Seattle indie folk project Ollella brought their string-driven sound to NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concert series this week as part of a celebration of Tiny Desk Contest entrants. Fronted by Ellie Barber on vocals and cello, the seven-piece ensemble performed four songs including “Lava,” which explores where childlike wonder goes as we age, and “At Rest,” featuring a sweeping solo from upright bassist Kelsey Mines. NPR’s Dora Levite, who had previously seen Ollella fill Seattle venues with just cello and upright bass, noted that Barber often describes the project as “a collaborative project across the city” rather than simply a band. The performance marks a full circle moment for Ollella, who submitted to the Tiny Desk Contest multiple times over the years. Barber’s playful, occasionally melancholic approach guided by strings resonated through the intimate NPR Music headquarters setting.