Setting the tone with a hybrid jazz meets traditional folk energy, Take It Back features captivating and vibrant performances, tapping into a danceable, evocative, and rhythmic frequency. A stunning bass solo and intricately designed violin performance create ebbs and flows throughout the opus, showcasing Cecilia Vacanti‘s dimensionality and mastery.
The composition expands with a glistening acoustic guitar performance, laced with emotion and demonstrating flawless execution. Interwoven with playful violin riffs, the conversational nature of the piece stands out.
A minimalist breakdown featuring violin and guitar, perfumed by Maurizio Fiore Salas, invites us into a more meditative universe, creating a serene and introspective atmosphere. The delicate interplay between the instruments is both soothing and contemplative, with astral notes that evoke a sense of ascension, transporting the listener to a higher plane of consciousness. This serene passage gradually builds in intensity, as the violin and guitar weave together in a delicate dance, their melodies intertwining and complementing each other perfectly. The piece then transitions seamlessly into a dynamic and immersive finale, where the energy and complexity of the music rise to a powerful crescendo.
The finale is characterized by a rich tapestry of sound, with each instrument contributing to a lush and intricate sonic landscape that leaves a lasting impression on us. This carefully crafted progression from minimalism to a full, vibrant climax highlights Cecilia Vacanti‘s exceptional compositional skills and the expressive capabilities of the ensemble.
We learn that Take It Back is the penultimate track on Cecilia Vacanti‘s upcoming solo album Earth’s Dark Shore, and draws inspiration from early swing, gypsy jazz, and progressive acoustic folk icons such as the David Grisman Quartet and Mr. Sun. The track is designed to transport us to a smoky jazz lounge or a moody French café, setting a richly atmospheric scene.
Vacanti leads with her violin, supported by a stellar ensemble featuring renowned folk and jazz mandolinist Ethan Setiawan, Venezuelan guitarist Maurizio Fiore Salas, and avant-garde bassist Brittany Karlson. This powerhouse quartet showcases remarkable stylistic versatility and technical prowess.
Vacanti reflects on the song’s evolution, stating, “This tune started during a different time in my life, and similarly to people, it needed to go through a few life phases before settling into the sound it has now.” The violin solo captures this journey, beginning with a sparse, mysterious tone that gradually gains energy and resolve. Vacanti’s signature fierce yet elegant improvisatory style emerges as the band’s accompaniment builds, creating a dynamic interplay.
We love what Cecilia Vacanti is manifesting, and have added Take It Back to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our brand new TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream her debut single, Ariadne, and anticipate the release of her album!