In a recent interview with Metal Hammer, Machine Head‘s Robb Flynn shared his thoughts about the impact My Chemical Romance had on their new concept album ‘Of Kingdom And Crown.’
Machine Head is back with their first-ever concept album ‘Of Kingdom And Crown.’ The tenth studio album released this past summer is their most praised since 2007’s ‘The Blackening,’ considering fans’ excitement to the two singles ‘Choke On The Ashes Of Your Hate’ and ‘Unhallowed.’
Even after losing half of the band in 2018, when long-time members Dave McClain and Phil Demmel left, instead of fizzling out like most people expected them to do, Fylnn was dedicated to making the new version of the band work. The new concept album reflects his determination and belief in what Machine Head could achieve in their new era of music.
Robb Flynn stated that he had previously talked about making a concept album because he knew if it was produced well, it would be a magical experience for the listener. He loved Pink Floyd and Queensrÿche as a kid, but My Chemical Romance’s ‘The Black Parade’ was his favorite.
His wife Genevra also loved the story behind the album and encouraged him to make a concept record for Machine Head. Flynn knew the gravity a project like this held, but he was up to undertaking the challenge, and the making of the new album was a fantastic experience.
Robb Flynn’s words about his influence on the new Machine Head concept album:
“I’ve talked about doing a concept album for years. Most of the time, they’re done not very well, but when they are done well, they’re magical. When I was a kid, I was crazy about ‘The Wall’ [by Pink Floyd]. I loved ‘Operation: Mindcrime’ by Queensrÿche. I’m a huge My Chemical Romance fan, and I loved ‘The Black Parade.’ That’s a desert island record for me. My wife Genevra is really into the story of ‘The Black Parade,’ and she kept saying, ‘You should do a concept record; it’d be killer!’ I said, ‘Well, it’s a big undertaking, but I’ll give it a shot!’ It was such a cool experience.”
Machine Head got ready to get back on stage with their new lineup and a well-received concept album. They returned to the arenas with Amon Amarth for ‘The Vikings and Lionhearts Tour’ in the UK and Europe. The tour kicked off on September 8 and will wrap up on October 22.
