Brand new EP from Nick Marks

Nick Marks is a virtuoso musician, composer and producer based in New York, whose musical brilliance, innovative compositions and exceptional performances have seen him win over fans around the world. Drawing from a huge range of influences including jazz, neo-soul, R&B, funk, Latin, and hip hop, his music deconstructs elements of different genres and rebuilds them in his own thoroughly original way.

Originally hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Nick grew up in a musically rich environment. His background as a conservatory-trained pianist, coupled with a profound appreciation for film scores and synths, has resulted in a distinct and ever-surprising musical identity. Since relocating to New York in 2016, Marks has earned a reputation as a respected composer, producer and musical director, making significant contributions to feature films, television and collaborative projects.

In 2023, Marks unveiled his solo sound with the debut single “Ride The Dragon,” followed by multiple singles and his debut EP, Cinematic Chromatics Vol. I. Building on this momentum, he now presents the follow-up EP, Cinematic Chromatics Vol. II. This latest release, featuring four tracks and contributions from several talented musicians, showcases Marks’s extraordinary talent as both a composer and musician.

Vol. II bridges the gap between the two main sides of Marks’s artistic vision; the sphere of concert music and film scoring and the underground jazz, hip-hop, neo-soul and electronica scenes that have profoundly influenced him. Marks’s career has explored both worlds and his objective with this EP is to deliver a sound that’s at once accesible and enjoyable while offering something unlike anything else.

The punching beat of “Keep Goin’ Gotta Keep Up” kicks off the release as vibrant dash of sliding tones and staccato pips tumble into place, forming an infectiously grooving jam capped by smooth vocal leads that flow with rapped delivery. Rising with bright synth tones, the chorus serves up a blend sound of stabbing rhythm, wah-tinged funky guitar and catchy vocal leads. Joined by Doron Lev, Andrew Gould, Sam Dillon, Dave Levy and Danny Hayoun, Nick Marks crafts a spectacular sound peppered with warm brass tones, lively drums and a constantly shifting arrangement that distils his diverse influences into a superb track that’s sure to win over everyone from casual listeners to the most experienced musicians.

Previously released single “Touché Hombre” once again features Andrew Gould, Dave Levy and Doron Lev as well as Bob Lanzetti who combine to deliver a bouncy funk infused outing brimming irresistible groove and astonishing musicianship. From the slick brass leads, piquant synth tones and the delicate flute flourishes to the tight rhythm section that bends from steady grooves to intricate fills, it’s a truly charming instrumental jam that sees a group of exceptional musicians bring to life a stunning composition with pure musical flair.

“Back To Life,” a collaboration with rapper and drummer Doron Lev, delivers a slick alternative hip hop track infused with funky vibes. Developing from soft electric piano and colourful synth shots, a snapping beat creates an intoxicating groove as processed vocal lines weave among bright brass pips, resulting in a vibrant arrangement that perfectly complements Lev’s razor-sharp rapped flows.

On “Between Gigs,” Nick Marks casts an immersive sound to close the EP driven by the snap of drums and playful touches of piano plinks and smooth brass runs. Building with bold rhythmic bursts and packed full of an array of different instrumentation, it’s a stellar cut that puts the pioneering fusion style of Nick Marks on full display. With the third instalment of the releases set to drop towards the end of the year, Nick Marks is set to continue sharing his extraordinary musical output across this sensational series of artistic works.

Listen to Cinematic Chromatics Vol. II below