Instrumental music lives or dies by atmosphere, and Mark J Soler clearly understands that balance on Walking in the City. The second track from his EP Walks, the piece captures the emotional rhythm of moving through a busy environment while your thoughts drift somewhere deeper.
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Right from the opening moments, the production stands out. The arrangement feels intentional and patient, allowing layers to unfold naturally instead of rushing toward a climax. Rhythm plays a central role here, steady, almost meditative, mirroring the repetitive motion of walking itself. Without relying on vocals, Soler builds a narrative through tone, texture, and pacing, letting listeners project their own thoughts onto the music.
Inspired by life near Paris, the track channels the subtle energy of city movement: footsteps, reflections, passing moments, and quiet internal conversations. There’s a calming quality beneath the groove, suggesting how walking can clear heavy thoughts and reset perspective. The composition gently shifts between introspection and optimism, echoing themes of acceptance, nostalgia, and emotional reset that define the EP’s “inner life” concept.
Soler’s wide influences, from funk and jazz to progressive rock and classical traditions, quietly shape the sound. You can feel echoes of groove-driven legends alongside cinematic arrangements, creating something modern yet timeless. Walking in the City works best as a companion piece: headphones on, mind wandering, world moving around you. It’s less about destination and more about the mental space discovered along the way.
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