Purity (song)

"Purity" is a song by the American nu metal band Slipknot, featured on their self-titled debut album, released in 1999. The song is known for its heavy, aggressive sound, its incorporation of industrial elements, and its lyrical themes of alienation, frustration, and social commentary.

The song's composition is characterized by a dissonant, chaotic structure, featuring multiple tempo changes, unconventional rhythms, and the prominent use of turntables and sampling. The lyrics, primarily delivered by vocalist Corey Taylor, explore themes of inner turmoil, societal rejection, and the search for authenticity in a world perceived as corrupted.

"Purity" was initially included on the original pressing of the Slipknot album. However, it was later removed from subsequent releases and replaced with the song "Me Inside." This decision was made due to legal issues surrounding the sample used at the beginning of the track. The sample was taken from a news report about a real-life case of a woman buried alive, and the band was unable to obtain the necessary permissions to use it.

Despite its removal from the main album tracklist, "Purity" has remained a popular song among Slipknot fans. It is often performed live, either in its original form or in a medley with other songs. The song's aggressive energy and thematic resonance have contributed to its enduring appeal within the nu metal genre.