MVI & Mark Marshall – Mandolin Spring (2024)
‘Mandolin Spring’, the latest single from MVI, featuring Grammy-nominated mandolinist Mike Marshall, is a vibrant showcase of technical prowess, collaboration, and genre-blending musicality. MVI, founded by guitarist Mark Vickness, was created as a vessel for exploring the universal language of music, drawing influences from global traditions. This latest track exemplifies the ensemble’s ability to transcend genre boundaries while also celebrating their rich, diverse backgrounds.
The track begins with a sprightly exchange between Vickness’s resonant, fingerstyle guitar and Marshall’s crisp mandolin. The introduction sets a lively tone, as if inviting listeners to follow along on a musical journey. As the piece unfolds, Marshall’s mandolin dances through complex, flowing melodies, interweaving seamlessly with Vickness’s guitar and the layered rhythms of MVI’s ensemble. The lineup – violin, cello, oboe, bass, and tabla – fills the track with both a classical sensitivity and a world music edge, accentuating the track’s playful, adventurous spirit. Mads Tolling on violin and Joseph Hebert on cello bring out a lush, melodic depth, while Ty Burhoe’s tabla beats and MB Gordy’s percussion add a worldly, vibrant pulse that is both grounding and transformative.
Marshall’s contribution to ‘Mandolin Spring’ is undeniable. Known for his work across American folk, classical, jazz, and Brazilian music, he brings a wealth of expertise to this collaboration. His mandolin work here is deft and expressive, adding a joyful spark that elevates the entire piece. Vickness and Marshall are both masters of their craft, and their collaboration shines with mutual respect and synergy.
‘Mandolin Spring’ is a testament to MVI’s ethos of interconnectedness. It’s a unique blend of tradition and modernity, familiar yet innovative, driven by the collective genius of its players. This is a track for listeners who appreciate the intricacies of progressive acoustic fusion, showcasing both technical excellence and a spirited, communal energy that resonates long after the final note fades.
Find out more about MVI on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
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