MVI – In the Rain Shadow (self-release, 2023)
On In the Rain Shadow, composer, and guitarist Mark Vickness’ third album, delivers both a musical travelogue and a deeply collaborative statement. While the name suggests a soloist supported by a backing band, what unfolds is far more nuanced: a true ensemble project (Mark Vickness Interconnected) where each musician contributes with expressive clarity and technical command.
At the heart of it all is Vickness himself, whose modern fingerstyle guitar work anchors the record with grace, elegance, and precision. His playing draws deeply from the traditions of American acoustic guitar while pushing into contemporary terrain and world music.
In the Rain Shadow thrives on masterful fusion. Western classical chamber arrangements flow seamlessly into global rhythms, Indian classical phrasing, cinematic swells, and moments of modern jazz improvisation. Notably, the album features stellar guitar, violin, and French horn performances.
Musicians: Mark Vickness on acoustic and electric guitars; Dan Feiszli on upright and electric bass; Joseph Hebert on cello; Mads Tolling on violin; Matt Renzi on oboe, English Horn, saxophone; Ty Burhoe on tabla; and MB Gordy on percussion.
Buy In the Rain Shadow.