Cynic | Audiotree From Nothing

Putting your creative process in words is difficult, but for Paul Masvidal, founding member of Cynic, his 30+ year musical career has given him a unique perspective on the mystery behind his creativity. The endless possibilities that avail themselves when on one removes their ego from the creative process is the entire ethos behind his music-making. Cynic’s From Nothing, is not only a performance, but it's also a conversation with Masvidal about the journey he took to become the musician he is today.
Rooted in 90’s extreme metal, Cynic’s has inspired audiences far and wide technically, emotionally, and spiritually. Revered as one of the best living guitarists, Masvidal’s enormous body of work, both in and out of the context of metal, speaks to the authenticity of his musicianship. Speaking with him, he has a discernible sageness grounded in compassion and empathy.
In 2020, after 30 years of musical brotherhood, Cynic’s co-founding members Sean Reinert and Sean Malone died. The loss sent shockwaves through Cynic’s communities, but it was especially difficult for Masvidal. These men were the backbone of the unequivocal melodies of countless recordings and were considered some of the best of the best in their own disciplines. On this tour, Cynic pays tribute to Reinert and Malone, performing works they co-wrote with him dating all the way back to 1993.
Grief is a humbling experience and Masvidal is not immune to the grief’s life altering power. However, Masvidal has taken grief head on, using it for evolution for himself, his art, and his community. His wisdom is a guiding light for anyone on their creative journey. We’re very honored to share this brilliant performance and conversation from Cynic on Audiotree From Nothing!
Stream on all platforms → lnk.to/ATFN-Cynic
More From Nothing → bit.ly/3SmNf4m
Recorded live on June 27, 2023 in Chicago, IL.
Timestamps
0:00 Intro
0:56 Adam's Murmur
4:23 On Ethos / Passage of Time
9:13 Celestial Voyage
12:55 On Loss / Remembrance
16:50 In a Multiverse Where Atoms Sing
20:20 On Finding Your Voice
Keep up with the band → linktr.ee/cyniconline
Cynic is
Guitar + Vocals + Lyrics | Paul Masvidal
Guitars + Vocals | Max Phelps
Bass | Brandon Giffin
Drums + Percussion | Matt Lynch
⎻⎻
Production Credits
Director: Austin Issac Peters
Editor & Colorist: Elly Tier
Director of Photography: Tom Conway
Lead Engineer: Rick Fritz
Audio Assistant: Wes Reno
Mix & Master: Neil Strauch
Camera Operators:
Justin Kenney
Matt Tyrpin
Chris Owsiany
Photography: Calla Flanagan
Production Coordinator: Susie McCullom
Program Manager: Ally Henreid
--
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🌳 About Audiotree
Audiotree showcases talented musicians and bands from around the world. Originally created to give young bands a platform to be seen and heard, the Audiotree Music channel has become a cornerstone in the music world. The concept is to capture intimate performances from diverse artists in a professional studio at no cost to them. Discover your next favorite band at audiotree.tv.

[@AustinPeters]

This was a dream come true to host. Thank you Paul, and all the past and present members of Cynic for their incredible contributions to music.

[@dpclerks09]

Thank you Master Sean Reinert! 💔🙏🙌 Thank you Master Sean Malone!💔🙏🙌 God Bless Paul Masvidal, and Godspeed! ❤‍🩹🙏🙌🌎

[@decentralized966]

Really well done brother

[@johnniblock330]

You smashed it my boy ❤️

[@AustinPeters]

@@johnniblock330 My dude, thank you

[@TheTrashyMan18]

I can totally see where The Contortionist and BTBAM get their inspiration from. Such an incredible band

[@metalmanny666]

So damn true. With BTBAM especially the first two cynic albums

[@metalmanny666]

From one Paul to another

[@diegojoker]

First Opeth albums included

[@TheTrashyMan18]

@@diegojoker Yes for sure!

[@metalmanny666]

@@diegojoker speaking of which, Opeth is touring America in October. I already got my ticket

[@CormoranOficial]

We were the band that opened the show of Cynic here in Uruguay. a dream come true.

