CYNIC Guitarist/Vocalist Explains 'Traced In Air' Album Art

September 5, 2008

Reunited progressive metallers CYNIC — whose 1993 album "Focus" is regarded as a landmark release in the field of technical/progressive metal — will release their new album, "Traced In Air" on October 28 via Season of Mist Records (one day earlier internationally). The CD contains eight songs, and the band worked once again with renowned artist Robert Venosa (who created the unmistakeable cover and visuals for "Focus") on the art for the new album, which can be viewed below.

Guitarist/vocalist Paul Masvidal had the following to say about the choice in artwork and what it represents: "Sean [Reinert, drums] and I connected with the archetypal classic shape that the new album cover represents. This part man/alien/angel/future shiva being is in a larger sense the vibe of the entire album as a whole work. The 'being' also somewhat represents the next stage of evolution for the 'Focus' album cover angel, which mirrors where we are now with album #2."

"Traced In Air" track listing:

01. Nunc Fluens
02. The Space For This
03. Evolutionary Sleeper
04. Integral Birth
05. The Unknown Guest
06. Adam's Murmur
07. King of those Who Know
08. Nunc Stans

Returning from the "Focus" era for the new eight-song, 35-minute effort are are founding members Masvidal and Reinert along with Sean Malone (bass),and joining the band in the studio is newcomer Tymon Kruidenier (guitars/growls). The band recorded the effort at a California studio with producer Warren Riker (DOWN, SANTANA).

Commented Masvidal: "We're thrilled to share the new CYNIC alien seedling with the world. I trust that this magical plant will be watered well and tended to. The roots are intact, now the branches get to soar high into the sky and provide shade for those of us stressed about current weather conditions. We've all been on this journey together. It's time we tell a new story. One of my favorite thinkers Ralph Waldo Emerson said: 'We live amid surfaces, and the true art is to skate well on them'. Well it's time, we let the dance begin!"

CYNIC will be direct support slot on the OPETH European trek in November/December. The band has also been announced as the headliner for this year's ProgPower Europe festival, and will be playing a special extended set at the show. A U.S. tour will follow in early 2009.

For more information, visit www.myspace.com/cyniconline.

Rockalaram conducted an interview with Masvidal and Reinert at this year's Wacken Open Air festival, which was held July 31 - August 2, 2008 in Wacken, Germany. Watch the six-minute chat below.

Interview:

"Traced In Air" album teaser:

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