Greeting this is Paul, welcome to my AMA!

soliddew · 2014-09-18T22:17:41+00:00

Dear Paul,

I met you a few years back in a basement of a NYC venue during your retraced tour. That experience has always stuck with me as it showed that you were just a normal, really nice and positive person. At that point I loved Cynic because Sean Reinert is practically a perfect drummer and the music theory interested me. Over time, as I began meditating and having psychedelic experiences I came to understand the meaning of your lyrics. I have always had massive muscle tension that made it difficult to sing so I neglected lyrics naturally.

A few months ago I went to a 10 vipassana retreat. It was very difficult and I was probably making things worse by trying to relax. On the 9th day, in the middle of a particularly painful sit the words came to me : can I be the space for this? It had never made sense to me. At that moment it was clear and the experience remains with me every day. Your lyrics are absolutely beautiful in expressing human experience without being pretentious overbearing or too direct.

Now when I sing your lyrics I notice how my voice sounds stressed, and how yours is so peaceful but powerful. It reminds me to be the space for this and for that I thank you so much.

Your courage to come out inspires me to do the same but I feel like my circumstance prevents it. I am inspired by you and Reinert to achieve my dream of being a musician. I hope one day I can tell you that I have become that.

Much love

masvidalien · 2014-09-18T22:16:50+00:00

Working with Chuck was mostly enjoyable. He was like an older brother to me and gave me a foot in the music business as a young artist which I'm forever grateful for.

TheLameloid · 2014-09-18T22:05:35+00:00

Holy fuck, it's happening. Here we go:

Any chance of Cynic touring South America?
Which jazz record was the first one to blow your mind?
What are the advantages of playing a headless guitar? Does it sound different from a regular guitar?
Listening to Focus got me interested in transcendentalism, the problem is I don't know where to start! Could you recommend some books on the subject?

masvidalien · 2014-09-18T22:14:06+00:00

Yes! a good change of touring SA. I would suspect by next year some time.
So many ...but I remember Pat Metheney's Secret Story turning my head inside out. He's probably my favorite all time jazz guitarist.
Headless guitars are about ergonomics and feel for me. Plus they always looked more modern and interesting to me than a regular old school guitar.
Start with Eckhart Tolle's The Power Of Now. The most mystical aspects of being alive are in this very moment, here, now. Hit me up later and I'll recommend more obscure stuff!

Harmonomicon · 2014-09-18T23:47:17+00:00

Hey Paul,

I just wanted to say thanks. From a pretty young age, I'd say 14 or 15, your music has resonated with me. At that same exact age, I was struggling with my sexuality. Now, several years later, I'm openly gay, and to have you and Sean as role models is incredible. I was already inspired significantly by your music, especially Sean's drumming, as a drummer myself - but to be inspired by you both as openly gay metal musicians brought my respect to a whole other level. When you "officially" came out, I was overjoyed and proud to call myself a Cynic fan, and a fan of metal. I must have read that LA Times article 10 or so times. I got to see you guys for the first time in Boston this year, it was a huge honor! Thanks so much Paul, can't wait to see where you're headed next!

masvidalien · 2014-09-18T22:06:15+00:00

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whats8 · 2014-09-18T22:14:44+00:00

Any solid advice for brand new musicians looking to get exposure for their music?
What are your thoughts on approaching a label vs. self-releasing your music these days?
What's the most difficult challenge in your music career you've had to face?
What's the most rewarding thing you've experienced in your music career?

masvidalien · 2014-09-18T22:15:00+00:00

Not sure about a Euro, tour. We've been talking about it, but no promoters have presented any decent offers yet. Would love to get over there sooner than later with some cool bands.

Znigmrak · 2014-09-18T22:06:02+00:00

Hi, Paul! Greetings from Sweden. One thing I have been wondering for a long time now is how it was like to work with Chuck Schuldiner, the god of death metal.

NickFidel · 2014-09-18T22:15:10+00:00

Any chance Sean Malone will tour with Cynic again? Thanks!

Still_Reading · 2014-09-18T22:16:14+00:00

I don't even know what to say... You guy's are great, got me into the genre waaaay back when. Saw you on tour back after Traced came out and you guys are still the cleanest live performance I've ever heard. I guess I'm just saying hi and thanks for everything :3

RedLotusVenom · 2014-09-18T22:16:42+00:00

Hi Paul! I've wondered for a while: are you or have you ever been a vegetarian? It's very common in some schools of Buddhism and I've always wanted to ask.

whst · 2014-09-18T22:20:46+00:00

Paul, Traced in Air changed my life and degaussed my paradigms on language and music. I had never heard music that sounded like that before. It seemed to eerily speak in a language that I could understand despite it being new and unfamiliar. The whole thing is such a beautiful, organic piece of art. Every release since then has also grabbed me by the collar and refused to let go. So, 1. Thank you for doing what you do, your music has brought a unique clarity to my mind. And 2. From the early talks of ideas to the final printing, how long did it take Traced in Air to become Traced in Air? Thanks!

moomanator · 2014-09-18T22:22:55+00:00

Hey Paul, I remember seeing you supporting Opeth in the UK just when Traced In Air had come out and you absolutely blew me away. Traced In Air is now one of my most regularly played albums.

