Static-X seem to have developed a state of schizophrenia since the release of their successful major label debut many years ago. Whether it be the antagonistically heavy "Machine", the commercially-sensible "Shadow Zone", or the lean and stripped down approach found on "Start A War", the band seem deadset on trying to find a sound that truly defines them.

If there is one word that does characterize them throughout the entire period however, it would be tenacity. Despite a guitarist going to jail on rather dubious charges, a string of lackluster sales and a handful of line-up changes (the latest being original guitarist Koichi Fukuda returning to the fold) the band have managed to keep it together and keep their deal with Warner - even in the face of an industry hell-bent on downsizing and massive culls.

Essentially stripping away the production on this effort, the material found on "Start A War" is more raw and direct, grating away at the listener with unclouded aggression. Buzzsaw like guitars attack with staccato patterns while growled vocals spread their rage in equally perforated cadence. Surprisingly, electronics seem to play more of a background role this time out with the band concentrating on an increased traditional instrumental performance, leaving the digital aspect to become atmosphere for the most part.

However, while the band have definitely focused on their playing this time out, the songwriting is what holds the album back. Aside from the bizarre use of horns on "I Want To Fucking Break It", the bulk of this album feels unfocused and derivative. The material rarely peaks and instead gets caught up in repetition and tedious posturing that sounds entirely phoned in.

In turn, the album doesn't so much start a war as it does a bore. With much of their dynamic energy exhausted during the opening passages of each song, the material quickly become about as interesting and engaging as watching a stumbling out of breath runner inch towards the finish line. There's no doubt it will appeal to the bands legion of diehard fans, but it'd be hard pressed to rally up anyone else to their cause.