Monster Shop Score: 75/100
Machine Head’s eleventh album, UNATØNED, is a lean, urgent blast of modern metal that finds the band at a creative crossroads. It’s a record that doesn’t linger, trading sprawling ambition for sharp hooks, hard grooves, and a few bold surprises. For long-time fans and new listeners alike, this is Machine Head proving they still have plenty to say—just in less time and with a little less fuss.
Release Details & Notable Facts
UNATØNED arrived on 25 April 2025, released by Nuclear Blast and Imperium Recordings. Robb Flynn and Zack Ohren handled production duties, with engineering at Robb’s Jam Room and Sharkbite Studios in Oakland, California. Colin Richardson and Chris Clancy mixed the album, while mastering came courtesy of Ted Jensen. The artwork, a striking piece by Seth Siro Anton, matches the album’s bold energy.
Notably, this is Machine Head’s shortest album yet, clocking in at just over 41 minutes. It also marks the first studio appearance for new drummer Matt Alston and guitarist Reece Scruggs, both of whom step into the spotlight after the departure of long-time guitarist Wacław “Vogg” Kiełtyka.
Machine Head: A Quick Look Back
Machine Head have never stood still. Formed in Oakland in 1991, they’ve gone from the groove-heavy brilliance of Burn My Eyes through nu-metal experiments on The Burning Red and Supercharger, to the technical mastery of The Blackening. Their last album, ØF KINGDØM AND CRØWN, saw them embrace concept storytelling and big, cinematic arrangements. UNATØNED finds them stripping things back, with a tighter, more direct sound.
My Take: Strengths, Weaknesses, and the Machine Head Evolution
Firstly, what stands out most is the album’s urgency. There’s no fat here—songs are short, sharp, and to the point. Robb Flynn has made it clear that he wanted every track to hit hard and move on, and it shows. The riffs are tight, the choruses memorable, and the groove is ever-present.
The addition of Reece Scruggs on guitar and Matt Alston on drums injects new life into the band. Scruggs’ playing is both vicious and melodic, while Alston’s drumming is unrelenting but never showy. On top of that, Jared MacEachern’s bass and backing vocals continue to add depth and punch.
However, the album’s brevity is both a strength and a weakness. While it keeps things focused, some tracks feel like they end just as they’re getting interesting. Moreover, the mix of styles—from classic groove metal to atmospheric balladry—means the album can feel a bit disjointed at times. It’s clear Machine Head are experimenting, but not every risk pays off.
Nevertheless, UNATØNED has a real energy. Written partly on the road, it captures the band’s live fire, especially on tracks like ATØMIC REVELATIØNS and BØNESCRAPER. The album doesn’t reach the epic heights of The Blackening or the cohesion of Burn My Eyes, but it doesn’t try to. Instead, it offers a snapshot of a band still hungry, still searching, and still willing to shake things up.
Musical Style, Themes, and Standout Tracks
Musically, UNATØNED is rooted in groove and thrash metal, with flashes of alternative and even a hint of trip-hop. Flynn’s vocals swing between his trademark rasp and surprisingly strong clean singing, especially on NØT LØNG FØR THIS WØRLD—the first Machine Head song with all clean vocals. The album opener, LANDSCAPE ØF THØRNS, sets a moody scene before launching into the frenetic ATØMIC REVELATIØNS, a song that blends piano, heavy riffing, and a punchy chorus.
UNBØUND and OUTSIDER keep the momentum going, with the latter offering a huge, anthemic chorus built for festival singalongs. THESE SCARS WØN’T DEFINE US is a defiant, collaborative thrash anthem featuring members of In Flames, Lacuna Coil, and Unearth—a proper “tour banger” if ever there was one.
BØNESCRAPER stands out as a modern Machine Head classic, mixing infectious grooves with a big, memorable hook. Meanwhile, BLEEDING ME DRY takes a risk with doom-laden, trip-hop beats before unleashing a massive riff. The album closes with SCØRN, a piano-driven ballad that is both unexpected and moving—arguably Flynn’s most vulnerable songwriting to date.
Lyrically, the album is packed with themes of resilience, loss, and defiance. Flynn’s recent personal struggles—especially the loss of his mother—add real emotional weight, particularly on tracks like BLEEDING ME DRY and SCØRN. Elsewhere, songs like OUTSIDER and SHARDS ØF SHATTERED DREAMS touch on cutting toxic ties and finding strength in adversity.
Where UNATØNED Sits in the Machine Head Catalogue
In the grand sweep of Machine Head’s discography, UNATØNED feels like a bridge between the classic groove of Burn My Eyes and the more experimental moments of Catharsis. It doesn’t reach the dizzying technical heights of The Blackening, nor does it have the conceptual ambition of ØF KINGDØM AND CRØWN. Yet, it’s more focused than Catharsis and more varied than Bloodstone & Diamonds.
If you’re after the sheer riffage and aggression of early Machine Head, there’s plenty here to love. If you prefer the band’s softer, more melodic side, tracks like NØT LØNG FØR THIS WØRLD and SCØRN will surprise you. For those who enjoy when Machine Head throws curveballs, the eclectic mix of styles on offer makes for a compelling listen.
Tour Dates & Live Experience
Machine Head are currently on a major North American tour, joined by In Flames, Lacuna Coil, and Unearth. The tour kicked off in April 2025 and continues through May, hitting cities like Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis, and more. They’ll then head to Europe for a summer of festival dates, including Bloodstock Open Air in the UK and Wacken Open Air in Germany. For a full list of dates and tickets, visit their official tour page.
Final Thoughts
To summarise, UNATØNED is a bold, fast-paced record that shows Machine Head still have fire in their belly. It’s not their most consistent album, but it’s certainly one of their most energetic and direct. The new lineup feels fresh, the songwriting is adventurous, and the production is top-notch.
While it might not win over every fan, it proves that Machine Head remain vital, relevant, and willing to take risks—thirty years into their career. Whether you’re a die-hard follower or just dipping your toes into their world, UNATØNED is well worth your time.
Overall, it’s a strong addition to the Machine Head catalogue—one that looks forward as much as it nods to the past.
Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on UNATØNED by Machine Head. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!
