Cynic bassist Sean Malone dies

Sean Malone, bassist of influential progressive metal outfit Cynic, has passed away at age 50. A cause of death has yet to be disclosed. The news comes via Cynic co-founder and frontman Paul Masvidal, who shared the following: "I learned today that Sean Malone has died. I am numb and grief stricken. He had a brilliant mind, a gracious heart and was one of the greatest musicians I've ever encountered. I know that this is a shocking loss for so many fans whose lives he touched with his artistry, as it is for me," Paul added. "Please keep him in your thoughts and listen to his playing to celebrate his life." Malone performed on all three of Cynic's studio albums, including their seminal debut, 1993's Focus. Sadly, he is the second member of Cynic's classic line-up to pass away, as drummer Sean Reinert died in January.