Maksin His Way, Cellist Maintains Excellence On 'Soul Companion'
By Marielle Shaw in Arts & Entertainment on Sep 18, 2014 8:30PM
Cello is a gorgeous instrument. In the hands of a masterful player, its dark, velvety timbre resonates through a concert hall and an audience with ease. And when we got a chance to preview Soul Companion, Ian Maksin’s new album of solo cello works, it is clear that Maksin is indeed masterful.
What’s exciting about Maksin’s work is that he works across so many genres, collaborating with classical hard-hitters like Andrea Bocelli as well as Gloria Estefan, Snoop Dogg and Sting. What’s beautiful about the work is his impeccable tone and the buttery smooth sonority of his phrasing. Maksin mentions the challenges of writing for solo cello on his website, in avoiding it sounding lonely or like it’s missing something, but his powerful sound leaves nothing to be desired.
Maksin cites many influences in his work, and this album reflects some of those, from folk to the works of Sting. The album is full of original music that includes works commissioned from Paul Yeon Lee and Chicago natives Ilya Levinson and Seth Boustead.
There will be a release event held at Old Town School of Folk Music on Sept. 20 for the album which will also include special guests like Las Guitarras de España, Bob Garrett, and a special dance infused performance created with a member of the Joffrey Ballet. Tickets are still available for the release show.