Slipknot are afraid of performing without Paul Gray

Slipknot frontman Corey Taylor claimed he felt very anxious about performing without band's late bassist Paul Gray. According to his words, their next gig – that will take place on June 17 in Athens – would be a "test" for them.

"I am nowhere near prepared for the emotion that's going to happen. That first show is going to be the test. That tour is going to be a test. It's going to be very hard. It's still reverberating through my life. Every day something reminds me and I still can't handle it", said he.

Earlier this month Slipknot announced that they have found someone to temporary replace Paul Gray. Donnie Steele is set to play with the band during its tour this summer. It is unknown if he stays with them further.

Donnie Steele was the original member of Slipknot, but left the band in 1996.

Paul Gray was found dead in a hotel room in Des Moines, Iowa in June. According to toxicology tests, the cause of death was an accidental overdose.

Slipknot last to date album All Hope Is Gone hit the stores in 2008.