Static-X18

Static-X was formed in 1994 from the ashes of Wayne Static (well known for his extreme hair and beard) and Ken Jay’s former band, Deep Blue Dream. After searching for members in Chicago, United States, Static and Jay decided to go to Los Angeles to continue their search. There they met Tony Campos, from the Spanish death metal band Asesino, and Koichi Fukuda, completing the band’s original lineup. Static-X signed with Warner Brothers Records in early 1998.

The band’s debut album, Wisconsin Death Trip, was released March 23, 1999. Notable songs from the album include “Push It”, “I’m With Stupid”, “Bled For Days”, and “Fix.” Static-X’s touring schedule in support of the album included two Ozzfest stints. The following year saw the release of the little-known EP The Death Trip Continues, and the band contributed the song “Otsegolation” to the PlayStation video game Omega Boost. “Push It” also appeared on Playstation video game Street Skater 2.

After recording their follow-up album Machine, guitarist Koichi Fukuda left the band to spend time with his family and pursue other musical opportunities. Tripp Eisen, formerly of Dope, stepped in as Fukuda’s replacement. Machine was released May 22, 2001.

Static-X quickly began work on their third album Shadow Zone, this time with Eisen performing and writing on the album. Before they started recording, however, Ken Jay left the band due to “political differences.” Josh Freese of A Perfect Circle was brought in to drum on the album, and Nick Oshiro, formerly of Seether, was later selected as Jay’s replacement.