Prog Sphere is thrilled to host the exclusive premiere of SVYNX’s debut full-length album, This is Not Art. The album is out today, September 14th. Here is your first chance to experience the band’s unique blend of progressive and alternative metal, full of sonic surprises and political commentary.
Hit play below to dive into the full album and explore SVYNX’s dark and captivating soundscape:
The Review: A Deep Dive Into This is Not Art
After two EPs and a live album, SVYNX, the progressive/alternative metal duo from Cologne, Germany, deliver their full-length debut This is Not Art, an ambitious record that merges musical experimentation with sharp political commentary. Like their previous releases, the album was self-recorded, but this time, they brought in RRenimArts for mixing and mastering, resulting in a polished and dynamic sound.
Opening with “Art Won’t Save Me Now,” the album sets the tone for its deeper message. While SVYNX’s music embraces a blend of alt-rock, pop, and prog metal, this track reflects a central theme: art alone isn’t enough to change the world—action is required. The irony of the title underscores the band’s commitment to making This is Not Art more than just music; it’s a political call to action. Tobias Lübbers, who handles vocals and guitar, explains, “We knew from the very beginning we wanted to make a political statement in a way we had not before.”
Musically, SVYNX balance a variety of influences, crafting a sound that is both adventurous and cohesive. “Follow Me” and “Feed Me” explore the ways in which we consume the comforts of modern life, while “Harvest Season” addresses corporate greed and exploitation. The band’s ability to shift from atmospheric, theatrical soundscapes to heavier, prog-driven sections creates a sonic depth that supports the weight of these themes. Lübbers reflects on the creative process, saying, “Many songs started with short ideas that I recorded on the computer, which we then cut up and rearranged. The studio became an instrument in itself.”
Thematically, the album reflects on the state of the world during and after the pandemic. This is Not Art draws inspiration from the euphoric hope for change that the pandemic briefly sparked, as well as the eventual disappointment that followed as social and economic crises deepened. Wolfgang Füßenich, who handles drums, notes, “Our lives are changing faster than ever. There’s an abundance of information, and our minds have a hard time filtering what’s relevant. In this state, bad actors take advantage of us, selling us things we don’t need, scamming us, fearmongering, and turning us against each other. We wanted our music to reflect on that.”
Tracks like “Europa” critique European border control and explore the struggle to stay on the right side of history, while “Never at Ease” examines the role of privilege in shaping our actions. The blend of electronic undertones, intricate guitar melodies, and powerful vocals allows SVYNX to deliver these critiques in a way that feels both emotionally engaging and intellectually stimulating.
“Feed Me” pushes the band’s experimental edge further, blending strings with electronic elements and post-rock atmospheres. What may seem like an unusual mix of sounds comes together naturally, showcasing the band’s talent for genre fusion. This attention to detail and willingness to experiment is a hallmark of the album’s creative process, with Lübbers noting, “I remember coming back to ‘Follow Me’ and suddenly there was a finished bridge part that Wolle must have cut together when I wasn’t looking.”
This is Not Art closes with “Alexandria,” a chilling reflection on the rise of right-wing forces in Europe. The track serves as both a warning and a reminder, particularly relevant in Germany, not to ignore the lessons of history. Lyrically and sonically, it brings the album’s themes full circle, reinforcing the idea that the world is at a crossroads and action must be taken.
Ultimately, This is Not Art is more than just an album. It’s a bold, unapologetic statement that challenges listeners to not only engage with the music but to reflect on the world around them. SVYNX use their unique blend of genres to push boundaries and make a political statement that resonates long after the final note fades.
Don’t Miss Out – Stream the Full Album Now!
SVYNX have combined genres and influences in a way that few others dare to, resulting in an album that’s fresh, thought-provoking, and unapologetically bold.
Make sure to check out tracks like “Follow Me”, “Feed Me”, and “Alexandria” as you stream the album in full above. Let the music and its message resonate with you as SVYNX invites you to think, feel, and act.
SVYNX online:
