Reflection Of Another Self
Candid, 2025
9/10
Listen to Reflection Of Another Self
The trumpeter and producer Milena Cadado makes an impression with this debut, where she explores her Afro-Latina heritage that welcomes Brandee Younger, Nicole Mitchell, Kris Davis, Kokayi and Meshell Ndegeocello, plus others, to the 13 songs.
The brief “This Is My Hair (!)” starts with much attention to atmosphere and spoken word, and this segues into “O.C.T. (Oda To The Crazy Times)”, where Kokayi contributes to the frisky bass, bright brass and buzzing keys.
Entering the middle, “Lydia y los Libros” welcomes Younger and Nicole Mitchell to the dreamy elegance of gentle winds, while “Circles” features Val Jeanty’s turntable prowess for the ambient and cinematic album highlight.
Closer to the end, the layered “Resilience” uses strategic sax, drums, beats and voices, and “SELF LOVE” exits with jazz, soul and R&B nods via the grooves and fusion appeal.
An album with a kaleidoscope of ideas that ranges from busy and swirling to bare and heartfelt, there’s powerful bursts, improvised fun and post-bop charm to be enjoyed across the electronic and organic elements of a highly artistic effort.
Travels well with: Sylvie Courvoisier/Mary Halvorson- Bone Bells; David Murray Quartet- Francesca