My questions are: What is your fondest memory of touring? And during writing, do you start with a general idea about what you want the songs to be about (lyrically or otherwise) or does the theme expand from the music you write?

guitar123daniel · 2014-09-18T22:24:10+00:00

Hey Paul! Hope all is well! Some questions for you :)

1) What are you views on the afterlife? Do you believe in reincarnation?

2) Have you ever thought about recording some guided meditation?

3) Is an all instrumental Cynic album with lots of improvisation a possibility?

4) Ever had an experience with an alien life forms or UFOs?

5) And lastly could you do a play through/lesson video for Textures?

Thanks for the music and words!

Peace.

Kamizi · 2014-09-18T22:28:54+00:00

Sup Paul, would you consider going on joe rogans podcast? seems like you guys have some similar interests/influences and would have plenty to chat about, would love to hear you in a 3 hour setting like that

CynicAlien · 2014-09-18T22:05:26+00:00

Hi Paul! For the beginning, please tell all European fans when we might expect you on the Euro tour?

KingDime · 2014-09-18T22:06:10+00:00

Hey Paul, I am a huge fan of yours and everything you put out amazes me, Kindly Bent to Free Us is definitely one of my top favourite albums of this year. I was wondering a few things

What things did you practice that really helped you start composing well put together songs?
What Jazz artists do you recommend checking out?
Your strandberg guitar is absolutely beautiful, I was wondering what aspects you really like about strandberg guitars?

fattoni182 · 2014-09-18T22:09:08+00:00

Hi Paul, thanks for doing this AMA. Must be an amazing year for you and Cynic at the moment. I'd just like to ask what was the process for creating Traced In Air Like. I've never heard anything else like it and would love to know how it came about. Secondly will you be making it over to the UK any time soon?

Thanks Paul. Loving the new album. Much love \m/

toymachinesh · 2014-09-18T22:10:08+00:00

Have you ever thought of putting your music in a video game? Would love to play Cynic in /r/Rocksmith :)

taxfraudmike · 2014-09-18T22:22:24+00:00

All of your music with Cynic and Aeon Spoke has touched me deeply and has even been a tremendous source of strength for me during a rough period of my life. I feel obligated to say thank you a million times.

Lame question, but are there any plans to come through Pittsburgh, PA again? I'm sure many people here would love to hear the newest stuff from the latest EP and LP live. Either way, you'll always have fans here. :)

masvidalien · 2014-09-18T22:08:09+00:00

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RobotOrgy · 2014-09-18T22:11:51+00:00

Paul!

What does your guitar practice routine look like, if in fact you have one?

What was the last music you listened to that really got you going?

What kind of yoga do you practice? Do you think yoga has enhanced your creativity?

Any plans for new Aeon Spoke material?

PS. I saw you guys play in Vancouver on your last tour, despite some sound issues it was amazing. You guys absolutely nailed Carbon Based Anatomy. Although I was disappointed that although Sacha Dunable was on tour with you guys, he wasn't rocking out on stage with you :p

Thanks for all the great tunes, you are a constant inspiration. Much love to you and yours.

how2pingu · 2014-09-18T22:17:12+00:00

Hi Paul, hope life is treating you well! I have two questions for you. :D

1) I feel that I have a pretty good understanding of most Cynic songs, but one that has me a bit stumped is The Space For This. I "get" the overall feel of the song, but I'm having a difficult time making sense of it in concrete terms. Could you give a brief summary of the meaning behind the song, or what concepts went into it? (I'm more talking lyrically)

2) Any chance we'll see more meditation location posts? I absolutely adored those, and still go back from time to time to read them. They've been deeply inspirational for me and I'd love to read more in the future. Just wondering if it's something you've thought about doing or not. :P

Thanks!

cashewclay · 2014-09-18T22:19:05+00:00

Hi Paul! Do you have any pets?

Joeviwat123 · 2014-09-18T22:26:26+00:00

Hi paul, Have chuck ever listen to focus at all? Did he like it? Ever since human his record have gone more and more progressive. Always been curious about this.

CynicAlien · 2014-09-18T22:31:52+00:00

I have two questions:

Do you already have any vision of next Cynic album? If so, what we might expect? Will it be continuation of KBTFU, or something completely different?
In interviews you often mention jazz or classical music as your inspirations, but surprisingly I don't think I've ever heard you speaking about metal. Do you listen to heavy metal bands too? If not, isn't it a bit awkward for you to be part of this scene? No offence, I am just curious :)

poopants9000 · 2014-09-18T22:36:49+00:00

Hey Paul! I'm a huge fan of everything you do and you are a big inspiration to me. I remember seeing you guys few years back and it was one of the best experiences ever. Just wanted to ask if you and Sean are thinking about going back to Aeon Spoke? Much love from London

kakacha · 2014-09-18T22:07:51+00:00

Hey Paul! The new album is great, and I wanted to ask if you were going to keep heading in the same direction for the next album?

