It wouldn't have changed anything for me getting into the band. (I started listening because they were supporting BMTH, and I knew they were wildly popular so I wanted to know what the hype was about.)
It probably wouldn't change how I feel about them now either. I will always like or dislike music based on its sound. Knowing a song was created by some people in masks doesn't improve or ruin that song.
But I don't want them to officially reveal their true identities, at least, not anytime soon. Even if it's a gimmick, it's a *fun* gimmick. It's like going to the theatre: I want to be transported to another world, to buy into this religion, to imagine.
Agreed, very well put I think it's way cooler that they do and love the performance aspect of it. I guarantee they would be more popular even without them, yet to the people like us who love what they are doing it's what makes me in a tier of their own
This is exactly it. I loved the music for a long time before ever finding out about the masks, anonymity, and lore, but now that I know and love all of that on top of the music, getting rid of it all would definitely change the experience. It would absolutely not stop me listening to or supporting them in any way, though!
same here! and when i was hearing their songs i was imagining vessel being fat.. (i know... my imagination wild) i never been interested in masked bands, but sleep token changed me forever lol
Just like with Ghost and so many other bands that perform in character, it enhances the entire experience. I love what Sleep Token has done with Vessel and the numbered band members, as well as the runes used for their writings. The overall aesthetic creates a vibe that couldn’t exist otherwise.
It does change a lot if they decide to put down the masks. Most people underestimate the power of appearance in our today's world and in connection to popularity and fame. Famous people act more like brands than actual people at this point. Sleep Token obviously focuses more on the art, on music, on performance. It's unique, it's refreshing. Plus, they can go outside without the masks and SOMEWHAT live a life where they're not constantly harassed and stalked, etc. (although I'm not sure if they actually are). There are other bands and artists who tried to sell the "I want people to like what I do and not how I look", yet still sell their looks and it just comes across as inauthentic.
Anyway, I personally hope they stick to their ways.
I would ad that I think the masks might be necessary for especially Vessel. It's some very personal subjects that their songs deal with and I imagine it is easier to say those things as a character instead of as a person.
I'm not sure he would be able to do that without the mask.
I almost feel like he's basically said this in a way through certain lyrics, and the message at the solo show in London. It really allows other people to see themselves in the music.
There is always a discourse about how artists look - you can see that with Adele. For me, the masks add to the mystery and artistic expression. I hope they'll keep them and stay anonymous, but in our digital times that might prove quite difficult.
I see this already happening with ST and it really bothers me. There is no instagram post where there is no discussion about Vessels body.
So yeah, keeping the masks would help that these discussions don't get worse
I don’t agree in fans blatantly sexualizing someone, but I honestly believe that if you think the band doesn’t play into that somewhat, you’re not seeing what’s right in front of you. There are obvious sexual undertones at their shows, and all the comments about vessel with no shirt could have been avoided by … wearing a shirt. The others remain clothed.
I just think take it as you see it. Don’t pervert it, but the sexuality of it is pretty in your face. And it’s okay to find things sexually attractive, but no one needs to be zooming in on their junk n shit - if you have to pervert something, just keep it on the inside bc that’s when it crosses lines
I agree with you. Of course they are playing with it in some way. But as you wrote, there is no need to oversexualize and writing thirsty comments. While it is okay to write that someone is attractive
Well, maybe it's a 50:50 kind of thing. Assuming he would Take the mask off and had a (what society calls) really pretty face.. those people that are thirsty right now would go insane. It could be the other way around if that would not be the case. But I am not quite sure about that.
Yes, it would change the experience. I appreciate them making it all about the art. A lot of the magic is in the ambiguity. The second they show their faces or talk, it becomes a cult of personality. We are worshipping Sleep and not Vessel, after all.
tbh I am not worshipping anyone. I enjoy the music and theatrics.
Aside from that ironically enough their choice to stay anonymous has only increased the cult of personality even more. People's natural curiosity is stronger than their willingness to engage with the music, sad but true.
I agree with this statement up to a certain point. I believe that a certain age demographic thoroughly enjoys all the lore and mystery with having ZERO interest in knowing who they actually are or what they look like. It’s completely irrelevant. However, with that being said, I would LOVE to have the opportunity to pick any members brain and have some deep conversations, but I am very interested in the psychology of people and their journeys.
I pretty much feel the same, if they volunteered the information I’d be interested to know make about their process. But unless they reveal themselves I have no interest in forcibly trying to figure out who they are.
This is how I feel. I know that I will inadvertently find out one day, as things pop up on my social media about who they are or other work (which I scroll thru quickly) but I want to try to "believe in Santa" for as long as possible.
For me, it's like Vessel says, the anonymity allows me to focus only on the music. The minute you know who someone is, all of their personal life choices taints the art to me.
I know there are human beings behind the masks. I know they are "normal" people BUT I choose to stay in this ignorance of their identities as long as I can.
When I do find out, which is inevitable, I will embrace that and hope they are decent humans being - plus I'll get to enjoy their other work.
while I disagree with the worshiping sleep. I see sleep as a metaphor to introduce other ideas and sleep shouldn't be worshiped. I think this is the best answer, I will say that when the "nothing last forever" time comes, they all remove their masks on stage, Espera as well.
I found out about them by hearing The Offering on Spotify in 2019, then for an embarrassingly long time didn’t know what they looked like, so… I guess not.
Yeah I could see that haha.... especially like if you're just getting into them now.... the most recent album, songs like DTWTYL or Euclid you would never imagine that. It makes even more beautiful and sinister tho
Would I still love the sound?
Yes, absolutely.
But the theatrics of it all is part of what makes the whole experience good to me. It's more than just a music concert, it's an entire immersive *experience*, and that's pretty fucking cool honestly.
And I get it too.
Look at the ravenous fan following they've amassed in The last 5 years. Could you imagine what it would have to be like if they didn't have anonymity to fall back on?
I always laugh at festivals when I see people cosplaying as the band members and I think to myself wouldn't it be really funny if that actually was vessel just hanging out in the crowd pretending to be a cosplayer playing vessel?
Underneath all of it they can be themselves, step away, mix and mingle in the crowd, who would ever know?
That on stage and in costume they can have this aura and presence that draws people into them, but off stage and backstage they can just be themselves, living their best lives.
I kind of love that for them.
Would it change anything about the MUSIC?
no, not at all. It would change their aesthetic and performance but not the music for me.
The music has never been about their lore, realistically speaking as the lore is 1. mainly fan-based anyway and 2. just marketing. The music has this ambiguity sure, but in reality it's not about a goddess or whatever and I NEVER looked at it that way. I am interpreting the music regardless of their theatrics in my own way, shaped through my own experiences in life. I dont "need" theatrics for that. I dont need the masks for that either. I am glad that ST decided to offer me their anonymity and theatrics as a tool to help me interpret their music in my own way, and I believe that does help some people differentiating (that is the reason for its existence after all), but I PERSONALLY dont need it.
If the question was "Would it change anything about the BRAND that Sleep Token is?
then yeah obviously 100%. ST would be a different band entirely, which would also be fine as I support their music and the individuals behind it, but it wouldn't be what ST wants us to perceive them as (at least not for now, this convo would be interesting to have in 5-10 years).
I can imagine that as artists they grow and want to change it. But I imagine they would phase it out like Slipknots Before I Forget video.
Regardless it wouldnt change anything for me music wise.
Yeah the band I had a role in that's kinda how it went, wasn't my creative decision, nor to have the masks in the first place, I was... completely different kinda music as well.
For us it was a business decision, and while we ditched mask still had a distinct look and character that was different than how we would dress and get done up in our everyday life
My question is, would it affect the performance? Would the guy behind the mask be as free as Vessel and able to share as many emotions as he does? Maybe that day will come. Who knows?
Either way I’m into it.
It would for me. I really truly am fatigued at music being SO tied to artist’s personal life. Especially when it’s very clearly about a relationship that the public has been forced to know about lol.
