LISTEN: “Machines (Prologue)” by Aittala

Aittala pulls from the past to forge something fierce with “Machines (Prologue)”. By blending old-school grit with modern force, they have created a |riff-driven fury that bridges the past and present. Originally written decades ago, the song carries the raw energy of its ‘90s origins while benefiting from today’s sharper production. The result? A thunderous opening statement for the upcoming album Machines, set for release on April 17, 2025.

Eric Aittala’s guitar work drives the song with weighty, churning riffs that deliver a sound that feels both classic and refreshingly untamed. His vocals cut through the heaviness with commanding intensity and reinforces the song’s sense of urgency. While Gary ‘Zeus’ Smith pounds out relentless drum patterns that grounds the track in sheer force. Together, they breathe new life into a piece that could have remained a relic but instead feels vital and immediate.

What makes “Machines (Prologue)” stand out is its ability to bridge eras. There’s an undeniable nostalgia in its structure that hints of progressive metal’s early experimentalism and a no-frills approach that recalls the underground grit of ‘90s metal. But Aittala doesn’t just preserve history; they elevate it, pushing the song forward with a thick, crushing edge that makes it feel entirely in the moment.