Portland Cello Project

By Tre Martinez
Contributing Writer

Every once in awhile, you need to do something off the beaten path. That time has come for F-M area music fans, as the Portland Cello Project plays the Aquarium.

The Portland Cello Project, affectionately referred to as “PCP” by their fans, are a group of cellists (it’s in the name) out to shift your musical paradigms. Their aim is to bring you symphonically inspired music with a few twists. While you may think you have heard this all before (with many Top 40 and rock artists performing with orchestras), PCP are willing to take this one step further, by bringing their sounds to venues that you might not expect. After all, what was the last classical ensemble to play the Aquarium?

Their latest record, “Thousand Words,” is there to prove their cause. Complete with a tracklist ranging from a three-part classical suite, (“The Dream,” written by Rachel Blumberg) to the theme from the popular Xbox game Halo; from the previously unreleased Elliott Smith tune “Taking a Fall,” to the “My Favorite Things” and “Mission Impossible” theme to Dave Brubeck’s “Take 5,” and more.

The album is something rare in today’s world of mp3 one-offs and songs almost designed for television commercials: it is an actual album. It is a musical experience from the first pizzicato, guitar-esque strikes of the opening track “Denmark,” all the way through the last chords of the closing “Élégie.” It is ripe with emotion and technique, showcasing both talented individual musicians and a whole considerably greater than the sum of its parts. Not only is there something here for everyone to like, but also something for some to discover.

For a show from a self-described “indie rock cello orchestra” and a guaranteed unique experience in live music, check out the Portland Cello Project at the Aquarium. Hayley E and The Rydells open.

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If You Go

What: Portland Cello Project, Hayley E & The Rydells
Where: The Aquarium
When: Wed, July 28, 10pm
Info: 701.235.5913