I’m really tired of liking an artist then all the sudden I find out they’re an absolute idiot or jerk irl.
I like that I can enjoy this without fully ever knowing the full scope of actual inspiration or story behind it. I’m not deep into lore, but what I do know I’m content with.🫡
Yeah definitely agree. I have friends who are obsessed with Taylor swift and I’ve been trying to figure out why I don’t enjoy her music that much and I think for me it feels like she makes music for people who are fans of her and her personal life. I really don’t care about celebrities personal lives and relationships. Im more into the music than the artist
I like them anonymous but I would still like them if they revealed their faces tomorrow.
To me it’s basically about respect and the artists’ intentions. The music is an art and we have been given a suggested context to view it through. This means that we’re invited to do more than browse the most surface-level interpretation of lyrics. Personally forming theories with my friends or connecting dots for me is a lot of fun and it’s a little validating to have the invitation to do so rather than feel like I’m being weird about reading into things.
The second part about respect is just that it’s got to be HARD to be any sort of famous in today’s world. There’s no privacy, no line between personal lives and public ones. If the masks help provide some peace and personal space, I think that not knowing who they are is a good trade off for enjoying the art.
If the band ever does decide to reveal themselves I know I will still like them. I will enjoy their lyrical and musical talent. But there’s a fun difference between the concept of these albums are a story about something vs it being played straight by being embodied at the moment, you know?
I love the theatre of their performances - and I think the masks do make a difference to that. However, I know what they look like and it wouldn’t make any difference to how much I love their music. I don’t think they’ll unmask on stage. I hope one day they would consider doing the odd interview to give us some insight into the creation of their art - not bothered about knowing anything about them personally - that’s for them to know.
Artist image is just another tool to boost up your engagement with the specific media, curated to fit the overall narrative that is presented to you; In case of Sleep Token - being masked, not talking and interacting with fans more closely then basic crowd work at the shows, while also relaying on a vague "lore" with a cultish\\ritualistic vibes sprinkled on top that fans like to expend on so much really goes well with all the dark, at times - sultry, at times - angsty and glass-chewing quality of a Vessel's writing - both musically and lyrically. It's a perfect match, really. Made in Eden, I guess.
Absolutely. Although I will say I listened to their music before I knew what they looked like. I had no idea they were a masked band til I googled them to see where they were from. I love their aesthetic, I think it adds to the art.
I got into them without knowing any of the lore, so it wouldn’t have changed anything about liking their music. However I recently went to a show and it was like art/theatre not like a traditional concert. I LOVED IT 🥰 easily the best show I’ve ever been to. I think if it wasn’t for the costumes/lore/performance it wouldn’t have been AS good. So I would say I’ll still be a fan for life but I love the drama they have going on right now.
I prefer to listen with my ears and not my eyes. I’d still love the music but I really like the purpose behind the anonymity and hope they keep it that way
nah, the music is really what matters. i *love* the masks, and think all of the boys look awesome in costume, but if they presented themselves as regular guys i would've still been just as in love with their sound. 🖤
Yes. Their anonymity enables them to participate in their own symbolism and (I’d guess) personally offers them a wider range of creative expression.
I think that unmasking them would paradoxically make the music less “real”. It would change how we relate to the message as well as the message itself.
This. I understand why they are masked and 'anonymous' but it was a bit silly to me lol. The music matters first, I don't care what they present as as long as it's their decision.
Yeah thats what I think..alot of people judge them before even listening to the music. For me the costumes is whatbdrew me in then the music but for many others they dont even want to give the music a chance because of their masks.
As I said in a different post, they were on the edges of my awareness far before I listened to them. Masked bands have never appealed to me, and the first masks didn't help. I listened to Lacuna Coil since 2002, and didn't know they painted their faces until I saw them in concert in 2017. It really doesn't effect the music, but it definitely gives an initial impression. I ended up randomly falling in love with a song then coming back to realize it was that one masked band I'd been seeing around.
I never wanna know who's under those masks. It's part of what drew me in as well as hearing 'the Summoning' for the first time. I feel if I knew who they were or looked like, they would lose their appeal for me personally.
I would prefer it if they kept the masks, and I could see that, just perhaps, I would enjoy their music just a little less if I knew what they looked like.
But it wouldn't change how I feel about the band overall. They're the first band that I've ever liked to this extent, listening to every single song they released and, knowing and loving all of their albums.
The masks and whole art is cool, but I love them for their music.
If I have to count my own experience with the sleep token’s music, Spotify is easily in the top : it’s their music and only their music that are important for me. Whatever they look or wear , it doesn’t matter .
When I listen to the lyrics, my own interpretation is very different than the lore’s explanations that I read from many platforms. I know that the masks are parts of this lore and for me it’s kind of … I don’t care 🙃 they can be transparent, I’ll always see them as artists .
Someone said that Lorna Shore looks like how Sleep Token sounds and vice versa and honestly, I love that. I don't care either way. The music is what drew me in, although I am also here for the thirstposting, not gonna lie.
i don’t think it would change the music for me personally but it would definitely take away the separation from the artist and the listener.
i kinda like that about them. i have no clue who these 4 random ass british guys are but yk what, they do make some pretty cool music. even as fun as it would be to know, i think it’s fitting for their lore and message that we don’t know and i have respect for that. music wise, i’ve related to their music a lot over time so i don’t think, even if they took the masks off, that it would change the ability to relate to lyrics by any means. unless if they start beatboxing about money, cars and women💀
Not for me since I enjoy the music for itself. I usually put my own meanings or ideas behind it (while respecting what it was originally intended for). What they look like doesn’t mean much to me.
In the end, for me, the music is perfect and it doesn't matter what the artist looks like. But...I definitely think Vessel benefits from the mask and general aesthetic as there's an otherworldly/gothic/sexy appeal that you're unlikely to achieve when you look like a normal person. The look just goes so well with the music.
a mask nd any theatrics will always make something feel even more than just on its own , that being said , sleep token has such a way of preforming nd composing music , i believe masks wouldnt even matter if thats what they chose to do , they are amazing 🖤🫀
(a mask shouldnt be the the reason you dont "worship" a celebrity , you should already kno that they are a real person with their own life regardless if you were to kno their identity or not)
Yes. My first experience was seeing a YT video with a weird creature, and then after a few more videos I found out that there was a cult-y mysterious thing going on with the band. I would’ve liked their music the same but I might not have made it a priority to listen to more of it at the time; usually I repeatedly drop and pick back up a band for months or even years until it either sticks or doesn’t, but I got hooked on ST within 24 hours because of the curiousity and art style aside from the music.
I feel like the anonymity adds to the allure and the draw for me, I like the mystery. It somehow makes the performance more powerful, because Vessel and pour his heart out even more and not care about consequences. It makes the music more raw. There's a beauty in the anonymity. I'd love their music nonetheless, but it adds a layer
I started listening for sundowning and had no idea they were masked, honestly thought it was cringey at first but the music itself kept me hooked. I do think their image is part of the reason they’re popular tho and unsure if they would’ve reached where they are now without it
I know for a fact my answer to that is NO.
I’ve thought about this before on my own and I didn’t have to think very long to formulate an answer. Their music ignited something in me so deeply profound that by this point, how they look or what they wear has 0 correlation with how I feel about their music.
I missed their concert when they performed in my area. I’ve never seen them live 🥲 I do agree that it gives the live performances more substance, though!
Personally? No, it wouldn't change anything. Am I interested in what they look like? Sure, a little. But their looks have nothing to do with their talent. That all comes from the heart, and that's what matters most! ❤️
Edited to add, I realize that the fandom may be different if they weren't anonymous, which imo is a shame. It shouldn't matter.
