Machine Girl

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Machine Girl: A Sonic Assault Descends on SWG3, Glasgow

Prepare for an electrifying collision of hyper-energetic sound and raw, unbridled performance as Machine Girl descends upon SWG3 in Glasgow on Thursday, 29 January 2026. This isn’t just a gig; it’s a full-throttle sonic baptism, a dive into the chaotic yet cathartic depths of digital hardcore, breakcore, and electronic mayhem. For those who crave an auditory and visual experience that pushes boundaries and shatters expectations, Machine Girl’s arrival is an unmissable event. Witnessing them live is to experience music that feels like it’s being beamed directly from a fever dream, delivered with an intensity that will leave you breathless and exhilarated. This is your chance to be at the epicentre of a sound that is both defiantly underground and undeniably vital, a true testament to the power of pure, unadulterated sonic aggression.

About Machine Girl

Machine Girl, the enigmatic brainchild of multi-instrumentalist and producer Matt Stephenson, has carved a formidable reputation as a purveyor of some of the most exhilarating and genre-defying electronic music in existence. Emerging from the fertile underground scene, Machine Girl’s sound is a blistering amalgamation of breakcore’s frantic rhythms, the aggressive bite of digital hardcore, the distorted textures of industrial music, and an almost punk-rock ethos of DIY energy. Stephenson masterfully blends these disparate elements into a sonic tapestry that is as unpredictable as it is infectious.

Since their inception, Machine Girl has consistently challenged conventional notions of electronic music, opting for maximalist production and a relentless pace that leaves listeners perpetually on the edge of their seats. Their early releases, such as the critically acclaimed “Because I’m Young, Dumb and Bad” (2014), showcased a raw, unpolished brilliance that hinted at the seismic potential within. This was followed by the seminal “Gemini” (2015), an album that solidified their unique sonic identity and garnered a dedicated cult following.

However, it was their 2017 masterpiece, “The Ugly Art”, that truly propelled Machine Girl into wider consciousness. This album is a sonic rollercoaster, featuring fan-favourite anthems like the relentlessly aggressive “Ghost” and the chaotic yet strangely melodic “Cyborg”. These tracks, and indeed the entire album, encapsulate Machine Girl’s signature sound: rapid-fire drum programming, heavily distorted synthesizers, warped vocal samples, and an overwhelming sense of controlled pandemonium.

More recent works, including “U-Void Aquatic” (2018) and the ambitious “XX” (2021), have seen Stephenson further refine and expand his sonic palette, incorporating elements of industrial hip-hop and even moments of surprisingly poignant introspection amidst the maelstrom. Despite the evolving sonic landscape, the core of Machine Girl’s appeal remains its visceral energy, its unapologetic embrace of extremity, and its ability to translate pure digital chaos into a profoundly human and cathartic experience. Their live shows are legendary, a testament to Stephenson’s singular vision and his ability to translate his complex, multi-layered studio productions into a searingly immediate and unforgettable performance.

Venue Information

SWG3 is a dynamic and celebrated multi-disciplinary arts venue located in the heart of Glasgow. Housed within a former paint factory in the West End of the city, SWG3 has transformed industrial spaces into vibrant hubs for live music, visual arts, and creative events. Its diverse collection of rooms, including the iconic TV Studio and the Hammer and Pimp stages, offers a unique and atmospheric setting for a wide range of performances, from intimate gigs to large-scale electronic music events. The venue boasts a reputation for its excellent sound systems and its commitment to showcasing cutting-edge artists across various genres. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an onslaught of pure sonic adrenaline when Machine Girl takes the stage at SWG3. Their live sets are not for the faint of heart; they are a meticulously crafted, high-octane assault on the senses. Expect a relentless barrage of blistering breakbeats, distorted synth lines that gnaw at your sanity, and vocal samples that shift and contort with dizzying speed. Machine Girl’s performance style is characterised by an almost overwhelming intensity. Matt Stephenson, often commanding multiple synthesizers and drum pads simultaneously, is a whirlwind of focused energy, his every movement contributing to the chaotic yet controlled spectacle.

Setlist highlights will undoubtedly include fan-favourite anthems that have defined their career. You can anticipate tracks like the visceral thrum of “Ghost” from “The Ugly Art,” a song that exemplifies their signature blend of aggression and infectious rhythm. Prepare for the mind-bending sonic architecture of “Cyborg,” a track that showcases their ability to weave intricate electronic textures into a furious tapestry. Expect to be propelled by the frenetic energy of “Blood Oath,” a relentless track that demonstrates their mastery of breakcore’s driving force. Older gems from “Gemini” are also highly probable, perhaps the iconic “This is That Shit,” which remains a testament to their early, raw power. Newer material from “XX” will likely feature, demonstrating the continued evolution of their sound while retaining that core, unyielding intensity.

The duration of a Machine Girl set is typically a sustained period of peak sonic saturation. While exact timings can vary, expect a set that lasts approximately 60-75 minutes, a duration packed with more sonic exploration and raw energy than many double that length. This isn’t a show where you’ll have moments to catch your breath; it’s an immersive experience designed to sweep you up in its chaotic current from the opening note to the final, crashing crescendo. The atmosphere will be thick with the energy of a crowd united by their appreciation for the extreme, the innovative, and the utterly exhilarating.

FAQs

Q1: What kind of music does Machine Girl play? Machine Girl creates a highly energetic and experimental electronic music sound that draws heavily from breakcore, digital hardcore, industrial, and noise genres. Their music is characterised by rapid-fire drum programming, distorted synthesizers, and a chaotic, high-intensity aesthetic.

Q2: Is Machine Girl’s live performance suitable for everyone? Machine Girl’s live performances are renowned for their extreme intensity and sonic aggression. The music is loud, fast, and often features abrasive textures. While it’s an exhilarating experience for fans, it may not be suitable for individuals sensitive to loud noises or intense sensory input.

Q3: What is Matt Stephenson’s role in Machine Girl’s live show? Matt Stephenson is the primary creative force behind Machine Girl and is the sole performer during live shows. He operates multiple synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments simultaneously, often controlling a complex setup to deliver the full sonic experience live.

Q4: Are there any specific songs I should know before the show? Fans often highlight tracks like “Ghost,” “Cyborg,” and “Blood Oath” as essential Machine Girl anthems. Earlier fan favourites from albums like “Gemini” and “The Ugly Art” are also frequently played and highly anticipated.

Q5: How long is a typical Machine Girl set? A typical Machine Girl live set generally lasts around 60 to 75 minutes. Despite its duration, the performance is packed with relentless energy and sonic complexity, ensuring a highly immersive experience.

Q6: Can I expect any audience interaction or visual elements during the show? While the primary focus is on the intense sonic delivery, Machine Girl’s shows are often accompanied by energetic visuals that complement the chaotic and frenetic nature of the music. The sheer energy of Matt Stephenson’s performance is a significant visual element in itself, captivating the audience throughout the set.