Cynic - Traced in Air

"Traced in Air" arrived fifteen years after the band's seminal 1993 debut album, "Focus." The band initially disbanded in 1994 but reformed in the mid-2000s to play reunion shows before finally writing and recording this highly anticipated second studio album in 2008.

The 2008 album is distinguished by its intricate fusion of technical death metal, jazz fusion, and ambient music. It layers heavily processed vocals and synthesizers over complex guitar riffs, creating a sound that builds directly upon the foundation they laid with "Focus."

Yes, vocalist and guitarist Paul Masvidal utilizes a vocoder effect similar to the talk box-style sounds used on their debut. This robotic vocal delivery is a signature element of Cynic's sound and features prominently throughout the 2008 record.

The bass tracks on "Traced in Air" were performed by Sean Malone, a returning member who also played on the band's 1993 debut, "Focus." His distinctive use of the Chapman Stick adds significantly to the album's progressive and jazz-fusion elements.