Toronto-based artist Marshall Jacklin pries this question open with every note that leaves his mouth. The classically trained pianist has developed an individual sound that is equal parts past, present and future. Ravel, Monk, Simone, Newman, DangerMouse, Sparklehorse; they all reside in Jacklin’s sonic world. It is pure songwriting and traditional arranging through the lens of modern production; string quartets above 808’s, musique concrete wrapping around wavetable synthesis, Harry Nilson-esque background vocals blanketing Carver-like narrative lyricism. 

I am primarily interested in what songs can be, in my belief that they can exist beyond emotional immediacy; the form can express complex stories with the same diversity of subject as film, literature or painting.

A complete artist, Jacklin writes, produces, performs, arranges and records his material. He has graced stages across Canada, captivating audiences with his crushed-velvet tenor and keyboard virtuosity. He performed alongside rising Ontario acts Ten Kills The Pack, Aysanabee and Jeremie Albino during his formative years, and has opened for indie legends Dizzy and Chastity as a member of the band Native Other. Recently, at The Listening Party, an event that shares new music from emerging artists held at Toronto’s Phoenix Concert Theatre, Jacklin’s newest piece silenced the crowd to a beer can drop.

If you feel a wish to remember the immense beauty and gravity of everyday living, this music is for you.