Nullset

Nullset originated in Boston, Massachusetts, during 1997, expanding the most potent strains of rap-metal while drawing influence from acts including Rage Against the Machine and Powerman 5000. The five-piece lineup featured vocalist Ken Smith alongside guitarists Jim Foster and Chris Fitzgerald, bassist Jim Shippey, and drummer Mick Palmesano; the group initially operated under the moniker Gangsta Bitch Barbie. Their opening release arrived in 1998 as the independent EP This Is Not a Test, through which the Boston outfit immediately signaled an intent to produce forceful metal grooves. Momentum quickly built as their material spread through the regional circuit and across multiple online platforms, where downloads occurred with regularity. Prior to inking an agreement with Grand Royal, the band elected to adopt the name Nullset in order to sidestep potential legal conflicts with toy manufacturer Mattel. Later that same year they enlisted Howard Benson, known for his work with P.O.D., to helm production on their first full-length effort. The resulting EP Smokewood reached stores in April 2001.