In 1994, a relatively unknown band from Bakersfield, CA released one of the most forward-thinking albums of the decade. While select critics would praise their combination of elements of hip-hop, grunge and metal, the Sunshine State quintet were on the verge of something that more closely resembled noise rock. The lyrics were raw and confessional in nature, addressing themes of child sexual abuse, violence and drug use. The guitars were mid-heavy, alternately squealing and pummeling with an aggression previously unmatched. The drums dominated the mix, complimented by the percussive throb of slap bass. And of course, there were the … Continue reading How nu-metal got everything right