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Fear Factory

Fear Factory is an American industrial metal band formed in 1989 in Los Angeles, California, by guitarist Dino Cazares and vocalist Burton C. Bell, initially under the name Ulceration before adopting its current moniker.^[1]^[2] The band is renowned for pioneering the fusion of death metal aggression, industrial electronics, and groove-oriented riffs, often exploring dystopian themes of technology, society, and human-machine conflict through aggressive vocals that alternate between screams and clean singing.^[3]^[4] Over their three-decade-plus career, Fear Factory has released ten studio albums, with breakthrough works like Demanufacture (1995) and Obsolete (1998) earning critical acclaim for their innovative production and cinematic soundscapes, Demanufacture achieving gold certification in Australia and silver in the UK while Obsolete achieving gold in Australia and the US.^[4]^[5]^[6] The band's lineup has undergone significant changes, including a 2002 disbandment and 2004 reformation, with Cazares as the sole constant member; early contributors included drummer Raymond Herrera and bassist Christian Olde Wolbers, while the current iteration features vocalist Milo Silvestro, drummer Pete Webber, and bassist Tony Campos.^[4]^[7] Fear Factory's influence extends to shaping the nu metal and extreme metal landscapes, having toured with acts like Metallica, Slayer, and Black Sabbath, and performing at multiple Ozzfest events, while inspiring multiplatinum groups with their blend of mechanical precision and thematic depth.^[4] As of 2025, the band remains active, having completed recording on their eleventh studio album— their first with Silvestro—slated for release in 2026, alongside a U.S. tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of Demanufacture.^[8]^[9]

History

Formation and early years (1989–1991)

Fear Factory was founded in 1989 in Los Angeles, California, by guitarist Dino Cazares and drummer Raymond Herrera as a hardcore punk outfit named Ulceration.^[3] Drawing from the gritty underground scene in South Central Los Angeles, the duo initially focused on aggressive, riff-driven material influenced by grindcore and early industrial acts.^[10] The band faced challenges typical of the late 1980s LA hardcore circuit, including competition from the dominant glam metal scene and limited venues for non-mainstream acts, which made building a local following difficult.^[11] In 1990, Ulceration evolved into Fear Factory after Cazares and Herrera, inspired by the ominous presence of a heavily guarded industrial factory near their rehearsal space, sought to reflect a more mechanized, dystopian sound.^[3] They recruited vocalist Burton C. Bell, who had recently left his previous band Hateface, following an audition where his versatile vocal style—blending screams and clean delivery—fit their vision.^[12] The initial lineup was completed with bassist Dave Gibney, though lineup instability persisted as the group experimented with their sound amid the economic and social turbulence of South LA, including the lingering effects of the 1992 riots that later influenced their themes.^[13] Key influences during this period included industrial metal pioneers Ministry, whose aggressive sampling and electronics shaped their rhythmic intensity, and Godflesh, whose dub-infused heaviness pushed them toward a fusion of metal and machinery.^[14] By 1991, with Gibney departing and bassist Andy Romero joining, the band recorded their demo Concrete at Rumbo Recorders, produced by Ross Robinson.^[15] The eight-track release featured raw, death metal-leaning songs like "Big God/Raped Souls" and "Sangre de Niños," showcasing Bell's dual vocals over Cazares' downtuned guitars and Herrera's precise drumming.^[16] Despite production issues that led them to shelve it as a full album, Concrete circulated widely in the underground, impressing label executives and securing a recording deal with Roadrunner Records, which enabled their transition to a professional industrial metal act.

Soul of a New Machine era (1992–1994)

The album Soul of a New Machine was recorded at Grand Master Studios in Hollywood, California, during May 1992, and mixed at Fonoprint Studios in Sheffield, England, the following month.^[17] Produced primarily by Colin Richardson, the sessions featured contributions from Rhys Fulber on electronics and keyboards, helping to integrate industrial elements into the band's death metal foundation.^[17]^[18] Roadrunner Records released the album on August 25, 1992, marking Fear Factory's entry into the international metal scene with a lineup centered on vocalist Burton C. Bell, guitarist Dino Cazares, and drummer Raymond Herrera.^[19] Lyrically, Soul of a New Machine delves into themes of mechanization, advancing technology, and the resulting alienation of humanity, portraying a dystopian narrative where humans create oppressive machines—whether literal technological entities or metaphorical systems of control.^[20] Tracks such as "Martyr" and "Scapegoat" highlight these concepts through aggressive riffs, programmed rhythms, and Bell's dual growls and clean vocals, establishing the band's signature cybernetic sound.^[17] By this period, the departure of early bassist Dave Gibney had occurred, solidifying the core trio of Bell, Cazares, and Herrera as the driving force behind the album's creation and the band's future direction.^[21]^[2] To promote the release, Fear Factory embarked on initial tours across Europe and North America, including a European run in 1993 and a performance at the Dynamo Open Air festival, where they shared stages with prominent acts in the industrial and extreme metal scenes such as Godflesh and Napalm Death influences.^[22]^[23] These outings exposed the band to wider audiences, building momentum despite the album's modest commercial impact. Critically, Soul of a New Machine was hailed as innovative for its fusion of death metal brutality with industrial precision and sampling, though reviewers often noted its raw production and uneven execution as signs of a band still refining its identity.^[24]^[25] This reception underscored the album's role in pioneering melodic shifts within the genre, influencing Fear Factory's evolution toward more polished works in subsequent years.^[26]

Demanufacture breakthrough (1995–1997)

In 1995, Fear Factory achieved their major breakthrough with the release of their second studio album, Demanufacture, marking a significant evolution from the raw industrial metal sound of their debut Soul of a New Machine. Signed to Roadrunner Records since 1991, the band recorded the album amid creative tensions with initial producer Colin Richardson, who was eventually fired; Canadian engineer and mixer Greg Reely stepped in to handle the final mixes alongside band members and Rhys Fulber, resulting in a polished blend of aggressive riffs, electronic elements, and dynamic production.^[4]^[27] Released on June 13, 1995, the album featured standout tracks like "Replica" and "Zero Tolerance," which became staples in the band's live sets and helped propel their visibility through music videos and soundtrack placements, such as "Zero Signal" on the Mortal Kombat film score.^[28]^[4] Thematically, Demanufacture explored anti-technology motifs, depicting a dystopian narrative of human rebellion against machine-dominated societies, drawing inspiration from films like The Terminator and reflecting broader anxieties about industrialization and automation. This conceptual depth, combined with Burton C. Bell's barked vocals and Dino Cazares's downtuned guitar work, resonated with a growing audience in the emerging industrial and alternative metal scenes. Commercially, the album peaked in the Top 10 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart, signaling Fear Factory's transition from underground status to broader recognition, though it did not yet crack the main Billboard 200.^[4]^[27] Guest contributions from keyboardist Reynor Diego added atmospheric samples and electronic flourishes, enhancing the album's futuristic texture during studio sessions.^[29] To support Demanufacture, Fear Factory embarked on extensive world tours from 1995 to 1997, solidifying their reputation as a high-energy live act and expanding their fanbase amid the rising nu-metal movement. Key highlights included their participation in the inaugural Ozzfest in 1996, where they shared stages with headliners like Ozzy Osbourne, Slayer, and Sepultura across North American dates, and additional support slots for Osbourne's solo tours. These performances, often featuring elaborate stage setups with industrial visuals, helped bridge the band to mainstream metal audiences and fostered a dedicated following in Europe and beyond.^[4]^[30] In 1997, Fear Factory capitalized on the album's momentum with the remix project Remanufacture – Cloning Technology, released on May 20 via Roadrunner Records, which reimagined Demanufacture tracks through electronic and industrial lenses with contributions from artists like Junkie XL (Thomas Holkenborg) and Bill Leeb. The release included fresh compositions such as "Remanufacture" and "Genetics," alongside remixed versions of hits like "Replica" and "Self Bias Resistor," showcasing the band's willingness to experiment with drum and bass, techno, and hardcore elements. This companion album not only extended the Demanufacture era but also highlighted Fear Factory's influence on the fusion of metal and electronica during the late 1990s.^[4]

Obsolete and rising fame (1998–2000)

In 1998, Fear Factory entered Mushroom Studios and Armoury Studios in Vancouver, British Columbia, to record their third studio album, Obsolete, co-produced by the band alongside electronic musician Rhys Fulber and engineer Greg Reely.^[31] The sessions, which ran from February 21 to May 10, spanned longer than anticipated due to the complexity of integrating layered electronic and industrial elements into their signature groove metal sound.^[31] Released on July 28 via Roadrunner Records, Obsolete marked a conceptual evolution, presenting a dystopian narrative through the eyes of a rebel protagonist, with tracks emphasizing themes of resistance against technological oppression.^[32] The album achieved significant commercial breakthrough, debuting at No. 77 on the Billboard 200 chart—Fear Factory's highest position at the time—and eventually earning gold certification for over 500,000 units sold in the United States.^[33]^[34] Promoting its lead singles, the band issued a promotional version of "Edgecrusher" in June, followed by the full "Resurrection" EP on September 14, which included remixes and live recordings to showcase the album's aggressive fusion of cybernetic riffs and synthesized atmospheres.^[35]^[36] MTV recognized Obsolete as the heaviest album of 1998, amplifying its exposure through heavy rotation on Headbangers Ball.^[32] Fear Factory's rising profile led to prominent touring commitments, including opening slots on Slayer's Diabolus in Musica North American tour in late 1998 alongside Kilgore, where they delivered high-energy sets blending Obsolete material with earlier hits.^[37] The band also performed at major festivals such as Ozzfest 1998 and the Bizarre Festival in Germany, later securing a main support role on Ozzfest's second stage in 1999 as replacements for Judas Priest.^[38] Visibility expanded further with a memorable MTV appearance at WCW's Beach Brawl event in 1999, where they performed "Edgecrusher" during a wrestling battle royal hosted by Kid Rock.^[39] By 2000, Fear Factory capitalized on their momentum with additional releases, including the "Resurrection" single reissue and preparations for their first video compilation. The Digital Connectivity DVD, issued on December 18, 2001, compiled music videos for tracks like "Resurrection" and "Replica," alongside rare live footage from a decade of global performances.^[40] Amid this success, subtle creative frictions emerged within the band, as the demands of fame and evolving electronic production styles began to strain their collaborative dynamic, foreshadowing future challenges.^[41]

Digimortal and initial breakup (2001–2002)

In 2001, Fear Factory released their fourth studio album, Digimortal, produced by the band alongside longtime collaborator Rhys Fulber and recorded at Ocean Studios in Burbank, California.^[42] The album explored themes of digital apocalypse and post-human existence, with tracks like the title song "Digimortal" depicting a world dominated by artificial intelligence and the erosion of human autonomy.^[43] The lead single "Linchpin" addressed the fragility of technological systems, peaking at No. 31 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and becoming one of the band's most enduring tracks in the streaming era.^[4] Digimortal debuted at No. 32 on the Billboard 200, a respectable but diminished performance compared to the commercial peak of their prior release Obsolete.^[44] However, sales were disappointing overall, hampered by the broader music industry's contraction following the September 11 attacks, which disrupted promotion and consumer spending.^[45] Roadrunner Records exerted pressure on the band to incorporate more radio-friendly elements, leading to creative compromises such as the guest appearance by Cypress Hill's B-Real on "Back the F**k Up," which further strained internal dynamics.^[45] The band supported the album with extensive touring, including a slot on the second stage of Ozzfest 2001 alongside acts like Slipknot and Black Sabbath.^[46] Despite this exposure, escalating personal conflicts, particularly between guitarist Dino Cazares and vocalist Burton C. Bell, began to surface. Tensions arose from disagreements over management, side projects, and artistic direction, with Bell expressing frustration during a heated argument in October 2001.^[45] These issues culminated in the band's initial breakup in March 2002, when Bell abruptly announced his departure after a rehearsal session, citing a desire to explore less aggressive music influenced by artists like Nick Cave.^[47] Cazares, who had already been contemplating an exit due to burnout and label frustrations, soon followed suit, forming the industrial metal project Asesino with drummer Joey Garcia.^[45] Bell pursued solo endeavors and collaborations outside the group's intense sound, while ongoing disputes with Roadrunner over inadequate promotion of Digimortal exacerbated the dissolution.^[45]

