In a story that could only take place in rock ’n’ roll—in this case the nu metal genre—Static-X continues onward. The band started as a four piece in 1994 and found fame with initial album Wisconsin Death Trip in 1999. That lineup featured Wayne Static as the screaming, super spiked-haired frontman, Tony Campos holding the line on bass, Koichi Fukuda grinding the axe with his pulsing guitar and Ken Jay pounding the skins and pacing the band on drums.
Wisconsin Death Trip features songs including the aggro dance number “Push It,” the rager “I’m With Stupid,” and the industrial-laced “Bled for Days.” Static-X cemented its presence as an alternative metal favorite throughout the next 15 years, though Wayne Static was constantly changing his backing lineup. The singer died in 2014 at the age of 48.
Fast forward to today where the three original members have reformed the band to honor their former leader. They have a new lead singer, a man simply known as Xer0, and he performs the songs of Wayne Static wearing a Wayne Static mask. A global tour to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their first album and the life and legacy of Wayne is currently happening. And somehow, it all makes sense in the crazy world of rock music.
House of Blues at Mandalay Bay, 6 p.m. July 27, starting at $42.50 plus tax and fee, 18+. 702.632.7600
