“In 1973, at the age of 22, singer-songwriter Gary Marks self-produced his first album, Gathering. It is now considered a classic, a totally unique amalgam of folk-rock-jazz that seems to get richer and more powerful through the years.

It came out on the prestigious “JCOA” label, run by Carla Bley, in 1974. By 2005, original copies went for $400-500 on e-bay until the well-respected European record label Kindred Spirits found a copy in Jazzanova’s collection and contacted Gary Marks - who is still very much active as a musician/writer - to license to album.

While the music and lyrics are timeless, and Marks’ voice is rich and subtle in its delivery, what makes the album extra special is the fact that his band included guitar legend John Scofield, the renowned jazz pianist Michael Cochrane, and one of the top vibraphonists in the world, David Samuels.

At the time, none of them were known to the general public. In fact, Gathering was the recording debut for each of them.

Gary played guitar and sang live with the band on these tracks. No overdubs were used, and all nine tracks were first takes.”

“. . . A flow chart of ‘Upon Oanda’s Wing’ might closely resemble some of Milton Nasciemento’s EMI albums, which still serve as a paragon for anyone trying to be equally convincing across the board, from tight vocals and arrangements, to wide open instrumental playing.”

“70’s Folk Jazz Singer-Songwriter Gary Marks’ legendary third album is released on CD for the first time!

Participants include John Scofield, Art Lande (Rubisa Patrol), Paul McCandles (Oregon), and others.

This is the culmination of Gary Marks’ early (70s) trilogy, following his now classic first album “Gathering” and his second album “Upon Oanda’s Wing.”

This album is a masterpiece that, along with his first two albums, have influenced the record-buying lives of many music listeners. His music and lyrics were far ahead of their time. Such an important musician. Such an important work.

I will listen to Thoughts of Why many more times. But I’ll listen to it alone. I think that’s the right way to listen to this amazing album.”

“Marks is a meticulous craftsman, injecting his modern rock sound with interesting harmonic subtleties and powerful lyrics.”

“Marks shows a knack for combining a catchy and memorable song with mature and often brilliant lyrics about love, relationships, and finding a place in the world. . .always a rare thing in the world of commercial music.”

“. . . Superb song craft. . . keen arrangements. If familiar reference points are Steve Winwood and Bruce Hornsby, Marks demonstrates as much care to the architecture of a song as those two certified platinum stars did on their most recent outings. Each song is intelligent, exceptional . . .”

“An amazing book beautifully written about a critical time in our country’s history. Though this coming of age tale is about a time decades removed, The Dance and the Diamond Sky generates wisdom that directly reflects upon the internal and external struggles we face today. There are no cliches here. There is humor, plenty of drama, and a great ending. A story that needed to be written finally was. . . .”

“I’m so glad I was able to delve into the world evoked by Gary Marks. Marks succeeds in transporting his narrative into the 1960s. In fact, from the first page, I felt like I’d traveled back in time. There’s a lyricism to both the language and the plot that’s mesmerizing. I also loved the real-world facts and historical figures. They added a richness to the text and made it clear that Mr. Marks really knows this world.... Gary Marks is a clear talent.”

“The Improviser might just be my favorite Gary Marks novel yet, and I’ve read them all. It’s beautifully written, it’s funny, it’s insightful, and has a pitch-perfect ending. Musicians will relate on a very special level, but even someone who knows nothing about music will love Josh Martin, and the twists and turns of this unhinged and very extraordinary story.”

“Fascinating story and characters with so much heart.”