Reformation and Archetype (2002–2005)

Following the band's dissolution in early 2002 amid internal conflicts stemming from the Digimortal era, Fear Factory reformed later that year without founding guitarist Dino Cazares.^[48] The restructured lineup consisted of vocalist Burton C. Bell, drummer Raymond Herrera, former bassist Christian Olde Wolbers now handling guitar duties, and new bassist Byron Stroud, previously of Strapping Young Lad.^[48] Keyboardist John Bechdel also joined for live performances to enhance the band's electronic elements.^[49] This configuration allowed the group to continue, emphasizing a renewed focus on their industrial metal foundation while adapting to the lineup shift. The reformed band signed with independent label Liquid 8 Records and began work on their fifth studio album, Archetype.^[50] Recorded in 2003 and early 2004, the album was produced by the band alongside Rhys Fulber, with mixing handled by longtime collaborator Greg Reely.^[51] Released on April 20, 2004, Archetype represented a deliberate pivot back to the band's aggressive, riff-driven sound, stripping away some of the more experimental electronic layers of Digimortal in favor of heavier, more direct industrial grooves.^[52] The record debuted at No. 30 on the Billboard 200, selling 32,000 copies in its first week and marking the band's strongest commercial performance to date.^[50] Standout track "Bite the Hand That Bleeds" served as the album's second single, released on December 7, 2004, and gained wider exposure through its inclusion on the soundtrack for the horror film Saw.^[53] The song's intense, pulsating rhythm and themes of betrayal aligned with the movie's narrative, boosting the band's visibility beyond metal circles. A limited-edition digipak version of Archetype included a bonus DVD featuring a 2004 tour documentary and behind-the-scenes footage from the Australian leg of their promotional trek, capturing the band's onstage energy and creative process.^[54] To support Archetype, Fear Factory embarked on extensive touring, including a high-profile U.S. run in fall 2004 alongside Lamb of God, Children of Bodom, and Throwdown.^[55] These performances showcased the new lineup's cohesion, with Wolbers' guitar work effectively filling Cazares' void through layered, mechanical riffs that echoed the album's title track. The tour solidified the band's resurgence, drawing crowds eager for their signature blend of cybernetic aggression and live intensity.

Transgression and tensions (2005–2006)

Following the success of Archetype, Fear Factory's core lineup—vocalist Burton C. Bell, guitarist Christian Olde Wolbers, drummer Raymond Herrera, and bassist Byron Stroud—recorded their sixth studio album, Transgression, in 2005 at Carbon 12 Studio in West Hollywood, California.^[56] The sessions were produced by Toby Wright, known for his work with Alice in Chains and Korn, and marked a more experimental direction with nu-metal influences, including melodic riffs and prominent clean vocals that diverged from the band's signature industrial aggression.^[57] Released on August 23, 2005, via Roadrunner Records, the album featured tracks like the title song "Transgression," which explored themes of defiance, and "Moment of Impact," emphasizing rhythmic grooves over traditional heaviness.^[56] Critics gave Transgression mixed reviews, praising its bold stylistic shifts toward accessibility while criticizing the diluted intensity and perceived radio-friendly production that strayed from Fear Factory's mechanical precision.^[58] The album's experimentation, including guest contributions on guitar from Deftones' Stephen Carpenter for added textural depth, highlighted the band's attempt to evolve but alienated some fans accustomed to their earlier sound.^[59] To promote Transgression, the band embarked on the 2005 Transgression Tour across North America, joined by Strapping Young Lad, Soilwork, and Darkane, delivering high-energy sets that blended new material with classics amid growing logistical challenges.^[60] However, escalating internal disputes over creative control—particularly Bell's dominant role in songwriting, which sidelined Wolbers—intensified during the tour, straining band dynamics and foreshadowing instability.^[58] By early 2006, business disagreements, including unresolved issues tied to founding guitarist Dino Cazares' 2002 departure and ongoing trademark disputes, culminated in Cazares formally severing ties, forcing the band into a temporary halt without new activity.^[61] Amid the fallout, Bell focused on his side project Ascension of the Watchers, developing atmospheric, electronic-leaning material that debuted with the EP Prelude in late 2005 and laid groundwork for future releases.

Hiatus and side projects (2006–2008)

Following the internal tensions that marked the Transgression era, Fear Factory entered a full hiatus in 2006, during which the band conducted no official activities, recordings, or tours.^[4] Guitarist Christian Olde Wolbers confirmed the break in late 2008, stating that the group was "just taking a break" while members pursued individual endeavors.^[62] Vocalist Burton C. Bell remained active through his ongoing project Ascension of the Watchers, which he co-founded with John Bechdel in 2002 and continued developing during the hiatus.^[4] The band's debut album, Ningen Isu, had been released in 2005, but Bell focused on refining the gothic and atmospheric sound in subsequent years. Additionally, Bell provided guest vocals for Ministry during their 2007–2008 tour, performing tracks like "Stigmata," "Thieves," and "So What."^[63] Bassist Christian Olde Wolbers and drummer Raymond Herrera collaborated on new music together, initially exploring a short-lived electronic project before forming the industrial metal supergroup Arkaea in 2008 with vocalist Jon Howard (ex-Threat Signal).^[4] Arkaea's lineup was completed by guitarist Pat Kavanagh, and the band recorded material that would lead to their 2009 EP Years of the Black. Wolbers described the venture as a fresh start amid the Fear Factory downtime.^[62] Meanwhile, founding guitarist Dino Cazares, who had departed Fear Factory in 2002, channeled his energies into Divine Heresy, which he formed in 2006 with drummer John Sankey (ex-Devolved) and vocalist Tommy Victor (Prong).^[4] The band recruited drummer Tim Yeung (Decapitated, Hate Eternal) for their debut album Bleed the Fifth, released in 2007 via Roadrunner Records, blending death metal aggression with industrial grooves. Divine Heresy toured extensively in support, sharing stages with acts like Type O Negative and Static-X, establishing Cazares as a key figure in the extreme metal scene independent of his former band.^[64] Throughout the hiatus, fans speculated intensely about Fear Factory's potential dissolution or reformation, fueled by the members' divergent paths and minor rumblings over trademark rights to the band name, which Cazares had long asserted partial ownership of since his 2002 exit.^[65] These uncertainties kept online discussions and metal media abuzz, with many questioning whether the classic lineup could reunite amid the growing legal shadows.

Reunion disputes and Mechanize (2009–2011)

In early 2009, after a period of hiatus and side projects, founding guitarist Dino Cazares rejoined Fear Factory, reuniting with vocalist Burton C. Bell to reform the band and announce plans for a new album.^[66] This reunion marked a return to the band's classic creative partnership, which had been absent since Cazares' departure in 2002, and aimed to recapture the aggressive industrial metal sound of their earlier works.^[67] The reformation quickly sparked legal disputes with bassist Christian Olde Wolbers and drummer Raymond Herrera, who had continued with the band during the hiatus. Bell and Cazares initiated a lawsuit to secure rights to the Fear Factory name and continue under their vision, citing management conflicts that had strained relations.^[68] Wolbers and Herrera countersued for $1 million each, alleging unauthorized use of the band's intellectual property and unpaid earnings from prior releases.^[67] These tensions, compounded by internal disagreements over the band's direction, led to the departure of Wolbers and Herrera in 2009.^[69] To fill the rhythm section, the band recruited bassist Byron Stroud, who had previously played with them from 2002 to 2005, and drummer Gene Hoglan, known for his work with Death and Strapping Young Lad.^[70] With the new lineup solidified, Fear Factory entered the studio in 2009 to record their seventh studio album, Mechanize, produced by Rhys Fulber, who had collaborated with the band on earlier efforts like Archetype. Released on February 5, 2010, via Century Media Records in Europe and DRT Entertainment in North America, the album emphasized a return to thrash-influenced riffs and relentless rhythms, evoking the intensity of their 1995 breakthrough Demanufacture.^[71] It debuted at No. 72 on the Billboard 200 chart, selling around 10,500 copies in its first week, and received praise for revitalizing the band's sound.^[44] To promote Mechanize, Fear Factory embarked on the Mechanize Tour starting in late 2009, followed by the Fear Campaign Tour in 2010, headlining U.S. dates with support from acts like Winds of Plague, Dirge Within, and Periphery.^[72] The band also appeared at major festivals, including Soundwave in Australia and Mayhem Festival stops, extending performances into 2011 across Europe and North America.^[73] Amid these activities, the trademark battles persisted, with Cazares actively pursuing legal control over the band's name to prevent further challenges from former members.^[74]

The Industrialist development (2011–2013)

Following the lineup established for Mechanize, Fear Factory underwent significant personnel changes in early 2012. In February, bassist Byron Stroud departed the band, and he was replaced by Matt DeVries, formerly the rhythm guitarist for Chimaira, who shifted to bass duties for live performances.^[75] Then, in April, drummer Gene Hoglan stepped down due to conflicting schedule commitments with other projects, including his work with Testament.^[76] Mike Heller, known for his technical prowess in the death metal band Malignancy, was promptly announced as Hoglan's replacement and joined for touring and subsequent recordings. Heller described the opportunity as "an incredible honor," emphasizing his long-standing admiration for the band's influential sound.^[77] With this revamped configuration, Fear Factory entered the studio in 2012 to record their eighth studio album, The Industrialist, produced by longtime collaborator Rhys Fulber of Front Line Assembly. Fulber, who had previously worked on albums like Demanufacture and Archetype, handled production, manipulation, mixing, and mastering, contributing to the album's dense, atmospheric layers. Due to Hoglan's mid-recording exit, the original drum tracks were programmed using drum machine technology rather than live performance, a decision that lent a mechanical edge to the proceedings but was later revisited. The album emerged as a concept piece centered on a sci-fi narrative about "The Industrialist," an sentient automaton rising amid industrial decay and technological uprising, weaving themes of machine ascension and human obsolescence across its ten tracks, including the title song and "Virus of Faith."^[78]^[79] The Industrialist was released on June 5, 2012, through Candlelight Records in North America and AFM Records internationally, marking a return to the band's conceptual roots post-reformation. Critics praised its sonic cohesion, with reviewers highlighting the tight integration of groove metal riffs, industrial electronics, and Burton C. Bell's dual clean/screamed vocals, describing it as a "pristine" and "vicious" effort that recaptured the band's classic intensity without straying into redundancy.^[80]^[81] The album's narrative depth and production polish were seen as stabilizing elements in Fear Factory's post-reunion trajectory, earning it acclaim as one of their strongest outings since Archetype.^[82] To promote the release, Fear Factory embarked on the extensive World Industrialist Tour spanning 2012 and 2013, encompassing over 150 shows across North America, Europe, and beyond. The itinerary included the Shockwave Festival Tour in May and June 2012 alongside Voivod and Cattle Decapitation, a U.S. summer headlining run in August, and a full North American headline trek in spring 2013. These performances solidified the new live lineup of Bell, Dino Cazares, DeVries, and Heller, with the band delivering high-energy sets blending material from The Industrialist and earlier classics.^[83]^[84]^[85]

