Machine Fuckin’ Head! The chant adopted by loyal fans the world over almost says it all. Determination, brutality and perseverance, Machine Head have earned their stripes as modern thrash metal’s champions through clenched teeth, making their victory all the more sweet. Machine Head’s patented harmonics are on display throughout their seven studio albums, and offset by nimbly-plucked classical guitar and driving pace, with Robb Flynn’s distinct vocal as capable of light and shade as their trademark instrumentation.
We recently asked guitarist Phil Demmel a few questions including why he chose METAL! Read on to see what he had to say…
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE METAL?
I was initially drawn by the theatrics of hard rock acts Like KISS, Aerosmith, AC/DC and Alice Cooper. That was followed by the energy of the music of Judas Priest and Iron Maiden and really solidified with the thrash movement of Metallica and Slayer. I loved the reciprocation from the stage to the pit and back to the stage that thrash was all about. It was a jeans and t shirt image that I was really a part of and seeing it onstage was a real feeling of belonging.
WHATS THE BEST KIND OF METAL?
I enjoy most things melodic and brutal. I like a vocalist that can sing but that can be powerful as well.
WHY WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO CHOOSE METAL?
Metal is a release in both a physical and mental sense for me. But its not just a music form, but a way of life. Going to a show and getting out frustrations in the pit or stage diving or screaming out lyrics that I identify with is therapeutic, and so good for the soul.
YOUR RECOMMENDED MACHINE HEAD TRACKS
Seasons Wither and Imperium (from Through the Ashes of Empires); Halo,Now I Lay Thee Down and Farewell to Arms (from The Blackening); Be Still and Know, Locust and Darkness Within (from Unto The Locust). All very representative of what MH are doing right now.
METAL MIX TAPE - PHILS TOP (6)6(6)
1. SLAYER - Postmortem
2. IRON MAIDEN - 22 Acacia Avenue
3. QUEENSRYCHE - The Mission
4. SEVENDUST - Ride Insane
5. METALLICA - Battery
6. SHINEDOWN - Call Me