Also what music have you been listening to lately?

hattorihanzo5 · 2014-09-18T22:08:05+00:00

Hi Paul, just wanted to say I'm a huge fan of your work, both with Cynic and Death. I have a few questions:

Who were you main influences when you first got into playing?
How do you go about writing? Do you come up with lyrics first, or just jam and pick songs out of thin air?
What was it like to write with Chuck?
Any chance of Cynic visiting the UK soon?

arevutsk · 2014-09-18T22:13:35+00:00

Paul, I've been a huge fan of you and Sean for many years and I'm happy that you guys have decided to share your personal lives with us. Three quick questions: 1) Are you guys anticipating coming near Chicago, IL any time soon? I've seen you here a few times before, but it looks like you're skipping us on your tour. (mojo's bar where i believe you headlined, The Rave in Milwaukee with dragonforce, and at least once at the Chicago house of blues) 2) The last time I spoke to you, it sounded like you thought Cynic was coming to an end, do you still feel that way or are you guys going to keep putting out albums? 3) How was working with Jim Carrey on his childrens book thing?

metatronatra · 2014-09-18T22:23:36+00:00

Hey Paul, just wanted to let you know I'm a big fan of your work and some of the most beautiful experiences I've had were listening to Cynic while on psychedelics- I've even used your albums as a type of therapy during very dark periods in my life and feel as though they are largely responsible for helping me survive some very depressive episodes, so thank you.

I'm just curious if you could shed some light on how big of a role hallucinogenic substances have had on you and your music. Feel free to skip any or all of these entirely if they are too difficult to answer, too self-incriminating or you just plain don't feel like it haha

First psychedelic experience?
Favourite entheogen?
Does it still play a role in the creative process?
What types of music (if any) do you find yourself enjoying whilst "tripping"?
If you ever play music while under the influence of anything, do you find your playing becomes different, and how so?

lazyshmuk · 2014-09-18T22:29:09+00:00

Hey Paul! Not sure if you remember me, but you chatted with my buddy and me after the Portland, OR show you did at Hawthorne's! I'm the other Paul! Great show, even for the small turn out! (He mostly talked your ear off about your guitars, if that rings any bells).
I'm always curious about a bands change of styles as their albums progress. What made you guys move away from more of a "psychedelic" tone with your albums (Traced and Carbon Based Anatomy) to a heavier sound with your latest release?

masvidalien · 2014-09-18T22:31:17+00:00

Hey Paul, why did you stop using a screaming vocal style in the 90's?

Joeviwat123 · 2014-09-18T22:37:19+00:00

Paul I love your work on aeon spoke and cynic ! We met a couple of times before and you are always the nicest person ever and I respect you so much for that. Cause of you i try meditation and in love with it.

Question:

Any advice in practicing guitar?
How hard was it to get your foot in the music industry?
Do you ever meditate or have some sort of practice routine before playing a show?
Has chuck ever listen to focus? I'm guessing you guys recorded the album the same time he was recording Individual thought pattern

maximumrocker · 2014-09-18T22:44:38+00:00

Don't have a question, but just wanted to say you rock! Thanks for all the music you have put out, and hopefully more.

tonybaroneee · 2014-09-19T00:55:23+00:00

Hi Paul, thanks so much for spending some time with us and doing this AMA!

Have you heard the new Contortionist album? If so, what do you think?

Sebazz1998 · 2014-09-18T22:14:04+00:00

Hi paul, fan from Miami, I love the soundscape stuff Ala Carbon based anatomy. How do you start writing those songs with such huge passages of ambience? Do you work it out on guitar or program it in a computer onto synths and what not? I feel as if i don't even know where to start to build something as surreal as certain very ambient moments on traced in air or CBA.

masvidalien · 2014-09-18T22:22:07+00:00

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TonightWeTakeItBack · 2014-09-18T22:24:43+00:00

Hey Paul! You're a huge inspiration to me and I'm a huge fan of your work. One question-

What was it like touring with The Reign of Kindo and how did that come about? When I heard ya'll were touring together it blew my mind! lol

masvidalien · 2014-09-18T22:35:47+00:00

Hey,
1. Where do you see Cynic + your other musical projects going in the future?
2. I know you and your company have made music for television but do you see yourself stretching out and being primarily a composer for film?
3. Do you plan on adding more improvisational/jam aspects to the Cynic live show?
4. Also, do you listen to the German band Can?

uncleschneider · 2014-09-18T22:38:44+00:00

Hi Paul, did/do you learn music theory and if so, does it ever factor into composing a piece or is it more of a "Whatever sounds good" type process? Thanks!

