Hi! Can you tell me about Fractal Universe? Why did you choose that name for the band? What kind of ideas does the band explore?
Vince: A fractal universe is a universe in which the same structures are present on all scales, from elementary particles to galactic superclusters. It is, in a way, tied to the scientist's search of a "theory of everything", unifying quantum mechanics to general relativity.
To us, the name reflects the intricate nature of our music, which has a fractal structure itself: with multiple listens, you can still find new details, like you would by zooming in a fractal.
In our discography, we've explored a variety of themes merging psychology, philosophy and science fiction.
The Great Filters will be released in 2025. How does that make you feel? Do you feel that you have put the album out to the masses without any desire to change anything now?
Vince: Considering that the album was tracked back in 2022, it's almost a relief to finally be able to share it with the world!
We still feel fully satisfied about it on every aspect, and can't wait to bring the tunes to the stage!
Can you tell me more about The Great Filters? What were the ideas behind the album?
Vince: The Great Filters is a concept record about the Fermi Paradox. Fermi was a physicist who asked himself why we haven't been able to detect any other form of extraterrestrial life while there are billions of stars and potentially habitable planets in it.
With each song, we explore a different solution to this paradox: maybe our planet is almost unique, or maybe the universe is simply too tall and other civilizations are out of our reach, or maybe each form of life tends to self-destruction. These questions are not only science-fiction speculations but aim to make us reflect about the nature of humankind.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
Vince: it can be from anything! It is mostly an unconscious blend of all the music we listen to, of all the experiences we make.
It is always hard to tell where an idea came from, as the writing process just feels natural, especially when you look back on it.
How would you best define Fractal Universe's sound?
Vince: Fractal Universe combines the energy of extreme metal with the intricacy of prog, with some spicy saxophone topping!
Are you on hiatus now, just relaxing and looking for album release/feedback, or have you started composing new material immediately?
Vince: Now, we're mostly focused on preparing our upcoming tours. We'll be heading for North America for the first time in our career!
On top of that we've a bunch of EU shows scheduled already and are working on some more tours for the future.
Who are your main musical influences? How much of an impact have they had on your sound?
Vince: As a teenager, I drew a lot of inspiration from bands like Cynic or Death, which I think is still present in our music to some extent.
Over the years, I discovered so many artists in various directions, that all influence me to some degree: Tigran Hamasyan, Leprous,... To name only a few.
Is there a particular well-known musician that you would like to collaborate with on one of your upcoming albums?
Vince: Not necessarily! We've had some illustrious guest on our albums in the past, namely Jørgen Munkeby and Michael Keene, but it's not something we wanna force into our music!
What is your personal strategy for getting your music heard by a larger audience?
Vince: To us, music is best experienced live. So we put a lot of effort and energy in making our show energetic and memorable.
Besides, since our music is often quite challenging to play, we offer a lot playthrough videos, which interest many of our fans!
Do you have any hobbies besides music?
Vince: Personally, I'm a climbing addict! From indoor bouldering to rock climbing, I fell in love with the sport and its warm community. It's a sport where you have to be creative, as climbs are problems to be solved, and where everyone is supportive of each other.
Are you all supported by your families in your dedication to music?
Vince: Absolutely! We wouldn't be there without their support since our formative years.
They still come to our shows whenever possible, and sometimes covering quite mig distances to do so!
Thank you for answering my questions. See you on the road!
Vince: Thank you for reading this, hope to see you at a show somewhere!