In 1999, former Cynic bassist Sean Malone startled the metal and progressive rock world with the self titled debut release from his Gordian Knot project. Featuring a line up of renowned musicians, it blurred the distinction between rock and metal. Gordian Knot is a defining statement for the genre. Featuring Malone joined by members of King Crimson, Dream Theater and Watchtower, the album has since sold over 12,000 units worldwide. Three years in the making, Gordian Knot's follow up release, "Emergent," pushes the envelope even further. Perhaps heavier and more complex it seemlessly blends rock, metal and fushion. Once again, Sean Malone has surrounded himself with a stellar cast of musicians : Sean Malone, bass/stick (Cynic), Jason Gobel, guitars (Cynic), Bill Bruford, drums/percussion (King Crimson, Yes, Gensis), Steve Hackett, guitars (Gensis), Jim Matheos, guitars (Fates Warning), Sean Reinert, drums/percussion (Cynic) and Paul Masvidal, guitars (Cynic). In addition to the notable appearances of Bill Bruford, Steve Hackett and Jim Matheos, "Emergent" marks the historic studio reunion of the original line up of Cynic, who sold over 60,000 records worldwide. Scott Burns, studio godfather of the death metal sound of the 90's and producer of Cynic's "Focus" album, has returned to produce the album.

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