[@norwardradtke1361]

I cried a bit when Paul mentioned losing the seans, he’s a personal friend of mine and it still saddens me deeply when I think of what that was like for him.

[@dpclerks09]

I've never met Paul, nor Master Reinert or Master Malone, but it still hurts ❤‍🩹

[@thundertower]

pansy

[@wildmanfisher]

@@thundertower triggered

[@rondomane]

@@thundertower imagine saying this on the comment section of a Cynic live performance, holy shit just fuckin off yourself

[@autodecapitation]

@@wildmanfisher he's clearly got no friends worth having a heavy heart for. RIP Reinert and Malone.

[@Xammblu_Games]

Seeing another fan in a Cynic shirt is always an instant connection, it really is like being in a secret club.

[@jasonrhodes5023]

That’s funny! I just got called out in the grocery store the other day wearing my Cynic shirt. Always a pleasure meeting a fellow fan.

[@Xammblu_Games]

@@jasonrhodes5023 That's fantastic!

[@mvunit3]

Which has never happened to me :p. Its like wearing my Fates Warning shirt today, I doubt I'll ever see another wear one in the current town I live in (and its not a small booney city & county). Only at Prog Metal shows has that happened.

[@Heisenberg_Zordon]

One time, I walked into a random dispensary in Moreno Valley of all places. Wearing my CBA sweater, while listening to Adam's Murmur. I suddenly hear from behind the counter area, "Is that you playing Cynic?". We shared our appreciation for Cynic for a bit, and he gave me some free edibles. What a cool little connection. Ps. I have a friend who's not really into Cynic. I always try to get him to listen and even bought him Kbtfu. I even sent him this and told him I personally invited him to listen to it. And he just avoids talking about my favorite band. I wonder why. But it doesn't bother me. If Cynic speaks to you, it speaks to you. If it doesn't, it's not for you. This is the most unique and outofthisworld band and I'm just glad to be part of this niche story from the hearts of a Paul and the rest of Cynic, old and new.

[@29brunu]

Like an esoteric Alien religion

[@steveng6721]

Cynic was my gateway band from being just a metalhead to exploring jazz music, classical, and cultural musics from all over the world. Such an influential act too, so many current titans in metal cite these guys as innovators and inspirations

[@henrywalton5967]

Same but I could never find anything as amazing as Cynic in the jazz.fusion world personally. I did find Exivious through Cynic though and I really enjoy their work and it was some of the first fully instrumental music I could enjoy.

[@jaucbn]

Still baffles me that those guys were writing music as we see in Focus at such a young age

[@dpclerks09]

I've said this before on another video, but I will say it again, because it is True. Cynic is a band composed entirely of Master Musicians. Their music is transformative and healing on a deeply Spiritual level. They changed my life forever, and I will be forever grateful for that. Rest in Peace Sean Reinert and Sean Malone Godspeed Paul, and Thank you for everything! I am eternally grateful, from the totality of my heart! 💗🌎

[@deadhands1981]

Paul truly is unique. He weaves beautiful, interesting, meaningful melodies. Its what's lacking in today's prog.

[@rogermarin1712]

RIP Reinert & Malone, thank you Paul!

[@dpclerks09]

I remember reading an interview where Paul said that when writing and arranging Cynic's music, that he and The Seans almost never argued about anything. How is that possible with such "strange" and intricate and layered music?! All is Divinely Guided. Master Musicians from an Alien Race of some kind, surely. 💖💫🙏

[@MrBluexmas]

South Korean fan of 32 years. I am weeping. Thank.s

[@dpclerks09]

❤

[@lern2swim]

"You're practicing for death" JFC that hits.

[@idonthaveatvset]

And the album is called "Human". So, yeah :)

[@johncampbellpercussion]

Hits big time.....for sure....

[@CristianKirk]

"They shred like maniacs, but they have nothing to say." Before getting to know Cynic I actually discovered Aeon Spoke first. Paul is simply capable of creating beautiful melodies and songs. Thanks a lot, Audiotree.

