For today’s helping, I went searching for cellists on YouTube. No particular reason why. I just wanted something instrumental, and a cello was the first instrument I thought of. A couple of clicks later, I landed on this video by Jo Quail, and to be honest, I wasn’t entirely sure what to make of it. I don’t know anything about cellos, and yes, I’m aware I’m starting to sound like a broken record when I say that. I don’t know much about most art forms, but that’s not going to stop me from seeking them out. That being said, I sometimes wish I had more context for some of them. Like with this video.
The first time I listened to it, I’ll admit to being a bit confused. I kept waiting for the song to start, and when it didn’t, at least not in the traditional sense, I wondered if this was supposed to be more of a soundscape. And then I wondered if I was using the word ‘soundscape’ right. After looking it up in the dictionary, I decided that dreamscape would probably be more appropriate. And then I finally decided to stop thinking about it so hard and just enjoy it. Which I did. Multiple times.
I wish I knew more about the cello to fully appreciate what Jo Quail is doing in this piece, but I love it all the same. There is a wonderfully expansive feel to it, and yet it feels intimate at the same time. Almost hypnotic, but with enough twists and turns to keep you wondering where it will go next. And I’ve decided that dreamscape is in fact the perfect word for it.
One final note. Quail is playing the weirdest looking cello I’ve ever seen. I am clearly way out of the loop if that’s how they’re designed these days.
Suggestions for artists I should check out? Please contact me with your ideas. I hope you enjoyed your daily helping of art!
