Interviews: Sybreed

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Industrial Metal band Sybreed from Switzerland. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you plan it or come out just like that?

Drop (guitars & electronics): In the summer of 2003, following major lineup changes, we felt the need for a new identity that matched our evolving sound. That's when the concept of the Cybrid came into play, a hybrid organism or artificial cell capable of adapting and taking on different forms. It symbolized our transformation and versatility as a band. By blending this idea with the term Synthetic Breed, we ultimately came up with Sybreed, a name that encapsulates both elements in a simple yet powerful way. Thank you Ben!

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Our intention was to bring together all the musical influences that shaped us and create something that felt fresh and missing from the scene. We wanted to merge the raw, complex power of Meshuggah with the atmospheric, emotive soundscapes of Depeche Mode, the strong, soaring melodies of In Flames, and the industrial drive of Front Line Assembly. Sybreed became the melting pot of these inspirations, a way to craft a sound that fused Metal and Electronic elements into something that felt both intense and immersive. Sure, those genres have their labels, but for us, it was about pushing beyond those boundaries and making something new. Something we genuinely wanted to listen to ourselves.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

No, none of the current Sybreed members knew each other prior to forming the band. While I had seen Ben and Ales around with their respective bands, we never really hung out until we started making music together.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Let’s list three favorites for each member, as it’s almost impossible to narrow it down to just one! For me, it’s Depeche Mode, Katatonia, and Meshuggah. For Ben (vocals), it’s Type O Negative, At The Gates, and Pink Floyd. For Kevin (drums), it’s Toto, Queen, and Meshuggah. For Ales (bass), it’s Scorpions, Ween, and New Model Army.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Inspiration can come from a sound, a situation, or a feeling, but mainly it strikes me when I listen to another song. Sometimes I hear a melody, a random line, or a rhythm and think, “This could sound really cool if I played it downtuned on guitar.” So, I give it a try, and it usually works out well. I like to have a base when I start writing songs, even if I never really know where it’s going to lead me. I enjoy thinking that I’m respecting my “guidelines,” haha!

6. Where was your last gig?

For Sybreed, our last gig was in 2012 in Belarus. At the time, we didn’t know it would be our final performance, but it was a great show nonetheless. Some of those live tracks are available on YouTube. However, my most recent gig, which was also Ales's, was just a week ago with Samael in Istanbul, Turkey.

7. Where would you like to act?

Everywhere! I truly cherish the memories we’ve made in every location we’ve performed. Each venue holds a special place in my heart, whether it’s a packed house or a small crowd. Even when there are only a few people in attendance, it’s a unique opportunity to connect with the audience and share our music. The energy and passion for performing always create a special atmosphere. I believe every show has its own set of positives, even if things don’t go as planned. Those moments, good or bad, contribute to the growth of a band.

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

If I had one dream to fulfill, it would definitely be to collaborate with Dave Gahan from Depeche Mode. His voice and artistry have profoundly influenced my musical journey, and creating a song together would be an incredible experience.

9. Whom not?

Oh, probably no one specific. While there are certain artists I admire less or who don’t align with my musical vision, I believe in focusing on the positives in collaboration. For example, I might not want to work with someone whose style clashes drastically with ours or who has weird ideas, but I’d rather not name anyone directly. It’s all about finding the right fit and creating something meaningful together!

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners on how to beat that?

I used to experience stage fright in the past, but I don’t struggle with it anymore before live shows. If it ever happens again in different situations, I’m not sure how I would handle it. I think the best approach is to not overthink it: by that, I don’t mean being arrogant, but rather just being ourselves, having fun, and doing our best. Remember, there will always be someone better and someone worse than you. Once you accept that, things tend to get a lot easier in life!

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Some of the bands that have inspired me the most include Samael (I was a huge fan back in the day, and I still am, though now that I play with them, my perspective has shifted a bit). Other significant influences are Meshuggah, In Flames, Depeche Mode, Front Line Assembly, Katatonia, Sevendust, and Ulver. There are definitely many more that have shaped my musical journey!

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

I don’t recall any particularly weird requests from fans. However, we’ve played for birthdays twice, which stands out in my memory. Once, we performed in Norway for our friend Solve, and the national TV was even waiting for us at the airport! The other time was for our friend Kevin Berra in Valais, Switzerland. Both events were fantastic celebrations!

13. What do you think of your fans?

We have the best fans in the world. There’s a closeness, something almost familial. We can feel that some of them feel “healed” by our music and our message, in a way, and reading comments like that is one of the greatest gifts for a musician. We’ve been completely silent for over ten years, and they are still there, reacting with the same enthusiasm to every announcement and post. That’s something rare, and we cherish it deeply. Without them, we wouldn’t be here. So many musicians forget that. I think it’s important to engage with each fan, to respond to their questions and interact with them, except when they bring up a reunion, haha!

14. What do you think of our site?

I find your website very interesting! I appreciate the original categories that aren’t commonly found elsewhere, such as “Track By Track” and “Behind The Artwork”. You might even consider adding a “Behind The Production” section. Those are the kinds of insights I personally look for with every album I listen to.

15. Something to add?

Thank you for the interview! I want to give a big shoutout to our dedicated fans around the globe for sticking with us all these years; your support truly means the world to us. Remember to pre-order the Slave Design (20th Anniversary Edition) from our shop at sybreed.net/store or on Bandcamp at sybreed.bandcamp.com Digital will be released on October 4th, 2024, CD-Digipak on October 18th, 2024 and limited vinyl will come later, date TBA.