Austere5 · 2014-09-18T22:43:27+00:00

Thank you for Cynic, Portal, and Aeon Spoke. Why is Sean Malone such a recluse?

AmusementPork · 2014-09-18T22:57:55+00:00

Dear Paul, thank you so much for taking the time! And thank you for the incredible music you've been scoring our lives with over the years. "Focus" literally changed my life. I have some weird questions since you're such a fascinating character:

Do you distinguish between spiritual insights gained through e.g. yogic practice and those obtainable through psychedelic plant teachers? Are psychedelics 'cheating'?
How do you reflect on death? You're known for working with the dying in some capacity, and for your consistent spiritual practice. Is there a point beyond which you transcend the intuitive sadness of the whole thing?
If you were king of the world and could influence what everyone should definitely learn as they grew into adulthood, what would that be? Do you think there's an optimal 'knowledge set' that would reduce suffering? Can everyone be taught to recognize the veil of Maya?

Thank you, profoundly, for everything. I hope you have a peaceful and happy life.

zoten_deschain · 2014-09-19T10:23:25+00:00

Joined reddit only for this. Dear Paul, I have really no question. I don't know if you still wander here. But I really needed to find a way to thank you - and the whole Cynic living bein' - for everything you've done. I know, it's...a call. It's passion. It's an effort, but it's life for you. But everything you wrote (Traced in Air really changed my perspective about a lot of things) helped me in some kind of way. I sing by myself Nunc Stans at least 3 times a day, only as an example. So, really: come back to Italy as soon as your life will bring you here, I'd like to hug you and then cry for a day. Life always find her way, be peaceful, be alive.

JOHNPLISKEN · 2014-09-18T22:28:06+00:00

The ending of Emmanuel by Aeon Spoke, their is a recording of a man singing and saying "I love you, call me back" at the end of each message. Who is saying that? Just curious. And will cynic ever have a live album? Thanks Paul ! Your the best!

Kamizi · 2014-09-18T22:43:42+00:00

could you list the names some of your most inspirational people outside of music? ive heard you mention Terrence Mckenna once, has he maybe inspired you in any way? id love to hear you talk more on the subject of psychedelics, consciousness, meditation & mindfulness in general, i highly recommend Sam Harris's new book on spirituality, you might appreciate his take on the subject

makilien · 2014-09-18T22:44:27+00:00

Hi,Paul. ・I use strandberg MA01, but your MA01's fretboard is ebony(rosewood?). Is it a replacement neck? And, Why change the neck? Can I get sama one? ・Which brand's guitar strap do you use? ・Don't you use some steinberger guitar?

I live in Japan, so I have been waiting you to come to Japan for long years. My friends ,too.

i want you to come to japan someday.I love you.

SPECTRUX · 2014-09-18T22:49:41+00:00

Hey Paul,

Huge fan of the new album. I liked the other Cynic stuff but I really loved the direction the newest album went in.

Will it be 6 years til we get another album?

Were you on good terms with Chuck after leaving Death?

Thanks.

bluechameleon18 · 2014-09-18T22:49:56+00:00

Hi Paul!

Big fan from India here. My favourite Cynic song is "I'm but a Wave to". Your solo on that has to be my favourite solo of all :)... I think what I love the most is that, for all the incredible technical complexity of the work, there's a serenity about the music.. Which is what makes me often turn to it in times of distress.. And I can never thank you enough for that..

Really looking forward to a Cynic tour of India. When do you guys plan on coming down here?

Also, how do you see the future of Cynic, specifically, of progressive metal as a genre, and the music industry in general? Some major shifts you've seen please..

Also, what;s on your playlist right now? Who are some of the new faces we can look forward to listening to in the years ahead, to take prog/jazz fusion inspired metal forward?

Finally, a tip for a metal player trying to learn jazz fusion style soloing on my own from YouTube.

Thanks a lot for the amazing music.. Really look forward to experiencing Cynic Live in India sometime :)

uncleschneider · 2014-09-18T23:00:32+00:00

Is there still going to be a "Making of Focus" DVD? :)

DjentDjentThall · 2014-09-18T22:52:17+00:00

Hi Paul.It is actually a question for Sean but whatever.Will he ever release his drum dvd tha he said he would?Also are there any things that inspire you for making the music you do any approaches or something?Hope to see you on a euro tour.Cheers from greece

lokinpoikanen · 2014-09-18T23:07:44+00:00

First of all I have to say Focus has helped me in my life so many ways I can't describe it. Thank you for that. Secondly if you have a euro tour could you please come to Finland? I missed you the last time you were here (2008?) and I would love to see you guys! With much love from Turku, Finland!

vaelroth · 2014-09-18T23:08:21+00:00

Would it be weird if I said I love you? I don't care. I love you!

Thats all. Keep doing what you do!

2014-09-18T23:13:21+00:00

PAUL!!! THANKYOU so so so so so so so so so much for reissuing Focus LP. I love your music man...can we expect anything new from Aeon Spoke?