Genexus and stability (2013–2015)

Following the release of The Industrialist in 2012, Fear Factory entered a phase of relative lineup consistency, allowing the band to focus on refining their industrial metal sound without the internal disruptions that had plagued earlier years. This period marked a creative peak, culminating in the production of their ninth studio album, Genexus, which built upon the machine-human conflict narrative established in prior works while emphasizing cyberpunk-inspired themes of technological singularity and existential dread.^[86] Genexus was recorded primarily in 2014 and early 2015 at NRG Recording Studios in North Hollywood, California, with additional engineering and pre-production at Omen Studio, and mixed at Backstage Studios in Derbyshire, England. Co-produced by longtime collaborator Rhys Fulber—who had previously helmed albums like Archetype and The Industrialist—the album blended aggressive groove metal riffs with melodic vocal layers and sci-fi atmospheric elements, including samples evoking dystopian futures akin to Blade Runner. Released on August 7, 2015, through Nuclear Blast Records, it featured ten tracks clocking in at 47:55, with standout opener "Autonomous Combat System" showcasing syncopated rhythms and electronic pulses that underscored the band's signature fusion of organic aggression and synthetic precision. Other highlights like "Regenerate" highlighted melodic choruses amid thrash-infused breakdowns, reflecting Fulber's production touch that amplified the album's polished, high-fidelity sound.^[87]^[88]^[89] The core lineup during this era solidified around vocalist Burton C. Bell, guitarist and co-founder Dino Cazares, drummer Mike Heller (who joined in 2012 and debuted on The Industrialist), and bassist Tony Campos, formerly of Static-X and Soulfly, who replaced Matt DeVries in mid-2015 just before the album's release. This configuration provided a stable foundation, enabling the band to channel their technical prowess into cohesive performances and recordings without the frequent personnel shifts of the past decade. Former bassist Christian Olde Wolbers, who had been involved in earlier lineup disputes, did not participate in this period.^[87] To promote Genexus, Fear Factory embarked on successful tours, including a headline slot at Knotfest 2015 in San Bernardino, California, where they shared stages with acts like Slipknot and Judas Priest, delivering sets heavy on new material alongside classics. Later that summer, they headlined a European tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of Demanufacture, performing the album in full across festivals like With Full Force in Germany and Resurrection Fest in Spain, as well as club shows, drawing strong crowds and reinforcing their enduring appeal in the metal scene.^[90] Critics praised Genexus for its technical execution and sonic clarity, with The Guardian calling it "the best-sounding album of their career by some margin," highlighting the "precise and vicious rush of syncopated kick drums, sci-fi keyboard surges and eerie but melodic vocals." Reviews from Metal Injection noted its adherence to the band's defining industrial elements, while outlets like Angry Metal Guy commended the "staccato riffs, machine-like drumming and computerized sound effects," affirming Fear Factory's continued innovation in blending melody with aggression. The album's reception underscored the band's stability, positioning it as a high point in their post-reformation catalog.^[86]^[88]^[91]

Legal battles and hiatus (2016–2019)

Following the release of Genexus in 2015, which featured vocalist Burton C. Bell, guitarist Dino Cazares, drummer Mike Heller, and bassist Tony Campos, Fear Factory encountered escalating internal conflicts that precipitated lineup shifts and an indefinite hiatus. Bassist Christian Olde Wolbers, a long-time member since 1994, was effectively sidelined from the band by late 2015 amid ongoing management and financial disputes with Cazares, marking the end of his primary involvement after contributing to several prior albums. Similarly, session drummer Ray Luzier, who had supported live performances during the Genexus promotional cycle in 2015, was not retained for future activities as tensions mounted. These changes reflected deeper rifts stemming from unresolved ownership and royalty issues among the core members.^[92] The band's instability intensified through a series of lawsuits filed by former members Raymond Herrera and Christian Olde Wolbers against Bell and Cazares. Originating from a 2011 settlement agreement that granted Bell licensing rights to the Fear Factory name in exchange for royalty payments to Herrera and Wolbers, the disputes escalated when payments ceased after Bell's 2011 bankruptcy filing. In 2014, Herrera and Wolbers sued Bell in California Superior Court for breaching the agreement, alleging he failed to remit earnings from Fear Factory-related activities, including tours and merchandise; the court awarded them over $900,000 in damages and fees in a 2015 stipulation. A related 2019 federal ruling in Pennsylvania partially upheld the claims against Bell for post-bankruptcy name usage violations, while voiding some elements due to bankruptcy protections, prolonging the legal entanglement into that year. Separately, Wolbers and Herrera pursued Cazares for similar royalty shortfalls from the band's 2009 reformation onward, resulting in individual suits that Cazares described as seeking "a million bucks" each, further complicating band operations.^[93]^[65]^[61] Amid these proceedings, Fear Factory released no new music between 2016 and 2019, entering a de facto hiatus despite sporadic touring in 2016 to support Genexus. Cazares maintained control of the band's activities, performing select dates with session musicians under the Fear Factory banner, but creative output stalled as legal fees and negotiations consumed resources; Cazares later noted the suits "prevented the band from doing anything" during this period. The absence of progress fueled fan backlash and widespread speculation about the group's survival, with online discussions and media reports highlighting concerns over the band's fractured legacy and potential dissolution. By late 2019, the core disputes remained unresolved, leaving Fear Factory's future uncertain.^[65]^[94]^[95]

Bell's departure and Aggression Continuum (2020–2022)

In September 2020, ongoing legal battles among band members reached a resolution, with guitarist Dino Cazares emerging victorious in his lawsuits against former members Raymond Herrera and Christian Olde Wolbers, thereby securing 100% ownership and control of the Fear Factory name and trademark.^[96] This settlement followed separate suits filed by Herrera and Wolbers against both Cazares and vocalist Burton C. Bell, stemming from prior disputes over band rights and royalties that had stalled activity since 2016.^[97] On September 30, 2020, Bell officially announced his departure from Fear Factory, citing irreconcilable differences with Cazares and an unwillingness to continue amid the protracted legal conflicts and financial strains, including a controversial GoFundMe campaign for album production costs that Bell claimed he had no involvement in.^[98] Although Bell's exit marked the end of his 30-year tenure as the band's co-founder and primary lyricist, subsequent contract disputes related to his vocal contributions and royalties extended into 2021, further complicating the transition.^[99] With the band now under Cazares' sole leadership, auditions for a new vocalist commenced in late 2020, culminating in sessions in 2021 where Italian musician Milo Silvestro submitted demos and performed tracks like "Dielectric," though no permanent replacement was announced at the time.^[100] Amid these changes, Fear Factory completed work on their tenth studio album, Aggression Continuum, recorded primarily in 2020 and early 2021 at Cazares' home studio in Los Angeles and co-produced by longtime collaborator Rhys Fulber of Front Line Assembly.^[101] The album, featuring Bell's pre-recorded vocals from sessions dating back to 2017, was mixed by Andy Sneap and released on June 18, 2021, through Nuclear Blast Records, emphasizing a return to the band's aggressive industrial metal roots with heavy riffs, mechanical rhythms, and themes of human-machine conflict.^[102] Despite critical praise for its intensity and production, Aggression Continuum sold approximately 5,200 copies in its first week in the U.S., failing to chart on the Billboard 200 for the first time since 1995's Demanufacture, though it peaked at No. 15 on the Top Album Sales chart.^[33] Plans for a promotional tour supporting Aggression Continuum were repeatedly delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the "Rise of the Machine" North American outing—originally slated for early 2022 alongside Static-X and Dope—postponed indefinitely due to rising case numbers and logistical challenges.^[103] These disruptions prevented live performances during the album's release window, leaving the band focused on studio work and vocalist auditions as they navigated the ongoing health crisis.^[104]

Silvestro era and new album progress (2023–2025)

In February 2023, Fear Factory announced Milo Silvestro as their new permanent vocalist, marking a stable transition following the band's previous lineup changes.^[105]^[106] Silvestro, previously known for his work with the band 5RAND, brought a fresh energy to the group's industrial metal sound while honoring its aggressive vocal style. Concurrently, drummer Pete Webber joined the lineup on a temporary basis to replace Mike Heller for live performances, starting with the "Rise of the Machine" U.S. tour alongside Static-X, Dope, and others, which ran from February to April 2023.^[107] This integration allowed the band to maintain touring momentum and solidify their core sound with guitarist Dino Cazares and bassist Tony Campos. Throughout 2023 and 2024, Fear Factory undertook several high-profile tours to reconnect with fans and showcase Silvestro's vocals. The band performed at the Aftershock Festival in Sacramento, California, on October 13, 2024, delivering a set that included staples like "Shock" and "Edgecrusher."^[108] They also embarked on the European DisrupTour in summer 2024, supported by Butcher Babies and Ignea, playing dates across the continent to build anticipation for future releases.^[109] In 2025, these efforts extended to celebrating the 30th anniversary of their seminal album Demanufacture (1995), with dedicated U.S. headlining shows from September to November, performing the album in full and concluding after 44 shows over 8 weeks.^[110]^[111]^[112] The band completed recording their untitled eleventh studio album in August 2025, produced by Dino Cazares and engineered by longtime collaborator Damien Rainaud at a Los Angeles studio.^[113] This marks the first full-length release featuring Silvestro on vocals, emphasizing the group's signature blend of mechanical precision and raw intensity. As of October 2025, the mixing process remained ongoing, with Cazares seeking a suitable engineer to finalize the tracks amid their busy schedule.^[114] The album's development gained additional focus after the cancellation of a planned spring 2025 U.S. tour with Coal Chamber, DevilDriver, and Twiztid, which was scrapped due to health issues affecting Coal Chamber's Dez Fafara; Fear Factory redirected efforts toward completing the record.^[115] They confirmed a performance at Reload Festival in Sulingen, Germany, on August 15, 2025, as part of their anniversary celebrations.^[116] Amid these advancements, guitarist Dino Cazares addressed speculation about reuniting with former vocalist Burton C. Bell in a November 2024 interview, stating that ongoing legal disputes from past band conflicts made such a prospect impossible, emphasizing the current lineup's commitment to forward progress.^[61]^[117]

