 The musical style of Slipknot is a constantly contested issue and the genres that the band are categorized in vary depending on the source, however, this album is generally regarded as nu metal, while showing influences of many different genres. The influence of death metal on the album is clear, and on the subject Jordison stated; "the roots are death metal, thrash, speed metal, and I could go on and on about all those bands." The album also shows influences from alternative metal and even rap metal. Critics have also noted an industrial influence. Due to the band's large line-up consisting of additional percussionists and electronics, the album has a very dense, layered sound. Alternative Press stated that the album used "inventive sampling, creative guitar work and an absolute percussive overload", while Q magazine described the album as "a terrifying racket". Slipknot also includes melody, most notably in the single "Wait and Bleed".