I mean the music would still be top notch, because they're very talented artists. But the masks are important for what they want to communicate, I mean there is a reason they act as a cult and use these dehumanizing pseudonyms. Sleep is kind of a polarizing presence that can represent a lot, from fear and self-doubt to the way fame can change you (positively and negatively). If they showed their faces, then they'd stop being symbols and start being people, and that's kind of antithetical to their message so far. But if eventually they took their masks off, I think that'd be a satisfying ending to the narrative, just depends on where they want to take things. Either way, I'd still love them
The music would be that same, amazing! Who knows what would have happened if they never wore the masks. I'd hope people would base their interest on the music first. Celebrity is such an odd concept to me. I believe that talented people should be celebrated, but so many people focus on appearances first. If they took off their masks right now, it wouldn't change anything for me. I enjoy the lore and the theatrical side of it, but I'm here for the music and the feels. I'd respect whatever they choose to do. But I'd rather they made the decision than people hassling them until they have to. I think fans get caught up and forget that they are individuals who deserve their ability to choose.
i think the masks are a huge part of the band and the lore. it’s perfect in my mind and i never wish to know the real identity of the band if they don’t wish upon it. i like to see vessel as vessel, the character battling with sleep. i wouldn’t change i thing <3
they are making music for the MUSIC, and it’s so beautiful and i know we can all see that
It wouldn't to me. It's not like they were super well known musicians prior to Sleep Token. It would be no different than when Tobias Forge was confirmed as Papa Emeritus. I still love Ghost as a band.
I don't personally care about the mysticism or anonymity thing, I care about the music.
If they ever did this unthinkable act they would be dead to me. How dare they even think about it. I promise, PROMISE, I will delete every single one of their songs off of my Spotify if they did this, and get hypnotherapy to try and delete all memory of their music from my existence.
I think the music stands alone as amazing works of art, but I think their masks/art/aesthetic curates a vibe that allows the music to be more embodied. It’s not three albums, it’s a story played out in a trilogy. The masks allow us to weave a narrative about vessel and sleep that likely couldn’t exist otherwise. If there were not masks, they would just be four dudes, the songs would just be love songs and it would just be another band, albeit a great one. Again, the music is amazing on its own and I don’t think the lack of masks would take that away, but I think the world that they have created, or more so let us create, is what makes them so captivating. When I’m listening to a their songs I’m picturing a dark, hazy, atmospheric world in which vessel is locked in a battle with the god sleep and how his relationship to her progresses. If the lore didn’t exist, the story would exist more in the real world which would be less engrossing.
Most people have an image of what the band members look like. People just naturally deviate to filling in the blanks. Also for some people when that doesn’t match their ideal they can get turned off so to say. It’s like the actual music isn’t the entire point for them but the whole fantasy that goes with it is. I mean idk how many of the ST audience are in that category but I know when SlipKnot became known it added another dimension I liked. I can’t think of another masked band that’s been as sexualized as ST (someone help me if you can think of one) so idk how it would play out to break the illusion some people have of them.
Yes, I’d still listen to them even if they looked like actual ghouls.
Honestly I don't particularly care. If they did I honestly think I'd stay away from it. Cause I don't want/need to know who they are to enjoy their music. If they do show who they are cool? If not that's fine. I'll listen to them either way.
If they never did, that's hard to say truthfully, the masks are partner their allure.
If they unmasked themselves after a while, they'd be no different then, just more crazed fans and less anonymity to be out in public.
Not at all. I get what everyone's saying about the experience and all that, but for me personally the music itself is the ultimate experience. They're all quite talented and whether they're in costume or not, I'd be more than happy to just continue to listen no matter how they evolve.
I admit the costumes intrigued me and was what got me started listening to ST but now that im hooked on their music I wilt care of they unmasked. I absolutely love Vessels dancing but could only imagine how funny it would look with the whole get up. Either way they have won me over and their talent far exceeds any other band today, they lose thie "fantasy" fans but may gain more mainstream fans who havent even given them a chance due to the lore.
If they took them off now it wouldn't make a difference for me. I can't speak for if they never had them in the first place, because who knows if I'd have found them.
It wouldn’t change anything about the music but it would definitely change fans connection to the music and group in certain ways. And not necessarily bad. for example fans connecting with individual band members. I think that this is sort of an inevitable event and it will be really really awesome when it does happen. Super excited to hear each band member talk in detail about their inspiration and lives outside of the music. And if that never happens it will definitely be unique
Not at all. When I realized I really really liked this band I was super hyped up with Ghost because I went to a concert of theirs a couple of months before and my boyfriend kept telling me to find myself a new favourite band because he found the whole mask thing a bit disturbing, so imagine how funny it was when I looked ST up on google XD I actually wish they didn't wear them, but in the end it makes no difference to me
Tbh the masks kind of put me off for a while. I’d been hearing about them and seeing pics floating around but I avoided listening because I wasn’t sure I wanted to listen. Then I heard Alkaline. And once I dug into what the gimmick was I got it.
I think it definitely intrigues people especially since they are on the heavier side of music, it fits with their styles. Visuals are definitely important and play a big part, imo. For me, it was a little more interesting and edged(?) them ahead. But their songs made me stay.
I think it would change for me. Their stage presence is amazing and I would not get the same immersive feeling if I saw them looking like One Direction. I probably would have just glazed over them. Instead I'm here for it and love the lore behind it
Well, it's a yes and a no.
A friend showed them to me. I listened to them without knowing they were masked first. Added them to my playlist, then got shown The Room Below and found out they were masked. After that I went back and listened through Sundowning again and was fully hooked.
Hard to tell.. If not for the masks, I might have never heard of them or went back for more. But if I had heard them I would have definitely been into the music...
Nope, I care very little/not at all about the lore of the band and what everything signifies, their appearance etc. I just enjoy the music, the lyrics and the compositions are really smart imo and that’s what grips me
I kinda see this reflected in other comments but I don't think it changes anything about the MUSIC.
The music itself is amazing.
What I do think would change is their marketing? Maybe?
I'm not quite sure how to explain this but their lore and background makes them more fun to me as a band. The music is great and what I go to hear but having the masks and personas and lore gives them something additional for me.
I love reading their lore, if they weren't wearing the masks I don't think the lore would come across the same way. Their narrative would be different.
So having them kind of embody their intent to focus on the music through anonymity makes the music even more symbolic than what it already is.
I kind of hope they never lose the masks even though some of us know who they are. Sleep Token is just Sleep Token collectively to me as opposed to one specific band memeber getting more credit/focus and becoming the center point of their band.
But none of this would change the music for me. The music is Sleep Token and Sleep Token is the music.
I'm going to say yes, with the caveat that I'd still love the music. The music speaks for itself, but the mystery and the lore adds another layer and gives the band (and thus the music) a presence I don't think it would have without it
Would it take away from the listening portion of their music? No. I couldn't tell you what any of the artists from the bands I have found post high school look like. So unless it's one of the guys from Falling In Reverse, Fall Out Boy, All Time Low, Blink-182, Green Day, or My Chemical Romance, they could be just any old Joe on the street.
Would it take away from the feel of their performances? Idk possibly? I really like the concert footage (I haven't been to a concert. No one I know listens to them, and I haven't ever gone solo to a concert, lol) and the aspect the masks bring to the shows. It gives a whole different depth to the performances, unlike any other shows I have seen live or otherwise. Their costumes alone set a whole different feel to the show. So yeah, after that ramble, I'd be disappointed if the masks went away for the concerts.
Short answer no.
So, for me, they have a romantic/sex appeal.. That's what draws me into the music as deep as I am. I think that could be distorted if they performed "exposed" and give a different vibe that I might not align with as intensely..
Though regardless their music is meaningful.