[@johncampbellpercussion]

Paul Masvidal is a freaking genius. I remember hearing Focus for the first time at a party at my sister's place i think it was 1994. A bandmate of her boyfriend at the time, Geoff said to me, "Hey, check this out". He put Focus in the CD player and Veil of Maya started and i was immediately sucked in. At some point, the house got completely silent and everyone stopped what they were doing and listening. Our minds were completely blown. After the disc stopped, Geoff looked at me and said " You're welcome". Geoff was friends with Sean Malone and had the pleasure of just jamming with him many times. Lucky dude for sure. Focus was on repeat the rest of the night.

[@user-rax146]

I've listened to Cynic when I was in high school in 1995. The sound was really fascinated and mysterious unlike the other heavy metal music. I feel elegance from their music.

[@SpankDrums]

This man just continues to provide us with beautiful soundscapes, knowledge, and a simple roadmap for existing. From the music to the wisdom, we all need a little Masvidal in our life.

[@KittyKatMan93]

Props to the new drummer. IMO Sean Reinert was the heartbeat of Cynic, but this guy does it justice

[@nameloss]

big shoes to fill, and he does so perfectly. happy to see this whole video.

[@CMeier213]

Could use another couple of inches of inseam though.

[@MetalOnMetal]

I love hearing Masvidal talking about life and creativity. Cynic is an inspiring project. This interview / liveshow was really touching.

[@misterbaker9728]

47 outta Cleveland I miss the 90s death metal days. I grew up going to see Morbid Angel and Entombed. Crazy how fast time goes love this band Sean was a legend on the drums

[@Metguy123]

Seeing Sean with Death would've been insane

[@thereignofdando]

Its amazing they still sound like this. Dont forget, Focus was released in 93 and was in so many ways, quite a boundary pusher. Nothing but admiration for Cynic and Paul. RIP the Seans. The new band does a marvelous job.

[@scott2369]

crazy to see the original bassist of The Faceless playing with them

[@Metguy123]

He's a good boy

[@Drewid84]

@@Metguy123 He's AMAZING on The Zenith Passage too. Fortunate enough to meet him and the rest of Cynic behind stage at the 30th anny Miami show.. some of the nicest and most humble guys ever.

[@tomskimcdouglegaming806]

Heaps better than Sean Malone was.

[@paulsund11]

@@tomskimcdouglegaming806 This isn't a competition. Just listen and enjoy.

[@steveng6721]

@@tomskimcdouglegaming806 what's even the point behind saying this? do you want attention?

[@Carbonbasedvin]

So incredibly moving. Paul has such a great ability to inspire others with music and his humble always-a-student approach to art. It was an honor getting to play with them last year and I hope Cynic keeps touring. Best band

[@thereversealmightystudios8978]

Enjoyed the interview bits… beautiful thoughts from Paul Madvidal.

[@daneOcawdor]

Ah man. This came when I needed it. Such ethereal music and wisdom. Thanks for sharing this.x

[@ivanaraya8361]

Found myself crying here in Chile too when the Sean’s came in spirit while we are were in silence tributing them with Paul… For me, words cannot describe enough how I love this band… Eternal thanks for what was done, being doing, and for what is coming… “All is within You…”

[@dpclerks09]

"AS IN A DREAM...I'M BUT A WAVE TO..."❤‍🔥🌎

[@TheSuccessEngineer]

I grew up listening to cynic and seeing Paul and Sean R play in the local scene. They were a bit older than me growing up and their influence has been a cornerstone in my life. I am so grateful for being a witness of the evolution of cynic and 30 plus years later I am still so enthralled and passionate with their music and ideologies. Thank you 🙏🏽 Cynic! And thank you 🙏🏽 Paul for having the courage to carry on with the Legacy! 👽🫶🏽

[@joseluisdesimone5855]

I've loved Cynic since the first time I heard them. Thank you Audiotree for such a beautiful session.

[@felipevenanciovalim2553]

I saw this Cynic lineup when they came here in Brazil, it was wonderful!!!!

[@yeptoo1148]

I used to be a metal fan in my teens 30-35 years ago. Then I went on to listening to only modern / free / avantgarde jazz. Recently I started to listening to some of my old metal heros again. Cynic is one of these heroes. I love "Focus" and "traced in air". I bought "Ascension codes" recently and love it 😊. Thank to Paul and the Cynic tribe for creating some of My favorit albums.

