Amongst the flood of mostly mediocre and derivative nu-metal bands that have poured forth in the last few years, Static-X stands out. This is a group that has carved out its own identity and whose style has become recognizably unique. That's not to say that they are doing anything radically different...one can certainly hear influences from Ministry,White Zombie and Fear Factory in their music...but they have mutated their inspirations into a "Static-X" sound. Their debut "Wisconsin Death Trip" established the ground rules.The sound was definitely heavy metal, but mixed with samplings, techno beats and industrial leanings. Despite the abrasive nature of the material, there was also an admirable smoothness and catchiness to it. Songs latched onto your brain waves and did not disengage easily. That songwriting continues with "Machine" but the aggression factor has been upped noticeably. The band seems to be experimenting more with sound textures, as the guitar sounds vary from track to track, helping create more individuality. They also seem to be monkeying around with the sampling and electronics more. Those elements are subtle but reinforce and bolster the tracks remarkably, such as the minimal keyboard sounds that give "Cold" much of its haunting melody.

Wayne Static's voice is rougher in most spots, like "Get to the Gone", but he can vary his tone, also, making him a talented and underrated frontman. Thankfully, a lot of the rap overtones in the vocals that were on "Wisconsin..." have been dropped. That's another sign that this band knows what they are doing and know when to abandon a dead end. If "Machine" suffers from anything, it's a letdown in the second half. Much like "Wisconsin...",all the best stuff comes early. By the time "Machine" wraps up with the title track and the exceedingly odd "A Dios Alma Perdida", you are left with a pretty unsatisfying climax. The band still needs to learn how to write a complete album. Neverthless, "Machine" proves Static-X is here to stay and is one of the leading lights of metal in the new millennium.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2001 Year Book Volume 2 at  garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2001-and-2002.