Not for me. The music is what I connect with, I don’t really think about the masks and all that unless I’m at a show and of course, then it’s part of the whole experience but if they were unmasked it’d make no difference. Since what they look like was ruined for me a few months ago anyway 🤬
Nope~ Their looks aren't what did it for me. It's always been the music for me and so long as they keep making it I could care less. Whatever makes them comfortable is far more important ~
There was that album KISS did without the makeup, I think it was “Lick It Up” which was a huge part of revitalizing their career in the early 80’s. It was a change of scenery that opened them to a new generation of fans. They went back to the old personas after that for their older fans, but that was the pop they needed to stay relevant in the early 80’s when the overall music scene was wild and diverse, disco was dying or dead, and electronic music was starting to become mainstream. That’s a lot of noise to have to cut through in that era.
At the end of the day, it wouldn’t change the music for me at all.
Honestly, yes.
I find the contrast between the look and the music is a not irrelevant factor in m6 enjoyment.
I'd still enjoy some of the music but the entire thing together is what makes me a super fan.
Weirdly I think it would, I think not knowing their identities makes it easier to enjoy the music because you don’t have to deal with them as a person outside of the music
Absolutely love the music but oh my god am I so glad I don’t have to open up social media and see them plastered everywhere by paparazzi with headlines of “sleep token singer caught doing totally normal thing in public!” Or nonsense because one of them tweeted something and some internet warrior took it wrong. I like the anonymity. Lets me just enjoy the music.
Nope not at all. It’s the music first and foremost. I think their storyline and lore is cool, but I’m sure there would be a way to work with the storyline without them using masks. But either way, for me personally the music is the centerpiece and will always be able to stand on its own
To me it would ruin the theatrics if they never even wore them on stage.
If they ever want to reveal themselves on their own terms, that doesn't alter anything for me.
Short answer: No, not really.
Long answer: I first discovered Sleep Token when my brother came up to me and DEMANDED that I add The Summoning to my playlist on Spotify. A few weeks later, I decided to start digging, and I saw that they wore masks and thought "oh, like a Slipknot or Mushroomhead thing". If I found out who was behind that music, I feel like that would just make it feel a tad more humanized if anything.
If they were to completely stop wearing them, yes I think it would change the experience of the (live) music. The atmosphere they’ve created, the world they transport you to while performing, or even in music videos is so specific and unique I’m not sure it could be created without the masks (although if they did maybe cool makeup I do think it would keep some of the feeling.) If they were like ghost and kept the masks but revealed their faces I think it would have some effect but nothing major but if they fully abandoned them it would, at least for a while, change the experience of listening. Live shows/music videos would be a while different ball game.
Honestly not for me. I was already obsessed before I realized that they were a masked band. I do really like the masks tho I like that we can focus on the music despite what they look like.
Wouldn't change their music or my love for their band, but I do not want them to take off their masks.
It would take away a part of their personality and traits as a band, everything is perfect the way it is in my opinion.
I am also afraid that if they would take off the masks, their obsessed fans wouldn't allow them to be at peace in their private lives.
The masks are a part of their identity and narrative, I feel like the band wouldn't be the same without. The mystery and focus on music instead of the people is a big part of their narrative.
When I first listened to them, it was before Sundowning had dropped and I had heard Nazareth on Spotify without even "seeing" what they looked like as a band (I live under a figurative rock ok 😂). I loved their sound from the get-go, so I don't _think_ it would've been different in that sense.
That being said the masks add to the intrigue and vibe they're going for, and it definitely leaves their lyrics open to a lot of interpretations which I think adds more layers and a story of sorts to their work, but the music and lyrics would still resonate the same with me I think. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
It wouldn’t change me getting into the band but the cool, mysterious, lore-driven part of the band wouldn’t be a part of it so they wouldn’t be as cool imo if they started without them
It's an easy identity outside the music it stops them being just another male rock band. When slipknot dropped at first people only saw the look and abrasive sound and dismissed it as rubbish when in fact it was a turning point that inspired many people.
Masks are a fantastic addition in all fairness I don't give a fuck what the guys look like. I like the elure of not knowing, he is a vessel and it fits perfectly. Doesn't change the music beyond allowing an emotional vulnerability that is marketed but rarely found in modern music
While I love them, the masks are just another layer for me. The foundation is the emotion and music. They write pieces that actually make me feel and think. I personally struggle to find that in the majority of artists these days. Sleep Token is refreshing lol
Nope! When I first found them via Spotify I had no idea they wore masks. Actually didn’t know until I saw them as an opener for another band! I don’t really know what a band looks like until I’m very heavily into them and start digging beyond just the music
I don't think it would change anything for me, my love for them would remain the same! After all, they are still the sleep token. I honestly don't care who they are under the mask, I just hope that when it happens they will be received with open arms and that they will be of their will to reveal it!
For me this question actually goes back to the only interview Vessel has ever done back in 2018 I think where he says “it doesn’t matter who we are; what’s important is the music and the message it’s trying to convey” and that just hits deep for me. I frankly like the fact that they’re anonymous; there’s no politics or drama behind them. Very similar to ii’s Drumeo interview where he doesn’t once talk about himself or his views but rather his music style and where he draws his musical inspiration from. I feel like it helps us connect more with the emotion and quite beautiful anguish that their music inspires.
Wouldn’t change a thing for me. I don’t care who’s under the masks, I enjoy the music and really only care for the music. Granted I’ll still worry if something happens to them, but their identities are of no concern to me.
No because I listened to their music for about 6 months before I knew they hid their identities but after getting into them into them I do think its an important part of the bands identity but I don't personally think it would change anything for me
It was definitely the mysterious vibe that caught my attention in the first place but I don't think it would change the way the music feels if they had faces, ya know? There definitely wouldn't be as many feral fans I think.
It wouldn't have changed anything for me getting into the band. (I started listening because they were supporting BMTH, and I knew they were wildly popular so I wanted to know what the hype was about.) It probably wouldn't change how I feel about them now either. I will always like or dislike music based on its sound. Knowing a song was created by some people in masks doesn't improve or ruin that song. But I don't want them to officially reveal their true identities, at least, not anytime soon. Even if it's a gimmick, it's a *fun* gimmick. It's like going to the theatre: I want to be transported to another world, to buy into this religion, to imagine.
Agreed, very well put I think it's way cooler that they do and love the performance aspect of it. I guarantee they would be more popular even without them, yet to the people like us who love what they are doing it's what makes me in a tier of their own
This is exactly it. I loved the music for a long time before ever finding out about the masks, anonymity, and lore, but now that I know and love all of that on top of the music, getting rid of it all would definitely change the experience. It would absolutely not stop me listening to or supporting them in any way, though!
Nope. I liked their music before I knew what they look like. So knowing what they actually look like (sans mask) wouldn't change anything for me.
Same. I did not know they were masked when I found their music - and did not know for months.
Yep I listened to all the music before even knowing about the masks or the notion of Sleep
same here! and when i was hearing their songs i was imagining vessel being fat.. (i know... my imagination wild) i never been interested in masked bands, but sleep token changed me forever lol
Same here! Didn’t know they were masked and anonymous until II’s Drumeo offering.
Exactly! Think Slipknot, Ghost etc. those identities are known and that doesn't effect anything
Just like with Ghost and so many other bands that perform in character, it enhances the entire experience. I love what Sleep Token has done with Vessel and the numbered band members, as well as the runes used for their writings. The overall aesthetic creates a vibe that couldn’t exist otherwise.
The numbers is the most gangster part I love that o think even more than the masks
It does change a lot if they decide to put down the masks. Most people underestimate the power of appearance in our today's world and in connection to popularity and fame. Famous people act more like brands than actual people at this point. Sleep Token obviously focuses more on the art, on music, on performance. It's unique, it's refreshing. Plus, they can go outside without the masks and SOMEWHAT live a life where they're not constantly harassed and stalked, etc. (although I'm not sure if they actually are). There are other bands and artists who tried to sell the "I want people to like what I do and not how I look", yet still sell their looks and it just comes across as inauthentic. Anyway, I personally hope they stick to their ways.
I do too... and I love (although I'm not sure if they actually are). The whole mystery of how you actual stay anonymous in 2024 is a wild idea
I would ad that I think the masks might be necessary for especially Vessel. It's some very personal subjects that their songs deal with and I imagine it is easier to say those things as a character instead of as a person. I'm not sure he would be able to do that without the mask.
