Paul Masvidal

Co-founder of the iconic progressive band Cynic, known for pioneering the breath metal scene—a unique fusion of progressive, experimental, ambient, and ethereal sounds—Paul Masvidal's solo acoustic ambient music has been described as cathartic heart songs.

Mythical Human Vessel was produced by three-time Grammy winner Warren Riker (Lauryn Hill, Fugees, Santana). Drawing on influences from musicians such as John Lennon, Brian Eno, and Elliott Smith, as well as visual artists like Mark Rothko, Cai Guo-Qiang, and Hilma af Klint, the songs embrace concise forms and catchy melodies despite often addressing painful subjects like loss, depression, and heartache. In Masvidal's view, "pain is not something to be feared but embraced as inevitable and, ultimately, a doorway."

Billboard described Mythical Human Vessel as a work that "finds Masvidal at his most vulnerable, often with just a guitar and vocals, while experimenting with brain entrainment, a series of pulsing sounds that are said to lead to enhanced neural perception and memory."

Ben Ratliff of the New York Times referred to Masvidal's "philosophic lyrics," stating that he is "a musician who can expand his own sense of calm into an aggressive, extravagant art."

Experience songs from his acclaimed Mythical Human Vessel, Aeon Spoke, and Cynic catalogs up close.