New York-based composer and producer Nick Marks is a virtuoso musician who crafts instrumental creations that shine with their innovative composition and exceptional performance. His music is a fusion of jazz harmonies, electronic textures, grooving rhythms and cinematic aesthetics, offering something that dazzles musos and entertains casual listeners alike.
Born in Melbourne, Australia, Marks was steeped in a diverse musical upbringing, drawing inspiration from jazz, neo-soul, R&B, funk, Latin and hip hop. His journey as a conservatory pianist, coupled with a passion for film scores and synths, has shaped his unique approach to music. Since his relocation to New York in 2016, Marks has become a respected composer, producer and musical director, leaving his mark on feature films, television and collaborative projects with artists across across various styles and genres.
Last year he unveiled his sound as a solo artist with the debut single “Ride The Dragon” and has shared his highly original sound across multiple singles and his first EP Cinematic Chromatics Vol. I. Now, following a remix of his first single by Horatio Luna, he brings us his latest release with the new single titled “Back To Life.”
This time linking up with rapper and drummer Doron Lev, the pair lay down a slick alternative hip hop outing cut with funky vibes. “Back To Life” is a soundtrack of determination, finding silver linings amidst challenges and embracing intuition even when the destination is uncertain. Opened by soft electric piano flutters, playfully dancing as colourful synth shots and a snapping beat form an intoxicating groove. Processed vocal lines snake among bright brass pips, resulting in a vibrant arrangement for Doron Lev’s razor-sharp rapped flows to roll above.
The uptempo energy gives way half way through the track with a rhythm switch up that spins a head bobbing beat, laid back vocal work and smooth horn touches. In less than three minutes, the two artists take you on a wild ride packed full of twists and turns while remaining thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. It’s the perfect mash up of the rapper’s smooth vocal delivery, the astonishing musicianship of Nick Marks and the dazzling creativity that arises from their partnership and sonic chemistry.
The creation of “Back To Life” has a fascinating backstory that blends a stretched timeline with a flurry of spontaneous creativity. Having originally made the beat and instrumental back in 2021 as part of an NPR podcast score, the piece ultimately went unused. However, more recently Nick sent a bunch of demos to his collaborator Doron Lev who immediately jumped at the track and during a late night studio session, he freestyled the lyrics, bringing a once forgotten track a new and exciting lease of life.
Listen to Back To Life below
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