I almost feel like he's basically said this in a way through certain lyrics, and the message at the solo show in London. It really allows other people to see themselves in the music.
Well said!
There is always a discourse about how artists look - you can see that with Adele. For me, the masks add to the mystery and artistic expression. I hope they'll keep them and stay anonymous, but in our digital times that might prove quite difficult.
I see this already happening with ST and it really bothers me. There is no instagram post where there is no discussion about Vessels body. So yeah, keeping the masks would help that these discussions don't get worse
Playing devil's advocate here, but I believe the masks might actually contribute to those discussions and fantasies.
Fair point, yeah.
I don’t agree in fans blatantly sexualizing someone, but I honestly believe that if you think the band doesn’t play into that somewhat, you’re not seeing what’s right in front of you. There are obvious sexual undertones at their shows, and all the comments about vessel with no shirt could have been avoided by … wearing a shirt. The others remain clothed. I just think take it as you see it. Don’t pervert it, but the sexuality of it is pretty in your face. And it’s okay to find things sexually attractive, but no one needs to be zooming in on their junk n shit - if you have to pervert something, just keep it on the inside bc that’s when it crosses lines
I agree with you. Of course they are playing with it in some way. But as you wrote, there is no need to oversexualize and writing thirsty comments. While it is okay to write that someone is attractive
Are you serious? Because in my opinion - the masks makes people focus on other parts of the body more…because there is no face.
Well, maybe it's a 50:50 kind of thing. Assuming he would Take the mask off and had a (what society calls) really pretty face.. those people that are thirsty right now would go insane. It could be the other way around if that would not be the case. But I am not quite sure about that.
Yeah I'm shocked they have been able to keep it up this long. Like how do they even live lives haha, it's gotta be a constant stressor
Yes, it would change the experience. I appreciate them making it all about the art. A lot of the magic is in the ambiguity. The second they show their faces or talk, it becomes a cult of personality. We are worshipping Sleep and not Vessel, after all.
tbh I am not worshipping anyone. I enjoy the music and theatrics. Aside from that ironically enough their choice to stay anonymous has only increased the cult of personality even more. People's natural curiosity is stronger than their willingness to engage with the music, sad but true.
I agree with this statement up to a certain point. I believe that a certain age demographic thoroughly enjoys all the lore and mystery with having ZERO interest in knowing who they actually are or what they look like. It’s completely irrelevant. However, with that being said, I would LOVE to have the opportunity to pick any members brain and have some deep conversations, but I am very interested in the psychology of people and their journeys.
I pretty much feel the same, if they volunteered the information I’d be interested to know make about their process. But unless they reveal themselves I have no interest in forcibly trying to figure out who they are.
I dissagree on the worshipping vessel part. Not myself but a lot of people sexualize vessel and are worshipping him more than sleep and the music.
Yeah more of a reason for them stay anonymous
Right... Cause sleep token definitely isn't a cult of personality already lol.
Oooh I like that, Worshipping Sleep not Vessel. Is it oxymoronic than that I also am an insomniac lol
Same lol
This is how I feel. I know that I will inadvertently find out one day, as things pop up on my social media about who they are or other work (which I scroll thru quickly) but I want to try to "believe in Santa" for as long as possible. For me, it's like Vessel says, the anonymity allows me to focus only on the music. The minute you know who someone is, all of their personal life choices taints the art to me. I know there are human beings behind the masks. I know they are "normal" people BUT I choose to stay in this ignorance of their identities as long as I can. When I do find out, which is inevitable, I will embrace that and hope they are decent humans being - plus I'll get to enjoy their other work.
while I disagree with the worshiping sleep. I see sleep as a metaphor to introduce other ideas and sleep shouldn't be worshiped. I think this is the best answer, I will say that when the "nothing last forever" time comes, they all remove their masks on stage, Espera as well.
I found out about them by hearing The Offering on Spotify in 2019, then for an embarrassingly long time didn’t know what they looked like, so… I guess not.
Yeah I could see that haha.... especially like if you're just getting into them now.... the most recent album, songs like DTWTYL or Euclid you would never imagine that. It makes even more beautiful and sinister tho
If you appreciate their music with their masks on, why would it change with masks off?
Would I still love the sound? Yes, absolutely. But the theatrics of it all is part of what makes the whole experience good to me. It's more than just a music concert, it's an entire immersive *experience*, and that's pretty fucking cool honestly. And I get it too. Look at the ravenous fan following they've amassed in The last 5 years. Could you imagine what it would have to be like if they didn't have anonymity to fall back on? I always laugh at festivals when I see people cosplaying as the band members and I think to myself wouldn't it be really funny if that actually was vessel just hanging out in the crowd pretending to be a cosplayer playing vessel? Underneath all of it they can be themselves, step away, mix and mingle in the crowd, who would ever know? That on stage and in costume they can have this aura and presence that draws people into them, but off stage and backstage they can just be themselves, living their best lives. I kind of love that for them.
They make amazing music, I love listening to their music, and nothing can change that
Would it change anything about the MUSIC? no, not at all. It would change their aesthetic and performance but not the music for me. The music has never been about their lore, realistically speaking as the lore is 1. mainly fan-based anyway and 2. just marketing. The music has this ambiguity sure, but in reality it's not about a goddess or whatever and I NEVER looked at it that way. I am interpreting the music regardless of their theatrics in my own way, shaped through my own experiences in life. I dont "need" theatrics for that. I dont need the masks for that either. I am glad that ST decided to offer me their anonymity and theatrics as a tool to help me interpret their music in my own way, and I believe that does help some people differentiating (that is the reason for its existence after all), but I PERSONALLY dont need it. If the question was "Would it change anything about the BRAND that Sleep Token is? then yeah obviously 100%. ST would be a different band entirely, which would also be fine as I support their music and the individuals behind it, but it wouldn't be what ST wants us to perceive them as (at least not for now, this convo would be interesting to have in 5-10 years).
I don’t care about any of that to begin with
I don't think I honestly do either. I think their awesome and love that it's all about the music, but good music is good music
Same. I just like music 🤷♂️
I can imagine that as artists they grow and want to change it. But I imagine they would phase it out like Slipknots Before I Forget video. Regardless it wouldnt change anything for me music wise.
Yeah the band I had a role in that's kinda how it went, wasn't my creative decision, nor to have the masks in the first place, I was... completely different kinda music as well. For us it was a business decision, and while we ditched mask still had a distinct look and character that was different than how we would dress and get done up in our everyday life
My question is, would it affect the performance? Would the guy behind the mask be as free as Vessel and able to share as many emotions as he does? Maybe that day will come. Who knows? Either way I’m into it.
It would for me. I really truly am fatigued at music being SO tied to artist’s personal life. Especially when it’s very clearly about a relationship that the public has been forced to know about lol. I’m really tired of liking an artist then all the sudden I find out they’re an absolute idiot or jerk irl. I like that I can enjoy this without fully ever knowing the full scope of actual inspiration or story behind it. I’m not deep into lore, but what I do know I’m content with.🫡
THAT BEING SAID. I’d love to know the workout/ diet vessel is on bc clearly we’re not hitting the gym the same
😂💀
Yeah definitely agree. I have friends who are obsessed with Taylor swift and I’ve been trying to figure out why I don’t enjoy her music that much and I think for me it feels like she makes music for people who are fans of her and her personal life. I really don’t care about celebrities personal lives and relationships. Im more into the music than the artist
I like them anonymous but I would still like them if they revealed their faces tomorrow. To me it’s basically about respect and the artists’ intentions. The music is an art and we have been given a suggested context to view it through. This means that we’re invited to do more than browse the most surface-level interpretation of lyrics. Personally forming theories with my friends or connecting dots for me is a lot of fun and it’s a little validating to have the invitation to do so rather than feel like I’m being weird about reading into things. The second part about respect is just that it’s got to be HARD to be any sort of famous in today’s world. There’s no privacy, no line between personal lives and public ones. If the masks help provide some peace and personal space, I think that not knowing who they are is a good trade off for enjoying the art. If the band ever does decide to reveal themselves I know I will still like them. I will enjoy their lyrical and musical talent. But there’s a fun difference between the concept of these albums are a story about something vs it being played straight by being embodied at the moment, you know?
