Interviews About Albums: WARSIDE - Cognitive Extinction (2026)

In this new interview, we sat down with the French Death Metal band WARSIDE to ask questions about their album, "Cognitive Extinction".

1. What can you say about "Cognitive Extinction"?

Cognitive Extinction is a raw, savage, and authentic record. Our main goal was to translate our live energy into the studio as much as possible, no fakes, no over-production. It took almost a year of hard work, including some lineup changes on vocals and bass right in the middle of the recording process. We went through a lot of bullshit and struggles to get it done, but we are extremely proud of the result. It’s the perfect reflection of what Warside is today.

2. What is the meaning of the "Cognitive Extinction" name?

The title is a cold diagnosis of the world we live in. It refers to the mental, intellectual, and emotional decay caused by modern pressures. We are witnessing a massive regression where human intelligence is simply giving up. It’s about that breaking point where the mind is no longer a unified whole but fragments under the weight of invasive thoughts like jealousy and frustration and primitive impulses. People are becoming "intellectual zombies," mindless critical thinking, lobotomized by screens and social media.

3. Which one is the composer of the "Cognitive Extinction"?

The core of the music was mainly composed by Vincent (guitars) and me. We usually work on the initial demos together to build the foundation of the tracks. Once the skeletons are ready, our drummer, Thomas, takes over to write his own drum parts, bringing his precision and personal touch to the rhythm section. As for the vocals, I collaborated closely with Mathieu. He wrote his own vocal patterns and most of the lyrics. It’s a real collaborative effort where everyone injects their own expertise to make the final result as brutal and cohesive as possible.

4. If you had to pick one song, which one would you pick?

If I had to pick one, it would definitely be "Synthetic Abyss". To me, it’s the most representative track of the entire album. It’s direct, uncompromising, and gets straight to the point. It captures the exact raw energy and savage atmosphere we wanted for this record. If someone wants to know what Warside sounds like in 2026, this it track.

5. Is there a special message in this album? If there is what it is?

There isn’t a specific message. We’re not here to judge or tell people how to think. It’s simply our own vision of the world surrounding us. It’s up to the listener to feel it however they want.

6. Are there some lyrics that you'd love to share?

« Devoted to violence and torture in all its forms. A disgusting seed, greedy for filth and decay ».

7. Which inspirations have been important for "Cognitive Extinction"? Like musically or friends, family, someone you'd love to thank especially?

As we discussed, the inspiration for "Cognitive Extinction" comes mainly from what we see around us every day. Musically, our roots remain anchored in the bands we’ve been following for over 30 years.

On a personal level, I want to deeply thank our families for their unwavering support in this adventure. Huge thanks also to our "behind the scenes" team who help us on so many levels, especially Pedro, Julien (ex-Rock n’Eat Lyon team), Thibault (Convulsound Studio), and our bro Bastien (SWD Japan). I also want to acknowledge Thomas, our former singer, and Gab, our former bassist. Their involvement before their departure played an important role in the evolution of the band, and we don't forget that.

8. Something to add?

Thanks again for the support and for giving us this space to spread the word. We can't wait to get back out there and crush some skulls. See you on the road!

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