Watch Eloy Casagrande Batter the Hell Out of Slipknot’s ‘Unplayable Live’ Gematria (The Killing Name) in New ‘Drums Only’ Video
In an electrifying new ‘drums only’ video, Eloy Casagrande, the powerhouse drummer for Brazilian metal band Angra, takes on Slipknot’s iconic track Gematria (The Killing Name). Known for his technical skill, ferocity, and unmatched energy behind the kit, Casagrande brings a whole new level of intensity to one of Slipknot’s most complex and arguably ‘unplayable’ songs live.
The Challenge of ‘Gematria (The Killing Name)’
Released as part of Slipknot’s 2008 album All Hope Is Gone, Gematria (The Killing Name) is a track notorious for its blistering drumming, intricate patterns, and lightning-fast fills. It’s often cited as one of the most challenging songs to play live, with many drummers considering it “unplayable” in a live setting due to its sheer technicality. The track features multiple tempo changes, polyrhythmic beats, and extreme bursts of speed, all while maintaining a consistent, intense groove. For many drummers, this song’s difficulty level can feel overwhelming, and thus, it’s not often heard in its full form during Slipknot’s live shows.
Eloy Casagrande: A Drumming Machine
Enter Eloy Casagrande. With a reputation for flawless execution and insane speed, Casagrande has long been recognized as one of the finest drummers in the metal world. His ability to execute complicated drum parts with precision and power has earned him respect from both fans and fellow musicians alike. And in this latest video, Casagrande takes on the beast that is Gematria (The Killing Name), tackling the song with unmatched intensity.
The video, which is quickly gaining attention across social media, shows Eloy Casagrande’s full performance of the track—only the drums. The raw power and speed he demonstrates in this ‘drums only’ rendition are nothing short of jaw-dropping. From the chaotic intro to the brutal breakdowns, Casagrande attacks every part of the song with precision and flair, showcasing not only his technical prowess but also his ability to make even the most difficult drum patterns sound musical and fluid.
A Look Into the Mastery of the Song
What makes this video even more fascinating is the way Casagrande interprets Gematria (The Killing Name). While the song is known for its difficult polyrhythms and rapid fire kick patterns, Casagrande approaches each section with finesse and the kind of controlled aggression only a seasoned pro can deliver. He nails every time signature change and every intricate hit, showing viewers just how much effort, focus, and practice it takes to bring such an insane song to life.
For those who have tried to replicate the drum parts from Gematria at home, this video is a masterclass in technique. Casagrande’s footwork, especially, is a thing of beauty—his double kick pedal is a blur as he hits every note with surgical accuracy. Every crash cymbal, snare hit, and tom roll is timed to perfection, creating a performance that is both impressive and awe-inspiring.
The Response From Fans and Drumming Community
As expected, the drumming community has been buzzing about Casagrande’s performance. Drummers on social media have praised him for taking on such a technically demanding song and delivering a near-perfect rendition. Many have commented that it’s rare to see a drummer not only pull off the technical aspects of the song but also add their own flair and personal touch to it. Casagrande’s ability to stay true to the original while injecting his own energy into the track has been hailed as a testament to his versatility as a musician.
Fans of Slipknot have also been quick to show their appreciation for the video. While it’s no secret that many Slipknot fans regard Gematria (The Killing Name) as one of the band’s most complex songs, seeing it performed by such a skilled drummer has only deepened their respect for the original drumming work done by Joey Jordison, the late Slipknot drummer who originally crafted the track’s intricate patterns. Casagrande’s performance acts as both an homage to Jordison and a showcase of his own drumming excellence.
A New Standard for ‘Unplayable’ Songs
With this new ‘drums only’ video, Eloy Casagrande has set a new benchmark for drummers tackling some of the most technically demanding songs in modern metal. By making what was once considered ‘unplayable live’ look effortless, Casagrande is redefining what is possible behind the drum kit.
If you haven’t seen it yet, Gematria (The Killing Name) in all its raw, unfiltered glory is a must-watch for any metal fan or aspiring drummer. Eloy Casagrande’s incredible skill serves as both a challenge and an inspiration for drummers everywhere, proving that no song is truly unplayable if you have the right combination of technique, passion, and determination.
Final Thoughts
Eloy Casagrande’s ‘drums only’ video for Gematria (The Killing Name) is a masterclass in drumming. Not only does it demonstrate his technical ability, but it also shows his relentless energy and dedication to the craft. His performance is sure to inspire drummers across the world to push the limits of what they can achieve and take on songs that others might consider impossible to play live. If you’re a fan of metal, drumming, or just appreciate impressive musicianship, this video is a must-see.
