Marc Soucy’s latest release, “When I Take The Five,” featuring Antartica, serves as a musical time capsule that highlights their unique blend of jazz and progressive rock roots. This track, recorded live in 1983, is notable for its stylistic purity and stripped-down elegance, featuring only piano, bass, and drums.
In contrast to much of Soucy’s work under the Antartica name, where he often incorporates synthesizers and organs into lush, layered arrangements, this piece provides a refreshing departure. At its core is a classic jazz trio format: Marc Soucy on piano, Jeff Carano on bass, and Ray Lavigne on drums. The performance is vibrant, light-hearted, and richly expressive, capturing the spontaneous energy of a live session while maintaining precision and sophistication.
Soucy’s background in jazz piano, combined with his progressive rock sensibility, breathes life into the composition. The result is a piece that swings with classic jazz phrasing while also exploring harmonic and rhythmic complexity. “When I Take The Five” not only pays homage to jazz tradition but also reflects Soucy’s evolution as a composer who honors the past while creating something distinctly his own.
Listeners are invited to immerse themselves in the warm analog textures and the nuanced interplay between the trio. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or a fan of genre-blending innovation, this track offers a captivating glimpse into Marc Soucy’s early artistry and serves as a reminder that great music transcends time. Ideal for late-night drives or introspective mornings, “When I Take The Five” is a soulful reminder of the magic that happens when skilled musicians come together in the moment and simply play.
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