Interview Sybreed

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Slave Design, Sybreed reflects on their groundbreaking album, its lasting influence, and the nostalgia of revisiting their iconic "Death Wave" sound.

1. Congratulations on the 20th Anniversary of Slave Design! How does it feel to revisit the album two decades after its original release? What emotions or memories does this milestone bring up for you?

Drop (guitars/electronics) : Revisiting Slave Design feels like a journey back in time to the roots of Sybreed. When we first released the album in 2004, we had no idea the impact it would have on fans or the industrial metal scene. This milestone brings up a mix of emotions and nostalgia for the early days when we were still experimenting with the sound that would become ours and pride in how far we've come. It also reminds us of the energy and hunger we had back then, which still fuels us today.

2. Your unique blend of New Wave and Death Metal, dubbed "Death Wave," was groundbreaking at the time. How do you think this sound has evolved over the years, and what impact do you believe it has had on the metal scene?

"Death Wave" has definitely evolved, both in the way we approach it and how the metal scene has embraced it. Initially, it was an experiment, combining electronic, industrial, and metal elements in a way that felt organic to us. I first called the music I was aiming for : “Melodic Meshuggah”. Over the years, it’s been inspiring to see how other bands have incorporated similar styles, blending genres in innovative ways. Our sound has become more refined, but the core idea of fusing dark, futuristic soundscapes and new wave with heavy riffs remains the same. We believe it helped push the boundaries of what industrial metal could be, creating a space for more genre-fluid experimentation.

3. The re-release of Slave Design includes a re-recording of the fanfavorite track "Bioactive" and a new song "System Debaser." What made you choose "Bioactive" for a re-recording, and how does the new version differ from the original?

“Bioactive" has always been a fan-favorite, and we felt it represented a key moment in Sybreed’s identity. It was one of the tracks that really showcased the blend of aggression and melody that we aimed for. The decision to re-record it stemmed from a desire to give it a fresh take with the benefit of modern production techniques, while still retaining its original energy. The new version has a crisper, more polished sound and was recorded the way we played it live back then. Also, I really wanted to give that drum n bass part a more modern sound.

4. Can you tell us more about the newly unveiled track "System Debaser"? What’s the concept behind the song, and how does it fit within the themes of Slave Design and Sybreed's overall narrative?

"System Debaser," being among the earliest tracks Sybreed composed in 2003, was shelved during the "Slave Design" pre-production and remained a demo until now. It continues the themes that have always been central to Sybreed’s music, questioning systems of control, the erosion of individuality, and the dystopian future we've long envisioned. The track is about the manipulation and breakdown of societal systems, and how these systems dehumanize us. Musically, it ties back to the atmosphere of Slave Design with its industrial layers and crushing riffs, but also pushes forward, reflecting the evolution of our sound. It’s a bridge between the past and the present, offering something new for longtime fans while fitting seamlessly into the narrative we’ve built.

5. The themes of dystopia and the erosion of individuality are central to Sybreed’s music. Two decades later, do you feel these themes are even more relevant today? How do you reflect on the world you envisioned through your music compared to where we are now?

Unfortunately, the themes we explored two decades ago are more relevant now than ever. Looking at the world today, with the rise of surveillance, social control through technology, and the deepening divide between the powerful and the powerless, it’s clear that dystopia isn’t just a theme; it’s becoming a reality. Our music reflects these concerns, and it’s chilling to see how accurate some of those early visions have become.

6. What was the remastering process like for the Slave Design 20^th Anniversary Edition? Were there any challenges in balancing the original spirit of the record with the enhancements that modern technology can bring?

We found the original mixes on a very old hard drive, so we immediately thought of Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios to handle the remaster. The goal was to honour the raw energy and spirit of the original while bringing it up to modern standards. We didn’t want to lose the essence of what made Slave Design special, but at the same time, we wanted to enhance the clarity and depth that modern mastering can offer. The challenge was ensuring that the remaster felt both fresh and familiar to fans who have been listening for 20 years. It was a delicate process, but we’re thrilled with the final result.

7. Your music has been featured in iconic film soundtracks like Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Hellboy: Sword of Storms. How did these collaborations come about, and how did having your music in these films impact the band’s exposure and trajectory?

Being featured in those films was a great opportunity for us. These collaborations came about through our label connections and a mutual recognition that Sybreed’s music fit the dark, intense atmosphere of these movies. Having our music in those soundtracks gave us a broader audience, exposing us to fans who may not have encountered our music otherwise. It definitely helped raise our profile, both within and beyond the metal scene.

8. The Slave Design re-release and "System Debaser" single will surely reignite excitement among your longtime fans. Do you have any plans for live performances or special events to celebrate the anniversary?

At the moment, this is purely a new edition of the album; there are no plans for a reunion or live shows. We all have very tight schedules, and it wouldn’t be right to make promises about Sybreed that we can't keep. Personally, I think all this buzz around the re-release and the bonus tracks is exciting, both for us and for the fans who have been waiting for new material for more than a decade now.

9. Looking back at your four critically acclaimed albums, including Antares and God Is An Automaton, how would you describe Sybreed’s evolution as a band? Are there any moments or records that stand out as particularly defining for you?

Each album represents a chapter in our evolution as a band. With Slave Design, we were laying the groundwork for what would become our signature sound. Antares and The Pulse of Awakening saw us refining and expanding that sound, pushing the boundaries of what "death wave" could be. God Is An Automaton felt rushed; it didn’t push the boundaries as far as we would have liked, likely because it was written and recorded very quickly. Every record stands out for different reasons, but Slave Design remains a particularly defining moment for us, as it set the foundation for everything that followed.

10. Sybreed disbanded in 2013, but your legacy continues to inspire. What was it like working together again for this anniversary edition? Was there a renewed sense of camaraderie during the recording of "System Debaser”?

Working together again felt like coming home. There was definitely a sense of camaraderie, as if no time had passed. Of course, we’ve all grown and evolved as musicians, so there was also a sense of renewed creativity. Recording "System Debaser" was especially exciting, as it gave us the chance to do what we do best while bringing something new to the table.

11. Many younger bands cite Sybreed as a major influence. What advice would you give to up-and-coming artists who are trying to carve out their own unique sound in today’s music industry?

The best advice we can give is to stay true to your vision. It’s easy to get caught up in trends or to try and mimic what’s already popular, but the artists who stand out are the ones who create something new and authentic. Experiment with your sound, take risks, and don’t be afraid to push boundaries. And most importantly, stay passionate about what you do, that energy will resonate with people.

12. Finally, with the release of Slave Design 20th Anniversary Edition and "System Debaser," what do you hope both longtime fans and new listeners will take away from this experience? Is there anything else you’d like to share with your fans as you celebrate this milestone?

For longtime fans, we hope this re-release brings back memories of when you first discovered Slave Design and reignites that connection with our music. For new listeners, we hope it offers a glimpse into the foundation of Sybreed and what we represent. Ultimately, this release is about celebrating the past while looking forward to the future. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who still support us after all these years, it means the universe to us !

Sybreed | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree