Renowned Progressive Acoustic Guitar Virtuoso Mark Vickness has unveiled his latest instrumental masterpiece through the collaborative effort of his musical collective, MVI (Mark Vickness Interconnected). The dynamic album, titled In The Rain Shadow, is a conceptually inspired work featuring rich, multi-layered instrumentation and themes drawn from the wonders of the natural world.
The genesis of In The Rain Shadow lies in Vickness's relocation to the high desert, specifically California's Owens Valley, in late 2020. Living literally in the meteorological rain shadow—a region sheltered by a mountain range resulting in less precipitation due to wind patterns—served as the muse for most of the album's tracks. The compositions draw inspiration from geological and meteorological features encountered in daily life, reflecting a newfound appreciation for the extraordinary experience of residing in the rain shadow—described as humbling, awesome, peaceful, thrilling, tranquil, and beautiful.
The 7-member collective behind In The Rain Shadow comprises virtuoso musicians, each contributing their unique expertise to create a musical journey that spans genres and evokes awe-inspiring moments. The album transcends musical boundaries, catering to fans of jazz, classical, progressive rock, and beyond. MVI, as a collective, embodies the concept of oneness connecting all human beings, a vision that permeates the music, creating a harmonious blend reminiscent of a musical mandala.
Expressing his gratitude for the ensemble, Vickness emphasizes that MVI embodies his dream as a composer. Each musician is a skilled soloist with a versatile musical palette, capable of seamlessly transitioning across styles. The collective boasts a classical trio (violin, cello, oboe), a jazz quartet, and percussion instruments from various continents. From funk to raga-style improvisation, interwoven counterpoint to rock power chords, and fast Irish 12/8 romps to ambient textural tapestries, the musicians effortlessly navigate a diverse musical landscape.
To complement the album release, a series of HD live videos accompanies the project. These immersive performances provide viewers with the opportunity to delve into the full experience of one of progressive music's most promising endeavors.
Connect with Mark Vickness and MVI: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify
