Irony Is a Dead Scene

Where they were

Released in 2002, 'Irony Is a Dead Scene' is a collaboration between Mike Patton and the experimental band The Dillinger Escape Plan, marking Patton's exploration beyond his established projects like Faith No More. This album followed his work on the critically acclaimed 'Adult Themes for Voice', showcasing his penchant for genre-defying artistry.

Why it matters

The album was notable for its influence on the mathcore scene, as it blended complex time signatures and aggressive vocal techniques. It received critical acclaim, particularly for its innovative approach and was included in numerous best-of lists for the year, solidifying Patton's reputation as a boundary-pushing artist.

Essential tracks

• "Hollywood Squares" — This track opens the album with frenetic energy and showcases Patton's unique vocal delivery alongside intense instrumentation that sets the tone for the project.
• "Come to Daddy" — A cover of Aphex Twin's iconic track, this rendition amplifies the original's chaos through Patton's dynamic range and adds an avant-garde layer to the interpretation.
• "When Good Dogs Do Bad Things" — This track exemplifies the album's experimental nature with its unpredictable shifts in tempo and mood, highlighting Patton's ability to fuse various genres seamlessly.