Los Angeles alt-metal quartet Diesel Machine was formed in 1996 by guitarist Patrick Lachman and vocalist A.J. Cavalier. Canadian drummer Shane Gaalaas joined up in between his session and touring commitments, and the group recorded a six-song demo, after which the lineup was completed with bassist Rich Gonzales (formerly of Recipients of Death). Diesel Machine gigged on the L.A. club scene for a time, also contributing a track to Dwell Records' Metallica tribute album Overload. They began recording their debut album in 1999, but work wasn't quite complete when Lachman landed an opportunity to join Rob Halford's backing band for his 2000 comeback album Resurrection. Upon Lachman's return, Diesel Machine geared up for the overseas release of its debut Torture Test in early 2001; it was issued in the U.S. shortly afterwards. ~ Steve Huey