Musical style and influences

Core elements and evolution

Fear Factory's core musical identity revolves around a potent fusion of industrial metal and death metal elements, incorporating heavy, syncopated riffs with electronic atmospheres and atmospheric samples. The band's sound is defined by guitarist Dino Cazares' use of downtuned, seven-string guitars tuned as low as B standard, delivering staccato, palm-muted patterns that evoke a mechanical precision reminiscent of automated machinery. Drummer Raymond Herrera contributed intricate rhythms, particularly his rapid double-bass patterns reaching speeds of 200 beats per minute, which provided a relentless, machine-gun-like propulsion to the tracks.^[118]^[119] Vocalist Burton C. Bell's dual delivery—alternating between harsh, guttural screams and clean, melodic singing—added dynamic contrast, bridging aggression with accessibility.^[120] Electronic flourishes, including sci-fi samples from films like Terminator 2 and Full Metal Jacket, were integrated to heighten the dystopian texture, often sourced from cinematic soundbites to underscore themes of technological dread.^[121] Thematically, Fear Factory maintained a consistent exploration of human-machine conflict, portraying dystopian futures where technology rebels against its creators, heavily drawing from Philip K. Dick's speculative fiction such as Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?. This narrative thread permeates their lyrics and sonic palette, with industrial samples and synth layers reinforcing a sense of impending apocalypse. Production techniques played a crucial role in realizing this vision; mixer Greg Reely employed multi-layered approaches to blend organic instrumentation with synthetic elements, creating dense, immersive soundscapes. Keyboardist and producer Rhys Fulber, from Front Line Assembly, integrated synthesizers like the Akai S1000 and Oberheim Xpander for atmospheric depth, syncing them to tape for a polished, futuristic sheen on albums like Demanufacture.^[122]^[123]^[124]^[125] Over time, Fear Factory's style evolved from the raw, grindcore-infused aggression of their 1992 debut Soul of a New Machine, which leaned heavily into death metal ferocity with minimal polish, to a more structured groove metal approach by the mid-1990s. On Demanufacture (1995), they refined their industrial-death hybrid into something broader and more cinematic, incorporating cleaner production and subtle melodic hooks while retaining mechanical intensity.^[31] By the 2000s, albums like Archetype (2004) emphasized Bell's melodic choruses amid the heaviness, shifting toward accessible anthems that balanced brutality with emotional resonance. Entering the 2010s, works such as The Industrialist (2012) and Genexus (2015) incorporated cyberpunk orchestration, with expanded synth integrations and orchestral elements evoking high-tech dystopias, further evolving their sound into a sophisticated blend of aggression and atmospheric narrative.^[126]^[127] This trajectory continued into the 2020s with Aggression Continuum (2021), which preserved the band's signature mechanical riffs and electronic dystopian themes amid lineup shifts, utilizing guest vocalists to maintain the dual harsh-clean vocal dynamic. As of 2025, the core style endures in the current lineup featuring vocalist Milo Silvestro, with their eleventh studio album—completed in recording and slated for 2026 release—expected to uphold the industrial metal foundation while adapting to new personnel.^[128]^[114]

Key influences

Fear Factory's sound was profoundly shaped by the industrial music scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly the aggressive electronic elements pioneered by bands like Ministry, Skinny Puppy, and Front 242. Founding guitarist Dino Cazares has credited Ministry as a foundational influence, stating that their sampling techniques and shift toward heavier, metal-infused industrial aggression directly inspired Fear Factory's incorporation of mechanized rhythms and distorted electronics.^[14] Similarly, Skinny Puppy's experimental use of industrial noise and atmospheric tension influenced the band's early demos, with Cazares recalling how acts like Skinny Puppy performing in Los Angeles exposed them to the genre's raw, confrontational edge.^[14] Front 242's electronic body music (EBM) style, characterized by pounding beats and synth-driven aggression, further contributed to Fear Factory's fusion of danceable electronics with brutal intensity, helping define their rhythmic precision.^[129] In the metal realm, Fear Factory drew heavily from thrash and extreme acts, with Metallica serving as a pivotal influence on Cazares' riffing and rhythmic approach. Cazares has described hearing Metallica's Ride the Lightning as a turning point, particularly admiring James Hetfield's down-picking technique and palm-muted power, which he emulated to create the band's signature mechanical groove—exemplified by syncing guitar riffs with double-kick drums in tracks like "A Therapy for Pain."^[130] Godflesh's drone metal and industrial experimentation also loomed large, as the band's pre-Fear Factory incarnation, Ulceration, was explicitly modeled after Godflesh's hulking, loop-based heaviness, blending dub influences with crushing guitars to inform Fear Factory's atmospheric brutality.^[131] Celtic Frost's dark, avant-garde extremity added to this palette, with their fusion of black metal ferocity and experimental dissonance echoing in Fear Factory's early death metal roots and thematic bleakness.^[131] Cazares' guitar style was rooted in classic heavy metal riffing from Black Sabbath and Judas Priest, which provided the foundational heaviness for Fear Factory's cybernetic edge. He has cited Tony Iommi's down-tuned, ominous riffs as a key inspiration for his own sludgy, industrial-augmented leads, while Priest's twin-guitar precision and high-energy aggression influenced the band's structured songwriting and live dynamics.^[130] Vocalist Burton C. Bell brought gothic rock elements into the mix, drawing from bands like the Sisters of Mercy to infuse Fear Factory's lyrics and melodies with brooding, atmospheric depth. Bell has named Wayne Hussey's songwriting as an underrated influence, which shaped his clean vocal harmonies and contributed to the band's contrast between harsh growls and soaring choruses.^[13] Broader cultural inspirations included science fiction literature, notably William Gibson's cyberpunk novels, which fueled the band's dystopian themes of man-machine conflict, as Bell referenced Gibson alongside Philip K. Dick in discussions of their lyrical world-building.^[132] The 1980s Los Angeles hardcore and punk scene also played a role in their formative aggression, with Cazares emerging from South Gate's underground circuit, where fast-paced, confrontational energy from local acts informed the band's relentless drive before evolving into death and industrial territories.^[133] These diverse threads—industrial electronics, thrash precision, gothic mood, sci-fi narrative, and hardcore grit—coalesced into Fear Factory's pioneering "cyber metal" subgenre, a hybrid of mechanical futurism and visceral metal that distinguished them from contemporaries.^[134]

Legacy and impact

Cultural and industry influence

Fear Factory played a pivotal role in bridging industrial metal with mainstream heavy music audiences during the 1990s, serving as a key precursor to the nu-metal explosion by blending aggressive electronics, downtuned guitars, and cybernetic themes that later informed bands like Korn and Coal Chamber. Guitarist Dino Cazares has pointed to specific riffs in Korn's "Blind" as drawing from Fear Factory's "Scapegoat," highlighting how the band's syncopated, mechanical rhythms influenced the low-end groove and industrial edge central to nu-metal's sound.^[135]^[136] This crossover appeal helped industrial metal gain traction beyond underground circuits, paving the way for nu-metal acts to achieve commercial dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s.^[137] The band's music extended its reach into popular media, particularly video games and film, amplifying their cyberpunk aesthetic in non-musical contexts. Tracks like "Body Hammer," "Demanufacture," and "Zero Signal" featured on the soundtrack of the 1997 racing game Carmageddon, introducing Fear Factory's mechanized intensity to gamers and broadening their exposure during the era's burgeoning interactive entertainment scene.^[138] In film-inspired compilations, "Burn (Flashpoint)" appeared on The Matrix 3: Music Inspired by the Motion Picture and More (2003), tying into the trilogy's themes of human-machine conflict and virtual reality, which echoed Fear Factory's own dystopian narratives from albums like Obsolete.^[139] These placements reinforced the band's relevance in sci-fi and action genres, fostering cultural associations with technological dystopia. Fear Factory's participation in major festival circuits, notably Ozzfest, was instrumental in popularizing heavy electronics within the broader metal revival of the 1990s. As part of the inaugural 1996 Ozzfest lineup alongside Ozzy Osbourne, Slayer, and Sepultura, they showcased industrial metal's fusion of extremity and technology to massive audiences, helping shift perceptions from niche experimentation to a viable staple of live heavy music events.^[30]^[140] Returning for Ozzfest in 1997 and 1999, their performances of tracks like "Replica" exemplified how electronic elements could energize traditional metal crowds, contributing to the festival's role in revitalizing the genre amid grunge's dominance.^[4]^[141] The band's exploration of themes centered on technological alienation and human obsolescence resonated deeply with societal anxieties, driving fanbase expansion during the Y2K millennium shift and into the contemporary AI era. Lyrics addressing man-versus-machine conflicts, as in their 2015 concept album Genexus—which depicts sentient machines building their own world—mirrored Y2K fears of systemic technological collapse and prefigured modern concerns over artificial intelligence's existential threats.^[122] This prescience cultivated a dedicated following attuned to tech-driven unease, sustaining interest through evolving digital ages.^[142] On the industry front, Fear Factory's 2013 signing to Nuclear Blast Records marked a significant step in the label's U.S. market expansion, leveraging the band's established North American draw to bolster the German imprint's presence in extreme metal distribution. Under A&R executive Monte Conner—who had previously worked with the band at Roadrunner—the deal facilitated Nuclear Blast's growth via high-profile releases like The Industrialist, helping the label compete more effectively in the post-2000s American landscape.^[143]^[144] Their subsequent re-signing in 2023 further solidified this partnership, underscoring the band's ongoing value in Nuclear Blast's transatlantic strategy.^[145]

Awards and recognition

Fear Factory has received several accolades and certifications throughout its career, highlighting its influence in the industrial metal genre. In 2012, the band was honored with the Icon Award at the Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards, recognizing their enduring contributions to heavy music alongside peers like Saxon and Anthrax.^[146] The band's commercial successes have also earned formal certifications. Their 1998 album Obsolete achieved gold status from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), denoting shipments of 500,000 units in the United States, marking it as their highest-certified release.^[147] Similarly, Demanufacture (1995) was certified gold in Australia and silver in the United Kingdom by their respective industry associations.^[4] Chart performance has further underscored the band's recognition. Digimortal (2001) peaked at number 32 on the Billboard 200, number 13 on the Canadian Albums Chart, and number 10 on the Australian Albums Chart, demonstrating strong international appeal.^[4] Demanufacture entered the Top 10 of Billboard's Heatseekers chart, reflecting its breakthrough impact.^[4] In terms of critical honors, Demanufacture was inducted into Decibel magazine's Hall of Fame, cementing its status as a genre-defining work.^[4] To mark the album's 30th anniversary in 2025, Fear Factory embarked on a U.S. and European tour performing it in full, along with festival appearances at events like Bloodstock Open Air, celebrating its lasting legacy.^[9]

Band members

Current lineup

The current lineup of Fear Factory, as of November 2025, consists of guitarist Dino Cazares, vocalist Milo Silvestro, bassist Tony Campos, and drummer Pete Webber. This configuration has been stable since early 2023, supporting the band's ongoing tours and the recording of their first studio album with Silvestro.^[114] Dino Cazares serves as the band's founder, lead guitarist, and primary songwriter, having originated Fear Factory in 1989 alongside initial vocalist Burton C. Bell. He departed in 2002 amid internal disputes but rejoined in 2009 to reform the group, contributing to all subsequent releases including the 2021 album Aggression Continuum and shaping the band's signature industrial metal sound through his riff-heavy guitar work.^[148] Milo Silvestro joined as lead vocalist in February 2023, marking the band's first permanent replacement for Bell following his 2020 departure. An Italian musician previously active in electronic metal projects, Silvestro has fronted Fear Factory on major tours, including the 2025 U.S. run celebrating the 30th anniversary of Demanufacture, and provided vocals for the band's recently completed studio album, expected in 2026. His style blends aggressive screams with melodic elements, adapting to the group's cyber-metal aesthetic.^[149]^[150] Tony Campos has handled bass duties since May 2015, bringing a groove-oriented approach that complements Cazares' guitar layers on albums like Genexus (2015) and Aggression Continuum. A veteran of the Los Angeles metal scene, Campos' tenure includes live performances that reinforce the band's rhythmic drive during high-energy sets.^[151] Pete Webber assumed drumming responsibilities in May 2023, initially recruited from Havok for touring but confirmed as a full member shortly thereafter. Replacing Mike Heller, Webber has powered the band's intense live shows, including festival appearances at Wacken Open Air in 2025, with precise, double-kick patterns essential to Fear Factory's mechanical precision. His contributions extend to the tracking of the upcoming album, completed in August 2025.^[152]^[8]

