Season 1 of Sonic Subcultures looks at 9 records that represent the range of musical styles that fall under the nu metal banner. Each record represents an aspect of nu metal that has surprising relevance today as nu metal has become a strangely resurgent genre. How is nu metal back? Why? To find some answers, Safa Hachi and Marc Lajeunesse look back at each record from our unique perspectives: Marc was there when nu metal began but Safa got into it twenty years later. We do a deep dive on each record, consider their form, lyrics, and impact when they were released, and piece together what each record means now in the present day.
Season 1 of Sonic Subcultures looks at 9 records that represent the range of musical styles that fall under the nu metal banner. Each record represents an aspect of nu metal that has surprising relevance today as nu metal has become a strangely resurgent genre. How is nu metal back? Why? To find some answers, Safa Hachi and Marc Lajeunesse look back at each record from our unique perspectives: Marc was there when nu metal began but Safa got into it twenty years later. We do a deep dive on each record, consider their form, lyrics, and impact when they were released, and piece together what each record means now in the present day.
In a lineup full of theatricality and angst, Rage Against the Machine stands out for turning nu metal into a tool of protest, with lyrics that respond to police brutality, racism and capitalism, their music still hits as hard today– especially for Gen Z.
In this episode, Marc Lajeunesse and Safa Hachi explore RATM’s debut album and how its message echoes through current movements, from anti-censorship protests in the 90s to conversations about war crimes, public health and modern rebellion. Unlike trend-driven virality, Rage Against the Machine’s influence is rooted in purpose, making them a different kind of icon in the digital age.