Machine

The aptly titled sophomore outing, Machine, is the worthy, if expected, follow-up to Static-X's debut, Wisconsin Death Trip. The intense, mechanised, futuristic metal found here comes across as a thrash version of Orgy, with a dollop of Ministry and a dash of Powerman 500 tossed in for extra punch. The intense, short bursts that are "Get to the Gone" and "This Is Not" are forceful and demanding, thanks to Static's growl-scream and the rhythmic power of the music. The spooky "Cold" and epic album closer, "A Dios Alma Perdida", would be suitable for a horror-movie soundtrack, while "Otsego Undead" kicks off with a welcome organic drum sound, though the song never really goes anywhere--a problem that resurfaces throughout Machine. Indeed, the album's revved-up vibe, monster riffs and irresistible energy are all ultimately held down by a dearth of memorable songs. --Katherine Turman

STATIC-X Machine (2001 German-pressed 12-track CD featuring the second long player from the US industrial outfit. Includes the singles Black And White This Is Not and Cold complete with picture sleeve booklet)