Early Members (1990–1993)

Andrew Shives played bass from 1992 to 1993, supporting live performances and the recording sessions for the band's debut album, Soul of a New Machine, before being replaced by Christian Olde Wolbers.^[153]

Core Founding and Long-Term Members (1990–2008)

Burton C. Bell was the lead vocalist from 1990 to 2002 and again from 2005 to 2020, renowned for his innovative blend of harsh screams and melodic clean vocals that defined Fear Factory's industrial metal sound on landmark albums like Demanufacture (1995) and Obsolete (1998).^[154]^[155] Bell departed in September 2020 amid ongoing legal disputes and a breakdown in trust with other members, particularly guitarist Dino Cazares, following years of internal turmoil including lawsuits over band ownership.^[156]^[99] Raymond Herrera, a co-founder, handled drums from 1990 to 2008 and was instrumental in shaping the band's precise, machine-gun-like rhythms that became a hallmark of their technical style, often incorporating triggers for a hybrid acoustic-electronic sound on albums such as Demanufacture.^[119]^[157] Herrera's exit in 2008 stemmed from escalating disputes with Cazares, leading to a legal battle over the band's name and rights alongside Wolbers. Christian Olde Wolbers joined as bassist in 1993, switching to guitars from 2002 to 2008 after the band's initial breakup, and also took on production duties for albums like Archetype (2004), contributing to the group's aggressive, riff-heavy evolution.^[3]^[4] Wolbers departed in 2008 due to internal conflicts with Cazares, which escalated into litigation.^[160]^[61]

Later Additions (2009–2023)

Byron Stroud served as bassist from 2003 to 2012, joining during the band's reformation without Cazares and continuing through the 2009 reunion, contributing to albums like Archetype (2005) and Mechanize (2010) with his heavy, groove-based style before departing for other projects. Matt DeVries handled bass duties from 2012 to 2015, providing live and recording support during the The Industrialist era, bringing experience from bands like Chimaira to bolster the lineup amid transitions. Gene Hoglan, dubbed the "Atomic Clock" for his metronomic precision, played drums from 2009 to 2011, powering the reunion album Mechanize (2010) with his death metal-honed technique before being replaced amid lineup shifts.^[161] Mike Heller, formerly of technical death metal band Malignancy, served on drums from 2012 to 2023, delivering high-speed blasts and grooves on releases like Genexus (2015) and providing live support during turbulent periods. Heller's departure in 2023 was attributed to scheduling conflicts that prevented him from participating in tours and recordings.^[162]^[163]

Timeline of changes

Fear Factory was founded in 1989 in Los Angeles by guitarist Dino Cazares and drummer Raymond Herrera, with vocalist Burton C. Bell joining shortly thereafter to form the core trio; Cazares initially handled bass duties on early recordings.^[3]^[4] In 1992, Andrew Shives joined as bassist for live performances and contributed to the debut album Soul of a New Machine, though he departed after two tours in 1993.^[164]^[165] From 1993 to 2002, Dutch musician Christian Olde Wolbers became the permanent bassist, solidifying the classic lineup of Cazares, Bell, Herrera, and Wolbers, which propelled the band's rise through albums like Demanufacture (1995) and Obsolete (1998); this period ended with the band's initial disbandment amid internal disputes.^[4]^[166] The group briefly reformed in late 2002 without Cazares, shifting Wolbers to guitar and adding Byron Stroud on bass, a configuration that recorded Archetype (2005).^[4] Legal battles over the band name between Cazares/Bell and Herrera/Wolbers concluded in 2009, allowing Cazares to rejoin with Bell and Stroud; Gene Hoglan replaced Herrera on drums for Mechanize (2010), marking a brief expansion influenced by touring demands.^[4] By 2012, Hoglan and Stroud exited, with Mike Heller taking over drums and Matt DeVries handling bass duties for The Industrialist, though the core recording lineup remained fluid.^[4] In 2015, Tony Campos joined on bass, contributing to Genexus (2015) and Aggression Continuum (2021), while Heller solidified his role.^[4] Burton C. Bell departed in September 2020 following disputes over band finances and rights, leaving Cazares as the sole original member.^[4] In February 2023, vocalist Milo Silvestro was announced as Bell's replacement, initially alongside Heller and Campos.^[167] Later that month, due to Heller's scheduling conflicts, drummer Pete Webber (from Havok) began filling in and has since become the permanent drummer.^[168] As of 2025, the lineup consists of Cazares on guitar, Silvestro on vocals, Campos on bass, and Webber on drums, with the band actively recording their next album.^[114] This era reflects ongoing adjustments driven by touring commitments and creative shifts.^[169]

Discography

Studio albums

Fear Factory's debut studio album, Soul of a New Machine, was released on August 25, 1992, by Roadrunner Records and features 13 tracks that established the band's early industrial metal sound.^[170]^[171] The band's breakthrough album, Demanufacture, arrived on June 13, 1995, via Roadrunner Records, peaking at No. 2 on the UK Rock & Metal Albums Chart.^[172] Obsolete, released August 11, 1998, on Roadrunner Records, became their highest-charting effort at No. 23 on the US Billboard 200.^[33] Digimortal followed on April 24, 2001, through Roadrunner Records, reaching No. 13 on the Billboard 200.^[33] After lineup changes, Archetype marked a comeback, issued April 20, 2004, by Liquid 8 Records and peaking at No. 30 on the Billboard 200.^[33]^[160] Transgression, an experimental release, came out on August 23, 2005, via Roadrunner Records and reached No. 50 on the Billboard 200.^[33]^[173] The reunion album Mechanize was released February 15, 2010, on AFM Records, charting at No. 82 on the Billboard 200.^[33]^[174] The Industrialist, a concept album, followed on June 5, 2012, through Nuclear Blast Records and peaked at No. 72 on the Billboard 200.^[33] Genexus, noted for its polished production, was issued August 7, 2015, by Nuclear Blast Records, reaching No. 100 on the Billboard 200.^[33]^[175] Aggression Continuum, the band's first post-Burton C. Bell album, debuted June 18, 2021, on Nuclear Blast Records but did not enter the Billboard 200.^[33]^[102] Fear Factory completed tracking for their eleventh studio album in August 2025, slated for release in 2026 via Nuclear Blast Records; it will be their first full-length effort featuring vocalist Milo Silvestro.^[8]^[114]

Other releases

Fear Factory has released several EPs, remix albums, compilations, video collections, and live recordings throughout their career, supplementing their studio output with remixed tracks, live performances, and retrospective material.

Remix Albums

The band's first remix album, Remanufacture (Cloning Technology), was released in 1997 by Roadrunner Records. This collection features reimagined versions of songs from their 1995 album Demanufacture, incorporating electronic and industrial elements by guest producers such as Junkie XL and Bill Leeb, expanding the band's sound into more experimental territory.^[176] Fear Factory's second remix album, Recoded, was released on October 28, 2022, by Nuclear Blast Records. It includes remixes of tracks from Aggression Continuum by artists such as Al Jourgensen, Billy Morrison, and band members.^[177]

EPs

Fear Factory's debut EP, Fear Is the Mindkiller, arrived in 1993 via Roadrunner Records. Consisting of six tracks, primarily remixes and alternate versions from their initial album Soul of a New Machine, it includes aggressive industrial metal cuts like "Martyr (Suffer Bastard Mix)" and "Scapegoat (Synthetic Silence Mix)," helping to build early momentum for the band.^[178]^[179] A limited promotional EP titled Resurrection was issued in 1998, focusing on the title track from Obsolete with remixed versions and B-sides, distributed sparingly to promote the band's evolving electronic influences.^[180]

Compilations

In 2006, Roadrunner Records compiled The Best of Fear Factory, a 12-track retrospective spanning the band's early years. Highlighting key singles such as "Martyr," "Scapegoat," and "Replica," the album provides an accessible entry point for fans, emphasizing their industrial metal anthems.^[181]^[182] The digital compilation The Complete Roadrunner Collection 1992-2001, released in 2012, marks 20 years of the band's association with the label. It aggregates remastered tracks from their first five studio albums, along with select rarities, offering a comprehensive overview of their breakthrough era.^[183]

Video/DVDs

Digital Connectivity, a DVD released in 2001 by Roadrunner Records, compiles the band's music videos up to that point, including "Replica," "Resurrection," and a cover of Gary Numan's "Cars." The release also features rare live footage from global tours, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content documenting their decade-long rise.^[184]^[185]

Singles and Live Albums

The single "Digimortal" was issued in 2001 to support the Digimortal album, featuring the track alongside remixes and live versions, though it saw limited physical distribution and primarily circulated digitally.^[172] In 2006, a digital live release captured performances from the "15 Years of Fear Tour," including tracks like "Archetype" and "Linchpin" recorded at venues such as the House of Blues. This promo-style collection highlighted the band's energetic stage presence during their reunion period.^[186]

Recent Releases

To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Demanufacture, Fear Factory completed a U.S. and European tour in 2025, performing the album in full at headline shows and festivals. Live recordings from dates such as House of Blues in Las Vegas and Brutal Assault Festival have been documented in fan videos and official clips, with potential official releases anticipated to capture these milestone performances.^[9]^[110]

