When Ping Machines released “From 1 2 another” on August 4, 2023, the Swiss rock outfit delivered a statement that still resonates well beyond its initial release. Even when revisited from the vantage point of late 2025, the single stands as a sharp reminder of the band’s commitment to raw, honest rock music and their refusal to dilute their sound for fleeting trends.
Hailing from Muotathal, Switzerland, Ping Machines have been carving out their identity since forming in 2009. The five-piece lineup — Pat Dollinger on drums, Marc Monnin and Fabian Mettler on guitars, Alex Schrutt on bass, and Benissa Schmidig on vocals — draws from stoner rock, blues, and punk to create what they fittingly describe as “dirt rock.” “From 1 2 another” captures that ethos in full force, distilling their influences into a track that feels gritty, urgent, and unapologetically loud.
From its opening moments, the song leans heavily into thick, robust guitar riffs that immediately establish a sense of weight and momentum. The dual-guitar approach adds texture and depth, while the rhythm section locks in with a groove that feels both grounded and propulsive. Dollinger’s drumming is tight and purposeful, driving the track forward without unnecessary flash, while Schrutt’s bass anchors the low end with a muscular presence that reinforces the song’s gritty backbone.
Vocally, Benissa Schmidig delivers a compelling performance that balances power with attitude. Her vocals cut through the dense instrumentation with confidence, adding an edge that elevates the track beyond standard rock fare. There is a rawness in her delivery that feels authentic rather than forced, aligning perfectly with the band’s overall philosophy of honesty and energy. The vocals do not merely sit on top of the mix; they feel embedded within it, becoming another instrument in the band’s tightly woven sound.
What makes “From 1 2 another” particularly striking is its timeless quality. While firmly rooted in classic rock traditions, the track does not feel dated. Instead, it thrives on its simplicity and conviction. The band avoids overproduction, allowing the natural grit of their sound to shine through. This approach gives the song a longevity that many modern rock releases lack, making it just as effective today as it was upon release.
As a snapshot of Ping Machines’ artistic identity, “From 1 2 another” succeeds on multiple levels. It showcases their technical cohesion as a band, their shared musical vision, and their passion for high-energy rock that prioritizes feel over polish. The track also reflects their strength as a live act, translating the kind of raw power and intensity that defines their performances into a recorded format without losing impact.
Ultimately, “From 1 2 another” stands as a strong representation of Ping Machines’ “dirt rock” sound and a testament to their dedication to authentic rock music. It is a song that does not try to reinvent the genre, but instead reinforces why heavy riffs, solid grooves, and genuine passion continue to matter. For listeners seeking rock music with grit, substance, and staying power, Ping Machines deliver exactly that.
Follow PING MACHINES on