Nick Marks, the New York-based composer and producer of ‘cinematic jazz electronica,’ joins forces with MC/rapper and drummer Doron Lev to deliver a mesmerizing and genre-defying track titled “Back To Life.” Approved by Folded Waffle on January 17, 2024, and released on February 1, 2024, this track takes listeners on a captivating journey through neo-soul, hip-hop, and jazz-infused beats.
“Back To Life” is more than just a song; it’s a sonic narrative about resilience and finding silver linings in the face of challenges. The track seamlessly fuses elements of jazz, lo-fi beats, and cinematic nuances, showcasing Nick Marks’ ability to defy genre conventions and navigate different musical landscapes. Marks, known for his cinematic jazztronica, expands his sonic universe, marrying the worlds of concert music/film scoring and the underground scenes where jazz, hip-hop, neo-soul, and electronica intersect.
The backstory behind the track adds a layer of depth to its creation. Initially conceived as beats for a podcast show, these ideas were rejected, giving Marks the freedom to reimagine and bring them to life in a new form. “Back To Life” became a testament to creative freedom, allowing Marks to explore a departure from his usual large ensemble, cinematic jazztronica fusion, into the realms of neo-soul and hip-hop.
The track unfolds in two distinct parts, with the first part evolving into a chilled instrumental beat, enriched with horns and a catchy hook. The second part seamlessly blends in, featuring a trumpet solo that serves as an aural interlude from the heavier, jazz-infused tracks. To elevate the track further, Doron Lev’s contribution brings a dynamic element, adding rap verses that tell a tale of overcoming odds and bringing something back to life.
“Back To Life” is a testament to the power of artistic collaboration, where two musicians from different spheres create something truly unique. The track showcases Marks’ versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories while maintaining a strong emotional connection with the audience.
In conclusion, “Back To Life” stands as a remarkable composition, not just for its musical prowess but for the narrative it weaves—a story of creative rebirth, resilience, and the ability to breathe life into seemingly dormant ideas.
Nick Marks, a New York-based composer and producer, is renowned for his distinctive sound in ‘cinematic jazz electronica.’ Born in Melbourne, Australia, Marks grew up immersed in the diverse musical scenes of jazz, neo-soul, R&B, funk, Latin, and hip-hop.
A conservatory-trained jazz and classical pianist, Marks combines his formal training with a deep passion for film scores and synthesizers, resulting in a unique sonic palette. Since moving to New York in 2016, Marks has established himself as an in-demand composer, producer, and musical director, leaving a lasting impact on feature films, television scores, and collaborations with cross-genre artists.