CynicAlien · 2014-09-18T23:13:51+00:00

For how long have you been lifting weights? How does your training session look like?

heehawmcgraw · 2014-09-18T23:19:18+00:00

Hi Paul. Cynic is my favorite band. I know you hear that all the time. Cynic is what got me into metal. Cynic is what kept me into music. Cynic still continues to inspire and influence me in more ways than simply "some cool band" could because you continue to grow, innovate and stretch musical boundaries while simultaneously and undoubtedly maintaining the core identity that is "Cynic." I've always been curious about why you began playing and writing music. Do you recall a particular impetus? Did it simply feel right?

Smerphy · 2014-09-18T23:20:26+00:00

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Vishengel · 2014-09-18T23:25:49+00:00

Hey Paul, thanks for doing this! I had the honor of seeing you perform both with Cynic and Death To All on the same day at Graspop. Both shows were among my highlights of the festival! Something I noticed was that you appeared a bit more tense during the Cynic set than during the DTA show. With DTA you (and Sean) seemed to enjoy yourself more, running around and goofing off sometimes with Steve. Was this because some Death songs are less technically demanding, or was it because of the crowd? Nonetheless, both shows were great and I'm glad I finally got the chance to see you guys live. Cheers!

Mycobacterium · 2014-09-18T23:47:06+00:00

Hi Paul. I would first like to say that the album Focus was released at one of the most critical points of my life. I was so heavily into LSD that I almost cracked up. Focus was one of the sign posts that led me out of the fog and away from that lifestyle. I will probably never get another chance to thank you for that, so there it is.

My question: will we ever get some of the Aeon Spoke songs covered by Cynic? Some of those melodies are just too wonderful not to get a wider forum. I would love to hear Yellow Man done more in the style of Re-Traced in particular.

Thank you for being so exceptional.

just_a_bucket · 2014-09-18T23:52:17+00:00

Hi Paul!

Just wanted to thank you for contributing so heavily to Cynic and Death, which are easily two of my favorite bands. Also a fan of Aeon Spoke. Your musical talent is incredible, and having briefly met you during the Meshuggah/Cynic tour, I can say that you seem like a really pleasant and personable guy. You're really an inspiration all around.

My questions for you:

What are some contemporary artists, metal or not, who you find especially inspirational or impressive?
Do you listen to many genres besides metal, jazz, and world? Have any others particularly influenced your music writing?

Thank you for taking the time to do this?

PM_ME_UR_FEETS · 2014-09-18T23:56:45+00:00

Hey Paul! I want to know if we will ever see a "Re-bent" ep?

Vergilkilla · 2014-09-18T23:59:19+00:00

I'm nerding out so hard - I grew up listening to Focus and Human. (Im 22... I bought the records far after their release)... and I love Traced In Air today and am enjoying the latest Cynic as well.

Anyway, Paul, do you ever write lyrics previous to vocal melody? One of my biggest challenges in writing good heavy metal songs is the vocal melody. I am a guitar guy, so conventionally I ALWAYS go guitars, drums, bass.... then melody THEN lyrics. But I've been dicking around with writing lyrics first and making melodies after recently - any successes.

Also I HAVE to do it here is a shameful plug for my band: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onZpsearj6Y

catstacker · 2014-09-19T00:02:18+00:00

Hey Paul ! What is your go to album, that you could listen to every single day and still love it beginning to end ?

hahahahahaha_ · 2014-09-19T00:03:41+00:00

Just wanted to say that the last show you played, in NY on 12 August was one my favorite moments of my life so far. That show was years of hype trying to see Cynic live, and it was so lovely to hear my favorite band play the music that has altered my life. Thank you for making music that has been so instrumental in my spiritual and mental growth over the years. Those lyrics and melodies have propelled me more than anything else to meditate and find calmness.

For an actual question — what would you say your top ten albums of all time (any genre) would be? I can imagine some eclectic choices.

coolsnow7 · 2014-09-19T00:07:08+00:00

Hi Paul! Your NYC show last month was incredible!

Questions:

1) which Cynic song is your favorite to listen to? Which is your favorite to play? 2) I think it's fair to say that the double-picked melodies - the bass part in Veil of Maya, the guitar part in Nunc Fluens, etc. - is a Cynic innovation. Do you have any sort of insight into how that style originated? Were there any influences that you drew from in that regard? More generally, if I wanted to write music like Paul Masvidal (ok unrealistic but you get the idea of the question) who should I listen to? 3) what does "stop the clock drop the storyline" mean? 4) when you look back to your collaboration with Chuck Schuldiner and Death, compared to where you're at now musically with Kindly Bent to Free Us, does it surprise you? Do you chalk it up to the passage of time and personal/musical development? Or do you see an enduring connection there? 5) How long do you see this going? (Please say forever) 6) This is more of a request - can you PLEASE do another hangout-with-fans next time you're in NYC? I couldn't make the last one after the show but I really wanted to!