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Fear Factory - Demanufacture - Encyclopaedia Metallum
Aug 14, 2025 · Type: Full-length ; Release date: June 13th, 1995 ; Catalog ID: RR 8956-2 ; Label: Roadrunner Records ; Format: CD ...
[28]
Whatever Happened to the Acts from Ozzfest's Inaugural Lineup?
Oct 25, 2024 · Revisiting the inaugural lineup of acts that played Ozzfest in the fall of 1996, letting you know where they were at at the time and how their careers evolved.
[29]
6 Things You Didn't Know About Fear Factory's 'Obsolete'
Jul 28, 2018 · Fear Factory co-produced the album with Fulber and Greg Reely and recorded it from February 21st to May 10th, 1998, at Mushroom Studios and ...<|separator|>
[30]
Fear Factory - Obsolete - Encyclopaedia Metallum: The Metal Archives
Oct 11, 2025 · Obsolete has been named the heaviest album of 1998 by MTV. Also, the album has been certified gold, which is their highest status of album sales ...
[31]
Fear Factory Fail to Debut on Billboard 200 for the First Time in 26 ...
Jul 5, 2021 · Fear Factory's new album, 'Aggression Continuum,' is their first not to land on the Billboard 200 chart since 1995.Missing: Heatseekers | Show results with:Heatseekers
[32]
24 years of "Obsolete" - Fear Factory
Jul 28, 2022 · 24 years ago on this date July 28th 1998 we released our monstrous third studio album “Obsolete” it took the band to another new level with a gold record.Missing: Soul Machine Grandmaster Earache 1992<|control11|><|separator|>
[33]
Fear Factory - Edgecrusher - Encyclopaedia Metallum
Type: Single; Release date: June 1998; Catalog ID: N/A; Version desc.: Promo. Label: Roadrunner Records; Format: Unknown; Reviews: None yet.
[34]
Resurrection - Fear Factory | Album - AllMusic
Rating 8.6/10 (5) Resurrection by Fear Factory released in 1998. Find album reviews, track ... Release Date. September 14, 1998. Genre. Pop/Rock. Styles. Alternative Metal ...
[35]
Fear Factory's 1998 Concert & Tour History
Fear Factory tours & concert list along with photos, videos, and setlists of their live performances.
[36]
Fear Factory's 1998 Concert & Tour History
Fear Factory had 103 concerts in 1998 (Page 6) ; Jun 20, 1998. Ozzfest '98. Black Sabbath / Ozzy Osbourne / Foo Fighters / Therapy? / Pantera / Soulfly / Slayer ...<|separator|>
[37]
See Fear Factory Play Wrestling Match on MTV 'Beach Brawl' in 1999
Jul 8, 2021 · Wrestlers include Chris Jericho, Billy Kidman, Chavo Guerrero Jr., Hugh Morris, Perry Saturn and Rey Mysterio Jr. with Kid Rock, Raven and " ...Missing: 1998-2000 | Show results with:1998-2000
[38]
Fear Factory - Digital Connectivity - Encyclopaedia Metallum
Type: Video ; Release date: December 18th, 2001 ; Catalog ID: 14 009699 ; Label: Roadrunner Records ; Format: DVD ...
[39]
https://www.revolvermag.com/music/see-fear-factory-play-wrestling-match-mtv-beach-brawl-1999/
[40]
https://www.metal-archives.com/albums/Fear_Factory/Digital_Connectivity/26337
[41]
Fear Factory's Digimortal: Precision Metal for a Post-Human Age
Apr 24, 2025 · Released on April 24, 2001, Digimortal marked a defining evolution for Fear Factory—an album that saw the band doubling down on their cyber- ...Missing: chart | Show results with:chart
[42]
FEAR FACTORY's New Album Is Their First Not To Chart On ...
Fear Factory's new album Aggression Continuum is their first since Demanufacture in 1995 not to chart on the Billboard 200. According to Lambgoat, Aggression ...
[43]
EXCLUSIVE: DINO CAZARES Speaks Out On FEAR FACTORY Split
May 13, 2002 · You mentioned the poor sales of Digimortal. I'm not even saying "poor" sales. It's just that it didn't. The sales were disappointing, at least.Missing: post- | Show results with:post-
[44]
History - Ozzfest
2001. Black Sabbath Marilyn Manson Slipknot Papa Roach Linkin Park ... Fear Factory Static-X Slipknot (hed)p.e.. Flashpoint Pushmonkey Drain sth
[45]
Former FEAR FACTORY Frontman Speaks Out On Band Split
Mar 8, 2002 · Bell has issued the following statement regarding his decision to leave the groupeffectively causing the band's break-up after a nearly 12-year ...
[46]
Ex-FEAR FACTORY Bassist CHRISTIAN OLDE WOLBERS Hopes ...
Sep 20, 2021 · FEAR FACTORY disbanded in 2002, the band reformed in the same year without Cazares, but with Olde Wolbers moving to guitar duties and Byron ...
[47]
https://blabbermouth.net/news/former-fear-factory-frontman-speaks-out-on-band-split
[48]
Winans, Prince Can't Stop Usher - Billboard
Apr 28, 2004 · 25 with 38,000 copies, Fear Factory's “Archetype” (Liquid 8) at No. 30 with 32,000 copies and John Michael Montgomery's “Letters From Home ...
[49]
https://www.discogs.com/release/603071-Fear-Factory-Archetype
[50]
Fear Factory's Archetype: Reforged in Steel and Strain
Apr 20, 2025 · In the wake of founding guitarist Dino Cazares's departure, longtime bassist Christian Olde Wolbers stepped in to handle guitar duties, ...Missing: lineup | Show results with:lineup
[51]
Bite The Hand That Bleeds by Fear Factory - Tunefind
Bite The Hand That Bleeds. Fear Factory. Saw - 4:01. Listen on Amazon Music. Listen on Apple Music. Listen on Spotify. Request a license on Songtradr.<|separator|>
[52]
https://www.thisdayinmetal.com/fear-factorys-archetype-reforged-in-steel-and-strain/
[53]
FEAR FACTORY, LAMB OF GOD, CHILDREN OF BODOM
Sep 1, 2004 · FEAR FACTORY, LAMB OF GOD, CHILDREN OF BODOM: More Tour Dates Announced. September 1, 2004. Audio Coming Soon.Missing: 2004-2005 Slayer
[54]
Transgression - Fear Factory | Album - AllMusic
Rating 5.1/10 (158) Release Date. August 23, 2005. Duration. 55:26. Genre. Pop/Rock. Styles. Alternative Metal, Heavy Metal, Industrial Metal. Recording Location. Carbon 12 Studio, ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[55]
https://blabbermouth.net/news/fear-factory-lamb-of-god-children-of-bodom-more-tour-dates-announced
[56]
Fear Factory - Transgression (album review ) | Sputnikmusic
Feb 27, 2015 · The recording process was rushed and Wolbers was kept completely out of the writing process (thus why the U2 and Killing Joke covers exist).Missing: details | Show results with:details
[57]
Fear Factory - Transgression - Reviews - Encyclopaedia Metallum
In August of 2005 ... If you love Bells' clean vocals over a backdrop of dark, and brooding atmospheres with a twinge of electronic edge (thank you Rhys Fulber) ...
[58]
FEAR FACTORY Announce Tour with SOILWORK, STRAPPING ...
Featuring special guests SOILWORK, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD and DARKANE, the tour is already being hailed as one of the strongest lineups to hit the ...
[59]
Dino Cazares Breaks Down Why Fear Factory Reunion Won't Happen
Nov 5, 2024 · The guitarist and lone member of their core four gives specifics on why a reunion of their most successful lineup will never happen.
[60]
Guitarist CHRISTIAN OLDE WOLBERS On FEAR FACTORY
Dec 27, 2008 · Lisa Sharken of KNAC.COM recently conducted an interview with FEAR FACTORY/ARKAEA guitarist Christian Olde Wolbers.Missing: Ohrr | Show results with:Ohrr
[61]
Burton C. Bell - Encyclopaedia Metallum: The Metal Archives
Apr 9, 2011 · Burton performed live with Dream Theater alongside Dave Mustaine and Russell Allen covering "Cemetery Gates" by Pantera in 2005.
[62]
DIVINE HERESY Featuring Ex-FEAR FACTORY Guitarist
the new Los Angeles-based band featuring former FEAR FACTORY/current ASESINO guitarist Dino Cazares alongside Tim Yeung ...
[63]
Fear Factory's Long History Of Internal Lawsuits Revealed (Updated)
Oct 3, 2019 · After years of rumored infighting and legal wrangling between current and former members of the band, we finally have some clear evidence as to some of the ...
[64]
Original FEAR FACTORY Members Reunite - BLABBERMOUTH.NET
Apr 7, 2009 · A brand new project has been formed featuring original FEAR FACTORY members Dino Cazares (guitar) and Burton C. Bell (vocals).
[65]
DINO CAZARES Explains The Lawsuit That Tore Apart FEAR ...
Cazares said he won his lawsuit and Bell lost his, and that Cazares feels Bell ultimately left Fear Factory because he'd have to pay large portions of his ...Missing: conflicts | Show results with:conflicts
[66]
FEAR FACTORY's BELL Says Management Dispute Led To Split ...
Aug 4, 2009 · The legal dispute over the rights to the group's name involving Bell and Cazares on one side and drummer Raymond Herrera and guitarist Christian Olde Wolbers ...
[67]
FEAR FACTORY Members Embroiled In 'Legal Battle' Over Band's ...
ARKAEA/FEAR FACTORY members Christian Olde Wolbers (guitar) and Raymond Herrera (drums) were the featured guests on the June 14, 2009 edition of the ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[68]
FEAR FACTORY: 'Powershifter' Video Released - Blabbermouth
Jul 16, 2010 · ... FEAR FACTORY lineup of vocalist Burton C. Bell, guitarist Dino Cazares, bassist Byron Stroud and drummer Gene Hoglan. The song would top ...
[69]
Fear Factory - Mechanize - Reviews - Encyclopaedia Metallum
check Christploitation and Oxidizer for some awesome keyboard sections courtesy of Rhys Fulber, Fear Factory's main producer that's also back on the folder.
[70]
FEAR FACTORY U.S. tour dates announced - Metal Injection
As previously reported, the band will be heading out with WINDS OF PLAGUE, DIRGE WITHIN, PERIPHERY and, on select shows, Dino's other band, DIVINE HERESY. Here ...
[71]
https://www.metal-archives.com/reviews/Fear_Factory/Mechanize/421774/
[72]
Dino Cazares Explains Fear Factory's Lengthy History Of Legal ...
Nov 5, 2024 · In a recent interview with the Life Is Peachy Podcast, Cazares gave an overview of the decades of legal disputes that plagued the influential group.
[73]
"RECHARGER": NEW FEAR FACTORY IS FEAR FACTORY
Apr 24, 2012 · DRUMMER NEWS: VINNY APPICE NOT IN BLACK SABBATH YET, MIKE HELLER JOINS FEAR FACTORY. Related Articles. News 0. Fear Factory's Hunting for ...<|separator|>
[74]
Fear Factory Announces New Drummer - Metal Underground.com
Apr 19, 2012 · ... 2012 - Due to conflicting obligations, Gene Hoglan recently had to step down from the Fear Factory throne, leaving it open for replacement.
[75]
Mike Heller Confirmed As New Fear Factory Drummer
Apr 19, 2012 · Here is what Mike Heller had to say about joining the band: "It is an incredible honor to be chosen as the new drummer for Fear Factory!
[76]
FEAR FACTORY Frontman Explains 'The Industrialist' Storyline
Mar 21, 2012 · "The Industrialist" again pairs FEAR FACTORY with long-time friend Rhys Fulber. Their collaborations together include five albums and two ...
[77]
Fear Factory – The Industrialist - Teeth of the Divine
Jun 4, 2012 · I think it was a timing issue with Gene Hoglan leaving during recording. They have a drummer but he was hired after the album was finished.Missing: departure | Show results with:departure
[78]
Fear Factory - The Industrialist Review - Angry Metal Guy
Jun 5, 2012 · The Industrialist sounds like old Fear Factory. While that's a good thing, it's also boring and has a feeling of “been there, heard that, got the shirt.”
[79]
[Album Review] Fear Factory 'The Industrialist' - Bloody Disgusting
Jun 3, 2012 · The album sounds pristine and is heavily layered. The guitars sound thick and vicious while Bell's vocals, strong as ever, shine, especially ...
[80]
Fear Factory - The Industrialist - ReGen Magazine
Jun 5, 2012 · With The Industrialist, the band returns to the heady sci-fi storylines of days past, pursuing a narrative concept with a unique character ...
[81]
FEAR FACTORY, VOIVOD, CATTLE DECAPITATION To Take Part ...
