Tony Costanza - Drums

Date of birth: July 2nd, 1968
Born: Chicago, Illinois
Other bands: Crowbar, Crisis & Debris Inc.

Biography:

Tony was recruited by Robb Flynn and Adam Duce shortly after the band’s formation in 1991. At the time, Robb was looking to move away from the pure thrash of Vio-lence toward something heavier and more rhythmic.

Tony only did two shows with Machine Head. A kegger/house party in Oakland and the first "official" Machine Head show in Las Vegas, NV on August 29, 1992.

The Las Vegas Connection:
Before Machine Head, Tony was the drummer for the Las Vegas-based hardcore/punk band Papsmear. His aggressive, "hard-hitting" style was exactly what Robb was looking for to anchor the new project.

The Original Lineup:
Tony was part of the very first stable lineup alongside Robb Flynn (vocals/guitar), Adam Duce (bass), and Logan Mader (guitar).

Departure and Later Career
Tony left Machine Head in 1993, just before the band went into the studio to record their debut. The split was largely due to the band wanting a different "vibe" as they transitioned into a full-time touring unit.

Legacy & Passing
Tony passed away in his sleep on August 4, 2020. Following his death, Robb Flynn posted a lengthy tribute to him, acknowledging that without Tony's contribution, Machine Head might never have happened.

"Tony was a 'character.' He had a huge heart and a great sense of humor... we used to call him 'The Human Metronome.' He was the one who helped us find our sound." — Robb Flynn