Scare Tactics

A long time ago, in the scary makeup hierarchy of rock 'n' roll, Kiss begat Marilyn Manson, Madonna begat Taylor Dayne, and GWAR begat Slipknot. While many would argue that it's all about the music for Slipknot, the band's local hockey-mask dealer and sheet-metal welder would disagree. Slipknot seems to scare every demographic, except for the highly sought-after -- and well-served -- 15- to 35-year-old male market. Why, just last night, I had a nightmare involving the guitar player and a scene from Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (which was, by far, the best Nightmare on Elm Street ever -- but that's neither here nor there). All costuming aside, Slipknot is well-respected in the world of nü-metal as masters of their craft. The guys are all accomplished musicians (except maybe for that guy who just bangs on a beer keg with a baseball bat), and who knows -- they might be big ol' softies under those pewter exteriors. Cuddle up!

Slipknot, along with Lamb of God and Shadows Fall, starts the slashing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at Sound Advice Amphitheatre, 601-7 Sansbury's Way, West Palm Beach. Tickets cost $39. No coolers allowed, but bring a tarp in case of splatter.