[@_misterwilly]

Traced in Air is a generational masterpiece. So is Focus. Amazing albums.

[@ravialfak]

Glad to see Brandon Giffin (The Zenith Passage, Ex-The Faceless (Planetary Duality era)) in the group!!

[@hendriknel01]

South Africa in the house! We love you Cynic. Thanks for this, Audiotree

[@minuswon]

Sounds so fresh listening to today. Way ahead of their time. Beautiful work!

[@bhowish]

Saw them in Cincinnati on Focus tour.. Sean set up his drums sideways so we could see the magic happen.. I’ll never forget that.. congrats Paul on many years of brilliant music..

[@user-mz9mu6pw7y]

Wow...I'm speechless. What Paul said blew my mind! This live was much needed!

[@azami4538]

Focus is such an incredible album for its time and the impact it's had on myself and numerous musicians since. Cynic is a gift.

[@henrywalton5967]

The Sean's might be gone but their legacy will live on forever in the amazing sound waves they created. What they wanted to leave the world with wasn't words, it was music and they achieved that. They have been immortalised in music and I am forever grateful for that.

[@curtkovacs2088]

One of my favorite bands ever and I didn't expect to see an Audio tree performance!

[@AaronAceroMusic]

This is so damn refreshing. Love seeing Paul rebirth the band this way, feels very organic and right. Love that they integrated the growls back in. Top notch performance. 🙏 👽

[@XTerkRS]

The message in the final comment is pretty clear and straightforward... It takes time to learn that for sure. Cynic is a unique band and always will be, they found their true voice.

[@DennisFeinsteinCEO]

Congratulations Matt! Those are some big shoes to fill, but it looks like they're your size 💜 You're living your dream and killing it. So happy for you bud... A friend from way back (Lomax) 🤙

[@N8oRMusic]

I don't care what anyone says. Cynic is the greatest Metal band to ever exist.

[@thenephilimm]

the best band ever. they inspire me musically and spirtually

[@Ahtnagarp]

Cynic, Meshuggah, Necropaghist and Dream Theater are the fathers of modern metal that kids playing today

[@dionisioramirez6706]

They truly are. Been a fan since the demo days and so forth. I hope that one day Jason goebel makes a comeback.

[@RiccardoFabbri82]

Thanks for producing this documentary. It’s a blessing to hear any news from Cynic. Paul is such a deep artist and musician, after 30 years I continue to discover new thing in his music. Of course Sean&Sean won’t be forgotten, they were unique in both writing and performing. And Paul, if you’re reading this, please continue writing for us. You’re a gift!

[@Vdrum1010]

Goosebumps from beginning to end - this one was special.

[@obahrey5197]

What a beautiful video. I specifically enjoyed how Max did fry screams on In a Multiverse Where Atoms sing. It really ties it back to the early days. The Seans part made me cry. Thanks for this.

[@demonicsweaters]

This was not only a great performance, it was a truly brilliant interview.

[@EliLemke-ft3fs]

I saw cynic in like 2006 and several other times Every record, every live performance, every time it sounds just like the albums. His vocals live fill the room like a cathedral The entire venue just about levitates. Cynic has always been top shelf grade A sonic offerings

[@TheGersson28]

you guys can return to Costa Rica any time, we will be ready for your return. So glad I was able to watch you live, this 3 set songs were the best for my soul. Thanks again Paul.

[@1982studios]

I’ll never forget the traced in air tour where they opened up for Meshuggah in Chicago at the house of blues. I bought box tix way in advance because I knew the importance.

[@briantoro5730]

Cynic is simply wonderful, his music goes beyond everything

[@Pure_KodiakWILD_Power]

"his"??? This whole time, Cynic has been centered around one dude??

[@UberNoodle]

@@Pure_KodiakWILD_Power It's most likely just a typo.

[@dpclerks09]

@@Pure_KodiakWILD_Power Even Paul admits that he doesn't know where the Music comes from, he has said he feels more like an antenna that's receiving the signal that already exists in the aether.

[@Pure_KodiakWILD_Power]

@@dpclerks09 I know the feeling.

