Rage Against the Machine

Evil Empire

First released1996

Evil Empire, the second studio album by Rage Against the Machine, was recorded in 1996 at several locations including Los Angeles and New York. The album was produced by the band members themselves alongside Brendan O'Brien, who had also worked on their debut album. The sessions took place during a period of significant band tension, which influenced the darker and more aggressive sonic direction compared to their first record. The production featured the band's signature heavy guitar riffs combined with turntable scratching and live instrumentation, capturing their raw energy through direct recording techniques. The album was released in April 1997 and marked a continuation of their rap-metal fusion style while exploring more complex arrangements and political messaging.