I don't believe there is a hotter sub-genre in Extreme Metal right now than Tech Death.  It seems like every day there is another band coming out of the woodwork to prove their playing abilities.  In my experience, so many of these artists focus so much on their talent instead of their song writing abilities.  Although these bands count among them musicians are all obviously talented, I don't feel anything when I listen to the songs...it is just so robotic in a way.

Enter SLAVE ONE to save the day and show the Metal world how to balance technicality with more old school sensibilities. Much like other great releases this year from DEMIURGON, WOUNDS, and HIDEOUS DIVINITY album, this French Death metal act and their second full length "Omega Disciples," displays insane playing ability.  But they have another deadly weapon in their arsenal:  Old School Death Metal.  Razor sharp, and sometimes, grooved riffs built off pummeling and punishing rhythms are the foundation that deep, hellish vocals and sulfuric atmosphere rest upon.

"Lightless Perspectives," showcases these elements in a sterling beginning that is permeated with the onslaught of Sebastian's drums.  Playing off the furious attack is guitar duo of Nicolas and Benoit.  Their swirling leads come out of slightly melodic yet technical harmonies interplay with the grinding rhythm of the bass that showcases the song as chaotic but multiple listens give the realization that it is highly controlled chaos.

"Dissident Flesh," is lead Jean's tight bass for an intro that allows the music to walk off the beaten path. The guitars are tightly wound here, content to be on display with a firm showing but letting the bass do the talking. Tarvos' vocals are especially deep and bounce off the unique music with apparent ease. Another Tech Death trope SLAVE ONE avoid is having overly long songs.  It is always quality over quantity and "Les disciples de l'Omega," takes that to heart.  At just two and half minutes, it is the shortest song on the album, but they fit so much into it.  The choppy rhythms hit like break water, the song immediately filling with a constant motion.  The bass and guitar become one for a nice little section of groove before those deep death growls send the song into a true frenzy.  The song's ending features one hell of a solo that would make Trey Azagthoth proud.

I found "Omega Disciples," to be the breath of fresh air the Tech Death world needs: tight song writing that crushes as much as it makes you think.  It might be hard to guess what their next move will be you know it will fucking crush you.