Exploring the Fusion of Hardcore Punk and Rave Music with Machine Girl
Machine Girl, the brainchild of Long Island producer and vocalist Matt Stephenson, is a musical project that defies categorization. Blending elements of hardcore punk and rave music, Machine Girl’s sound is a whirlwind of energy and intensity that leaves audiences breathless and exhilarated.
The Origins of Machine Girl
Stephenson launched Machine Girl as a solo endeavor in 2012, releasing the project’s debut album, WLFGRL, in 2014. The album’s cover art, featuring a snarling werewolf head and Japanese text that translates to “prepare for transformation,” sets the tone for the music within: gnarly and life-changing. Across the album’s 13 tracks, Stephenson expertly navigates time signatures and dance-music genres, creating a sonic landscape that is as unpredictable as it is electrifying.
The Evolution of Machine Girl
Following the success of WLFGRL, Stephenson expanded Machine Girl into a duo with drummer Sean Kelly. Together, they have released three more records, each one pushing the boundaries of hardcore punk and rave music even further. Their latest album, MG Ultra, showcases a more polished sound, with softer hooks and more intelligible lyrics, while still delivering a powerful commentary on our dystopian reality.
The Machine Girl Experience
Attending a Machine Girl show is a unique experience that straddles the worlds of hardcore and rave music. From moshing and stage diving to shuffling and footwork, Machine Girl’s performances are a wild ride from start to finish. While their sound and attitude remain true to the underground scene, Machine Girl has always aimed to connect with a broader audience, bringing their unique brand of music to venues like the House of Blues.
Machine Girl is set to perform at the House of Blues on Friday, December 13th, with opening acts Femtanyl and Kill Alters. Tickets are available for $37-$49, and the show is open to all ages. Don’t miss your chance to experience the fusion of hardcore punk and rave music with Machine Girl live on stage.
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Looking for more upcoming shows to add to your radar? Chicago Reader staff writer Micco Caporale has you covered. With a passion for exploring the material, social, and political influences on art and music, Caporale’s writing has been featured in various publications. When not immersed in the world of music and culture, Caporale can be found powerlifting and exploring the vibrant Chicago scene. Reach out to mcaporale@chicagoreader.com to stay updated on their work and don’t miss out on the latest concerts in town.
