Otep’s vocal poetry is lurid and explosive in the album Smash the Control Machine. From the opening track Otep marches in and snatches the plastic mask off of American capitalism and homophobia to reveal its hypocrisy and vileness with riot inciting screams and thought provoking whispers. The return of hellions Moke and Evil J to this album is a welcomed chance for fans to revisit the earlier, more savage musical experiences from House of Secrets and Sevas Tra.
The strongest selections include the politically fueled anthem Smash The Control Machine, the call to action track Rise Rebel Resist, Numb and Dumb which speaks out against social complacency, and the exceptional ballad “Ur A Wmn Now” in which Otep sheds her outright anger to expose her inner vulnerability and mental / emotional anguish of growing up girl. While the music is what moves us, it’s Shamaya’s explicit and intelligent lyricism that continues add depth to the band’s gritty thrash-core delivery.
Take this band for what you will but you cannot deny their ability to consume your senses with musically potent alchemy. Smash The Control Machine was released August 18, 2009 on Victory Records and is available everywhere music is sold.