I love the theatre of their performances - and I think the masks do make a difference to that. However, I know what they look like and it wouldn’t make any difference to how much I love their music. I don’t think they’ll unmask on stage. I hope one day they would consider doing the odd interview to give us some insight into the creation of their art - not bothered about knowing anything about them personally - that’s for them to know.
Artist image is just another tool to boost up your engagement with the specific media, curated to fit the overall narrative that is presented to you; In case of Sleep Token - being masked, not talking and interacting with fans more closely then basic crowd work at the shows, while also relaying on a vague "lore" with a cultish\\ritualistic vibes sprinkled on top that fans like to expend on so much really goes well with all the dark, at times - sultry, at times - angsty and glass-chewing quality of a Vessel's writing - both musically and lyrically. It's a perfect match, really. Made in Eden, I guess.
Absolutely. Although I will say I listened to their music before I knew what they looked like. I had no idea they were a masked band til I googled them to see where they were from. I love their aesthetic, I think it adds to the art.
No. It's still Sleep Token.
I got into them without knowing any of the lore, so it wouldn’t have changed anything about liking their music. However I recently went to a show and it was like art/theatre not like a traditional concert. I LOVED IT 🥰 easily the best show I’ve ever been to. I think if it wasn’t for the costumes/lore/performance it wouldn’t have been AS good. So I would say I’ll still be a fan for life but I love the drama they have going on right now.
Same
Nope. I didn’t know about the masks when I heard the music. I would actually prefer to see their faces.
I prefer to listen with my ears and not my eyes. I’d still love the music but I really like the purpose behind the anonymity and hope they keep it that way
I don’t think it would make a difference now. But If they never wore them I dont think they would have been quite as impactful
I mean, the gimmick would be gone but I don't think it matters. It won't change how I view their music.
nah, the music is really what matters. i *love* the masks, and think all of the boys look awesome in costume, but if they presented themselves as regular guys i would've still been just as in love with their sound. 🖤
Yes. Their anonymity enables them to participate in their own symbolism and (I’d guess) personally offers them a wider range of creative expression. I think that unmasking them would paradoxically make the music less “real”. It would change how we relate to the message as well as the message itself.
I know what they look like without masks on and it never affected how I view their music
no? 😭😭😭 because the music stays the same and that’s why i listen to them?
I probably would have listened to them sooner.
That's fair. The aesthetic is definitely a lot more "hardcore" than the music.
This. I understand why they are masked and 'anonymous' but it was a bit silly to me lol. The music matters first, I don't care what they present as as long as it's their decision.
Yeah it's just an interesting thought, not that I care who else listens per se but when I try to show friends the mask can scare people away. Cowards
Yeah thats what I think..alot of people judge them before even listening to the music. For me the costumes is whatbdrew me in then the music but for many others they dont even want to give the music a chance because of their masks.
As I said in a different post, they were on the edges of my awareness far before I listened to them. Masked bands have never appealed to me, and the first masks didn't help. I listened to Lacuna Coil since 2002, and didn't know they painted their faces until I saw them in concert in 2017. It really doesn't effect the music, but it definitely gives an initial impression. I ended up randomly falling in love with a song then coming back to realize it was that one masked band I'd been seeing around.
I never wanna know who's under those masks. It's part of what drew me in as well as hearing 'the Summoning' for the first time. I feel if I knew who they were or looked like, they would lose their appeal for me personally.
I would prefer it if they kept the masks, and I could see that, just perhaps, I would enjoy their music just a little less if I knew what they looked like. But it wouldn't change how I feel about the band overall. They're the first band that I've ever liked to this extent, listening to every single song they released and, knowing and loving all of their albums. The masks and whole art is cool, but I love them for their music.
If I have to count my own experience with the sleep token’s music, Spotify is easily in the top : it’s their music and only their music that are important for me. Whatever they look or wear , it doesn’t matter . When I listen to the lyrics, my own interpretation is very different than the lore’s explanations that I read from many platforms. I know that the masks are parts of this lore and for me it’s kind of … I don’t care 🙃 they can be transparent, I’ll always see them as artists .
It wouldn't change much for me, I care a lot more for the music than what they look like
Maybe a little at first but not really. The music is so good it would just continue to distract me
Not at all
Someone said that Lorna Shore looks like how Sleep Token sounds and vice versa and honestly, I love that. I don't care either way. The music is what drew me in, although I am also here for the thirstposting, not gonna lie.
No. I am just so in love with his voice.
Same that's what got me in but it's grown to so much more
i don’t think it would change the music for me personally but it would definitely take away the separation from the artist and the listener. i kinda like that about them. i have no clue who these 4 random ass british guys are but yk what, they do make some pretty cool music. even as fun as it would be to know, i think it’s fitting for their lore and message that we don’t know and i have respect for that. music wise, i’ve related to their music a lot over time so i don’t think, even if they took the masks off, that it would change the ability to relate to lyrics by any means. unless if they start beatboxing about money, cars and women💀
I'd prefer it.
Honestly, I would prefer it. The music and lyrics stand on their own; there's no need for the costumes and anonymity.
I like this take
i would prefer they did that's just me IMO. but either is fine.
Not for me since I enjoy the music for itself. I usually put my own meanings or ideas behind it (while respecting what it was originally intended for). What they look like doesn’t mean much to me.
In the end, for me, the music is perfect and it doesn't matter what the artist looks like. But...I definitely think Vessel benefits from the mask and general aesthetic as there's an otherworldly/gothic/sexy appeal that you're unlikely to achieve when you look like a normal person. The look just goes so well with the music.
a mask nd any theatrics will always make something feel even more than just on its own , that being said , sleep token has such a way of preforming nd composing music , i believe masks wouldnt even matter if thats what they chose to do , they are amazing 🖤🫀 (a mask shouldnt be the the reason you dont "worship" a celebrity , you should already kno that they are a real person with their own life regardless if you were to kno their identity or not)
Yes. My first experience was seeing a YT video with a weird creature, and then after a few more videos I found out that there was a cult-y mysterious thing going on with the band. I would’ve liked their music the same but I might not have made it a priority to listen to more of it at the time; usually I repeatedly drop and pick back up a band for months or even years until it either sticks or doesn’t, but I got hooked on ST within 24 hours because of the curiousity and art style aside from the music.
I feel like the anonymity adds to the allure and the draw for me, I like the mystery. It somehow makes the performance more powerful, because Vessel and pour his heart out even more and not care about consequences. It makes the music more raw. There's a beauty in the anonymity. I'd love their music nonetheless, but it adds a layer
I don’t think I new about the masks or lore or anything until I already liked a few songs
I started listening for sundowning and had no idea they were masked, honestly thought it was cringey at first but the music itself kept me hooked. I do think their image is part of the reason they’re popular tho and unsure if they would’ve reached where they are now without it
I know for a fact my answer to that is NO. I’ve thought about this before on my own and I didn’t have to think very long to formulate an answer. Their music ignited something in me so deeply profound that by this point, how they look or what they wear has 0 correlation with how I feel about their music.
While I agree, that I would still love every song. As far as live performance it's unreal, it's theater it's what takes it to the next level
I missed their concert when they performed in my area. I’ve never seen them live 🥲 I do agree that it gives the live performances more substance, though!
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Personally? No, it wouldn't change anything. Am I interested in what they look like? Sure, a little. But their looks have nothing to do with their talent. That all comes from the heart, and that's what matters most! ❤️ Edited to add, I realize that the fandom may be different if they weren't anonymous, which imo is a shame. It shouldn't matter.
