Sys Machine
Dark electronic music / Chicago
Dark electronics from parts unknown
Sys Machine began as Dave McAnally's outlet for instrumental experiments, new production techniques, and testing unfamiliar gear. The name comes from an old MS-DOS system prompt.
During the early months of the pandemic, the project became a vehicle for remote collaboration. That work became Graceful Isolation, featuring vocals from Kimberly of Bow Ever Down and mixes from The Joy Thieves, Assemblage 23, Spankthenun, Microwaved, and others.
Now part of Glitch Mode, Sys Machine returns with Parts Unknown, released April 10, 2026. The album moves through introspective electronics, trip-hop rhythm, atmospheric rock, and influences ranging from Portishead and Depeche Mode to Porcupine Tree.