Instrumental music from Mark J Soler

Based in Paris, independent artist Mark J Soler is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with mastery over guitars, keyboards, piano and harp as well as the producer of his own material. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of influences, his work brings together the modern and the classical, though at its heart lies a deep connection to Black American music, the cornerstone of his musical culture and taste.

Over the course of his career, Mark has released four full-length records, each marking a new chapter in his artistic adventure. His most recent long-form project, Escapade, arrived in June 2023, taking the perfect snapshot of his explorations up to that point. From there, he shifted his focus towards releasing music in the single format, allowing for a more segmented and varied approach.

Across tracks such as “Manigance,” “Immediate Attraction,” “Joia” and “After the Rain,” he showcased his ability to fuse varied influences with a unique production style. Classical instruments such as cello, horns and strings sit alongside modern arrangements of guitars, bass, drums and percussion, attesting to Mark’s deft hand at balancing tradition with contemporary textures.

Now, however, he ventures into a new creative space with his latest piece titled “The Seventh Wave.” Inspired by his young son’s joy in playing by the ocean, the track sees the artist strip back his usual layered, groove-tinged approach in favour of something much more minimal and intimate; a piano-only composition. Unlike his more common pop, jazz, funk or soul-infused outings, this release leans toward the classical and romantic side of his artistic output.

The concept behind the piece is both playful and poetic, with his son, he jokes that the seventh wave is the lucky one to dive into, a notion that captures both the innocence of childhood and the magic of small traditions shared between parent and child. Set up by the elegant flutter of piano notes, a tender musical scene arrives, developing with airy runs of delicate performance and warm chords forming a graceful ebb and flow throughout.

It’s a delightful instrumental piece that captures a timeless sound, instilled with the moving context of its composition to offer a charming listening experience from start to finish. Showcasing Mark J Soler’s diverse creativity and musical range, “The Seventh Wave” presents a magical musical moment that’s sure to put a smile on the face of anyone who hears it.

Listen to The Seventh Wave below

More from Music

---

Editor Picks

---