Marc Soucy’s “When I Take The Five” offers a captivating glimpse into the exploratory spirit of early 1980s jazz-rock fusion. Recorded live in 1983 with his trio Antartica—featuring Jeff Carano on bass and Ray Lavigne on drums—this performance stands out for its purity and spontaneity. Unlike many of Soucy’s later works that incorporate synthesizers and layered production, this piece relies solely on acoustic piano, delivering a raw and intimate listening experience.
The composition unfolds with a rhythmic vitality that reflects Soucy’s dual immersion in jazz and progressive rock during his formative years. His piano work is both agile and expressive, weaving intricate melodies that dance over the steady grooves laid down by Carano and Lavigne. The trio’s synergy is palpable, each musician responding to the others with a fluidity that suggests deep musical rapport.
What makes this track particularly noteworthy is its embodiment of a transitional moment in Soucy’s artistic journey. As he was delving into jazz piano studies while composing progressive rock, “When I Take The Five” emerges as a synthesis of these influences. The piece captures the essence of jazz fusion—a genre known for blending jazz harmony and improvisation with rock’s energy and rhythms. This live recording not only showcases the trio’s technical prowess but also their ability to convey emotion and narrative through instrumental music.
For listeners seeking an authentic slice of jazz-rock fusion history, “When I Take The Five” offers both a nostalgic journey and a timeless musical experience. It stands as a testament to Marc Soucy’s early explorations and the enduring appeal of genre-blending creativity.