Remembering: Wayne Static

remembering wayne static

On November 1, 2014, Wayne Static left us far too soon at the age of 48. His legacy and music continue to resonate long after his passing. Today, we remember Wayne and his incredible career.

Wayne was never one to follow trends; instead, he defined his own unique style that set the bar for others. His work with Static-X spanned six studio albums, producing iconic hits like “Cold,” “I’m With Stupid,” and “Push It.” Wayne’s final recordings with Static-X were released posthumously in Project Regeneration Vol. I and II. His solo outing, Pighammer, further cemented his status as the King of Evil Disco.

Did Wayne ever believe he’d become such an icon? The thought probably never crossed his mind. He dedicated himself to his craft and his fans, and it was evident in his electrifying performances and the passion he infused into his music. Wayne was one of a kind: there was never anyone like him before, and there never will be again. That his legacy endures attests to his everlasting impact on the industry, and on his grateful fans.

We loved you, Wayne, and we still do. You’ve never been forgotten. Thank you for the music, thank you for the memories, and most of all, thank you for taking us along on your journey.

Thank you.

Happy Halloween from edseldopefan.org!

Just wanted to wish you a Happy Halloween! Hope you have some festive fun today. We’ve gotten into the uh… spirit of things as well!

Be sure to check out our social media: I’ve left you a fun treat! You can find me at heytocristina on Instagram and Tiktok.

Dope added to Sick New World!

Dope has announced via their social media that they’ve been added to the lineup at Sick New World. And guys, this looks absolutely incredible. So much so that I am definitely going to go. I mean, look at this. How can you not be excited?

Are you looking to attend as well? Sign up for presale right here!

Follow Dope on social media

Why? We were treated to a gorgeous picture of Edsel via Dope’s social media a few days back. This picture was taken by the insanely talented @directorparada. If you aren’t already following him, please do.

Are you following Dope on social media? If not, click anywhere in the above picture to be taken right to Dope’s Facebook page where you can like the picture and follow them. You can also follow Dope (and Edsel) elsewhere on social media by clicking right here!

Dope: “American Apathy” (EDSAE)

dope american apathyWelcome back to my monumental task, where I review every Dope studio album ever. Today’s entry is admittedly, a sentimental one for me. This is the album that ignited my interest in Dope, an interest that still burns strong to this day. That’s right, we’re shining the spotlight on Dope: American Apathy.

American Apathy was released on July 26, 2005 via Artemis Records. Edsel Dope stated in interviews from the time that this was a very tongue and cheek album that wasn’t actually taking itself too seriously. True to form, this went completely over the heads of critics. A contemporary reviewer for Blabbermouth.net illustrates this perfectly, stating that American Apathy is “difficult to take seriously.”

Which brings me to different, but no less relevant point. Reading all these reviews, it often feels like Dope has been judged less on their own creativity and more in comparison bigger acts of the time – be they Marilyn Manson, Nine Inch Nails, Korn, whoever. With my EDSAE series, I aim to change that. I am reviewing Dope’s music on its own merit, and not comparing them to other acts of the time.

What sets American Apathy apart isn’t just its bold sound; it’s the sharp, cutting commentary embedded in its lyrics. That’s where Cristina’s insight takes the stage. So let’s get into it. Let’s bring in the angst for American Apathy.

Cristina’s POV

American Apathy is lyrically dark and political. The title speaks for itself, capturing the feeling of apathy towards government, war, and societal norms. Songs like “No Way Out” and “Revolution” scream of disillusionment and rebellion, taking a hard look at the system and flipping it the bird. There’s an obvious anger toward the political climate of the time, with a lot of that venom directed to then president George W. Bush.

Listening to American Apathy in today’s polarized political climate makes its message feel even more relevant. The apathy and anger Edsel Dope directed at the system in 2005 resonate now with even greater intensity, reflecting the widespread disillusionment and political frustration of 2024.

Edsel’s vocal delivery on this album is a potent mix of sneering sarcasm and unfiltered rage. His ability to shift between scathing verses and more melodic choruses brings a dynamic edge to the album. Despite the album’s rawer, grungier feel, there’s a precision to the musicianship that keeps the songs tight and impactful.

Standout tracks on this album are Survive, No Way Out, and Always. These three tracks run the gamut between seething anger, defiance and loss, showcasing something that’s not often brought to the conversation about Dope: their range. Always, in particular, showcases a more vulnerable side of the band, with its somber tone and introspective lyrics contrasting sharply with the seething rage of Survive. It’s moments like these that remind listeners that Dope isn’t just about aggression—they can pull off a range of emotions without losing their edge.

