Without a word before or between songs, Cynic played their first album, Focus, in its entirety. I had seen them twice before but only in supporting roles, with sets of about 40 minutes. Before this last show, I had only seen them play Celestial Voyage off Focus, a great track, but among many other greats. It was refreshing to see them be able to stretch out and really play all their material. It's rare for me to enjoy every song a band plays. This happened the last time I saw Opeth and Atheist, but that's all that comes to mind.
I have to make an aside here, and talk about the final track on Focus, entitled How Could I. Hearing them play this live brought about in me a kind of high I'm not sure I've ever experienced at a show. It's not just that the song is both intensely melodic and technical - most of their songs are this. I think it also has a lot to do with the song's lyrics. Here's a link to them playing it at Wacken in 2008, the lyrics are in the drop-down description. But what really gets me about this track is the final two minutes or so. I think Jason Gobel's guitar solo on that song is probably the most beautiful I've heard. On top of that, Paul Masvidal's guitar riff(s) behind it are out of this world. AND they work so well together. Both elements are gorgeous in their own right and their interaction is so complementary.
Speaking of Paul Masvidal, is it possible to not be totally gay for Paul Masvidal? Beyond his appearance and talent, I am really attracted to the ease with which he is happy. I've known a few other people who are quite "good" at being happy, and it never fails to attract me. Anyways, hanging out with him and the rest of the band after the show was a pleasure as always. (They even signed my tour poster!)
This seems a good jumping off point for a discussion of sexuality. I have plans for a more thorough post on my sexuality, and sexuality in general. It's not a black & white business after all. Coming soon!
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