Interviews About Albums: Vortex Sutra - Noumenon (2026)

In this new interview, we sat down with the Scottish Progressive Rock/Progressive Metal band Vortex Sutra to ask questions about their album, "Noumenon".

1. What can you say about this new CD?

This is Vortex Sutra's second album, called Noumenon. It was recorded in the second half of last year and will be coming out on 27th June via Hallucigenia Records on CD and streams.

2. What is the meaning of the CD name?

It is based on the philosophical idea of the thing-in-itself, developed by Immanuel Kant in the 18th century. He asked the question of whether it is possible to understand objects or events happening around us if we don't know about them. Of course, he had very little knowledge about modern scientific branches like microbiology or the idea of 4th dimension; however, the question is still valid, and philosophers debate it to this day.

3. Are you the sole composer of the music on the CD?

Yes, I am. The work took about 6 months from the first note to the master files - a lonely but rather enjoyable journey! Sometimes the musical possibilities were overwhelming, and of course, time isn't always enough for deeper experimentation. I think it turned out better than I expected, and in the future, I will add more to this as this is a living, breathing piece in a symphonic format. Tracks can be interchanged with future compositions except Noumenon 1, which is the only constant, and also the philosophical starting point.

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

The one that I like the most is Noumenon 4.1. I pushed myself the hardest here to keep the composition flowing (and floating) in the spirit of the great Renaissance artists by applying all sorts of musical colors but keeping it coherent at the same time - like when you look at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, realising how complex and beautiful it is! This song is a celebration of the moment when the arts meet the best elements of the human intellect.

5. Is there a special message on this CD? If there is what it is?

The term 'Noumenon' can have multiple meanings, and it is in your power to find the one that is closest to you. To some people its the supernatural; to others its deities from a religion, and to others its a mental state by itself (even paranoia). To me, the meaning is simply Inspiration. So the message is, dare to go out there and make discoveries in the unknown. Find yourself there too, bring everything back, and help others to do the same.

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

VS doesn't have any lyrics; it's all instrumental, as words can give direct information, music makes people feel something that they can interpret in any way. I give the listener the freedom of interpretation. A frame is there, but it isn't necessary to stay in it. In your life, you do whatever you want.

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

The great philosophers and artists of the past, especially Kant, Voltaire, Beethoven, and Da Vinci. Their thought processes and works greatly influenced me while working on this album.

8. Something to add?

Looking forward to seeing some of your readers at Vortex Sutra shows! Thanks very much for the interview and all the best to the readers!

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