Cloud Cult surprises former choir director

Talk about it

When I first heard of Cloud Cult, I admit to being a bit skeptical. What kind of music could this be? Is it a cloud? A cult? What is it?

It just so happened that Cloud Cult was playing at the Big Top Chautauqua in Bayfield and since I volunteer there, I signed up to work the concert and see for myself. I was in for a BIG surprise.

The audience attracted by this group ranged in age from quite young (age 8) to well past middle age. Everyone ( and I mean everyone) was SO enthusiastic about seeing this group of performers. I was quite intrigued by all of this wonderful enthusiasm.

When the music started, I was quickly drawn into the meaningful lyrics and toe-tapping rhythms. Another interesting and fascinating event happening on the stage was the artwork.

Cloud Cult has 2 professional artists who paint beautiful paintings during the show. The canvases are approximately the size of a 4'x8' sheet of plywood and they spin as the artists ply their large and small brushes to the canvas. It is impossible to see what the final product will be until the very end of the show when there is a silent auction to see who takes home these beautiful works of art. Fascinating!

By the end of the concert, the audience was on its feet, dancing and clapping. All of my trepidation about the name 'Cloud Cult' is gone. They are a socially and environmentally conscious group so maybe they should be called 'Cloud Culture'? Nah...It’s just fine as it is!

Come and join me and the rest of the Northern Lake County Arts Board on Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. at the Kelley High School Auditorium and see for yourself. I'm sure you'll not regret it.

Tags: opinion