Metalcatto
I can count on one hand the times an instrumental album has received a full review at MER Industries. It’s nothing personal. We just don’t get too many submissions of this kind, and even fewer from a promoter or label. The truth is, you customers love music where someone just shouts at you constantly. However, Vortex Sutra is a Prog Rock band that is pretty different from what we usually cover. Its album Noumenon surprised me and in a way challenged my reviewer’s habits. That’s good, right? Let’s find out.
Noumenon is one of the strangest albums I’ve reviewed here. It’s not that it’s heavy or too weird, but the idea of mixing Prog Rock with electronic elements—though not new—is rather uncommon. The album feels like a simplified version of an old Animals as Leaders record. Sure, some tracks are quite long and complicated, but it’s the sound experimentation that keeps you paying attention. So don’t expect a ruthless display of technical skill. This album is a slow burn.
Even with all those guitars and drums going at it, the synth work ends up being the main character. It just creates this alien, otherworldly feeling. Does atmospheric Prog exist? Well, maybe it should. Noumenon feels as if you were contemplating the stars in the middle of the wilderness at night. Nothing is happening, and yet everything is happening. Despite the fact that I love speed like any of you, there is merit in trying to portray calmer, more introspective scenarios.
Okay, let’s say something: Vortex Sutra isn’t for everyone. In fact, I’m actually not sure who exactly would love this. Now, the fact that a type of music has a small market has nothing to do with its quality. But I do end up wondering if at times Noumenon could use a bit more malice. Not much, just enough to mix things up and create more tension in the music. That would make things more compelling and give the softer moments something to contrast against. Also, there are only four tracks here, so hopefully you’re more patient than I am. The length isn’t the issue—it’s the consistent mood that can feel flat over time.
Noumenon isn’t our usual jam. It’s not even extreme Metal. But we need to redefine things here and there. Sometimes it’s not about the punishment, but about how challenging the music is. And even though this album is probably the most relaxing thing I’ve ever reviewed for this site, it’s still a challenge to your hyperactive nature. So take a pause for once. Breathe. Think a little bit. Then dive into this journey to the stars.
Label: Hallucigenia Records
Release date: June 27th, 2026
Website: https://vortexsutra.bandcamp.com/
Country: Hungary/UK
Score: 3.0/5.0
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