Although still mourning the death of bassist Paul Gray, Slipknot is  working on music for their next album.

Joey Jordison tells Billboard.com:

"It's already in motion.  It's definitely exciting.  It's a little emotional, of course, but I think it's going to be really, really cool and I think it's gonna be a really, really great  record because everyone is involved in the process".

According to Jordison the entire band should be back in the studio in the first half of 2011.  He adds:

"I think it's gonna be a healing process for all of us.  Slipknot is not going anywhere.  We're a family, and losing a family member sucks.  You can't help that, but you need to move on and I think that what we're gonna do might be the most powerful thing that we've ever created".

Jordison also revealed that Gray will not be replaced on or off stage.  When it comes time for live shows, the band will have a bass player off to the side of the stage.

Rumor has it that Corey Taylor is NOT confirming any of the above.

Here's to hope!

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