Nicole Mitchell's "Mandorla Awakening II: Emerging Worlds" is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde sounds, released on May 5, 2017, under FPE Records. This multimedia project, commissioned by the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, is a testament to Mitchell's innovative spirit and her ability to craft a sonic landscape that is both deeply profound and widely accessible.
The album, featuring ten tracks and spanning over an hour and fourteen minutes, is a journey through intercultural dialogue, blending acoustic and electric elements, and contrasting simplicity with complexity. Mitchell's flute and electronics are complemented by a stellar ensemble including Avery R. Young on vocals, Alex Wing on electric guitar and oud, Tomeka Reid on banjo and cello, and Tatsu Aoki on various instruments.
"Mandorla Awakening II" is inspired by the concept of 'the Great Mother,' and Mitchell's structural canvas reflects this inspiration with great depth and emotional resonance. The album's tracks, such as "Egoes War," "Dance of Many Hands," and "TimeWrap," showcase a dynamic range of styles and textures, from the intricate "Staircase Struggle" to the ethereal "Listening Embrace."
This album is not just a collection of songs but a cohesive experience that challenges and engages the listener from start to finish. Mitchell's visionary approach to jazz and avant-garde music makes "Mandorla Awakening II: Emerging Worlds" a standout release that highlights her unique voice in the genre.
Vinylscout