Artist: Nick Marks Single: Alpha Bete Genre: Neo-Soul, Groove, Jazz Release Date: July 12th, 2024
Nick Marks’ latest single “Alpha Bete” continues his tradition of blending genres into a seamless, boundary-defying symphony. Following the acclaimed EPs Cinematic Chromatics Vols. I + II, Marks returns with a track that promises to be the first of many leading up to Cinematic Chromatics Vol. III.
“Alpha Bete” is a masterful fusion of jazz, neo-soul, and electronica, showcasing Marks’ ability to traverse between the realms of concert music and underground scenes. The track opens with a nod to Chick Corea’s Return to Forever, setting a neo-soul/lo-fi tone with its Rhodes chords. The Juno synthesizer, Roy Hargrove-inspired horns, and a bassline reminiscent of Parliament and Rogers and Zapp create a rich tapestry of sound. The addition of a 21-piece string section, arranged by Marks, elevates the track to cinematic proportions.
The origins of “Alpha Bete” trace back to March 2020, during the first wave of the pandemic. Marks, like many musicians, began collaborating virtually, sending stems across the globe. The initial neo-soul chord changes, recorded on Marks’ piano, evolved into a full-fledged track, driven by the discovery of a compelling Juno synthesizer sound. This sound became the backbone of the track, transforming the initial piano chords into a vibrant, electronic beat.
Marks’ influences shine through in “Alpha Bete.” The track pays homage to the soulful spirit of Donald Byrd, Curtis Mayfield, and Marvin Gaye, with the strings adding a timeless quality to the grooves. The collaboration between different elements—lush jazz harmonies, soulful horns, and electronica—creates a unique and immersive listening experience. The Budapest Art Orchestra’s contribution further enhances the track’s grandeur.
The accompanying music video, featuring internationally renowned dancers “Poppin’ Mike” and “Cruzito,” was shot between New York and Zurich, adding a visual dimension to the track’s global and collaborative nature.
“Alpha Bete” is not just a song; it is an experience. It seamlessly bridges the gap between concert music, film scoring, and vibrant underground scenes, making it a standout track in Marks’ discography. Fans of Berklee jazz, neo-soul, and groove music will find much to love in this smooth, modern track. With its infectious grooves and boundary-pushing instrumentation, “Alpha Bete” sets the stage for the highly anticipated Cinematic Chromatics Vol. III.
As Marks continues to push the boundaries of genre-blending and cinematic music production, “Alpha Bete” stands as a testament to his prowess as a genre-blurring virtuoso.
Check Nick Marks out on socials:
https://www.nmarksmusik.com
https://www.facebook.com/nmarksmusik
https://open.spotify.com/artist/24oDE0vaH0JH83VNAQ7pGL?si=z6-Xsd3iSoWs7VPsXgf3YQ
https://soundcloud.com/nmarksmusik
https://nickmarks.bandcamp.com/music
https://youtube.com/@nmarksmusik
https://www.instagram.com/nmarksmusik/
"Alpha Bete” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating DA DA DA - Best New MusicWe discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
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