Nick Marks drops brand new EP

Nick Marks is a New York-based composer, producer and musical alchemist who crafts stunning listening experiences through his astonishing instrumental creations. His music, often a blend of jazz harmonies, electronic textures and cinematic aesthetic, forms a groundbreaking sound that reveals a remarkable display of innovative composition and incredible musicianship.

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Marks was immersed in a melting pot of influences from an early age. Jazz, neo-soul, R&B, funk, Latin and hip hop all contributed to his musical upbringing. Trained as a conservatory pianist with a deep-rooted passion for film scores and synthesiers, Marks brings together the real and surreal in his compositions.

Since his relocation to New York in 2016, he’s staked his reputation as a sought-after composer, producer and musical director, with a portfolio that spans feature films, television and collaborative projects with cross-genre artists. His music has resonated in prestigious venues, including the iconic Carnegie Hall. Recent releases have garnered attention on influential platforms like Spotify’s “Fresh Finds Jazz,” the BBC, Jazzwise, and Bandcamp Weekly.

Now he brings us his latest release, the EP Cinematic Chromatics Vol. I, the first in an ambitious three-volume series that falls under the umbrella of ‘new era jazz.’ This trilogy is set to showcase Marks’ expansive vision, blending jazz and electronica. For this journey, Marks has linked up with the talents of a 21-piece string orchestra and one exceptional bassoonist, performed by the Budapest Art Orchestra.

The EP opens with the track “Prelude/Arc of Light.” This composition pays homage to Marks’ impressionist classical influences, transitioning these principles into a modern ‘jazztronica’ context. The track unfolds with lush string arrangements, enveloping listeners in a warm, sweeping embrace. As piano notes dance over intricate guitar work and lively brass and woodwind textures, a grooving beat emerges, transforming this piece into an exhilarating galactic jazz odyssey.

“Dorongo” takes us on a futuristic jazz excursion, where lively basslines, modern jazz rhythms and soft horn and flute flourishes converge with synthesised wonders. The result is a kaleidoscope of upbeat and vividly colourful instrumental music.

“Paradiso” offers the perfect demonstration of Nick Marks’ boundless artistic talents, composing, arranging, producing and performing on the track. It starts with buoyant chords, setting the stage for a journey of uplifting and exploratory music. Chilled electronica beats intertwine with slick synth textures, resulting in a synth-driven orchestral jam, effortlessly blending jazz, electronica, samba and funk.

Closing the EP is “Ride The Dragon,” a monumental composition where futuristic synths collide with a four-piece horn section, a precise rhythm ensemble and orchestra making for a truly euphoric experience. The track unfolds with the patter of drums, setting the stage for a breathtaking journey through shimmering melodies and intricate rhythmic patterns. It’s a dazzling masterpiece that ebbs and flows through a captivating soundscape.

Each track is brought to life by virtuoso performances, culminating in an EP that’s sure to win over expert musicians and casual fans alike. With the second and third instalments of the series in the pipeline, we can’t wait to see what Nick Marks has in store for us next.

Listen to Cinematic Chromatics Vol. I below