The lead single from Dan Kassel’s album Ornament is a captivating composition called Mystic. The piece serves as an opulent instrumental journey that delicately balances intricate rhythms with evocative melodies, inviting us into a cinematic world that blurs the lines between classical and contemporary soundscapes. Recorded by Kyle Graham in West Philadelphia, Mystic instantly establishes a unique atmospheric energy, with a haunting and ethereal frequency that lifts us into a soundscape rich with Middle Eastern influences.
The opening of Mystic is reminiscent of the dramatic suspense found in iconic film soundtracks, specifically drawing comparisons to certain scenes from Interview with the Vampire. Its subtle rising tension, filled with cinematic nuance, hints at a deep narrative unfolding – a musical dialogue that echoes through the cello and percussive elements like the udu drum and djembe. This gives the track a rhythmic complexity that moves beyond the confines of traditional Western music and embraces a broader, more global sound.
As a classically trained cellist who effortlessly integrates live-looping technology into his performances, Kassel’s mastery of his instrument is evident from the outset. His use of the cello transcends traditional expectations, whether through soulful bowing or tapping and plucking techniques that inject the music with layers of expression and depth. The track feels organic yet cerebral, as Kassel draws upon his extensive musical background, layering each sound with precision while maintaining a sense of spontaneity and improvisation.
What sets Mystic apart from many modern instrumental compositions is its dynamism – the ebbs and flows of tempo and mood. Kassel demonstrates a keen understanding of how to craft tension, shifting between moments of introspective calm and pulses of rhythmic vitality. There are moments where the percussion drives the track forward with an urgency that feels almost primal, while others allow for a more languid, contemplative energy to take hold. These tempo shifts and the natural crescendo imbue the piece with a dramatic arc, akin to the rising action of a well-paced film score.
The influence of Middle Eastern musical traditions is woven seamlessly into Mystic. Kassel’s use of the cello in a modal framework, paired with the exotic rhythms of the udu drum and djembe, creates a sense of wonder and mystery. This cross-cultural fusion not only enhances the emotional resonance of the track but also showcases Kassel’s ability to expand the classical tradition into a contemporary, global musical idiom. There is an undeniable sense of adventure in how the piece meanders through these various soundscapes, all the while retaining a unified sense of purpose and direction.
As the track builds toward its finale, we are swept into a heightened state of anticipation, where Kassel’s music takes on a more cinematic grandeur. The final moments bring to mind the epic closing scenes of a James Bond film, with the stakes raised and emotions heightened. The piece concludes not with a sense of closure, but with a lingering desire for more – a masterful move by Kassel, leaving his audience yearning for the next chapter in this sonic journey.
As an artist, Kassel has long been known for pushing the boundaries of what a cellist can achieve, and Mystic is yet another testament to his versatility and innovation. His work has garnered acclaim across a broad spectrum of genres, from classical to electronica, rock, and jazz. His collaborations with notable musicians, including members of Ween and the Henry Rollins Band, have further solidified his reputation as a dynamic performer who bridges the gap between the old and the new, the traditional and the experimental.
Kassel’s ability to transform the cello from a classical instrument into a multi-dimensional vehicle for creative exploration is nothing short of remarkable. Mystic showcases his technical prowess and highlights his deeply rooted understanding of music as a universal language. In the words of Lisa Rich, “it’s as if the instrument lives on its own—almost as if Kassel is being guided by the cello instead of the other way around.” This profound connection between artist and instrument is what makes Mystic not only an impressive musical composition but a deeply moving artistic experience.
In sum, Mystic is a bold and captivating work that reflects Kassel’s continual journey to redefine the role of the cello in contemporary music. It leaves listeners with an undeniable sense of awe, as Kassel’s seamless integration of classical technique, improvisational flair, and cross-cultural exploration creates a truly unforgettable sonic tapestry. We have added Mystic to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the entirety of Ornament.