Traversing the ethereal realm where jazz, folk, and classical meet, Diane McLoughlin's chamber jazz quartet navigates a musical landscape teeming with intricate nuances and evocative layers. Featuring a lineup of distinguished musicians including pianist Alcyona Mick, violinist Kit Massey, and bassist Tim Fairhall, Reflection explores themes of uncertainty amidst loss and conflict. McLoughlin's compositions, infused with elements of classical chamber music and dynamic improvisation, weave a cinematic narrative that oscillates between serenity and introspection. The absence of percussion creates a spacious canvas, echoing the Japanese concept of Ma - a moment of pause for reflection and growth.

Drawing inspiration from sources as diverse as Keith Jarrett and Bartok, the Casimir Connection forges a unique sonic identity, honoring both classical traditions and contemporary jazz sensibilities. The ensemble's name, a nod to the enigmatic force in nuclear physics, reflects their aim to foster deep connections beyond the surface.

Each track on Reflection unfolds like a chapter in a profound exploration of human emotion and experience. From the poignant reflections on "Forgiveness" to the turbulent dialogue of "The Difficult Conversation," McLoughlin's compositions navigate the spectrum of human existence with grace and empathy.

At times, the music celebrates the sublime beauty of the natural world, while at others, it delves into deeply personal narratives, such as McLoughlin's tribute to her mother's wartime struggles in "The Slow Walk From Home." In "Dark Matters," the enigmatic concept of dark matter serves as a metaphor for the unseen forces shaping our lives, prompting introspection and renewal.

Diane McLoughlin sees Reflection as a response to the upheaval of recent years, a collection of vignettes that resonate with universal truths and personal experiences. In a world fraught with uncertainty, she suggests, perhaps it is time for introspection and contemplation, embracing life's contradictions with courage and grace.