When it comes to ingenuity in music, The Portland Cello Project is the picture of a forward-thinking group. The ensemble, which is made up of a remarkable 8-16 cellists at a time, has invested in the philosophy that ‘collaboration is the ironic cornerstone of independent musicianship.’ Talented team in tow, the group has dreamed up an impressive array of sounds. In their newest album, ‘The Thao and Justin Power Sessions,’ the group has partnered with indie songstress Thao Nguyen and Portland local Justin Power to create a melange of unique flavors to whet your music palette.
Lyrical tracks such as ‘Geography’ and ‘Seeds May Fall’ have more universal hum-along appeal, but the orchestral strength really erupts on the tracks with unaccompanied cellos. In ‘Mouth for War’ the group plucks and wails on their instruments in a way that carries the drama of a film score and the punch of a dance track. Although there are classical elements to many of the tracks, this isn’t your typical philharmonic sound.
Tune in for yourself here to listen to ‘Tallymarks’ featuring Thao. Tomorrow, June 9, the CD is released worldwide and three insane Justin Timberlake covers are available when you buy the album here through Kill Rock Stars.
With a name like PCP, this music will have you hooked.
~Hannah
