Greek-American pianist and composer Zack Clarke is expanding conceptions of improvised music in New York. Drawing from classical, jazz, and electronics, the Texas-bred alum pursues new ideas through experimentation and collaboration. Recognized early for his jazz talents, Clarke studied under greats like Danilo Perez. He earned degrees from Boston’s New England Conservatory and NYU, working with luminaries Kenny Werner and as adjunct faculty. Clarke’s debut album, Random Acts of Order, launched his acclaimed catalog of diverse styles on Clean Feed Records, including the electro-acoustic Mesophase and Vertical Shores. His previous works feature free improv with cellist Chris Irvine based on Bach. With a command of genres and a drive to keep pushing creative boundaries, Clarke is an artist to watch on NYC’s avant-garde scene.
Zack Clarke has released a new album, “Plunge,” featuring 16 songs. “Plunge” wastes no time enthralling the listener with its opener, “Alternativefacts.” From the first keys, Zack Clarke delivers a cascading piano motif that races ahead with the relentless energy of a samba percussion performance. His fingers seemingly move at an inhuman pace, yet each note rings with breathtaking clarity. As the undercurrent of rhythm kicks in, joining forces with the lead melody, the track transforms into a full-bodied burst of vibrant movement. The danceable pulse provides the perfect framework to showcase Clarke’s masterful command of the ivories. Yet nestled within the athletic flourishes lies a tinge of melody that arrests the ear with its bittersweet emotion. It’s a seamless fusion of technical skill and musicianship.
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“Mighty” serves as an evocative change of pace. Layered chords pulsate with a simmering intensity as Zack Clarke explores shadier dynamics. Though the groove runs at a more reserved tempo, its understated complexity keeps the listener bolted to the very edge of their seat. “Earnst” has such a playful yet smoldering vibe from the onset. The low-toned keys twist and twirl with a jazzy finesse. You can practically see the smoke and shadows in a speakeasy. It has a simmering sensuality to it while still being light on its feet. The subtle funk undertones keep you swaying along smoothly.
Meanwhile “UNIT” commands your attention from the first epic keyboard strokes. This track is pure cinematic flair – I could picture sweeping landscape scenes as the dramatic keys soar. The unrelenting beats drive the intensity to thrilling heights. It tugs at your emotions with the sweeping rise and falls. It’s the perfect backdrop for epic action sequences on screen.
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“BossHause” exemplifies the album’s blending of avant-garde jazz composition with electronic textures. Precision-tooled crisp drum loops pair with piano melodies containing no pauses or resolutions. Meanwhile, “Fragment” demonstrates the album’s penchant for unpredictable dynamics through drastic shifts. Such targeted breaks dominated by percussion alternate with sweeping rock guitar strikes.
“INPOMID” provides a welcome moment of ease amid the musical hurricanes surrounding it. Zack Clarke delicately unfurls intricate piano lines that twist and turn like a meditative melodic maze. Meanwhile, nimble drumming ensures an upbeat undercurrent, preventing the track from becoming too introspective. It’s the perfect choice to allow ears a brief respite before the climactic finish.
Speaking of which, “Anthem” truly lives up to its name as a rousing album sendoff. Zack Clarke blends jazzy virtuosity with pulsing electronic elements, creating a sonic cocktail that’s as vibrant and effervescent as champagne. It’s a tour de force finale demonstrating the panoramic breadth of Clarke’s vision.
After such an exquisitely eclectic listening experience, “Plunge” leaves its indelible mark with a closing triumph that feels like a joyous celebration of Zack Clarke’s staggering multi-genre mastery. Throughout, a deft compositional hand balances complexity and accessibility. Its upbeat yet methodical flow leaves the mind refreshed, and the spirit uplifted.
To closely follow Zack’s musical journey, you can follow him on Instagram and Twitter
Enjoy listening to “Plunge” by Zack Clarke here.
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