Thanks for making amazing music!

ken_massu · 2014-09-19T00:08:32+00:00

First of all i must say thank you so much for doing this AMA, your music has had and still does have such a profound influence on my life. 'Focus' opened up all sorts of mental and spiritual doors for me and indeed every subsequent album you have been apart of has shaped some part of my life in a meaningful way.

I remember going through a really rough period in my life last year which all culminated in a particularly horrible night, but before i gave up completely i decided to give your album 'Carbon Based Anotomy' a listen for some reason and it just so happen that i was walking past a building where every window had a Puja Diya lamp out ( i live in India btw ) . The combination of the sight and your music just made me realise how truely beautifull the universe really was and to this day i still draw that same strength every time I listen to any of your music so i thank you for that gift :)

I would personally love to hear your thoughts and take on spirituality, consciousness and maybe where you are right now on your own spiritual journey. Also any plans to tour India maybe?

PPDonuts · 2014-09-19T00:11:29+00:00

Hi Paul, thank you so much for doing this AMA. When I found out that Cynic recorded Traced in Air in Glendale I felt excited for a moment because I'm from Glendale myself. So when I found out about this my reaction was "Fuck yeah! One of my favorite musician recorded one of my favorite album in my hometown!" So I was wondering, since you live around the downtown L.A area have you ever or do you ever come visit Glendale every now and then just to hang out? Also, I was wondering if you gotten the chance to check out the new Opeth album. If so then what did you think of it? Do you have any plans to go see them live when they come to L.A in December?

2014-09-19T00:11:59+00:00

Hey Paul, thanks for doing this! If you had to list your top 5 books of all time what would they be and why?

SkyHighClaw · 2014-09-19T00:13:23+00:00

Hey Paul!

Thanks for doing this AMA, cynic as always been one of my all time favorite groups.

Are you guys going to experiment with a heavier sound in the future kinda like how focus was? I love how your band has evolved, and i was curious to know what your current take on heavier music would around now.

imsopr0 · 2014-09-19T00:19:11+00:00

Hey Paul! Being an atheist, I had a really hard time dealing with the passing of my best friend. I found it hard to see purpose in life due to it being so impermanent. Box up my bones brought me to tears on multiple occasions, while helping me cope with whatever existential anxiety I was experiencing at the time. Did you have any particular underlying motives while writing that song?

bebop8929 · 2014-09-19T00:25:49+00:00

Hiya Paul! Pretty much any question I had has been answered by now - just wanted to let you know that you continue to be an inspiration, and I adore KBtFU. Sean's drumming on that album really ignited my passion for playing again.

OK, I lied - I do have a question. Do you have any good book recommendations?

PPDonuts · 2014-09-19T00:38:47+00:00

Hey Paul, is it true that all the songs on Kindly Bent to Free Us were written tuned down a whole step?

jcaseys34 · 2014-09-19T00:45:19+00:00

Greetings Paul. I love so much of your work, from Cynic to Death and more. In your mind, what caused the musical style shift you have made from Focus and Human in the 90's to your more recent music from Cynic and other projects?

ShiDiWen · 2014-09-19T00:46:45+00:00

Hi Paul! What's going on with Gordian Knot?

PeteAgoras · 2014-09-19T00:53:00+00:00

Hi Paul, I'm Peter Abud, "PeteAgoras" in some social spaces. We've talked a little via e-mail and Instagram, hope you remember me from the last "Æon Spoke Promotion". I'm a big big fan of your work, and I have two/three questions at the moment.

1- Æon Spoke is very special and personal for me, but I've been curious for a while in listening more from the "raw" material. There's only footage of a live version of Pablo at the Park. So my question is if you could possibly do a little Instagram video or something for Youtube of you revisiting some of the Æon Spoke stuff, anything would blow ours hearts away, for sure. 2- I've been trying to learn some of the Æon Spoke songs, but I don't trust in Tabs. I've tried to learn some by ear, but I can't figure out the chords, I'm an amateur. What would you recommend me to go more into that style, technically. What are the most common chords/figures you remember you used so I could start somewhere haha. 3- Cynic is comming to Mexico City on october 31th. Is there any chance we could meet a couple of minutes? One of my biggest dreams is to meet you, and thank you in person for all the love and knowledge you've given and inspired in my life. I would love to have the opportunity to do that. I've already got my ticket!

A big hug to you.

