Take a Look in the Mirror

Released in 2003, 'Take a Look in the Mirror' serves as a pivotal bookend in Korn's history, marking the final studio appearance of founding guitarist Brian 'Head' Welch before his decade-long departure. Following the massive production costs and mixed commercial results of 'Untouchables', the band opted to self-produce this effort, aiming for a 'back to basics' approach. This resulted in a significantly rawer, more aggressive sound that eschewed the melodic experimentation of their prior two records in favor of the sludge-heavy riffs and scat-vocals that defined their 1994 debut. The album includes 'Did My Time', famously associated with the Tomb Raider film franchise, and 'Alive', a reworked version of the very first song the band ever wrote. Critics often noted the record's lack of polish as both a strength and a weakness, seeing it as a return to form for some and a regression for others. It remains a fan favorite for its uncompromising heaviness and 'Korn Kut Up' remix elements.