With their politically-influenced style mix of hardcore, punk rock, reggae and ska, The Suicide Machines have made a name for themselves and outlasted some trends. With their music, the group presents a critique of the capitalist system and draws attention to problems of the world. Many of their songs combine a reggae melody with hardcore punk elements. Their first album on a major label, Destruction by Definition, sold more than 200,000 copies. It reached in the alternative release charts of "Soundscan" number 15 of the best selling albums of 1997. the magazine "Alternative Press" called it one of the best US pop albums of the year.