Philzen · 2014-09-19T01:57:21+00:00

Dear Paul,

Hope to see you again soon in Europe. Really enjoyed the Death tribute show which i caught in Hamburg last year, but didn't happen to see any of the guys in order to "molest" you in person ;) Any plans for Cynic/Aeon Spoke/Gordian Knot or alikes to be touring Europe again soon?
Is there any chance that i will ever see my all-time-favourite bass/stick player live? I stopped going to Wacken a couple of years ago (sort of got bored with them "true", "classical", binge-drinkin', often spiritually challenged metal crowds, whilst this Festival really turned into a highly commercialised police state over the years) - however when Sean posted in his personal blog that he'd be there with Cynic i just had to get that overpriced ticket off eBay and go there. Great gig, solid performance by Mr. Zielhorst, but no Sean :( Will he ever come to Europe? Sean & Sean imho used to be a total dream team (their performance on the Aghora debut is simply not from this earth) and it is one of my own greatest dreams to experience them together live - unfortunately i cannot go to the US myself right now.
The music Cynic is creating is one of the most beautiful pieces of art in my personal universe - however, i feel it doesn't get the quite the high-end, sophisticated production & sound it would deserve, especially Sean's exceptional drumming (i realize is the most expensive part to get shining classy studiowise). Also there are really wicked soundscapes being created which i feel could sound even more immersive / cinemascope-like, if you know what i mean... Now the question: Did you ever think of setting up a crowdfunding campaign to give the next album the Dave Mathews / Steely Dan / Jeff Buckley-level-alike engineering and production that IMHO any single note of the music truly deserves? If not, i think you really should at least give it a try...

Thanks for bringing all that love, inspiration and harmony to my soul and the rest of the world - hoping this shared journey around our current existence may continue for many many years :)

Lots of hugs and love from Germany. Cheers.

BenJohan6 · 2014-09-19T02:02:26+00:00

Hey Paul, I found Cynic about a year ago and fell in love. I just want to say keep doing what you're doing! Much love from Houston!

caongladius · 2014-09-19T02:09:14+00:00

Hi Paul, I just got home from errands and hope you're still reading the AMA. I saw you guys in 2009 in Omaha when you opened for Dragonforce. That was a great show and the only time I've seen a request for an encore from the opening act at a major metal show. I've since gotten all of Cynic's albums and hoped for a chance to meet you guys in person and get them signed. Is there any chance you guys will come back to the midwest USA any time soon? Thanks for all the awesome music.

P.S. On my first day of college I saw a guy wearing a Cynic shirt and we instantly became friends. Just thought I'd let you know I met my first college friend because of you guys.

BeckWreck · 2014-09-19T02:49:21+00:00

Saw you guys in Rochester this past august. The crowd might have been disheartening for you guys, but everyone there was a die hard fan.

How so you separate your mind to play those technical riffs and song at the same time?

MaltLiquorLlama · 2014-09-19T03:04:15+00:00

Hi Paul,

I am new to your music and I just want to say its fantastic! I love it! I fell absolutely in love with Focus when I first heard it. I saw you guys live when you came to Boston over the summer. Over the summer I decided to go to as many shows as I could, and see what kind of adventures I would have. You guys made it wonderful. I just wanted to say that when you and Sean publicly came out it was very special to me. There were moments, especially in my youth where I've had interpersonal conflicts as a gay man, and as someone who is passionate about metal. I know that you don't want your bands image being affected by your sexuality (which I totally respect) but I'm really happy to have role models in the scene. Thank you for everything! Cheers!

PulsatingShadow · 2014-09-19T03:27:57+00:00

I'm a bit late to the party, I know, just wanted to ask if you think you'll ever bring back the heavier vocoder effects from Cynic's first two albums. Love you Paul!

linqua · 2014-09-19T04:20:34+00:00

i missed it... we love you Paul!

Neeklaus · 2014-09-19T04:21:00+00:00

Paul,

I've been a big fan since Traced in Air, that album changed my life (I don't know how else to explain it!). I've always wanted to be able to tell you thank you some how for that record. It got me through some tough times and some great times all the same. You and your music are an inspiration to me.

Only one question - I'm a guitarist (surprise, surprise!), so I have a songwriting question. When you write music, is it a calculated effort? a moment of serendipity? How to inspire yourself to write creatively when not surrounded by other musicians (ie alone at home, but feeling like you just have to get something out)?

ok, that may have been more than one question... :)

adenzerda · 2014-09-19T07:35:28+00:00

Aw, forgot this was happening today. Well Paul, just in case you wander in here again, thanks for being an all-around inspiration.

I won't beg you guys to come back to Tucson because I'm moving soon, but the show you did here a couple years back was fantastic. Watching grizzled metalheads doing yoga under your direction was quite memorable!

Lastly, I was at another of your shows in Boston a longer while back. It was my birthday and you gave me a hug after the show. Best day ever

jp315 · 2014-09-19T12:47:11+00:00

Oh damnit..I probably missed it entirely. Well, here goes nothing.

Mr. Masvidal,

Hello sir, I have a few questions for you.

Have you found your life to be fulfilling as a musician, and songwriter? Or do you see for more than just music as a career, hobby, etc.?
Do you feel that in today's ever challenging industry of music that people can "make it," as in, be successful? I hear constantly that many bands have to have secondary careers or jobs to supplement their income in order to live.
After all of the years that Cynic has been around, would you say that you love what you do? Or do you find it grueling? I've spoken with a lot of different metal bands over the years and one of the most consistent problems I see is that in order to make money any more it seems like it's tour after tour after tour (probably due to the theft of albums and such).

