Slipknot is an American metal band formed in Des Moines, Iowa, in the mid-1990s. The group became known for an extremely intense sound blending nu metal, alternative metal, groove metal and hardcore influences, driven by massive percussion, heavy guitars and an instantly recognizable visual identity built around masks and matching outfits. With albums such as Slipknot, Iowa and Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses), Slipknot became one of the most influential and popular metal bands of its generation.