STATIC-X Marks 20th Anniversary of “Machine” with Fear Factory and Dope
On April 13th, 2023, House of Blues Las Vegas was transformed into a powerhouse of industrial metal as STATIC-X took the stage to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their groundbreaking album “Machine.” Joined by Fear Factory and Dope, the Rise Of The Machine Tour delivered an unforgettable night of pulsating energy, nostalgia, and fierce performances.
The evening kicked off with an unexpected but exhilarating intro, as the crowd was treated to a surprising rendition of Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” followed by the thunderous groove of Pantera’s “Walk” and the infectious energy of Richard O’Brien’s “Time Warp.” These unexpected choices set the tone for the night—a celebration of music in all its forms.
Static-X burst onto the stage with full force, launching into their set with “Permanence,” instantly igniting the crowd. Led by the enigmatic frontman Xer0 (replacing the late Wayne Static), the band exuded raw energy and a palpable connection with their fans. Classic tracks like “Love Dump,” “Wisconsin Death Trip,” and “Bled for Days” showcased the timeless appeal of Static-X’s industrial sound, captivating the audience with a relentless barrage of heavy riffs and pulsating beats.
Edsel Dope of the band Dope made a special appearance, donning the iconic Xero mask, paying tribute to Wayne Static and adding a poignant moment of unity to the show. Together, they delivered a high-octane performance of “Terminator Oscillator,” seamlessly blending the old and the new.
Fear Factory, another industrial metal powerhouse, took the stage next, delivering a set filled with adrenaline-pumping intensity. Kicking off with “Shock,” they unleashed a barrage of relentless metal, led by the commanding vocals of Burton C. Bell. Collaborating with Jamie from Twizted on “Edgecrusher,” Fear Factory’s set was a relentless onslaught of sonic fury, featuring fan favorites like “Demanufacture” and “Replica.” The band’s precision and tightness on stage were a testament to their years of experience, leaving the audience breathless.
Dope rounded out the night with their brand of aggressive, in-your-face metal. From the menacing opening chords of “Blood Money” to the infectious rhythms of “Debonaire,” Dope captivated the audience with their blend of groove-laden riffs and anthemic choruses. The unexpected inclusion of a cover of “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” added a playful twist to their set, showcasing their ability to reimagine familiar songs in their own unique style.
As the night drew to a close, Static-X returned to the stage for an electrifying encore. The crowd erupted as the band launched into “Cold,” followed by the infectious energy of “I’m With Stupid.” Finally, they unleashed the crowd-favorite “Push It,” leaving the audience in a state of euphoria.
The Rise Of The Machine Tour was an incredible celebration of Static-X’s monumental album “Machine,” paying tribute to the legacy of Wayne Static while injecting new life into their music. Fear Factory and Dope added their own dynamic performances, creating an unforgettable night of industrial metal mayhem. This concert was a testament to the enduring power of heavy music and its ability to unite fans in a shared experience of raw energy and catharsis.