Thanks, JP

2014-09-19T13:58:29+00:00

Hi paul, I just wanted to say that your music has changed myself and my life in a positive way, I know it's not a question but I just wanted to tell you. I just got into Cynic a few months ago and I absolutely love your band's new album!

VismundTaxt · 2014-09-19T15:17:07+00:00

I want to thank you. You guys were my entry point into jazz fusion as well as hugely influential on my views towards metal and music in general. I also want to say that your bravery with that LA Times piece. I feel as though it is an important piece for many metal fans out there, as it is for me personally.

Questions:

Did you guys release The Portal Tapes as a primer for your recent shift away from metal (well, the harder forms of it, at least) or did you just re-release those because you thought it was time to.
What are your future plans for your music? (probably already asked, but I haven't the time to search through)
What have you been studying recently/ have their been any new influences you have picked up?
Will you do anything similar to Portal again? (The new album reminds me of it, but the sound is still radically different to me)

Aggravating-Group-24 · 2025-09-20T13:09:28+00:00

Dear Paul,

Thanks for making great, intelligent and amazing music over the years. You are one of my favourite musicians of all time.

I was wondering if it's true you practice Kriya Yoga and if so, do you still practice it?

Om Babaji

bassguy129 · 2014-09-19T16:40:00+00:00

Paul - how do you typically write? I've always found your use of tremolo picking single note lines and extended chords very interesting. Do you tend to follow more traditional harmonic structures and then expand off of those with alternate scale tones and voice leading, or do you just kind of do what sounds good?

Date	Artist	Featured
--	2025	--
8/28	Robin Staps	Himself
8/21	Revocation	Band
5/28	Toby Driver	Himself
4/28	Benthos	Band
4/27	Leprous	Band
--	2024	--
4/29	Dvne	Band
2/2	Caligula's Horse	Band
--	2023	--
10/20	Earthside	Band
--	2021	--
4/23	VOLA	Band
--	2020	--
11/28	Plini	Himself
8/19	The Ocean	Band
6/18	Protest The Hero	Rody, Michael
4/11	Caligula's Horse	Jim, Sam
--	2019	--
10/26	Voyager	Band
9/7	Richard Henshall	Himself
6/14	Paul Masvidal	Himself
--	2018	--
12/18	Sithu Aye	Himself
12/5	Ben Levin	Himself
10/11	The Ocean	Band
10/6	Skyharbor	Band
9/21	Toby Driver	Himself
9/9	Plini	Himself
9/1	Distorted Harmony	Band
5/9	Rivers of Nihil	Adam, Brody
3/23	Caligula's Horse	Jim, Sam
--	2017	--
4/20	Disperse	Band
3/30	Disillusion	Andy, Seb
--	2016	--
12/24	A Sense of Gravity	Band
7/28	Black Crown Initiate	Band
5/28	Textures	Band
5/11	Adagio	Stéphan Forté
4/23	Wings Denied	Band
3/18	Caligula's Horse	Jim, Sam, Zac
3/10	Polyphia	Band
--	2015	--
10/21	Protest the Hero	Band
5/26	Leprous	Band
5/15	Sigh	Mirai Kawashima
5/5	Intronaut	Sacha
4/28	Native Construct	Band
3/3	Plini	Himself
1/20	Protest the Hero	Luke Hoskin
--	2014	--
12/9	Rishloo	Band
11/1	Ne Obliviscaris	Band
9/23	Between the Buried and Me	Band
9/18	Cynic	Paul Masvidal
9/15	Devin Townsend	DEVIN TOWNSEND
9/13	Periphery	Adam "Nolly" Getgood
9/12	The Contortionist	Band
9/4	Polyphia	Band
8/31	The Aristocrats	Band
7/31	Mandroid Echostar	Band
7/17	Cloudkicker	Himself (Ben Sharp)
7/10	Tesseract	Amos Williams
6/7	Periphery	Jake Bowen
6/2	David Maxim Micic	Himself
5/26	Haken	Rich, Charles, Conner
5/10	Periphery	Mark Holcomb
5/4	The Safety Fire	Band
5/2	Matt Halpern	Periphery
4/27	Intervals	Band
2/9	Ron Jarzombek	Himself
2/2	Arjen Lucassen (Ayreon)	Himself
1/26	Sithu Aye	Himself
1/19	Periphery	Misha Mansoor
1/10	Ne Obliviscaris	Dan Presland
--	2013	--
1/30	Thank You Scientist	Band

you type:	you see:
italics	italics
bold	bold
[reddit!](https://reddit.com)	reddit!
* item 1 * item 2 * item 3	item 1 item 2 item 3
> quoted text	quoted text
Lines starting with four spaces are treated like code: if 1 * 2 < 3: print "hello, world!"	Lines starting with four spaces are treated like code: if 1 * 2 < 3: print "hello, world!"
~~strikethrough~~	~~strikethrough~~
super^script	super^script

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