The cello is peaking in popularity as an instrument in jazz and world music and even in rock ‘n’ roll. The latest release by cellist, vocalist, and songwriter Monica McIntyre showcases the instrument on a compelling collection of songs that span the breadth of popular music. She celebrates the recording at Café Istanbul tonight in the New Orleans Healing Center.
It Soon Come marks a decidedly different approach to McIntyre’s previous album due to the instrumentation being limited to strings, oboe, and percussion. You can listen to her previous album releases on https://musiccritic.com and find out both the subtle and obvious difference, and in different we mean great.
The album is stripped down musically compared to her debut, but the strong vocals make it feel intimate and filled with soul.
Monica is joined on vocals by her sister Marcia McIntyre (she also plays violin) and by Thea A. Olufumilayo Bashful.
John Chelew, whose music credits include The Blind Boys of Alabama and Ruthie Foster, produced the album.
“Dontcha,” a featured song on It Soon Come can be streamed here. Copies will be available at the release party, which begins 9:30 PM. This night will also feature the debut of the music video for the title track It Soon Come, which was directed by Philadelphia native Muthi Reed.
The band at Cafe Istanbul will feature Marcia McIntyre on vocals and violin, Thea A. Olufumilayo Bashful on vocals, Reggina Thompson on oboe, and Mike Jacobson on percussion.
