Photos and Review by Raven Divito
@rockinshots

Oakland natives Machine Head kicked off their highly anticipated North American tour at the historic Fox Theater in Oakland, California on April 5th, 2025, in support of their newest album Unatoned, set to release on April 25th. Machine Head’s tour is supported with a hefty trio of bands, which include Unearth, Lacuna Coil, and In Flames.

The energy in the venue was charged, and continued to amp up as each supporting band hammered out their sets. The circle pit started during Lacuna Coil and progressed into a full circle starting with Machine Head’s opening notes of “Imperium,” which echoed through the auditorium, as the crowd erupted into a frenzy, signaling that they were ready for a night of unbridled metal.

The Fox Theater, with its stunning Art Deco architecture, provided a fitting backdrop for Machine Head’s powerful performance. The band, led by the charismatic Robb Flynn, delivered a setlist that spanned their extensive catalog, showcasing tracks from their latest album as well as classic fan favorites. The mix of old and new kept the audience engaged, with an electric atmosphere that felt like a reunion between the band and their dedicated fans.

Flynn’s stage presence was magnetic, as he effortlessly commanded the crowd’s attention. His raw, emotional vocals resonated in the venue, particularly during poignant moments in songs like “Ten Ton Hammer” and “No Gods, No Monsters.” The dual guitar work of Reece Scruggs and Robb Flynn was nothing short of spectacular, with intricate solos and harmonies that showcased their technical prowess.

The rhythm section, powered by bassist Jared MacEachern and drummer Matt Alston, provided a relentless backbone to the performance. Alston’s thunderous drumming during tracks like “Halo” and “Locust” had the floor shaking, while MacEachern’s energetic stage presence added an extra layer of excitement to the show.

One of the highlights of the evening was a surprise rendition of “Davidian,” with the special guest appearance of Chris Kontos on drums, which sent the crowd into a nostalgic frenzy. Fans sang along at the top of their lungs, creating a chorus that echoed through the historic venue. The band’s connection with their audience was evident, as they took moments between songs to share stories and express gratitude for their loyal supporters.

The visual production was equally impressive, with dynamic lighting and a backdrop that shifted with the mood of the songs. 

As the night drew to a close, Machine Head left the stage after a powerful encore of “Halo.” The Fox Theater was filled with cheers and applause, as fans were left exhilarated, buzzing about the performance long after the final notes faded away.

Overall, Machine Head’s opening night in Oakland was a testament to their enduring legacy in the metal scene. With their combination of heavy riffs, passionate performances, and unwavering connection with fans, they proved once again why they are one of the genre’s most respected and beloved bands. The North American tour promises to be an unforgettable journey, and if this show was any indication, fans are in for an incredible ride.

For up-to-date tour information and news, visit Machine Head’s official site at machinehead1.com