The Soulful Jazz Fusion of Marc Soucy’s “When I Take The Five”
Marc Soucy’s 1983 live performance of “When I Take The Five” is a delightful jaunt into the world of jazz-rock fusion that will captivate any listener with a fondness for musical experimentation. Featuring Soucy on piano, Jeff Carano on bass, and Ray Lavigne on drums, this track marks an early chapter in Soucy’s career as a composer. The piece elegantly balances progressive rock influences with the smooth, improvisational nature of jazz, creating an experience that’s both lively and introspective.
The most striking feature of this piece is its simplicity—without the layered textures of synthesizers and organs that often dominate Soucy’s works, the piano takes center stage. The absence of electronic elements lends the track a more intimate feel, allowing the intricate piano lines to shine. It’s clear that Soucy, even at the beginning of his journey as a composer, was able to harness the complexity of jazz while keeping the mood light and accessible.
Listeners will find themselves swept away by the infectious rhythms, with the bass and drums providing a steady groove that complements the piano’s playful yet intricate melodies. It’s the kind of track that invites you to listen closer with every play, discovering new nuances along the way.
“When I Take The Five” is a refreshing testament to the art of jazz fusion, offering a joyful, light-hearted ride through a musical landscape that never takes itself too seriously but leaves a lasting impact nonetheless.
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