BOTANIST and THIEF - Cicatrix/Diamond Brush
Yet the connection between BOTANIST's Otrebor and Dylan Neal from THIEF runs much deeper: He played hammered dulcimer in the band from 2013 to 2016. Dylan continues to be part of the extended BOTANIST family, even after leaving active duty since writing the dulcimer and bass parts for 2017's "Collective: The Shape of He to Come."

This personal connection between both bands is reflected in the material of this split-album. BOTANIST's "Cicatrix" consists of four tracks created as a stand-alone experimental session between the recording of "IV: Mandragora" and "VI: Flora." It also features remixed versions of the two "Hanging Gardens B-Sides" EP with different vocal performances , when the band went to Europe and delivered their legendary performance at the Roadburn Festival in 2015.

The botanical term "cicatrix" refers to the scarring that shows on a plant after it has been damaged and the title track points towards the damage that mankind has inflicted on the global flora. This concept easily ties in with the project's ongoing story about a botanist who surrounds himself with plants and flowers in a sanctuary that he calls the Verdant Realm. There he finds solace in the company of the natural world, and envisions the destruction of humankind that will allow plants to make our earth green again.

While the backbone of THIEF's sound has been formed by manipulated sacred chant and choral samples, "Diamond Brush" prominently features live drums and electric guitars for the first time on one of their records. Thematically, Dylan explores a spiritual pursuit of awakening through the experience of transgression and suffering with allusions to Joyce, Salinger, Nabokov, and Mobb Deep. "Diamond Brush" is also intended as a companion to the third THIEF full-length, "The 16 Deaths of My Master", which is slated for release on the same day as the split-album.

"Cicatrix/Diamond Brush" constitutes essential listening to any follower of BOTANIST and THIEF.

Tracklist

BOTANIST

1. Juglans Nigra
2. Styrax
3. Cicatrix
4. Antirrhinum
5. Balete (re-mix)
6. Streptocarpus (re-mix)

THIEF
7. Hyena
8. Firethroat
9. Diamond Brush
10. 2700 Years
11. Acid Queen
12. Corpse Sprout