May 2, 2012 · FEAR FACTORY, VOIVOD, CATTLE DECAPITATION and MISERY INDEX are among the confirmed bands for the "Shockwave 2012" tour, set to take place in ...
[82]
Fear Factory Announce 2012 U.S. Summer Tour - Loudwire
Jul 19, 2012 · The band's August tour kicks off on Aug. 1 in Fresno, Calif., and wraps up on Aug. 19 in Amityville, NY. Other notable stops include San Juan, Puerto Rico, and ...Missing: 2012-2013 Range
[83]
Fear Factory Announces North American Tour Dates
Apr 11, 2013 · Fear Factory will embark on the band's first full headlining tour in support of 2012's "The Industrialist" (reviewed here).
[84]
Fear Factory: Genexus review – metal pioneers still at the cutting edge
Aug 6, 2015 · The best-sounding album of their career by some margin, this is a precise and vicious rush of syncopated kick drums, sci-fi keyboard surges and eerie but ...Missing: critical acclaim
[85]
Fear Factory - Genexus - Encyclopaedia Metallum: The Metal Archives
May 27, 2015 · Fear Factory ; Type: Full-length ; Release date: August 7th, 2015 ; Catalog ID: NB 3447-0 / 27361 34470 ; Version desc.: Limited edition, Digipak.
[86]
Album Review: FEAR FACTORY Genexus - Metal Injection
Jul 30, 2015 · It shouldn't be a shocking revelation when we tell you that album number nine is rife and ripping with all the elements that have come to define ...Missing: critical acclaim
[87]
Fear Factory - Genexus - Ghost Cult Magazine
Aug 6, 2015 · It's a good movie and it's all shiny and high-definition like, but overall there's no substantial surprises.Missing: critical acclaim
[88]
FEAR FACTORY To Celebrate 20th Anniversary Of 'Demanufacture ...
Jul 7, 2015 · FEAR FACTORY To Celebrate 20th Anniversary Of 'Demanufacture' On European Headlining Tour. July 7, 2015. Audio Coming Soon. Instaread Logo ...
[89]
Fear Factory - Genexus Review | Angry Metal Guy
Aug 6, 2015 · Genexus, their tenth compendium of staccato riffs, machine-like drumming and computerized sound effects, all backed by quasi-death shouts and clean chants.Missing: critical acclaim
[90]
Fear Factory - Genexus - Metal Temple Magazine
Fear Factory Lineup: ; Burton C. Bell - Vocals ; Dino Cazares - Guitars ; Mike Heller - Drums ; Tony Campos - Bass ...
[91]
Fear Factory Lawsuit: Details Revealed - MetalSucks
Oct 3, 2019 · In 2011, Bell, Wolbers, and drummer Raymond Herrera “entered into an Agreement of Settlement and Mutual Release as to licensing rights regarding a band known ...Missing: departures 1992-1994 Athron core trio
[92]
Dino Cazares Says He Will Never Talk To Former FEAR FACTORY ...
"At the moment, the last three years, unfortunately, Fear Factory has been plagued with lawsuits, so it has been preventing the band from doing anything for the ...Missing: battles | Show results with:battles
[93]
Will we see a “resurrection” in Fear Factory? | Metal Insider
Oct 4, 2019 · Guitarist Dino Cazares revealed via Twitter that there's no new Fear Factory album and Metalsucks picked up on the hefty lawsuit the band has been involved in.
[94]
Exclusive: Dino Cazares Details Fear Factory's Recent Legal Battles
Sep 18, 2020 · Dino Cazares details Fear Factory's recent legal battles, revealing he now owns 100% of the Fear Factory name.
[95]
Dino Cazares Reveals He Has All Legal Rights to Fear Factory After ...
Sep 18, 2020 · Cazares revealed to Metal Sucks that after winning his lawsuit against Wolbers and Herrera, the name of the band became available. The guitarist ...
[96]
Burton C. Bell Announces Exit From Fear Factory - Loudwire
Sep 28, 2020 · Singer Burton C. Bell has revealed that he is leaving the group. The longtime voices of the band confirmed his departure in a statement.
[97]
BURTON C. BELL On His Exit From FEAR FACTORY - Blabbermouth
Apr 9, 2025 · Burton C. Bell on his exit from Fear Factory: 'I've moved forward and I feel good about it'. April 9, 2025.
[98]
See Fear Factory's New Vocalist Milo Silvestro Performing The ...
Feb 21, 2023 · See Fear Factory's New Vocalist Milo Silvestro Performing The Band's Track "Dielectric" In August of 2021 Fear Factory guitarist Dino Cazares ...
[99]
FEAR FACTORY Announce New Album "Aggression Continuum" + ...
Apr 16, 2021 · FEAR FACTORY are proud to announce their tenth studio album Aggression Continuum, will be released on June 18th via Nuclear Blast just in time for the band's ...
[100]
Fear Factory - Aggression Continuum - Nuclear Blast Records
30-day returnsJun 18, 2021 · ... Rhys Fulber (Front Line Assembly). Aggression Continuum was mixed by A-list rock and metal producer Andy Sneap (Megadeth, Killswitch Engage ...
[101]
Rise of The Machine North American - POSTPONED - Fear Factory
Jan 19, 2022 · Due to a number of covid related reasons the Rise of The Machine ... All other Fear Factory tour dates in 2022 have not been postponed.Missing: delay | Show results with:delay
[102]
FEAR FACTORY's DINO CAZARES On Pandemic-Era Touring
Dec 21, 2022 · FEAR FACTORY's DINO CAZARES On Pandemic-Era Touring: 'People Don't Understand The Cost That Goes Into Doing These Tours'. December 21, 2022.Missing: resumption | Show results with:resumption
[103]
FEAR FACTORY's New Singer MILO SILVESTRO On Joining One ...
Aug 9, 2025 · Silvestro's addition to FEAR FACTORY was officially announced in February 2023. FEAR FACTORY played its first headlining concert with Silvestro ...
[104]
Fear Factory Reveal Milo Silvestro as Their New Singer
Feb 21, 2023 · Fear Factory have revealed that Milo Silvestro has replaced ex-frontman Burton C. Bell, who parted ways with the group in 2020.<|separator|>
[105]
Watch Drum-Cam Video Of FEAR FACTORY's PETE WEBBER ...
Apr 16, 2024 · A member of HAVOK, Webber joined FEAR FACTORY in February 2023, initially as the drummer for the "Rise Of The Machine" U.S. tour with STATIC-X.
[106]
Fear Factory Setlist at Aftershock 2024
Oct 13, 2024 · Get the Fear Factory Setlist of the concert at Discovery Park, Sacramento, CA, USA on October 13, 2024 and other Fear Factory Setlists for free ...
[107]
FEAR FACTORY Announces Massive European Tour - Metal Injection
Fear Factory has announced a pretty extensive European tour for this October through December. All dates will be supported by Butcher Babies and Ignea.
[108]
Watch: FEAR FACTORY Kicks Off 'Demanufacture' 30th-Anniversary ...
Jul 19, 2025 · Watch: FEAR FACTORY Kicks Off 'Demanufacture' 30th-Anniversary European Tour In Essen, Germany. July 19, 2025. Listen to this Article.Missing: 2024 | Show results with:2024
[109]
FEAR FACTORY announce 'Demanufacture' 30th anniversary U.S. ...
Jul 8, 2025 · The newly announced headlining dates begin September 12th at Flagstaff, Arizona's Orpheum Theater and continue for a week before Fear Factory ...
[110]
FEAR FACTORY Is In The Studio, Is Tuned Low - Metal Injection
FEAR FACTORY Is Done Recording Their First New Record With Vocalist MILO SILVESTRO. Hopefully due out next Spring or Summer. Greg Kennelty August 12, 2025.Missing: mixing | Show results with:mixing
[111]
FEAR FACTORY Is In The Process Of Choosing Mixer For Long ...
Oct 22, 2025 · FEAR FACTORY's current lineup features Cazares, Silvestro, Webber and Tony Campos on bass. Silvestro's addition to FEAR FACTORY was ...
[112]
Fear Factory To Focus On Their New Album This Spring Following ...
Jan 15, 2025 · “Due to Dez's health issues, the Coal Chamber tour has been cancelled ...
[113]
Fear Factory News
We will be performing *Demanufacture* in its entirety to celebrate its 30th anniversary. Hope to see you all there tickets coming soon! Tour rescheduled. August ...Missing: resumption 2022 COVID
[114]
Dino Cazares Explains Why A Reunion of Fear Factory's Classic ...
Nov 5, 2024 · In a recent interview, Fear Factory guitarist Dino Cazares explained the legal issues keeping a Fear Factory reunion from happening.Missing: 1992-1994 Athron core trio
[115]
Dino Cazares - Equipboard
$$4.90 deliveryIt had a few modifications, such as the bridge only having one EMG 81 pickup, and was detuned to B tuning. He can be seen playing on this guitar on the music ...
[116]
Raymond Herrera of Fear Factory - Modern Drummer Magazine
May 12, 2004 · Determined to rebuild Fear Factory as a better machine the second time around, Bell, Herrera, and Wolbers entered Rumbo Records studio in LA to ...Missing: formation history 1989-1991 Ulceration
[117]
https://www.metalsucks.net/2024/11/05/dino-cazares-explains-why-a-reunion-of-fear-factorys-classic-lineup-wont-happen/
[118]
Fear Factory: 25 years of 'Demanufacture' - Blunt Magazine
Jun 16, 2020 · Los Angeles band Fear Factory's futuristic second full-length, Demanufacture, just turned 25. Blunt takes a historical look at this ground-breaking classic.
[119]
Fear Factory on New A.I.-Themed Concept Album - Rolling Stone
Jul 10, 2015 · The first Terminator movie was a major inspiration behind the man vs. machine themes of veteran industrial-metal band Fear Factory, ...Missing: anti- | Show results with:anti-
[120]
MAN VS MACHINE: an Interview with Burton C. Bell of FEAR ...
Nov 3, 2015 · Man versus machine is a recurring theme for Fear Factory. The new ... Dick – even though he wrote about future times – very psychological.Missing: conflict | Show results with:conflict
[121]
Fear Factory - Demanufacture - Metal-Rules.com
Sep 1, 1995 · Produced by Colin Richardson (Carcass, Machine Head) and mixed by Greg Reely and Rhys Fulber (Front Line Assembly), DEMANUFACTURE never ...<|separator|>
[122]
Fear Factory Synth Gears - Gearspace
Sep 26, 2016 · DJ & Dancefloor Production Techniques, DJ Controllers, DJ Gear, General Electronic Music Info, Hardware Synthesizers and Keyboards, MIDI ...Missing: Reely | Show results with:Reely
[123]
CLASSIC ALBUMS REVISITED: Fear Factory's Obsolete Turns 25
Jul 28, 2023 · The unique songs on the album really carried it over the top. “Edgecrusher” – with its almost hard rock-meets Rap Metal balls so hard in a ...
[124]
Fear Factory - All about the band - Nuclear Blast Records
... Rhys Fulber (Front Line Assembly). Aggression Continuum was mixed by A-list rock and metal producer Andy Sneap (Megadeth, Killswitch Engage, Trivium), who ...
[125]
The Bluffer's Guide: Industrial Metal - Louder Sound
Sep 26, 2014 · Basically the godfathers of electro-industrial, Skinny Puppy have never shied away from creating sprawling, spasmodic epics that have more in ...
[126]
How Metallica Shaped Fear Factory - Loudwire
Apr 28, 2021 · Fear Factory drew upon death metal, industrial and groups like Godflesh as they forged their sound in the early 90s. But as guitarist and ...
[127]
Godflesh: The Birth, Death and Rebirth of the Industrial-Metal Giants
Oct 1, 2014 · Named after a Killing Joke song, the group broke up in 1986, morphing into Godflesh by 1988. Between came Napalm Death. The grindcore pioneers' ...
[128]
Fear Factory Speak To SonicAbuse
Sep 22, 2010 · That, and reading Kurt Vonnegut, Philip K Dick, William Gibson, yeah, they bring a Science Fiction element into it: technology became involved, ...
[129]
FEAR FACTORY's Dino Cazares: My 5 favorite albums ever
Jun 5, 2023 · It's obvious that his band's music draws influence from industrial and synthwave of the 1980s, as well as the death metal of the early ...
[130]
Fear Factory & Neaera behind door No. 20 | Wacken Open Air
Dec 20, 2012 · Fear Factory - The inventors of the so called Cyber Metal are back! Founded in 1990 the band counts as one of the most influential bands in the younger music ...<|separator|>
[131]
Fear Factory's Dino Cazares Cites Korn, Meshuggah, Etc. On Similar ...
Aug 6, 2015 · Later in the chat Cazares said of the band's own flirtations with nu metal: “I never really considered us nu metal. We were hints of it, yes ...<|separator|>
