Slipknot and Keyboardist Craig Jones Suddenly Part Ways

In a surprising turn of events, Slipknot took to social media just moments ago to announce that their sampler/keyboardist Craig Jones was no longer in the band. No specific reason was given as to why the two parties decided to call it quits, or whether it was a mutual agreement at all in the first place.

This news comes just hours after they announced that M. Shawn “Clown” Crahan wouldn’t be joining them on their European tour due to his wife’s ongoing family issues. Oh and they’re kicking off their European tour tonight. In the case of both these absences, we’re unsure if the band will continue with stand ins or if they’ll have to perform with “just” seven members on stage.

Jones wasn’t a founding member of Slipknot, but it could be said that he’s been there since they blew the fuck up. He’s been a member since early 1996 after he joined to replace guitarist Donnie Steele, but he eventually moved over to handle sampling and keyboards instead. He was since featured in every Slipknot release barring Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.

All of this is strange and sudden, but if we hear any more details, we’ll be sure to keep you guys updated.