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Rage Against The Machine : XX

Epic-Legacy

Perhaps one of the coolest moments on VH-1 Classic’s That Metal Show in recent memory was seeing Tom Morello fawning over his fellow guests Doug Pinnick of King’s X and master shredder Tony MacAlpine. Given the precedence levied on The Clash and Public Enemy influences that comprise Rage Against The Machine, it was refreshing to see the guitarist salute the celebrated group’s roots in hard rock and heavy metal all the same. And after listening to this beautiful deluxe box set of Rage’s groundbreaking 1992 debut in celebration of its 20th anniversary, one is clearly reminded of just how much Sabbath and Maiden factored into their distinct sound as deftly as Fugazi and Grandmaster Flash. Included alongside the long-overdue, re-mastered edition of the original LP is A bonus disc containing the first official release of the band’s original demo tape from late 1991—that they used to sell at their shows for $5—is included, as well as a pair of DVDs teeming with archival footage spanning the entirety of the band’s career, from their first-ever public performance to their “Battle of Britain” concert in June 2010 at London’s Finsbury Park. This is an epic tribute to a band that guys like Paul Ryan can say they love but will never truly understand.