Zagreb violinist Marko First releases second album 'First Contact'

Zagreb-based violinist Marko First has unveiled his second solo album, "First Contact," a collection that masterfully intertwines the distinct sounds of jazz and folklore. Recorded live in the studio, the album showcases First's signature style, enhanced by the contributions of three accomplished musicians: Eno Skugler on drums, Petar Ćulibrk on piano, and Goran Delač on bass guitar.

The compositions on "First Contact" draw heavily from folk music, serving as the foundation for intricate arrangements that leave ample space for improvisation and musical dialogue. The album deliberately blurs the lines between genres, allowing folk melodies and jazz improvisations to meld into a cohesive and inseparable whole. First's violin takes center stage as the primary melodic instrument, complemented by the unique textures of the Istrian 'mih' (bagpipe) and 'tambura' (a type of lute), which are integrated into the jazz rhythm section.

While "First Contact" is First's second solo album, it represents his inaugural foray into creating a live studio album where improvisation and spontaneity were key elements. The musical ideas for the album were developed over an extended period, awaiting the perfect moment to be curated into a unified collection. First, a multi-instrumentalist with a background in violin and traditional Croatian instruments, also holds a degree in philosophy and sociology, with a thesis on the philosophy of music.

Throughout his career, Marko First has collaborated with a diverse range of artists and ensembles, including Cinkuši, Massimo Savić, the HRT Jazz Orchestra, and the HRT Tamburitza Orchestra, among many others. His work has been recognized with multiple "Status" awards from the Croatian Composers' Society.