Noted cellist Erik Friedlander began his career in the New York downtown music scene, playing with luminaries such as John Zorn and Laurie Anderson. A wide assortment of styles crop up in Friedlander's sound, including blues, rock, jazz, and even elements of avant-garde classical. As both a solo artist and with a group, his innovative use of the cello breaks free of the confines of the instrument's traditionally classical origins, both improvisationally and compositionally. Having done sideman stints with everyone from heavy hitters Kelly Clarkson and Alanis Morrisette to indie acts John Vanderslice and the Mountain Goats, Friedlander is the definitive go-to cellist.