[@tomskimcdouglegaming806]

@@Pure_KodiakWILD_Power Basically, yes. Dude changes members like he changes his thong. Plus most of the good members are dead.

[@mx676]

I really miss Malone and Reinert, but man Brandon and Matt are just incredible! I saw them live and I could not believe how good players they are. Max guitar play and growls are on point, he's awesome. I miss the keyboard player tho. I can't be more happy with this line up! Thanks Audiotree and Thanks Cynic ❤

[@juliovasquez4484]

Goosebumps the entire show.. what a great human being and artist! every time I hear this man my heart opens to receive all the experience and good words he has to offer. Thank you Paul, for everything you have done for the music scene, keep growing and keep thriving, many blessings to you.

[@myworms]

I’ve only had small interactions with Paul on social media, but every time he was really nice, and I have so much respect for him as a musician and for keeping the dream alive all these years.

[@BLCKCSTLS]

Paul is just such an inspiration. Musically and as a human.

[@surrealducks]

Beautiful video. Thank you Audiotree and Cynic!!!

[@livingpain]

It's spectral brilliance Paul and the entire Cynic sphere. Totally, it is a JAZZ METAL. Thanks to all the humans involved in this interview with a surprise performance.

[@idratherstayanonimous7020]

Paul so handsome.

[@polyphony250]

Extremely attractive middle aged man. No homo.

[@Xbrayan777X]

I almost tear watching this presentation, beautiful, ethereal and sublime, thanks Paul and Cynic for all this beautiful music

[@drownedpotatoes4131]

CYNIC🔥🔥🔥🔥 saw them live this year, they were amazing

[@zenobass5925]

I was on the verge of tears the whole time, the joy this performance brings me is unbelievable

[@rondomane]

the verge? my dude im in full breakdown mode after hearing that last line.

[@EverythingisFire]

That 'Rememberance' part they did live was awesome in person.

[@miguelvalera6721]

AAAAAH!! esto es increible!! gracias a todos los que estuvieron involucrados directa e indirectamente en esto! Cynic es lo mejor de lo mejor! son alucinantes!! muero de amor por este regalo!! abrazos desde Venezuela!!

[@durrr123]

first time I saw either Paul Masividal or Brandon Giffin perform was when Cynic and the Faceless were on tour with Meshuggah in 2009. I hadn't even heard of either band and they instantly became my two favorite metal bands. Still I think the best (and most diverse) lineup of bands I've ever seen in one show.

[@biorythmicshifter]

When Focus came out back in the day I got it. It hit me deep and hard emotionally and creatively, it was heartbreaking to see it go nowhere commercially. Their talent and creativity was boundless, it deserves the recognition…

[@northnick3317]

Cynic is my favourite band of all time, and this video only adds to that sentiment! I really love this!

[@dpclerks09]

"Cosmic Mother Awaken Us in thine Impartial Love for All..."❤‍🔥🌎

[@sramredd9856]

Been a fan from the beginning and along with the stuff they did with Death shaped death metal. A lot of tech death bands have been influenced by Cyinc. They were and still are different. The 3 of them created magic. Paul will carry their spirit on.

[@brennand933]

Oh. My. God.

[@MrBleedingbullets]

Thanks to everyone involved for making this happen

[@voidwalker985]

This had to be done one way or the other, truly magical. What a wonderful piece of work. Cynic never disappoints, and Paul is definitely an alien in this world. Proof that memory is fundamental, we'll never forget Sean Reinert and Sean Malone. I'll watch this video over and over again. Thank you all!

[@tonykastanedamadohm884]

Thank you so much for sharing this footage and honoring a very special band.

[@Neomorphinity]

I recently saw Cynic live in London and it was truly amazing. The mic kept shocking Paul, but it was still a great show by the band as a whole. Still wild to have been able to see Paul in the flesh after many years of listening to Cynic. Sean and Sean were there in spirit and sound.

