Episode 39: American Head Charge's "The War of Art", or The Seventy Percent

American Head Charge's reputation in the online nu-metal community is very strong, with some critics putting this album amongst the very best in nu-metal history. But does it come across that way for us? With neither John nor Bryan having extensive history with this album, we dig into all of its lore 20 years later, from the flag burning and shotgun blasts to the literal nonsense lyrics, as every interview with every band member has them broadcasting their complete nonchalance with the whole thing. We marvel at how good the production is, a pinnacle of Rick Rubin's career, how good the musicianship is, and how we just kinda wish the singing wasn't so...well, so dour. We also attempt to grapple with exactly where it stands in nu-metal history and if it deserves all the flowers it gets. Plus! We have actual nu-metal news to discuss, as the Sick New World festival got announced and we have some thoughts about how it's all shaping up. If you want to hear more of our sick thoughts, you can head on over to patreon.com/thepodkast, where $4/month gets you THREE bonus episodes every damn month. Last month, comedian Ryan Williams joined us to dissect the Judgment Night soundtrack, as we finally cover the seminal classic album that some say helped to launch nu-metal as a concept and a genre. Plus you'll get access to our Discord and merch discounts (we have shirts!) over at merch.blockedparty.com. Get into it!