Paul Masvidal and Sean Reinert Reach Settlement Over Cynic Name

Prog metal pioneers Cynic have been in limbo since a little over two years ago, when guitarist/vocalist Paul Masvidal and drummer Sean Reinert publicly feuded over the rights to the band’s name. Reinert first alleged that the band had broken up via their Facebook page, a claim which Masvidal would quickly refute… and then silence. A collection of the band’s early demos, Uroboric Forms, came out earlier this year, but Reinert revealed he had nothing to do with its release.

Reinert insinuated in a late 2015 interview that ambivalence and lack of musical drive on Paul’s end contributed to the drama — while fessing up to his own substance abuse issues — but Masvidal largely stayed out of the public argument on the matter. We’re certain there’s a whole lot of this story that hasn’t, and never will be, publicly known.

This year’s demo release should’ve clued us in to the direction things were headed, but now it’s confirmed: Reinert has reached a settlement with Masvidal to step aside from the partnership of Cynic, the terms of which have not been disclosed, leaving full control to Masvidal. Reinert, who still controls Cynic’s Facebook page, revealed the news last night in the first person:

“Today I post with a heavy heart, but also a lightened spirit. A settlement has been reached between Paul and I in regards to CYNIC. I am unable to disclose any of the details regarding this agreement but I am at peace with the arrangement. I am going to step aside from CYNIC and continue with my personal projects – Paul is going to continue with CYNIC and his.

“I want to take this last Facebook post as an opportunity to humbly thank all of the musicians, engineers, technicians, companies, booking agents, managers, crew, press, labels and friends that I’ve worked with (and will likely continue to) over this past 30-year span.

“Most of all – I would like to thank the fans, who to this day still blow me away with their loyalty and love. You’ve always been the inspiration and the fuel for the machine!

“To Paul, I sincerely wish him and the musicians he hires nothing but the best.

“If you are interested in what’s going on in my world check out some of the links below:”

Love,
Sean

Facebook: Sean Reinert
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/seanreinertofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanreinert/
Website: https://www.seanreinert.com

Cynic without Sean Reinert is difficult to imagine — his drum parts are SO integral to the band’s sound and presentation — but stranger things have happened in the history of member swaps, and we’re sure Masvidal will tap talented musicians to fill in. Meanwhile, Reinert is plenty busy musically, having recently joined the prog band Perfect Beings; check out a sample of their music here.

Paul Masvidal has yet to release a statement on Reinert’s departure. We’ll update you if and when he does.