Mark Zaden - Press

Backstage Pass with Mark Zaden

Soiled Dove
1949 Market Street
Denver

A couple near the stage at a recent Mark Zaden show at the Soiled Dove were by no means Zaden neophytes. They had heard him in St. Croix during a romantic getaway. Perhaps it was Zaden's melodies that persuaded the nuptials, perhaps the couple was sentimental, or maybe they just liked Zaden's music. But no matter the reason, they flew him up from Florida to New Jersey for their wedding.

That was four years ago. This couple is indicative of a small but extremely loyal following. After ten years life as a musician, Zaden feels he's enjoying more focus than during his youth. He has become a talented artist who delivers an intense, emotional performance. Lethargic sound checks are not a part of Zaden's routine. He starts with a brief sound check and moves directly into the show. This might fluster some, but Zaden does the majority of the check with ease and skill as he performs. He also begins with no accompaniment, and as a flawless performer whose songs are deep personal memories, he needs no backup.

Zaden first picked up a guitar at age 12, and after a year and a half of lessons, he was on his own. Years later, he found himself in Vail for a vacation but couldn't resist performing. This led to a ongoing gig. It was that easy. And it stayed that easy for four seasons. Like most anyone, Zaden wanted more-more challenge, more inspiration, more creativity. He headed east, all the way to the Big Apple. Once in New York, the big fish in the small pond became the small fish in the Village. But he managed to get into the studio with friend and fellow guitarist Nunzio Signore. The intensity and creativity of that relationship fed Zaden's energy. With Nunzio's ear for vintage tone, a few songs by Zaden and the latter's drive and commitment, the two cut Zaden's premiere album, "Six Is Fine." The LP actually comprises nine very different, very clear, very intense songs. When asked to pick a favorite, Zaden picks "Embryo," a complex, clever song about life itself. As a songwriter, Zaden says he feels "closer to the songs that come easier, like they were meant to be."

Today, Zaden spends time playing in South Florida and even makes it out our way once in a while. When he's not performing, he's on the phone booking shows. If you call Mark Zaden a talented musician, then you must also call him a talented salesman. From the time he walks into a venue to well after his set, he sells ODs, hands out T-shirts and works the crowd. During a recent performance at the Soiled Dove, Zaden even got some rowdy hecklers to buy him a shot. If that's not salesmanship, we don't know what is. But aren't all musicians just promoters, you ask? Well, Zaden's the best of both.

-Amy Lewis