Jo Quail (experimental cello)

Jo Quail is a London-based composer and virtuoso cellist, widely recognised for her innovative use of live looping and her ability to create immersive, emotionally powerful music from a single instrument. Performing solo and with ensembles, choirs, and orchestras, her work bridges contemporary classical, experimental, and heavy music with striking clarity and depth. She has performed internationally at major venues and festivals including the Royal Albert Hall (UK), Hellfest (France), Melbourne Recital Centre (Australia), and Roadburn Festival (Netherlands). Her live performances have been described by Distorted Sound Magazine as leaving audiences "utterly spellbound by the talents of this extraordinary woman." Jo's discography includes From the Sea, Caldera, Five Incantations, Exsolve, The Cartographer, Invocation / Supplication, and Notan. Her latest album, Notan, was widely acclaimed, with Distorted Sound Magazine calling it "potentially her greatest album to date." The Cartographer charted simultaneously in the classical, metal, and progressive charts. As a commissioned composer, Jo's recent works include Enschede (2025) for 100-piece symphonic wind orchestra, Macha (Dutch Nationale Taptoe), and The Cartographer (Roadburn Festival). She has collaborated and toured with artists including Caspian, Enslaved, Emma Ruth Rundle, and Wardruna.