BAEBLE CONCERTS: Portland Cello Project at First Unitarian Church

Though they're entirely composed of classical musicians, somehow, someway, the Portland Cello Project seem a perfect fit for this little indie sphere of ours. Perhaps its' their flirtation with pop concentrated song structure, or maybe their spirited takes on Elliott Smith, Outkast, and Pantera. The band also recently collaborated on a wonderful album for Kill Rock Stars with two songwriters: Thao Nguyen and Justin Powers...which, by the way, is what lead us to film this set at the First Unitarian Church in Philadelphia.

On tour with Thao and the Get Down Stay Down, PCP's performance reveals a classically trained group of pop enthusiasts, incredibly versed in holding their rock-minded audiences' attention with songs that easily cross-over into their world. Here, PCP present a set ripe with emotion; tension, drama, tenderness, you name it. It's a gathering of cello players that, on this night, spoke to everyone in attendance; especially when adding songwriter Powers to the mix towards the end of their set. Here's your first chance to have it speak to you. - David Pitz