Crossbone Skully’s Evil World Machine: Welcome Back Mutt Lange

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Crossbone Skully has unveiled a new album, Evil World Machine (November 22), marking the arrival of a band determined to leave a bold impression.

An impression of a rock n’ roll fun house.

It’s solid and clean. And familiar – but in a good way.

Crossbone Skully also signals a milestone in music production, as it brought legendary producer Mutt Lange—known for his work with AC/DC and Def Leppard—out of retirement to take the helm.

Tommy Henriksen, the band’s front man and a member of Alice Cooper’s band, was floored when Lange agreed to work on the album.

“When Mutt called and said he saw potential in the project, it was overwhelming. His involvement took everything to a level I couldn’t have imagined,” Henriksen said.


A Sound Built on Rock History

The album pulls from an impressive array of influences.

Henriksen cites bands like AC/DC, Queen, and The Who for their timeless power, while also weaving in the melodic sensibilities of The Cars.

You don’t necessarily hear the Queen reference – but that doesn’t matter.

The end result? Rock n’ roll, baby!

Need we say more?

Snare drum and throbbing bass.

Henriksen says working with Lange elevated the music to its full potential. “Mutt doesn’t just produce; he redefines what’s possible. His input shaped this album into something I’m genuinely proud of.”


Mutt Lange’s Expert Craftsmanship

Lange’s reputation for producing era-defining records is well-earned, and his return to the studio for Evil World Machine says quite a bit.

Known for his ability to blend raw energy with technical finesse, Lange’s production fills the album with a clarity and intensity that comes through across every track.

You know when you’re listening to a Mutt Lange produced album.

This is crystal-clear production.

This is purpose and getting to the hook of the song.

Think about the best of AC/DC Highway to Hell and Back in Black, blended with Def Leppard’s High and Dry and Pyromania, and throw in a hint of The Cars Heartbeat City.

There’s also an element of Australian bands that followed the path of AC/DC – Tattoo Rose and Airbourne. You know the sound. The 4/4 beat.


Another Take on a Storied Genre

For Crossbone Skully, Evil World Machine is a declaration.

With Henriksen’s creative vision and Lange’s unmistakable production, the album bridges classic rock’s enduring appeal with a forward-thinking perspective.

There we go again – trying to sound smart. Scratch that.

Crossbone Skully is the reason why you want to drink a lot of beer and take off your pants. ‘Nuff said.

Evil World Machine is now available on streaming platforms.

And Bandcamp. Don’t forget Spotify.

Throw it on your earbuds and hear what happens when dirty rock meets craftsmanship.

I bet Mutt used a ton of hand sanitizer.

So What’s on the Album?

Let’s look into what each track brings to the table.

The title track, “Evil World Machine,” sets a dramatic opening. It’s a sprawling anthem with plenty of bite, layering heavy riffs and haunting melodies that tackle themes of societal breakdown and resilience.

Its extended runtime gives it space to build into something truly cinematic.

“The Boom Went The Boom” is a fast, fiery collaboration with Def Leppard’s Phil Collen. There’s a sharp, riff-heavy, and packed with attitude, offering a sly critique of modern overindulgence.

“Money, Sex, or God” dives into the big questions with an edgy, urgent energy. The song’s driving beats and soaring chorus balance introspection with unapologetic grit.

This is why the snare/throbbing bass reference was made before.

“Flip The Bird” is a flip of the bird—a loud, brash rocker with an irresistible hook. A playful, rebellious tone keeps things fun without losing its edge.

“Everyone’s On Dope” leans into satire with a clever look at escapism in modern culture. Catchy but with just enough bite – reminiscent of Love/Hate.

Remember them?

On “The Sin Eater,” things take a darker turn. I think of The Cars “Moving in Stereo” at first. The slower pace and layered sound create an eerie atmosphere, building into a powerful climax that leaves a mark.

“Ima Bone Machine” cranks the energy back up, delivering a fast-paced, raw burst of industrial rock. It’s gritty and unapologetic, with a futuristic vibe.

“Let’s Bust The Trust” brings a funky edge to the mix, pairing groovy riffs with sharp lyrics that poke at societal double standards. It’s both fun and thought-provoking.

“High On You,” featuring Nikki Sixx, is a standout. It’s sultry, bass-driven, and brimming with chemistry, a song that captures the thrill of chasing something—or someone—you can’t resist.

“I Am The Wolf” pulls no punches. It’s a raw, primal anthem about standing strong and owning who you are, driven by a rhythm that feels like it could tear through anything.

“I’m Unbreakable” shifts into a more uplifting tone. It’s about resilience and triumph, and the soaring melodies give it a sense of empowerment without overdoing it.

“The Last Night on Earth” slows things down for a reflective, heartfelt moment. It’s a reminder to hold onto what matters, and its emotional weight hits just right.

“Misfits of the Universe” wraps things up with a burst of vibrant, unapologetic energy. It’s a track that celebrates the outsiders and leaves you feeling like you’re part of something bigger.

Overall, Evil World Machine is a confident debut that pulls from rock’s best traditions while carving out its own space. With sharp lyrics, bold sounds, and some big-name collaborations, Crossbone Skully makes an unforgettable first impression.

The Story Behind Crossbone Skully’s Evil World Machine

Say what?

There’s a story behind all of this. Here it is.

Meet Crossbone Skully, a Harley-riding, hard-partying antihero with supernatural powers and a mission like no other. Armed with a busted spaceship and a rebellious streak, Skully returns to Earth to find the planet spiraling into chaos.

Humanity’s future hangs by a thread, and the source of the destruction?

The all-powerful Sorcerer, played by Johnny Depp, who wields the Evil World Machine to drain life from the planet and plunge it into darkness.

To fight this cosmic threat, Skully assembles a legendary crew: The Misfits of the Universe, a motley band of space warriors featuring Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, Nikki Sixx, Kane Roberts, and Sheryl Cooper.

Together, they take on the Sorcerer’s malevolent frequencies in an epic battle to restore balance to the universe.

But Skully’s journey takes a twist he never saw coming—Piper, a one-night stand from his past, reappears with a revelation: an 8-year-old son he never knew he had.

Thrust into unexpected fatherhood, Skully faces his toughest challenge yet. Can this newfound family inspire him to redemption?

As chaos spreads and time runs out, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With the world on the brink and his own soul hanging in the balance, Skully and The Misfits of the Universe must rise against the Sorcerer to save humankind, defeat the Evil World Machine, and secure a future worth fighting for.

It’s a tale of rock & roll, redemption, and resistance—Crossbone Skully style.

Oh, dear!

Dive Into the World of Crossbone Skully!

The story of Crossbone Skully is more than just rock & roll—it’s a legendary journey to save the planet.

With supernatural powers and a mission to fight the Evil World Machine, Skully is joined by The Misfits of the Universe in a battle against chaos, darkness, and one powerful Sorcerer.

Now, you can own a piece of this epic adventure. The Limited Edition Comic Book, “Thing #1”, is here!

Explore the tale of rebellion, redemption, and rock like never before.

Buy the comic book.

Sources:

  • Henriksen, T. (2024). Evil World Machine release commentary.Lange, M. (2024).
  • Production notes for Evil World Machine.Crossbone
  • Skully official announcement and press materials.

Szul