The Chills of the Cello

I know that I am not alone in believing that the cello is one of the most beautiful sounding instruments in the entire world.  As a matter of fact, I believe it is the most beautiful sounding...and looking...instrument in the world. (Look at me, I finally admit I love tacos and now I speak of everything in superlatives).  Anyway, my point is that there is something amazing about the sounds of a cello. It goes straight to my bones, deep into my soul, and always gives me chills.

That said, I have to tell you all about this new album I discovered today.  It all started when I drove up to Manitowoc to see their play, The Diary of Anne Frank.  It was a lovely show, the students did great, and I cried.  It must mean something that they were able to draw me in so well. Way to go, guys!  Anyway, I thought it'd be a good idea to stop at Starbucks and get a coffee before my trip home.  I went inside to order so that I could use the facilities and noticed a CD sitting there on the shelf.  My favorite cello player was on the cover: Mr. Yo-Yo Ma himself.  He was accompanied by my favorite mandolin player: Mr. Chris Thile. You see, I had purchased an album at Starbucks two Christmases ago called Songs of Joy and Peace featuring Yo-Yo Ma and various guest artists--I loved it.  This album, The Goat Rodeo Sessions, is their follow-up and man-o-man is it awesome.  There is nothing better than driving a Jeep on the open road, drinking a caramel frappuccino, and listening to amazing string/fiddle/cello music at full blast.  It was so amazing that even when I discovered a popped water blister stinging on my foot, (darn favorite red shoes) I didn't care.  Those of you who know me well know that this is significant (I'm a huge wimp when it comes to pain and discomfort).  Anyhow, you may want to take this opportunity to watch the below video describing just a bit about The Goat Rodeo Sessions.




There, now that you've seen a bit of what I'm talking about I can encourage you to purchase this album and listen right away!  I especially recommend track 1-Attaboy--because it's super exciting and had me tapping the steering wheel immediately.  I also enjoyed #4-Where's My Bow--for the wonderful virtuosity and crazy musicality.  I was very excited when I encountered #5--Here and Heaven--featuring female vocalist Aoife O'Donovan and good 'ol Chris Thile.  This one reminded me of good times with Nickel Creek (One of Chris Thile's other bands).  I don't want to get carried away...so just trust me that it was all great!

NANOWRIMOUPDA:  I was supposed to have a 6-hour writing session today that turned into a 2.5-hour session.  Needless to say, I am getting increasingly behind on my word count.  Never fear, though, I'm not worried. I hope to get just a bit in after I finish this entry and am still excited about my plot and characters.  It's more a problem with finding time than inspiration right now which would make any writer happy.