The magazine Modern drummer crowned Eloy Casagrande, former Sepultura drummer and now member of Slipknot, as “Best Metal Drummer” of 2024, according to his Readers' Poll.
Well-deserved recognition for a passionate artist
In a statement posted on social media, Eloy Casagrande expressed his gratitude: “I'm happy to have been named Best Metal Drummer of 2024 by Modern Drummer. Thanks to everyone who voted for me. I'm not the best. In music and art, there is no good or bad. I’m just lucky to have people who support me and appreciate my work.”
The 33-year-old musician also thanked Slipknot and their fans, nicknamed the “Maggots”, for their trust and support, adding: “Thank you to Modern Drummer for what you do for the drumming community. Thanks to Slipknot and the Maggots. See you on the road.”
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A remarkable journey: from Sepultura to Slipknot
Casagrande joined Slipknot after a tumultuous time for the group. In November 2023, Slipknot announced the separation from their previous drummer, Jay Weinberg, citing creative differences. Shortly after, Casagrande, who had left Sepultura earlier the same year, became an obvious choice to take his place.
According to Slipknot guitarist Jim Root, Eloy's integration was natural: “We didn’t even audition other candidates. Eloy contacted the group and sent some awesome videos. He greatly respects Joey's legacy [Jordison] and lives fully for his art. His passion for his instrument reignited mine. We’re really lucky to have him.”
An immediate impact on Slipknot and its fans
Since his arrival, Eloy has helped enrich Slipknot's musical dynamic. The band recently completed the North American tour Here Comes The Paincelebrating the 25th anniversary of his self-titled debut album. This tour was marked by the return of the iconic red jumpsuits from 1999 and revisited masks, symbolizing the group's roots.
With Eloy behind the drums, Slipknot found a new lease of life, while honoring the legacy left by its former members.
A career marked by success
Before joining Slipknot, Casagrande was Sepultura's drummer for over 13 years, taking over from Jean Dolabella in 2011. He recorded several acclaimed albums with the group, before leaving in 2023 to focus on new projects.
Slipknot, for their part, continues to celebrate their 25th anniversary with renewed energy and many upcoming projects, consolidating their status as a pillar of the international metal scene.
