Description

Primary Slave – Data Plague – Compact Disc

Data Plague by Primary Slave is a lesser-known gem within the realm of industrial and electronic metal. Released in 2003, this album is notable for its blend of aggressive metal riffs, industrial rhythms, and electronic elements. Primary Slave was an English band that infused traditional metal structures with innovative programming and synth work, which marked them as unique in the metal scene during the early 2000s.

Formed in 1998 by guitarist Paul Allender (CRADLE OF FILTH, BLOOD DIVINE) and bassist David Palser, PRIMARY SLAVE is the result of what started as a studio-based venture. Invited to join what was originally titled the ”Lillith” project were Mark Royce (ex-ENTWINED Keyboardist) and ”G” on drums. However, such was the musical dynamism of the creative collective, the studio project developed into a solid band unit outright. Allender immediately drew on the talents of Mark Giltrow’s (CENOBITE) vocals and guitar, to complete the line-up.

Taking an eclectic approach to their songwriting, and fusing the tradition of hard riffin’ guitars, epic orchestrations, and the technologies of sampling in order to produce a futuristic cyber-metal hybrid. After a line-up change that saw the departure of Paul Allender and Mark Royce, a replacement guitarist was found in the form of Lee Dunham (CENOBITE).

Data Plague exemplifies the fusion of heavy metal with industrial and electronic music. The album features intense guitar work, which is often layered with intricate programming and electronic beats. This creates a dense, immersive soundscape that is both dark and melodic. The vocal delivery on the album ranges from harsh screams to clean, melodic singing, which adds to the dynamic and varied nature of the music.

The thematic content of the album often delves into dystopian and cybernetic motifs, exploring concepts related to technology, human interaction with machines, and futuristic scenarios. This thematic focus is reflected in the album’s title, ‘Data Plague,’ suggesting a kind of overwhelming or destructive influence of technology.

Data Plague is characterized by its polished production. The integration of electronic elements with metal is seamless, creating a robust and powerful listening experience. The production choices help in highlighting the complex arrangements and ensuring that the electronic components complement rather than overshadow the traditional metal instrumentation.

Musically and lyrically, the band is representative of all that is dark and predatory. Never ones to follow trends, PRIMARY SLAVE produce explosive songs that deal with future song concepts rather than the cliches and gothic pretensions of a trendy scene. As a live act, they deal a blistering sonic assault to the senses, with the sheer intensity of their live sound matched only by the musicianship and commanding stage presence of the performers. Terrorizer magazine describes them as ”simply the best new metal band in years” comparing them to VOIVOD and STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, and with their recent signing to Visible Noise, this focused and future looking band are set to take metal into the new millenium.

While Primary Slave did not achieve mainstream success, Data Plague has been appreciated within niche circles for its ambitious approach and its ability to blend genres effectively. The album appeals to fans of industrial metal bands like Fear Factory or Strapping Young Lad, who are known for their similar approach to integrating machine-like precision with aggressive metal.

Data Plague remains a significant work for enthusiasts of genre-blending in metal, showcasing how electronic and industrial elements can be integrated into metal to create something innovative and powerful. Despite their relatively low profile, Primary Slave contributed a noteworthy chapter to the industrial metal genre with this release.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the original plastic seal

Visible Noise Records

Track Listing
Spasm
Electric dream state
Slide
Re-wire
DEF
Lifeline
Jag D2
Silicone
A way to be Religious