Cologne-based progressive/alternative rock duo SVYNX is set to release their new album This is Not Art on September 14th, 2024. Known for redefining the boundaries of progressive rock, pop, and alternative music, SVYNX is back with an album that confronts the challenges of the modern world with bold rhythms, catchy melodies, and a powerful message.
This is Not Art explores the tension between the euphoric hope for societal change during the early days of the pandemic and the disillusionment that followed as the social and economic crises deepened. Through themes of consumerism, corporate greed, and the ongoing struggle for human rights, SVYNX tackles these issues with a sound that is both unconventional and accessible.
About the themes SVYNX explores on This is Not Art and the creative process, Tobias Lübbers commented: “The album was very much influenced by the circumstances of its time. We found ourselves relying on the studio as an instrument quite heavily. Many songs started with short ideas that I recorded on the computer that we then cut up and rearranged. 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. The lyrics were more planned out. We knew from the very beginning we wanted to make a political statement in a way we had not before.”
Tracks like “Follow Me” and “Feed Me” reflect on how modern conveniences feed into the comforts of our lives, while “Harvest Season” critiques the exploitation driven by corporate greed. “Europa” examines Europe’s role in history and the violent tactics of border control, while “Never at Ease” highlights the privilege many possess and how it shapes our choices.
Opening the album with the ironic and pessimistic track “Art Won’t Save Me Now,” SVYNX sets the tone for an album that is not just about music but about action. The title track, This is Not Art, reminds listeners that art alone, including their music, won’t save us—it’s a call to do more. As the album closes with “Alexandria,” SVYNX issues a poignant reminder of the dangers of rising right-wing forces in Europe, echoing history’s warning signs, particularly relevant in their native Germany.
On the album’s political and social commentary, Wolfgang Füßenich explained: “Our lives are changing faster than ever. There is an abundance of Information and our minds have a hard time filtering what’s relevant for us. This leads to a constant overstimulation that drowns out rational thought. In this state bad actors take advantage of us: Selling us stuff we don’t need; scamming us for money; fearmongering; turning us against one another. We wanted our music to reflect on that.”
This is Not Art was self-recorded by the duo, staying true to their DIY ethos, but this time, the mixing and mastering were handled by the professionals at RRenimArts, resulting in a refined and polished sound. The album’s themes, combined with its intricate compositions, showcase SVYNX’ ability to blend artistry and activism.
The band, comprised of Wolfgang Füßenich on drums and Tobias Lübbers on guitar and vocals, will celebrate the album’s release with a return performance at the prestigious Euroblast festival in Cologne this October, marking their second appearance at the festival following their debut in 2019.
“Visiting Euroblast as a fan is like coming home,” the band admits. “You meet all those lovely people. We love to discover new music at Euroblast—the variety of bands has has always been a huge inspiration. We are very proud to have the chance to inspire others with our music.”
Tracklisting for This is Not Art:
1. Art Won’t Save Me Now
2. Follow Me
3. Harvest Season
4. Feed Me
5. Europa
6. Never At Ease
7. Alexandria
This is Not Art will be available on all major streaming platforms starting September 14th. Stay tuned for further announcements, including details on upcoming live performances.
SVYNX online:
svynx.net
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