NICKELBACK feed the machine WPCR-17723 / 538300612

Feeding the Monster: Nickelback’s ‘Feed The Machine’ (WPCR-17723)

Today’s entry spotlights the ninth studio album from the self-proclaimed “strongest monster rock band of the 21st century,” Nickelback. We are looking at the 2017 Japanese pressing of “Feed The Machine,” released via Warner Music Japan with the catalog number WPCR-17723. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.

Released on June 16, 2017, this album marked a deliberate return to the band’s heavier, hard rock roots following the more pop-oriented direction of their previous album, “No Fixed Address.” Co-produced by the band and Chris Baseford (known for his work with Slash and Shinedown), “Feed The Machine” is built on aggressive guitar riffs and Chad Kroeger’s powerful, gritty vocals.

The album opens with the driving title track, a challenging rock anthem defined by a “ferocious” riff. It balances this aggression with the band’s signature ballads, such as “Song On Fire.” Interesting structural choices are also present, such as the heavy “The Betrayal (Act III)” appearing mid-album, while the instrumental acoustic piece “The Betrayal (Act I)” closes the record.

For collectors, this Japanese edition is notable for a specific reason: unlike many domestic releases, it does not contain exclusive audio bonus tracks. However, it does include extensive liner notes by the renowned Japanese rock critic Masa Itoh, who details the band’s history and Chad Kroeger’s recovery from throat surgery prior to the recording. WPCR-17723 captures a massive rock band getting back to basics, delivering the “royal road” of American-style hard rock with renewed vigor.