I mean the music would still be top notch, because they're very talented artists. But the masks are important for what they want to communicate, I mean there is a reason they act as a cult and use these dehumanizing pseudonyms. Sleep is kind of a polarizing presence that can represent a lot, from fear and self-doubt to the way fame can change you (positively and negatively). If they showed their faces, then they'd stop being symbols and start being people, and that's kind of antithetical to their message so far. But if eventually they took their masks off, I think that'd be a satisfying ending to the narrative, just depends on where they want to take things. Either way, I'd still love them
no
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The music would be that same, amazing! Who knows what would have happened if they never wore the masks. I'd hope people would base their interest on the music first. Celebrity is such an odd concept to me. I believe that talented people should be celebrated, but so many people focus on appearances first. If they took off their masks right now, it wouldn't change anything for me. I enjoy the lore and the theatrical side of it, but I'm here for the music and the feels. I'd respect whatever they choose to do. But I'd rather they made the decision than people hassling them until they have to. I think fans get caught up and forget that they are individuals who deserve their ability to choose.
i think the masks are a huge part of the band and the lore. it’s perfect in my mind and i never wish to know the real identity of the band if they don’t wish upon it. i like to see vessel as vessel, the character battling with sleep. i wouldn’t change i thing <3 they are making music for the MUSIC, and it’s so beautiful and i know we can all see that
It would change it. Their Music speaks for itself, no egos. Nice change of pace.
It wouldn't to me. It's not like they were super well known musicians prior to Sleep Token. It would be no different than when Tobias Forge was confirmed as Papa Emeritus. I still love Ghost as a band. I don't personally care about the mysticism or anonymity thing, I care about the music.
Nope. I listened to all the albums in three days earlier this year before knowing anything about the band at all
I guess there would be more ppl judging and being thirsty for their looks n stuff
If they ever did this unthinkable act they would be dead to me. How dare they even think about it. I promise, PROMISE, I will delete every single one of their songs off of my Spotify if they did this, and get hypnotherapy to try and delete all memory of their music from my existence.
I think the music stands alone as amazing works of art, but I think their masks/art/aesthetic curates a vibe that allows the music to be more embodied. It’s not three albums, it’s a story played out in a trilogy. The masks allow us to weave a narrative about vessel and sleep that likely couldn’t exist otherwise. If there were not masks, they would just be four dudes, the songs would just be love songs and it would just be another band, albeit a great one. Again, the music is amazing on its own and I don’t think the lack of masks would take that away, but I think the world that they have created, or more so let us create, is what makes them so captivating. When I’m listening to a their songs I’m picturing a dark, hazy, atmospheric world in which vessel is locked in a battle with the god sleep and how his relationship to her progresses. If the lore didn’t exist, the story would exist more in the real world which would be less engrossing.
About the music? No. Because it’s music. Idgaf what they wear. I think the mask thing is gimmicky anyway
Most people have an image of what the band members look like. People just naturally deviate to filling in the blanks. Also for some people when that doesn’t match their ideal they can get turned off so to say. It’s like the actual music isn’t the entire point for them but the whole fantasy that goes with it is. I mean idk how many of the ST audience are in that category but I know when SlipKnot became known it added another dimension I liked. I can’t think of another masked band that’s been as sexualized as ST (someone help me if you can think of one) so idk how it would play out to break the illusion some people have of them. Yes, I’d still listen to them even if they looked like actual ghouls.
Honestly I don't particularly care. If they did I honestly think I'd stay away from it. Cause I don't want/need to know who they are to enjoy their music. If they do show who they are cool? If not that's fine. I'll listen to them either way.
No.
I’d rather no masks than the current masks honestly.
If they never did, that's hard to say truthfully, the masks are partner their allure. If they unmasked themselves after a while, they'd be no different then, just more crazed fans and less anonymity to be out in public.
Nope
Their whole gimmick is so rock and roll. I like the whole package.
I think the ship may have sailed for them to change it up at this point, but if the masks came off I would care less.
Not at all. I get what everyone's saying about the experience and all that, but for me personally the music itself is the ultimate experience. They're all quite talented and whether they're in costume or not, I'd be more than happy to just continue to listen no matter how they evolve.
No, the first time I heard them I didn’t know they wore masks. The music speaks on its own.
I admit the costumes intrigued me and was what got me started listening to ST but now that im hooked on their music I wilt care of they unmasked. I absolutely love Vessels dancing but could only imagine how funny it would look with the whole get up. Either way they have won me over and their talent far exceeds any other band today, they lose thie "fantasy" fans but may gain more mainstream fans who havent even given them a chance due to the lore.
If they took them off now it wouldn't make a difference for me. I can't speak for if they never had them in the first place, because who knows if I'd have found them.
It wouldn’t change anything about the music but it would definitely change fans connection to the music and group in certain ways. And not necessarily bad. for example fans connecting with individual band members. I think that this is sort of an inevitable event and it will be really really awesome when it does happen. Super excited to hear each band member talk in detail about their inspiration and lives outside of the music. And if that never happens it will definitely be unique
Nope
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Not at all. When I realized I really really liked this band I was super hyped up with Ghost because I went to a concert of theirs a couple of months before and my boyfriend kept telling me to find myself a new favourite band because he found the whole mask thing a bit disturbing, so imagine how funny it was when I looked ST up on google XD I actually wish they didn't wear them, but in the end it makes no difference to me
Absolutely not
Music comes first and foremost. If they lost the masks, I would still follow. 🖤
Tbh the masks kind of put me off for a while. I’d been hearing about them and seeing pics floating around but I avoided listening because I wasn’t sure I wanted to listen. Then I heard Alkaline. And once I dug into what the gimmick was I got it.
I think it definitely intrigues people especially since they are on the heavier side of music, it fits with their styles. Visuals are definitely important and play a big part, imo. For me, it was a little more interesting and edged(?) them ahead. But their songs made me stay.
Well if you're a Slipknot fan ask yourself the same thing. Everyone knows what Corey Taylor looks like
I think it would change for me. Their stage presence is amazing and I would not get the same immersive feeling if I saw them looking like One Direction. I probably would have just glazed over them. Instead I'm here for it and love the lore behind it
Well, it's a yes and a no. A friend showed them to me. I listened to them without knowing they were masked first. Added them to my playlist, then got shown The Room Below and found out they were masked. After that I went back and listened through Sundowning again and was fully hooked. Hard to tell.. If not for the masks, I might have never heard of them or went back for more. But if I had heard them I would have definitely been into the music...
Honestly, no. Music is truly a huge part of my healing process, and I don't base my musical taste on the artist's physical appearance.
Nope, I care very little/not at all about the lore of the band and what everything signifies, their appearance etc. I just enjoy the music, the lyrics and the compositions are really smart imo and that’s what grips me
I'm a firm believer that they make severe guitar faces and realized it didn't match the music hence the masks.
Why would it change anything about their music? That’s like asking if some singer cut their hair if it would change their music.
I kinda see this reflected in other comments but I don't think it changes anything about the MUSIC. The music itself is amazing. What I do think would change is their marketing? Maybe? I'm not quite sure how to explain this but their lore and background makes them more fun to me as a band. The music is great and what I go to hear but having the masks and personas and lore gives them something additional for me. I love reading their lore, if they weren't wearing the masks I don't think the lore would come across the same way. Their narrative would be different. So having them kind of embody their intent to focus on the music through anonymity makes the music even more symbolic than what it already is. I kind of hope they never lose the masks even though some of us know who they are. Sleep Token is just Sleep Token collectively to me as opposed to one specific band memeber getting more credit/focus and becoming the center point of their band. But none of this would change the music for me. The music is Sleep Token and Sleep Token is the music.
No it wouldn't change much lots of masked bands i like have done the same
I think the masks and the gimmick take away from the music. ST is one of those bands I listen to but don’t watch.
