
Sad news for fans of prog/alt-rock group Cynic. Their longtime bassist, Sean Malone, has passed away at the age of 50. The group recently shared the news with fans.
Cynic’s singer and guitarist Paul Masvidal gave a statement calling Malone a person with “a brilliant mind and a gracious heart“. Masvidal also referenced the bassist as one of the greatest musicians he has ever heard play.
Sean Malone was, also, a well-respected session musician and had written several music theory books. He was described by many who witnessing him play as a virtuoso musician.
Cynic was formed in the late 1980s. They released their debut Focus in 1993, by which time Sean Malone had joined them on bass. The album received numerous positive reviews and was viewed with great respect, especially, in the metal community.
Even though the group often drew comparisons to the Florida Death Metal scene, and to bands like Death, their influences stretched far wider. The group incorporated elements of progressive rock and alternative rock, alongside their poetic, philosophical lyrics.
Sadly, another member of the Cynic line-up that recorded Focus passed away this year. Drummer Sean Reinert was found dead at his home in early January.