Long-running (despite hiatus), progressive metal outfit, Cynic, returns with Ascension Codes. 18 (!) tracks mingled with delightful interludes, this latest shows the culmination of over 30 years of growth, development, and experimentation. Continuing to up the bar, Cynic shows that they're ambitious and fearless, and taking metal in new, exciting directions, all while asking the listener to ponder not only the music on display, but questions about genres themselves.

What is metal? How fluid and flexible is it? How far can it go in non-metal directions before it breaks?
Ascension Codes drifts between progressive metal, experimental rock, and almost into the stranger sides of pop, all tied together with skilful instrumentation and cleverly placed, beautifully done interludes. A long way from their death metal roots, Cynic show that they're never afraid to follow their own path, which usually involves blazing their own trails. The road hasn't been easy as of late, either. With the passing of long time members and metal legends, Sean Reinert and Sean Malone, the group suffered some major setbacks, but founder and figurehead Paul Masvidal showed that his resolve and commitment is as strong as his talent. Forging on and fusing elements, Masvidal and crew put their myriad inspirations deftly together for Ascension Codes, Often anthemic, there is an open scope to the album that gives the band full rein to grow and expand. This also allows the listener to focus (no pun intended) on different layers and elements, and create their own experience with each listen. The synthesizers are an interesting touch and add to the soundtrack/cinematic vibe, but never taking away from the guitar artistry that Cynic is known for. Stacked to the gills with gorgeous instrumentation, progressive creativity, and boundless direction, Cynic's latest is not only a welcome addition to their catalog, but to music as a whole.

Airy but earthly, Ascension Codes is a jam-packed 49-minute progressive excursion through time and space. Well played, well written, and well thought out, Cynic's latest comes after some serious setbacks. While it's unknown at this time if this will be the band's swansong, no matter their next direction/decision, Ascension Codes further raised Cynic's already high bar and will continue to inspire as their past releases have done