Milena Casado's debut Reflection of Another Self combines dreamlike electronic textures and virtuosic jazz performances to create a deeply personal exploration of identity, trauma, and self-discovery.
On her debut album Reflection Of Another Self, Spanish trumpeter, flugelhornist, and composer Milena Casado offers a powerful and evocative introduction to the world of contemporary jazz. Co-produced with mentor Terri Lyne Carrington and multi-instrumentalist Morgan Guerin, the album is an innovative blend of dreamlike electronic textures and organic performances.
Casado's exploration of identity, trauma, and self-discovery is deeply personal and resonant. Inspired by Miles Davis' quintet while forging new sonic paths, she seamlessly integrates personal narratives with sampled conversations and virtuosic improvisation. The album transitions from introspective explorations of fear and resilience to expressions of self-love and empowerment, marking Casado as a bold new voice in jazz.
Raised in Spain as a Black woman navigating predominantly white spaces, Casado found solace and expression through music, earning a scholarship to Berklee College of Music. Mentored by jazz luminaries like Carrington and Jack DeJohnette, she honed her craft in New York's vibrant jazz scene, collaborating with icons and garnering acclaim for her dynamic performances.
Reflection Of Another Self features a stellar lineup including harpist Brandee Younger, flutist Nicole Mitchell, pianist Kris Davis, and bassist Meshell Ndegeocello, alongside Casado's core band of accomplished musicians. Each track underscores Casado's vision and influences, showcasing her ability to blend acoustic and electronic elements to evoke profound emotional landscapes.
From the opening track "THIS IS MY HAIR (!)" - a candid exploration of cultural identity and beauty standards - to the reflective homage in "Lidia y Los Libros," where Casado honors her mother's love of literature, the album is a journey of introspection and celebration. Tracks like "O.C.T (Oda To The Crazy Times)" and "Circles" meld postbop with futuristic grooves, featuring poignant contributions and sampled wisdom from jazz legends.
Milena Casado's debut introduces us not only to her technical prowess and compositional depth but also underscores her role in expanding the boundaries of contemporary jazz. With accolades already from The New York Times and performances at prestigious venues worldwide, Casado emerges as a transformative force in modern jazz, blending tradition with innovation to create a sound uniquely her own.