Mark Bacino is back with a bang after a 14-year hiatus, and he's not afraid to tackle the big questions with his signature mix of humor and heartfelt reflection. In his latest album, Top of the World, he delves into the complexities of aging, finding inspiration in personal experiences and observations. We sat down with the underground pop icon to discuss his creative journey, the evolution of his songwriting, and the hopes he has for his new music.
The Elephant in the Room: Aging with Grace and Humor
Top of the World is a refreshing departure from the typical narrative surrounding aging. Instead of focusing on loss and decline, Bacino approaches the subject with a lighthearted touch, acknowledging the realities while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
"Songwriting is like inexpensive therapy," he shares. "It reveals what's subconsciously on my mind."
The songs, such as "Flop of the World" and "Shaky Hand," feel deeply personal and relatable. "Flop of the World" is a humorous caricature of a musician past his prime, while "Shaky Hand" draws from Bacino's own experience with an “essential tremor”. Through these songs, he finds a way to express complex emotions with a touch of wit, making the unpalatable more digestible.
Evolution of an Underground Pop Musician
Mark Bacino has been making music since the 1990s, and his sound has evolved over time. Top of the World marks a return to his roots in ultra-melodic, classic pop songs, but with a newfound lyrical maturity.
"I'd like to think the subject matter and approach to the writing has matured along with me and, in turn, an audience kind enough to take this journey with me," he says.
The album incorporates new musical elements, such as string quartets, and explores themes of perspective and opposing outlooks. The title track, "Top of the World," serves as an instrumental reprise of "Flop of the World," highlighting the idea that one person's ceiling can be another's floor.
Navigating the Music Industry and Finding Your Voice
For aspiring singer-songwriters, Bacino offers sage advice: embrace your musical fingerprint and quirks. "Follow your musical heroes as beacons and guides, but don't try to imitate them."
He also emphasizes the importance of financial stability, urging musicians not to rely solely on music for income. "If you free yourself, early on, from the idea that you must make a living making music, your work will only become more creative, interesting and unique."
A Message of Hope and Connection
Bacino's hopes for Top of the World are simple yet profound. He wants his music to reach as many people as possible and have a positive impact on their lives.
"I hope it gives them joy or something to sing along with or to think about," he says. "I hope it can also offer some solace when needed, a distraction from their troubles, or makes folks go, 'Yeah, I feel that way too!' causing them to realize we're all in this thing together."
Thank You for Sticking With Me
In closing, Bacino expresses his gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support throughout his career.
"Over the 26 years now since my debut album found its way into the world and on through the subsequent releases, people have been listening," he says. "I’ve come to learn that folks have been quietly attaching memories and parts of their lives to the music I’ve made. I’m honored, humbled and incredibly grateful."
Mark Bacino’s Top of the World is now available at Bandcamp and on all streaming platforms. Read my album review:
More information at Mark’s website.