What makes Start the Machine by Fu Manchu notable?

Start the Machine received positive reviews and showcased Fu Manchu’s ability to balance catchy melodies with heavy instrumentation, contributing to their reputation within the stoner rock genre. The album's single, I Can’t Hear You, became a staple in their live performances and highlighted their influence on the burgeoning stoner rock movement of the early 2000s. Released in early 2004, Start the Machine was Fu Manchu's sixth studio album, coming after their 2002 album, California Crossing. At this point in their career, they had solidified their presence in the stoner rock scene while exploring a more polished production style. This album marked a continued evolution in their sound as they navigated between commercial appeal and their underground roots.

Who is Start the Machine for?

Start the Machine works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, laid-back yet intense vibes and short, engaging listening bursts.

How many songs are on Start the Machine?

Start the Machine has 12 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Start the Machine

Fu Manchu · 2004

35 min · 12 tracks · stoner rock

A gritty blend of heavy riffs and driving rhythms, fueled by stoner rock's signature fuzz and a laid-back vibe.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Written in Stone — This opening track sets the tone for the album with a powerful riff and anthemic chorus that encapsulates Fu Manchu's signature sound.
→
I Can’t Hear You — The track showcases tight songwriting and infectious energy, making it one of the standout songs that resonates well with fans and exemplifies the band's dynamic style.
→
Open Your Eyes — With its catchy hooks and driving rhythm, this song represents an accessible side of Fu Manchu while still maintaining their heavy sound.
→
Make Them Believe — This track features compelling lyrics and a memorable melody, highlighting the band's ability to merge lyrical depth with heavy instrumentals.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks standout moments that elevate it significantly.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
Several tracks utilize a call-and-response vocal style, creating an engaging interplay between the lead vocals and backing harmonies.
The guitar riffs are heavily distorted and layered, often accompanied by a prominent bass line that drives the rhythm forward.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
laid-back yet intense vibes
short, engaging listening bursts
immersive sonic landscapes exploration
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — Showcases Fu Manchu's signature sound, appealing to dedicated fans of stoner rock.
Career context: Released in early 2004, Start the Machine was Fu Manchu's sixth studio album, coming after their 2002 album, California Crossing. At this point in their career, they had solidified their presence in the stoner rock scene while exploring a more polished production style. This album marked a continued evolution in their sound as they navigated between commercial appeal and their underground roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Kyuss· Monster Magnet· Sleep