A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Heaven

August 26, 2013
Slipknot and Stone Sour vocalist Taylor's follow-up to Seven Deadly Sins reveals itself to be a well-meaning but often meandering collection of ghost stories and far-out philosophical and quasi-scientific ruminations on the existence of God and ghosts that never quite comes together. Circular discussions, tangential digressions and lack of focus detract and irritate rather than provoke thought or introspection; the reader instead must concentrate on Taylor's ever-wavering train of thought in order to keep up. Luckily he does much better when addressing paranormal and supernatural experiences, which constitutes the majority of the book. Some of these encounters are sought out, while others, like the ghostly children who inhabit his current home and the mansion full of ghosts who terrorized the band during a recording session, are mere chance. Taylor's enthusiasm for his topic and sheer wonder is infectious; he makes for a humble, charming host. Still, it's die hard ghost hunters and fans of Taylor's music that will likely get the most out of this. Those on the fence, whether it's regarding organized religion or the existence of ghosts, likely won't have any major revelations.

Starred review from September 30, 2013
Heavy metal frontman Corey Taylor of Slipknot and Stone Sour fame offers this fascinating insider look at paranormal investigation and how the otherworldly has affected his life. Taylor’s performance ability is undeniable, and he’s clearly comfortable talking about even the most bizarre and outrageous subjects with ease, making this an absolutely compulsive listen for fans of his music or the macabre. Taylor’s delivery is straightforward and unabashed. While the subject matter is, for the most part, quite dark—e.g., spirits and ghost busting—Taylor brings an air of nonchalance to his reading that allows humor and dark comedy to abound. A Da Capo hardcover.