For me The Metal Onslaught magazine is an important part of my life and a tool in the vision that God has given me, about putting limelight on all the great Christian music that is out there. I often scroll thru Bandcamp on a regular basis and it was on a very common afternoon that the special name and artwork of these albums caught my eyes and when I started to listen.
The band’s own description is “An entropy of sonic noise. FINAL VORTEX is rooted in a reckless ambition to unearth the greatest sounds of faith, hope and love.”
I found interesting lyrics and what seemed to be a great vision to reach out to people, so I decided to find out more about it. Here´s an interview with Final Vortex:
Hi! Thank you for answering my questions. I really like the mixture between Goth and Experimental sounds and such great lyrics. Please tell me about the background of this band.
Final Vortex kicked off in late 2014-2015. With our 1st release called “Threshold”, on Vision of God records. I still remember, while playing in a church band, feeling the call to start a project that would have a certain kind of abstract sound, but still rooted in rock, goth & metal. Something that would be evangelical but not altogether preachy.
Have many are in the band?
Originally, it was just me & Latvi (real name Perla) on vocals. But with Perla having a difficult work schedule. We felt it was only fair to let her break away. Which in turn made me an all out ONE MAN BAND! Yes that’s the whole nine yards. Guitars, beats, FX, lyrics, vocals, etc. But with no intent on ever using a keyboard. In the end, if only one soul is moved to salvation through this project, then sweat, blood and tears is worth it all.
Where are you based?
I live in Channelview/Houston Texas. It’s pretty fast-paced and work-driven. But down time lets me be inspired to hear the Holy Spirit and turn it into noise!
What does the name Final Vortex refer to?
FINAL VORTEX – came as a name that could possibly describe the Final Events of creation. Revelation ch. 20: says “And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them….” To me, this is the point where all creation “time & space” stops. Vanishes to nowhere. The last judgment is done. Then the NEW creation begins. Man can now have perfect existence with God. “Then will God be, All in All” 1 Corinthians 15:2
What would you say are the influences to this music? What inspires you when writing the lyrics?
Influence is really born out of an inner sonic anarchy. Like in the late ’60s when smashing a guitar on stage was cool. I like bands that always went a little further than what’s was expected. ’80s goth, epic metal, Industrial beat. etc. All that and also strange places, history and the Holy Spirit pushing me deeper. Of course for me the LYRICS have to reflect truth. Something edgy or surreal. That’s what we find in the Bible. Right? Truth is a surreal power and that really inspires me.
I also think that’s true. The Bible describes some really surreal things, like angels that obviously can move between realms. Do you have any favourite passages that inspires you in your music?
Isaiah 54:17. Is the verse which mostly inspires me. It says,” No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD”.
The artwork of the albums are pretty different from what you usually see when you think of Christian music. Do you do them yourself? There seem to be an sci-fi interest?
It’s no big secret that the 80’s fantasy / sci movies have left me their lasting impressions. Retrofuturism and such. I don’t make it but I wish I could. Hopefully it will convey the thought that something wild is going on in this sound!
Have you ever done a live show with audience or have a hope to do so ? Or is the digital realm the best way to experience your music?
Well I think playing live would be a massive experience. Various offers have come up. But to be honest I don’t know anyone even near to crossing that bridge. Till then, digital will have to do.
It´s been great talking to you. I hope the article will give you new listeners.
A HUGE THANKS!! For tuning in, liking FV & working on this article!! Together we are the Body of Christ to reach the world!
The latest album, the seventh release of this one man band is called “Dark Planet Intrusion” and was released June 2 this year.
All seven albums together with the great artworks and lyrics can be found on Bandcamp. Some of the music is also out on YouTube and Spotify.
http://finalvortex.bandcamp.com/album/dark-planet-intrusion