Cristina’s Verdict

In hindsight, American Apathy stands as one of Dope’s boldest statements. Its blend of unfiltered anger and sarcastic defiance feels just as potent in 2024 as it did nearly two decades ago. Though it’s not often brought up in the conversation of Dope’s catalogue of music, maybe it’s time we did. This is an album well worth a revisit, and is still 100 percent relevant to this day.

Dope Felons and Revolutionaries 25th Anniversary Release

Edsel Dope has announced a Felons and Revolutionaries 25th Anniversary release!

Dope Felons and Revolutionaries 25th

Image Credit: dopetheband.com

From the announcement: “The 25th Anniversary version of Felons and Revolutionaries – scheduled for release on December 6 – features newly updated and re-imagined artwork. The vinyl will also include all the tracks from the debut as well as the band’s covers from the original CD release. The album will be available in various configurations including a limited edition Orange Vinyl Pressing – autographed by founding members Edsel & Simon Dope, along with the band’s original drummer Preston Nash & bassist Acey Slade.

Edsel is quoted in the same announcement: “This ultra noisy, punk rock album is where it all started for us and I’m so excited to see it finally released in this nasty orange Vinyl format. I am eternally grateful to all the fans & friends that have come along for the ride.”

This release also comes with new merch! If you’re interested, my personal faves are below. As always, these are not affiliate links. To see more, click here.

Felons 25 Poster

Felons Jail Shirt

Hoodie Bundle One
Yes, this one is a bit pricey. But I do want to point out: there are bundles for every price point, and I think they’re all pretty good. This one is for sure the splurge option.

Dope Felons and Revolutionaries 25th Anniversary edition drops on December 6th. Will you be buying this incredible anniversary release?

edseldopefan.org Social Media Update

There has been a change to my username on edseldopefan.org social media. We are now “heytocristina”. Read all about it right here.

edseldopefan.org social media

The main reason for the change is to clearly distinguish my fansite’s social media presence from Edsel’s. By using my name, it makes it clear that you’re interacting with me (Cristina)-not Edsel or anyone affiliated with him. While I thought this was obvious (please see our disclaimer), the confusion has happened often enough that I felt it needed to be addressed.

This change was long overdue, but Facebook made it clear just how necessary it was. I was auto-flagged and placed in Facebook jail for “impersonation” after posting a reminder that my website is not an official source. Ironically, I was also explaining the name change to avoid this exact issue! My account was quickly reinstated after an appeal, but the incident underscored the importance of updating my social media usernames.

To be clear: My site should never be taken as an official source. The only official sources are dopetheband.com and their social media. I encourage you to go these sites, as your time is better spent there.

I apologize for any inconvenience, but I believe this change is the best step forward. My goal is to support Edsel without causing any confusion or distraction, so I acted quickly to resolve the situation.

Love you lots, Cristina xoxo

Dope’s Felons and Revolutionaries turns 25!

Happy 25 years to the iconic Felons and Revolutionaries! Dope has teased via their official social media that there’s a big announcement incoming. No news as of this writing, but I’m super excited!

In the meantime, let’s celebrate this incredible album with a video!

New Content ASAP!

Hey everybody. I know I addressed this on social media, but I also wanted to touch base here. I was inactive for a few due to fighting off a pretty gnarly sinus infection (0/10, don’t recommend). While I wasn’t gone that long, I just wanted to let you know I’m still here! Content will be restarting soon.

I also wanted to extend a genuine thank you to everyone who sent me feedback! I do love hearing from you, and your ideas were very helpful. As I always tell you guys – I made this site about Edsel, but it’s really for you! You’re the reason that I do what I do, and I appreciate you.

Suggestion Box: Have your say!

Every so often, I like to remind people that I don’t bite and I’m always willing to take suggestions from fans! 

Is there something you want me to cover on edseldopefan.org? Have your say and get in touch with me! You can reach me via my contact form or EDF.org’s social media. We’re edseldopefanorg on Instagram and Tiktok! (Those are our only active socials. We are also edseldopefanorg on Facebook, but that’s just a mirror for my Instagram posts. If you see anyone else reaching out claiming to be me, it’s not.)

And honestly… please do contact me. I love hearing from you, and if you have any ideas, I’m happy to hear them! There are, however, some boundaries I won’t cross.

  • No discussion about Edsel’s personal life: Guys, we aren’t that kind of site. If that’s the kind of content you want, I’d try Tumblr.
  • No bringing up current/past drama: He’s a grown ass man. I don’t need to be out here running interference for him. He can take care of himself.
  • Nothing based off rumours/speculation: Again, we’re really not that type of site.

I also take photo contributions! I don’t tend to use live photography unless the photographer grants me permission. If you have any photos of Edsel you’ve taken from live shows that you’d like to donate, please feel free to reach out! (Note: I will not accept candids. Or in other words, photos he didn’t know you were taking outside of live shows.)

Looking forward to hearing from you!