[@Surreal-Prog-Music]

I've had the pleasure to talk and hug Paul in Argentina when he came to Latin America with his solo proyect. Coolest and most humble guy on earth. Cynic's music, and all the other ralated proyects they had, had a profound impact in my life. The death of both Sean's was a hard pill to swallow and it inspired me to write a song for them. That is why they've become immortal, because they've touched our souls with their art and we will always have their voices in our hearts. Thanks for everything

[@leonascar5800]

I’ve loved this band so much, thank you audiotree

[@gabrielcabrera6166]

Greetings from Guatemala, Central América! It was such an emotional experience watching you guys live. Definitely, one of the best moments of my life.

[@user-fv6jp1cv1x]

Как говорится, не по уведомлению, а по зову сердца. ❤❤❤

[@newh0]

Не ожидал тут увидеть кого либо из снг)

[@user-fv6jp1cv1x]

@@newh0 услышал фокус на первом курсе, с тех пор любимая группа) долго ползал по ластфм пытаясь найти что-то подобное, но никто такое впечатление уже не произвел

[@newh0]

​@@user-fv6jp1cv1x к сожалению подобных фокусу альбомов мало, но у меня есть надежда что такое прорывное музло я еще услышу. Сам фокус впервые послушал в конце 9ого класса, потом traced in air послушал, но к сожалению это уже не то(

[@ArronLukeMusic]

What a guy Paul is. Thank you 🙏

[@sjhcfp8146]

Focus remains one of my favourite albums ever, so unique

[@HiramBlackSheep]

Wow. The performance and interview is oustanding. Brilliant, touching, overwhelming. Thanks for this!

[@dewaynemason9540]

Audiotree has been on fire lately. Love to see Paul still going strong. Celestial Voyage was always one of my favorites.

[@LunaIthil]

sending you love paul

[@entruvia]

This is so beautiful. What a wonderful exploration of creativity, evolution of ones grieving process, and the spirit of Cynic & the Seans. Going to have to watch this one a few times to really absorb it. Many blessings Paul, and the Cynic community!

[@samplecode]

Focus is my favourite album to come out of the death metal scene. It’s strangeness, otherworldliness and great musicianship has not lost its attraction after all these years.

[@chiefindisguise]

One of the most important musical act in my life

[@bassheadjazz2708]

Long time fan, remember seeing them on the Traced in Air comeback tour. A very important interview. Nice to hear where Paul is at with everything.

[@rodrigocosta7374]

Thanks for this, Audiotree. Amazing

[@ar156]

I was fortunate enough to see them here in Santiago last year, a beautiful memorable show 🙏👏

[@wylde678]

I am a "meathead metalhead" and love Cynic.

[@juangfernandezuribe]

Cynic struck me right from the Focus. The sound was nothing I had heard before, as a metalhead I was used to a different vision of music and along came these guys... The way they opened my mind to new sounds and new ways to understand metal is still unbelievable

[@henrywalton5967]

Focus is still the most out of the box album I can think of and it's over 30 years old...

[@sanguinexplorations]

Celestial Voyage sounds incredible here

[@demonicsweaters]

Wow, at first I was like. Don't these guys know there's already a legendary band called Cynic? Then I see it is actually them! Hell yeah, amazing!

[@crynightbcn]

Amazing stuff, I cried and I was very moved by everything Paul said. Great performance ❤

[@radiantnoir]

Amazing!!!!!! I need more Cynic potshot footage in my life! 🔥🤘🏽🔥💜💜💜💜

[@ckokomo808]

Yooo!!!! Good stuff. Thanks for putting this together Audiotree! We need more Cynic!!

[@davidrewit]

I LOVE Cynic!!! 👽💖💖 Thank you Audiotree!

[@TheCyberMantis]

I bought the CYNIC "Focus" CD back when it first came out. Still have it in my collection. It was ahead of it's time.

[@danilosilva4899]

Awesome ❤ a great Studio version

[@nolellegas]

This is great, thank you for making this video. l just wanted to say that it would have been perfect if Max's guitar (blue guitar) was lower in the mix, it really cuts through. Again, amazing video l just wish his guitar would've been a bit lower.

[@syntaxboris]

Los sigo de cuando era un enanito, los quiero muchos amigos, con gusto iría a verlos todas las veces que vengan a Chile

[@andres1988a]

this is gold