After the huge success of Sonisphere 2010, the world’s only internationally touring festival moves forward with preparations for its third year. Sonisphere Knebworth comes earlier in 2011, taking place from July 8th through to July 10th.

The first of the headliners can already be revealed. Iowa’s favourite sons, SLIPKNOT will perform this summer at Sonisphere, including an exclusive UK performance at Knebworth.

One of the biggest bands in the world, UK headbangers have embraced their fiercely heavy yet enchantingly melodic sound from the off, with 1999’s Slipknot album achieving platinum status here. What followed was a meteoric rise to superstardom the likes of which the metal scene had never known; Top 40 singles, sold out arena tours and a media frenzy that left no one in any doubt that Slipknot's impact in the world of music would be a permanent one. Since then, the Maggots - or Slipknot fans to the uninitiated - have ensured subsequent albums have all reached top 5 chart positions, and that there is always a warm welcome when they occupy the arenas or festival fields of the UK.

Now Slipknot returns, bringing their famously chaotic live show to Knebworth for the first time. The summer dates mark their first without founding member, Paul Gray who tragically passed away earlier this year.

Say Slipknot: “We’re looking forward to spending our summer in Europe. This tour is about us and our fans. It’s about celebrating the life of our brother, Paul and his legacy. The door is neither open nor closed. This tour is about burning down that door. See you this summer.”

UK festival goers are in for a devastating delight, when the green grass of Knebworth shakes with the vibrations of tens of thousands of Maggots moshing in unison.

Although the full line up for 2011 can not yet be revealed, another exciting announcement is set for Monday, alongside full ticketing and on-sale info, plus details of free festival tickets abroad, and the return of Sonisphere’s hugely successful deposit scheme.

For more info on Sonisphere 2011 please check this location.