Machine Girl, the brainchild of Matt Stephenson, emerged from Long Island, New York, in 2012. Drawing inspiration from Japanese media, notably the cult classic film The Machine Girl, the band has carved out a distinctive niche in the music world. Over the years, Machine Girl has released 11 albums, each brimming with energy and novel, genre-defying sounds. Their most popular album, WLFGRL, catapulted them into the spotlight, while their most recent release, MG Ultra, has been the centrepiece of their latest tour, which concluded in Montreal on December 19th.
The band currently features Matt Stephenson as the ferocious vocalist and Sean Kelly who provides the pounding rhythm on the drums. Together, they deliver a sound that is a chaotic blend of alternative, electronic, breakcore, and digital hardcore. This eclectic mix defies conventional categorization and creates a visceral experience that resonates deeply with fans of experimental music.
Machine Girl’s performances are nothing short of revolutionary. Known for their dynamic and interactive shows, they blur the line between performer and audience. Stephenson doesn’t confine himself to the stage; the entire venue becomes his playground as he dives into the crowd and surfs waves of vivacious fans. Their live use of electric guitar modifies and enhances their original electronic sound, adding a raw edge to their live sets. The use of lights was nothing short of intense as they consistently switched between red, blue, green, and white, illuminating an electric crowd. The result is almost a sensory overload; a fusion of sight, sound, and emotion that leaves attendees eager.
The audience at a Machine Girl show is as much part of the performance as the band itself: energetic, lively, and tireless. The crowd’s spirited moshing mirrors the band’s explosive energy on stage with tangible enthusiasm, creating an atmosphere that is as unpredictable as it is exhilarating.
With MG Ultra, Machine Girl has once again proven their ability to push boundaries and redefine their sound. Much like their performances, it is a whirlwind of frenzied brilliance, challenging listeners to embrace the unconventional. Their unrelenting creativity ensure that Machine Girl’s future will be as thrilling as their present.
Listen to Machine Girl's new album, MG Ultra, here