On September 20th, 2024, Dan Kassel released his latest single, “Mystic”, an instrumental piece that transports listeners on a mesmerizing melodic journey. Kassel’s composition blends Middle Eastern influences with the resonant depth of the cello, alongside the unique timbres of instruments such as the udu drum and djembe. The result is a track that is immersive and enchanting, evoking emotions of wonder, melancholy, hope, and longing—all without the need for words.
Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Kyle Graham in West Philadelphia, “Mystic” serves as a testament to Kassel’s skill as both a musician and a composer. The track embodies his passion for pushing the boundaries of what the cello can do, drawing on a rich tapestry of styles and traditions to create something entirely unique. With its fusion of cultural influences and emotive melodies, “Mystic” promises to captivate audiences, bringing them into a world of ethereal soundscapes and intricate instrumentation.
Dan Kassel is no ordinary cellist. Known for his versatility, he has built a reputation for taking the cello out of its traditional classical context and into diverse musical realms—ranging from jazz and rock to electronica and improvisational ensembles. As a solo artist, Kassel has found a distinctive voice, one that combines classical technique with live-looping technology to create rich, layered compositions.
Live-looping is central to Kassel’s performance style. By tapping, plucking, and bowing on his cello, he records each layer of sound in real time, allowing him to build intricate, evolving compositions that he performs as a one-man band. This innovative approach has made him a sought-after performer for a wide range of events, from weddings and private parties to corporate gatherings and fine dining experiences.
Kassel’s ability to seamlessly move between different musical genres is a reflection of his open-minded approach to the instrument. He has played alongside rock stars from Ween and Henry Rollins Band, performed in gospel churches, collaborated with electronica groups, and shared the stage with a variety of jazz and rock ensembles. His current collaborations include working with the touring electric violinist for Lady Gaga, and he has also appeared on recordings alongside renowned musicians like Mike Stern, Randy Brecker, Glenn McClelland (Ween, Blood, Sweat & Tears), and Jack Daley (Lenny Kravitz, Spin Doctors).
Kassel’s playing is characterized by a deep classical foundation, yet it is his exploration of improvisation and technology that truly sets him apart. As one reviewer aptly put it, “There’s a backbone of classical technique that allows him to then use technology to take the instrument to a place unexpected: 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.”
“Mystic” embodies Kassel’s dedication to taking the cello beyond its classical boundaries. Drawing inspiration from Middle Eastern music, the track weaves together elements from diverse musical traditions to create an evocative and richly textured soundscape. The cello is the focal point, its warm, expressive tone guiding the listener through the piece, while the udu drum and djembe add a rhythmic foundation that evokes a sense of movement and exploration.
The interplay between the cello and the percussion instruments gives “Mystic” its distinctive character, creating a fusion of cultures that feels both familiar and otherworldly. The cello’s melody moves gracefully between moments of intense emotional depth and lighter, more hopeful phrases, encapsulating the range of emotions that Kassel sought to express. At times, the track feels contemplative and introspective, while at others it exudes a sense of wonder and openness—qualities that invite listeners to lose themselves in the music.
Kyle Graham’s production work on “Mystic” ensures that each element of the track is given space to shine. The rich tones of the cello are complemented by the warm resonance of the percussion, while subtle layers of ambient sound create a sense of depth and atmosphere. The result is a track that feels expansive, drawing the listener into a world of sound that is at once intimate and boundless.
“Mystic” is not just a standalone single—it is part of Kassel’s broader artistic vision, one that seeks to redefine the role of the cello in contemporary music. By blending classical technique with live-looping technology and drawing on a wide range of musical influences, Kassel aims to show that the cello is capable of far more than its traditional associations might suggest. It can be an instrument of innovation, one that is equally at home in rock and jazz as it is in classical and folk music.
Kassel’s journey as a musician has always been about pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities. From playing in gospel churches and rock ensembles to working with some of the biggest names in contemporary music, he has embraced every opportunity to expand his horizons. “Mystic” is a reflection of this journey—a track that draws on Kassel’s diverse influences to create something that is uniquely his own.
With “Mystic”, Dan Kassel has once again demonstrated his ability to captivate audiences with his innovative approach to the cello. The track’s fusion of Middle Eastern influences with modern looping technology and traditional instrumentation creates a sound that is both timeless and forward-thinking. It is a piece that invites listeners to experience the cello in a new light—one that is free from the constraints of genre or tradition, allowing the instrument to speak in its own voice.
As Kassel continues to explore new musical directions, it is clear that his work will continue to resonate with audiences who are drawn to his unique blend of classical technique, improvisation, and cultural fusion. “Mystic” is just the latest chapter in a career that has been defined by innovation and a deep passion for music, and it promises even greater things to come. For those who have yet to experience Kassel’s music, “Mystic” is the perfect introduction—a track that showcases the beauty and versatility of the cello, while offering a glimpse into the limitless possibilities of Kassel’s artistic vision.
Connect with Dan Kassel on
English