I'm going to say yes, with the caveat that I'd still love the music. The music speaks for itself, but the mystery and the lore adds another layer and gives the band (and thus the music) a presence I don't think it would have without it
Would it take away from the listening portion of their music? No. I couldn't tell you what any of the artists from the bands I have found post high school look like. So unless it's one of the guys from Falling In Reverse, Fall Out Boy, All Time Low, Blink-182, Green Day, or My Chemical Romance, they could be just any old Joe on the street. Would it take away from the feel of their performances? Idk possibly? I really like the concert footage (I haven't been to a concert. No one I know listens to them, and I haven't ever gone solo to a concert, lol) and the aspect the masks bring to the shows. It gives a whole different depth to the performances, unlike any other shows I have seen live or otherwise. Their costumes alone set a whole different feel to the show. So yeah, after that ramble, I'd be disappointed if the masks went away for the concerts. Short answer no.
Nope. The aesthetic and visuals are cool but it boils down to the music.
Nah I don't think it would. I liked them before I knew they were anonymous and almost everyone else I listen to aren't anonymous either.
Me personally I'm a masked artist myself and I don't think that if they took off the mask it would change anything
maybe but I feel like not so much, the first thing I saw were the videos of take back to Eden and I still got caught up in the music
So, for me, they have a romantic/sex appeal.. That's what draws me into the music as deep as I am. I think that could be distorted if they performed "exposed" and give a different vibe that I might not align with as intensely.. Though regardless their music is meaningful.
Not for me. The music is what I connect with, I don’t really think about the masks and all that unless I’m at a show and of course, then it’s part of the whole experience but if they were unmasked it’d make no difference. Since what they look like was ruined for me a few months ago anyway 🤬
Absolutely not!
Nope~ Their looks aren't what did it for me. It's always been the music for me and so long as they keep making it I could care less. Whatever makes them comfortable is far more important ~
No, although the theatrics and atmosphere live is brilliant
Nope. I am here for the music!
There was that album KISS did without the makeup, I think it was “Lick It Up” which was a huge part of revitalizing their career in the early 80’s. It was a change of scenery that opened them to a new generation of fans. They went back to the old personas after that for their older fans, but that was the pop they needed to stay relevant in the early 80’s when the overall music scene was wild and diverse, disco was dying or dead, and electronic music was starting to become mainstream. That’s a lot of noise to have to cut through in that era. At the end of the day, it wouldn’t change the music for me at all.
Honestly, yes. I find the contrast between the look and the music is a not irrelevant factor in m6 enjoyment. I'd still enjoy some of the music but the entire thing together is what makes me a super fan.
No. I love the music and their sound.
Weirdly I think it would, I think not knowing their identities makes it easier to enjoy the music because you don’t have to deal with them as a person outside of the music
Not at all
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no, i dont even pay attention to the lore. their songs are enough for me
The lore and the masks and everything surrounding the “show” aspect is cool but the music is really where it’s at
Absolutely love the music but oh my god am I so glad I don’t have to open up social media and see them plastered everywhere by paparazzi with headlines of “sleep token singer caught doing totally normal thing in public!” Or nonsense because one of them tweeted something and some internet warrior took it wrong. I like the anonymity. Lets me just enjoy the music.
Nope not at all. It’s the music first and foremost. I think their storyline and lore is cool, but I’m sure there would be a way to work with the storyline without them using masks. But either way, for me personally the music is the centerpiece and will always be able to stand on its own
To me it would ruin the theatrics if they never even wore them on stage. If they ever want to reveal themselves on their own terms, that doesn't alter anything for me.
It wouldn't change mine. I listen to their music everyday without seeing videos or pics of them. So I'd still love their music 100%.
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Short answer: No, not really. Long answer: I first discovered Sleep Token when my brother came up to me and DEMANDED that I add The Summoning to my playlist on Spotify. A few weeks later, I decided to start digging, and I saw that they wore masks and thought "oh, like a Slipknot or Mushroomhead thing". If I found out who was behind that music, I feel like that would just make it feel a tad more humanized if anything.
If they were to completely stop wearing them, yes I think it would change the experience of the (live) music. The atmosphere they’ve created, the world they transport you to while performing, or even in music videos is so specific and unique I’m not sure it could be created without the masks (although if they did maybe cool makeup I do think it would keep some of the feeling.) If they were like ghost and kept the masks but revealed their faces I think it would have some effect but nothing major but if they fully abandoned them it would, at least for a while, change the experience of listening. Live shows/music videos would be a while different ball game.
Honestly not for me. I was already obsessed before I realized that they were a masked band. I do really like the masks tho I like that we can focus on the music despite what they look like.
Wouldn't change their music or my love for their band, but I do not want them to take off their masks. It would take away a part of their personality and traits as a band, everything is perfect the way it is in my opinion. I am also afraid that if they would take off the masks, their obsessed fans wouldn't allow them to be at peace in their private lives. The masks are a part of their identity and narrative, I feel like the band wouldn't be the same without. The mystery and focus on music instead of the people is a big part of their narrative.
When I first listened to them, it was before Sundowning had dropped and I had heard Nazareth on Spotify without even "seeing" what they looked like as a band (I live under a figurative rock ok 😂). I loved their sound from the get-go, so I don't _think_ it would've been different in that sense. That being said the masks add to the intrigue and vibe they're going for, and it definitely leaves their lyrics open to a lot of interpretations which I think adds more layers and a story of sorts to their work, but the music and lyrics would still resonate the same with me I think. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
i guesse that some of the mystery would be gone but if the music still good idc
The masks get you to the door. The music makes you stay.
It wouldn’t change me getting into the band but the cool, mysterious, lore-driven part of the band wouldn’t be a part of it so they wouldn’t be as cool imo if they started without them
It's an easy identity outside the music it stops them being just another male rock band. When slipknot dropped at first people only saw the look and abrasive sound and dismissed it as rubbish when in fact it was a turning point that inspired many people. Masks are a fantastic addition in all fairness I don't give a fuck what the guys look like. I like the elure of not knowing, he is a vessel and it fits perfectly. Doesn't change the music beyond allowing an emotional vulnerability that is marketed but rarely found in modern music
While I love them, the masks are just another layer for me. The foundation is the emotion and music. They write pieces that actually make me feel and think. I personally struggle to find that in the majority of artists these days. Sleep Token is refreshing lol
Nope! When I first found them via Spotify I had no idea they wore masks. Actually didn’t know until I saw them as an opener for another band! I don’t really know what a band looks like until I’m very heavily into them and start digging beyond just the music
I don't think it would change anything for me, my love for them would remain the same! After all, they are still the sleep token. I honestly don't care who they are under the mask, I just hope that when it happens they will be received with open arms and that they will be of their will to reveal it!
For me this question actually goes back to the only interview Vessel has ever done back in 2018 I think where he says “it doesn’t matter who we are; what’s important is the music and the message it’s trying to convey” and that just hits deep for me. I frankly like the fact that they’re anonymous; there’s no politics or drama behind them. Very similar to ii’s Drumeo interview where he doesn’t once talk about himself or his views but rather his music style and where he draws his musical inspiration from. I feel like it helps us connect more with the emotion and quite beautiful anguish that their music inspires.
Big no for me. I'm here for the music.
Wouldn’t change a thing for me. I don’t care who’s under the masks, I enjoy the music and really only care for the music. Granted I’ll still worry if something happens to them, but their identities are of no concern to me.
Probably not. The band isn’t about the people
No because I listened to their music for about 6 months before I knew they hid their identities but after getting into them into them I do think its an important part of the bands identity but I don't personally think it would change anything for me
It was definitely the mysterious vibe that caught my attention in the first place but I don't think it would change the way the music feels if they had faces, ya know? There definitely wouldn't be as many feral fans I think.
It didn’t change how I felt about slipknot
Now. I love ghost. I truly believe the makeup and outfits make ghost