[132]
Dino Claims MESHUGGAH, KORN & COAL CHAMBER Inspired By ...
Cazares talks about Fear Factory seemingly silent influence on a lot of band's different riffs and ideas, obviously without ever having been credited for them.Missing: nu Limp Bizkit
[133]
Dino Cazares Reflects on Fear Factory's Influence on Modern Bands
Oct 1, 2025 · “Well, I definitely feel that back in the '90s when Fear Factory first came out, that we definitely did have an influence in this genre we call ...
[134]
https://www.wacken.com/en/news-details/fear-factory-neaera-behind-door-no-20/
[135]
THE WITHER OF OZZ – OLD-FASHIONED METAL TAKES A ...
Jul 23, 2006 · In 1996, its first-ever headliners were the awesome combination of Ozzy Osbourne, Slayer, Danzig, Biohazard, Sepultura and Fear Factory. And ...
[136]
A Ranking of Every Ozzfest Lineup From Worst to Best - Loudwire
Dec 19, 2023 · Fear Factory and Powerman 5000 represented the dominant industrial metal of the day, while gothic playboys Type O Negative provided some ...
[137]
Fear Factory predicted the rise of AI - YouTube
May 28, 2025 · Fear Factory recently put up some posts that had me thinking about just how ahead of their time they were lyrically and thematically.Missing: themes tech anxiety Y2K
[138]
FEAR FACTORY Re-Signs With NUCLEAR BLAST RECORDS
Jan 23, 2023 · Extreme industrial metal pioneers FEAR FACTORY have re-signed with Nuclear Blast Records. Initially signed to the label in 2013, ...Missing: growth | Show results with:growth
[139]
FEAR FACTORY Will Return To Nuclear Blast Records
Fear Factory have resigned to Nuclear Blast Records, guitarist Dino Cazares has announced. The band had been signed to the label from 2013 through 2021, ...Missing: market | Show results with:market
[140]
FEAR FACTORY - re-sign to Nuclear Blast!
Jan 23, 2023 · Nuclear Blast Records is proud to announce that extreme industrial metal pioneers FEAR FACTORY have re-signed their contract and are ushering in ...Missing: expansion | Show results with:expansion
[141]
SAXON, ANTHRAX, FEAR FACTORY, MACHINE HEAD Honored At ...
Jun 12, 2012 · SAXON, ANTHRAX, FEAR FACTORY, MACHINE HEAD and MASTODON are among the artists who were honored at the Metal Hammer Golden Gods awards, which ...
[142]
Fear Factory to Play 'Obsolete' in Full on Tour - Loudwire
Aug 16, 2016 · This momentum will keep rolling with Obsolete, the group's only record to receive an RIAA certification of any kind, achieving Gold status and ...Missing: Canada | Show results with:Canada
[143]
FEAR FACTORY's DINO CAZARES: AC/DC's ANGUS YOUNG Is ...
Sep 22, 2025 · In a new interview with Finland's Chaoszine, FEAR FACTORY guitarist Dino Cazares was asked to name the first band he ever became a fan of.
[144]
Dino Cazares Formally Announces Fear Factory's New Lead Vocalist
Feb 21, 2023 · The new Fear Factory singer is Milo Silvestro, a musician from Italy who has performed electronic metal under the band name Dead Channel.Missing: Thomson | Show results with:Thomson
[145]
FEAR FACTORY Is Done Recording Their First New ... - Metal Injection
Fear Factory fans won't have to wait too much longer for the band's first album with new vocalist Milo Silvestro and drummer Pete Webber.
[146]
FEAR FACTORY - New Bassist TONY CAMPOS Makes Live Debut
Jun 23, 2015 · On June 20th, new Fear Factory bassist Tony Campos (ex-Soulfly, Static X) made his live debut with the band at the Amnesia Rockfest in ...
[147]
https://loudwire.com/fear-factory-play-obsolete-tour-album-20th-anniversary/
[148]
Ex-FEAR FACTORY Frontman BURTON C. BELL On His Singing Style
Jan 15, 2022 · Former FEAR FACTORY singer Burton C. Bell and his ASCENSION OF THE WATCHERS bandmate Jayce Lewis took part in a Facebook Live chat yesterday.
[149]
Ex-FEAR FACTORY's BURTON BELL Compares His Vocal Style To ...
Jan 18, 2022 · Ex-FEAR FACTORY's BURTON BELL Compares His Vocal Style To Vocalizing "Like A Pastor Or Preacher". "I'm not screaming; I'm vocalizing." By. Greg ...
[150]
Burton C. Bell Leaves Fear Factory: "I Cannot Align Myself… - Kerrang!
Sep 29, 2020 · Bell has announced that he has left Fear Factory, citing legal issues and a "consistent series of dishonest representations and unfounded ...Missing: reason | Show results with:reason
[151]
How to sound like Fear Factory's Raymond Herrera - MusicRadar
Jun 16, 2009 · Raymond is renowned for his use of triggers to achieve his defined drum sound but he now only triggers his 20"x18" bass drums with ddrum 4s, so his tuning has ...
[152]
Ex-FEAR FACTORY Drummer RAYMOND HERRERA: "DINO ...
May 20, 2002 · On Dino's statement that FEAR FACTORY could continue without Christian: If Christian were to have left the band, I wouldn't have continued.
[153]
Fear Factory | Metal Wiki | Fandom
Fear Factory is an American metal band. Formed in 1989, they have released eight full-length albums and a number of singles and remixes.
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https://blabbermouth.net/news/ex-fear-factory-frontman-burton-c-bell-on-his-singing-style-its-all-about-vocalizing-for-feeling-and-vocalizing-a-moment
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Gene Hoglan - Wikipedia
Hoglan announced his second departure from Testament on January 21, 2022. Gene was the drummer for Fear Factory from 2009 to 2012 and played on their ...
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Mike Heller - Wikipedia
"Mike Heller Confirmed As New Fear Factory Drummer". Sick Drummer. April 20, 2012. Archived from the original on June 21, 2012. Retrieved July 1, 2012.
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FEAR FACTORY Begins Recording First New Album In Four Years
Apr 21, 2025 · Earlier in 2023, FEAR FACTORY completed the "Rise Of The Machine ... Mike Heller who was unable to play with the band due to ...
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FEAR FACTORY recruits BUTCHER BABIES' Ricky Bonazza as fill ...
Apr 29, 2024 · Webber has been filling in for FEAR FACTORY's longtime drummer Mike Heller who is unable to play with the band due to “scheduling conflicts.”.
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Fear Factory - Metal Storm
Current members (5) ; 2009-, -//- ; 2012-, Mike Heller - drums ; 2015-, Antonio "Tony" Campos - bass ; 2023-, Milo Silvestro - vocals ; 2023-, Pete Webber - drums ...
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Interview with Christian Olde Wolbers of Fear Factory - Rough Edge
The very humble and very personable Christian Olde Wolbers and I chatted while he finished his preparations and technical improvements on his rig for the night ...Missing: car 2008<|control11|><|separator|>
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Ex-FEAR FACTORY Bassist CHRISTIAN OLDE WOLBERS Says He ...
Dec 23, 2016 · Christian Olde Wolbers, who handled the bass duties in FEAR FACTORY for nine years (1993-2002) and then assumed the role of guitarist in a ...
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FEAR FACTORY unveil new vocalist - Revolver Magazine
Feb 21, 2023 · In 2020, OG Fear Factory singer Burton C. Bell quit the seminal industrial-metal band to focus on his goth project Ascension of the Watchers ...<|separator|>
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Fear Factory Recruit Havok Drummer Pete Webber For Immediate ...
Feb 27, 2023 · Webber is filling in for Mike Heller, who was unable to make the ... Not a drummer, but from the vid looks like he could leave half that kit at ...Missing: joins | Show results with:joins
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FEAR FACTORY Begins Recording New Album - AXS TV
Apr 21, 2025 · In addition to Silvestro, the current lineup includes Pete Webber on drums and Tony Campos handling the bass. Cazares has expressed nothing ...
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https://www.roughedge.com/features/fearfactory.htm
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Fear Factory - Soul of a New Machine - Encyclopaedia Metallum
Aug 11, 2025 · Themes, Album title, Song ... Martyr, 04:05, Show lyrics. (loading lyrics...) 2. Leechmaster, 03:54, Show lyrics. (loading lyrics...) 3. Scapegoat ...
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FEAR FACTORY songs and albums | full Official Chart history
FEAR FACTORY songs and albums, peak chart positions, career stats, week-by-week chart runs and latest news.
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Fear Factory - Transgression - Amazon.com Music
Product information. Label, ‎Roadrunner Records. Number of discs, ‎2. ASIN, ‎B000AKSSEU. Additional Information. Best Sellers Rank: #292,425 in CDs & Vinyl (See ...
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Mechanize - FEAR FACTORY - Amazon.com
Product information. Original Release Date, ‎2010. Label, ‎AFM. Number of discs, ‎1. ASIN, ‎B002WNLLHO. Additional Information. Best Sellers Rank: #619,854 in ...
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FEAR FACTORY - World Chart Numbers Revealed!
Sep 13, 2021 · The album charted in several countries around the globe, coming in at #13 on the World Top 40 Chart, and once again solidifying the band's ...Missing: Billboard Heatseekers
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FEAR FACTORY To Complete Their New Album Now That Their ...
Fear Factory was supposed to tour with Coal Chamber starting this March, but unfortunately that got canned due to the ongoing health issues of Coal Chamber ...
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FEAR FACTORY To Release 'Recoded' Album Of 'Aggression ...
Jul 14, 2022 · "Recoded" will be FEAR FACTORY's first remix album since 1997's "Remanufacture" and it will coincide with the band's 32nd anniversary (FEAR ...
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https://www.amazon.com/Transgression-Fear-Factory/dp/B000AKSSEU
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Fear Factory - Fear Is the Mindkiller - Encyclopaedia Metallum
Dec 25, 2022 · Fear Is the Mindkiller · Fear Factory. Type: EP; Release date: April 14th, 1993; Catalog ID: ...
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EP Music CDs Fear Factory for sale | eBay
FEAR FACTORY-Resurrection DIGIPAK CD EP | Roadrunner RR 2232-5 Industrial Metal.
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https://www.discogs.com/master/28616-Fear-Factory-Remanufacture-Cloning-Technology
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The Best of Fear Factory - Spotify
The Best of Fear Factory. Fear Factory. 200612 songs, 54 min 22 sec. Martyr · Fear Factory · Scapegoat · Fear Factory · Scumgrief · Fear Factory · Demanufacture.
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Fear Factory | Spotify
Albums ; Re-Industrialized. Album • 2023 ; Recoded. Album • 2022 ; Aggression Continuum (The Instrumentals). Album • 2021 ; Aggression Continuum. Album • 2021.Missing: studio | Show results with:studio
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https://www.metal-archives.com/albums/Fear_Factory/Fear_Is_the_Mindkiller/782
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https://www.discogs.com/master/28625-Fear-Factory-Resurrection
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Fear Factory - Apple Music
Listen to music by Fear Factory on Apple Music. Find top songs and albums by Fear Factory including Edgecrusher, Replica and more.
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https://open.spotify.com/album/6tjL2rfZ83oYPUoQF5rIdh