May 5, 2025 — The dynamic musical force of Dirty Cello, embodied by the talented married duo Rebecca Roudman and Jason Eckl, recently returned to Monkey Dog Coffee on May 4th for their third captivating performance. This intimate show not only reaffirmed their deep connection with the unique Clovis venue but also spotlighted Rebecca Roudman’s exceptional vocal abilities and her seamless mastery of both the cello and the violin.
The story of Dirty Cello’s special relationship with Monkey Dog Coffee began last summer, as Jason Eckl vividly recounted.
When an outdoor concert was unexpectedly canceled due to the intense Clovis heat, the coffee shop graciously opened its doors, forging a bond of local support that continues to bring the band back. This recent performance as a duo in the cozy setting felt like a heartfelt reunion.
Jason Eckl’s engaging storytelling provided a personal and often humorous backdrop to the evening’s music, sharing tales from their far-flung adventures, including surreal gigs for wealthy patrons. These anecdotes set the stage for the duo’s genre-bending performance, which was elevated by Rebecca Roudman’s powerful and emotive vocals. Her voice soared through the intimate space, adding a rich new dimension to their already captivating sound.
Beyond her impressive vocals, Rebecca also showcased her remarkable instrumental versatility. She effortlessly transitioned between the deep, resonant tones of her cello and the bright, expressive melodies of her violin, often switching between the instruments with fluid grace within the same set. This instrumental agility added incredible texture and dynamism to their performance.
Their eclectic setlist featured a moving rendition of “House of the Rising Sun,” which clearly resonated with the attentive audience. They also delivered a spirited “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” prompted by a young fan’s enthusiastic request, alongside their inventive original compositions like the lively “Frisky in Frisco” and the assertive “Don’t Call Me Honey.” Jason’s engaging stage presence and his memorable act of becoming a second set of hands to assist Rebecca during one original piece further underscored their collaborative and inventive spirit.
The intimate atmosphere of Monkey Dog Coffee allowed for a direct and engaging connection with the audience, fostered by Jason’s storytelling and their willingness to take requests. This performance by the core duo of Dirty Cello not only highlighted their exceptional musical talents, with Rebecca’s stunning vocals and instrumental versatility at the forefront, but also celebrated the special bond they share with the Clovis community and the unique charm of Monkey Dog Coffee.
To experience the dynamic performances of Rebecca Roudman and Jason Eckl and the rest of Dirty Cello, you can find information about their upcoming shows at DirtyCello.com.