In San Francisco Bay Area, out of the rich, ever-evolving musical landscape, a distinctive voice intricately weaves an acoustic world. Mark Vickness, with his dynamic musical collective, MVI (Mark Vickness Interconnected), recently unveiled their newest album, “In the Rain Shadow”, on May 15, 2023. This outstanding ensemble, independently producing music since its inception, has concocted a treat for admirers of ingenious instrumental music that reverberates with the echoes of nature.
Mark Vickness and friends, namely Mads Tolling on violin, Matt Renzi on winds, Joseph Hebert on cello, Dan Feiszli on bass, Ty Burhoe on tabla, and MB Gordy on percussion, elvishly craft a concept album that kindles powerful themes. Each composition in the album reflects the tranquility and dynamism found in the natural world’s phenomena, especially focusing on the high desert, its geological and meteorological facets.
“In the Rain Shadow” mirrors the grandeur and depth of genres from jazz, classical to progressive rock while delving into folk, acoustic rock, and even modern fingerstyle. This panoramic sonic odyssey enraptures listeners by unifying seemingly disparate musical themes, replicating the interconnectedness of the human family. Every strand of sound weaves into a luxuriant tapestry, manifesting a musical mandala, with each note telling a story and each instrument expressed by virtuosos apprehending and envisaging every corner of human spirit and craftsmanship.
The album organically combines the classical trio (violin, cello, oboe), the jazz quartet, and percussion instruments from around the globe, creating a bridge between various musical landscapes. From funk to rock power chords, Irish 12/8 romp to an ambient textural tapestry, the gamut of rhythmic patterns and melodic compositions can make any lover of good music swoon over the sheer breadth of it.
“In the Rain Shadow” is not just an album; it’s a journey, a story that unfolds with each track. From “High Desert” to the title track “In The Rain Shadow,” it traverses through evocative melodies encapsulating the weather patterns, the play of light in “Cloud Shadows,” nature’s enigma in “On the Cliffs of Mohr”. Each composition transports the listener to the serene beauty and profound tranquility of the rain shadow, mirroring life’s ebb and flow.
The ensemble also released high-definition live videos that capture their vibrancy and skill, reinforcing the artistically progressive spirit embodied in their concerts. Testament to Mark Vickness’s genius is his mention in Robert Cassard’s ‘Best Guitarist Composer You’ve Never Heard“, where his performance captivates audiences.
Society often brackets artists into genres. Of course, MVI defies this convention, allowing itself to breathe within the realms of global fusion, contemporary instrumental, and acoustic, while embracing the sophistication and complexity of jazz fusion, embracing the peace and nostalgia attached with classical music, all resulting in a unique blend of music that is hard to categorize but easy to fall in love with.
Mark Vickness began his journey in music learning piano at six, eventually becoming an illustrious composer and a modern finger-style guitarist. His multifaceted career has included film and dance scores, performances with acclaimed musicians, and contributing to the award-winning ensemble, The Turtle Island String Quartet. He has explored various genres, from free improvisation to West African drum and dance ensembles, to Big Band Jazz, always pushing boundaries and fostering rich, creative collaborations.
“In the Rain Shadow”, marinated in the expert mixing and production skills of Vickness and Dan Feiszli, is more than just a series of beautiful notes strung together. It’s a comprehensive element of music – a mirror into the souls of its creators, a communion that transcends borders and forges bonds.
Eager to experience the music of Mark Vickness Interconnected? The album’s full streams, along with live performances, are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple. While there, don’t forget to follow and explore his website. For more updates, join the MVI family on Facebook and Instagram.
Harnessing the elements of earth and air, “In the Rain Shadow” paints a splendid masterpiece across the canvas of the heart, proving music’s power to speak universally. This intricate cohesion of sounds could just be the sonic antidote we need in a world craving connection. Embark on the journey when you’re ready, these intricate melodies await – in the rain shadow.
