SLIPKNOT guitarist Mick Thomson has issued the following update:

"Been away for a bit. I'm sure I was missed. Or something. Or not.

"I'm here to confirm the [Rockstar Energy] Mayhem tour rumor shit and say that we are starting to record in a couple weeks. We have been writing for a while and we are trying to be done recording some time in late March. Regardless, we will be back on the road this summer and for the better part of the next two years. New stage show, set list, visuals, expectations. We don't repeat ourselves as artists and know that fans don't want the same either."

SLIPKNOT is scheduled to enter the studio this month with producer Dave Fortman, who's previously worked with MUDVAYNE and EVANESCENCE. An August release via Roadrunner is expected.