Evil Empire
New York, NY : Epic Records, 1996.
Format: Music CD
Edition: [Explicit version].
Description: 1 sound disc : digital ; 4 3/4 in.
Rage Against the Machine spent four years making their second album, Evil Empire. As the title suggests, their rage and contempt for the "fascist" capitalist system in America hadn't declined in the nearly half-decade they were away. Their musical approach didn't change, either. Lead vocalist Zack de la Rocha is caught halfway between the militant raps of Chuck D and the fanatical ravings of a street preacher, shouting out his simplistic, libertarian slogans over the sonically dense assault of the band. Since the band didn't perform together much after 1993, there isn't a collective advance in their musicianship. Nevertheless, guitarist Tom Morello demonstrates an impressive palette of sound, creating new textures in heavy metal, which is quite difficult. Even with Morello's studied virtuosity, the band sounds leaden, lacking the dexterity to fully execute their metal/hip-hop fusion -- they don't get into a groove; they simply pound. But that happens to fit the hysterical ravings of de la Rocha. Though his dedication to decidedly left-wing politics is admirable, his arhythmic phrasing and grating shouting cancel out any message he is trying to make. And that means Evil Empire succeeds only on the level of a sonic assault. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine
Contents:
People of the sun -- Bulls on parade -- Vietnow -- Revolver -- Snakecharmer -- Tire me -- Down rodeo -- Without a face -- Wind below -- Roll right -- Year of tha boomerang..
Target Audience: Parental Advisory.
UPC: 074645752327
Availability | |||
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Call Number | Location | Shelf Location | Status |
CD POPULAR Rag | Main (Downtown) | First Level, Music CD | In |
Compact disc.
Sound recording.
Sound recording.