand new eye
Look me in my brand new eye
Look me in my brand new eye
Motherfucker!
Look me in my brand new eye
Look me in my brand new eye
Look me in my brand new eye
Look me in my brand new…

Metal music has been known to feature aggressive and heavy rhythms perfect for a cathartic release of emotions and energy. Slipknot, one of the pioneers of the alternative metal genre, has been unleashing chaotic tunes since their inception in 1995. The Iowa-based band created a name for themselves through their shocking and intense live performances and their ability to combine various influences to create a unique and intense sound that separates them from the rest of the metal scene. One of their most recognizable songs, “Eyeless,” is known for its raw energy and destructive force.

About Eyeless

“Eyeless” was part of Slipknot’s debut album that was released in 1999. The song starts with DJ Sid Wilson's scratched intro of "You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes" followed by a heavy and abrasive riff that showcases the band's signature chaos. What's interesting about “Eyeless” is that it samples “Ease Yourself” by The Collective at the 0:02 mark, which in turn heavily samples “Amen Brother” by The Winstons at 1:27. “Amen Brother” is a drum sample taken from The Winstons' 1969 single “Color Him Father” that has been used extensively in various genres of music, particularly in breakbeat and jungle music. Slipknot also used this sample in “Pulse of The Maggots” in 2005. The use of the sample in “Eyeless” and the band's ability to incorporate it into their chaotic and heavy sound showcases their ability to blend various genres and influences to create their own unique sound.

The vocals on “Eyeless” are provided by Corey Taylor, who alternates between yelling and shouting, giving the song an aggressive and intense vibe. Taylor's lyrics revolve around his struggle for individuality and his willingness to overcome any obstacle in his way. This is perfectly depicted in the song's chorus, where Taylor screams, "You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes. You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes. You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes." The repetition of this line adds to its catchiness, making it one of the most memorable parts of the song.

The song's rhythm is characterized by Shawn Crahan's precise and forceful drumming, which is complemented by Chris Fehn's percussion. James Root and Mick Thomson's distorted guitars add a crushing dimension to the track, while Craig Jones and Sid Wilson's turntable effects add layers of dissonance to the sound. Paul Gray and Corey Taylor's bass and vocals, respectively, provide a consistent and robust backbone to the song. The use of various musical elements and instruments creates a sound that's full of depth, texture, and aggression.

“Eyeless” has been featured in various live shows and recordings, including “Disasterpieces,” “9.0: Live,” “Voliminal: Inside the Nine,” “(sic)nesses,” and “Live at Dynamo 6.3.2000.” Live versions of the song are known for their ability to create a strong and energetic connection with the audience, who are drawn to the band's intense and thrilling performances. The band's ability to perform “Eyeless” flawlessly while adding their unique improvisations is a testament to their skills as musicians and performers.

In a nutshell, “Eyeless” is a perfect representation of Slipknot's unique sound and influences. The song's use of various musical elements, including samples, percussion, guitar riffs, and vocal style, captures the essence of alternative metal perfectly. The song's raw energy and aggressive lyrics are a reflection of the band's rebellious spirit and the struggle for individuality. It's a classic example of how Slipknot's music serves as a cathartic release of emotions that connects with their audience on a primal level.

• Release Date: June 29, 1999
• Artist: Slipknot