Machine Head - Nokia Theatre Times Square - September 22, 2007

Although disappointing because of its length (one hour), Machine Head played a gloriously brutal set. Keeping it taut and tense, with a few interludes where Robb made some nasty comments concerning Disney's attempts to censor the band on their tour, a few choice words for some sniveling critic who reveled in Dimebag's death, and a few shout-outs to the world's greatest fans, New Yorkers, the band did not disappoint otherwise. Pulling most of their material from their most recent (and best) record, The Blackening, Machine Head opened with the near-eleven minute "Clenching The Fists Of Dissent," replete with acoustics, ten thousand and one holy riffs and a whole lot of pissed off. Nothing could really equate, though, with the furious "Aesthetics Of Hate" (after the article of the same name by the aforementioned critic) -- definitely the song of the night. "Halo" featured some ridiculous guitar chops and solos that were incredible as well, but a Machine "Fucking" Head show ultimately wouldn't have been great if it hadn't ended with "Davidian," where freedom rings with a shotgun blast. A-

Setlist:
Clenching The Fists Of Dissent
Imperium
Aesthetics Of Hate
Old
Halo
Take My Scars
Descend The Shades Of Night
Davidian