Some fans have taken to calling out Machine Head for allegedly lifting a riff off of Strapping Young Lad‘s “Love?” in their newly released song, “Beyond The Pale“. Both tracks can be heard below, while Townsend and Machine Head vocalist/guitarist Robb Flynn have both responded on the matter.
People asking me about riff similarities: I don't have an opinion really. I've written riffs my whole career that sound like something else.
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) November 17, 2017
I've used whole themes from other albums, movies or soundtracks. Art is a collage of your experiences, you taking clippings and reassemble.
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) November 17, 2017
Heres the best part about comparison of MH new song to 'Love' I basically ripped off the SYL chorus from this song: https://t.co/0QWpBGowBD
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) November 17, 2017
Shout out to @dvntownsend for being so cool. The Riff Police pulled me over, I got a $300 infraction for that one!! Like Dime bag always used to tell me “we’re all just sharing riffs man”. https://t.co/DXO8BmqTLR
— Robb Flynn (@TheGeneralMH) November 17, 2017
Got a lot of respect for you Devin, super talented musician, amazing producer (as the palaces burn production crushes all!)
And while I would proudly admit that I stole a Riff from you… Was just a happy accident.
Riff on brother!! https://t.co/G8NXNcJ9Ln
— Robb Flynn (@TheGeneralMH) November 17, 2017
“Beyond The Pale” appears on Machine Head‘s forthcoming new album “Catharsis“, out January 26th. “Love?” appeared on Strapping Young Lad‘s 2005 release “Alien“.
