Former vocalist for the nu metal band Ill Nino, Cristian Machado has just released his debut solo album to the masses via Coconut Bay/Chesky imprint. Entitled Hollywood Y Sycamore, the album is an extreme departure from his days in his previous band. Gone are the days of rage filled screams backed by heavy and down tuned guitars.

Drawing from his Latin influences and eclectic musical tastes. Machado has musically stripped down and crafted an album of lush and haunting acoustic tracks. 

“Say Hello Again” opens things up and sets the tone for the rest of the album. Cristian’s voice is warm and soulful as he transitions from English to Spanish so effortlessly. 

The album’s first single, “Die Alone” is an absolutely gorgeous track about letting go with an underlying message of hope. Machado says. “Out of all suffering can evolve monolithic personal growth, and I seek comfort in that. If we let go of the painful past, we don’t become the suffering.”

The dark and moody “Blame It On Me” was an instant favorite for me. Gorgeous keyboards intertwined in the mix provided the perfect platform for Cristian’s warm and weathered vocals, bringing them into spotlight during the chorus.

“Good Mother” is an emotional and touching song with exquisite flamenco guitar throughout. The solo at the 3:50 mark is exceptional and really drives the track home. 

Cristian changes things up and drops not one, but two tracks that are all sung in Spanish. “Pase Lo Que Pase” and “Corazon En Un Cajon.” Both songs are spectacular and each have their own identity and further prove just how versatile the former Ill Nino vocalist is. 

There are a couple of really cool surprises for all the die-hard Ill Nino fans out there. 

The first is a reimagining of the classic, “How Can I Live” from the Confession album. He took an already amazing piece of music and gave it a whole new identity. The acoustic treatment gives the song more depth and you understand the emotion and inspiration behind the lyrics. 

Last but not least is the album closer, “Numb” which is also taken from the Confession album. Once again, Cristian takes another great track from his past and not only reinvents it, but elevates it as well. 

Hollywood Y Sycamore is a testament to the talent of Cristian Machado. I always thought he was the heart and soul of Ill Nino. This album proves this point a hundred times over. The music isn’t the only thing stripped down. The sheer raw emotion and heart poured into these recordings is truly inspirational. Bravo, Mr. Machado. BRAVO!

Rating: 9/10 Stars

I’m Music Magazine Writer Jason “Supes” Mesa