Recently recognized by the Los Angeles Times as a can’t-miss newcomer, Milena Casado is keeping the spirit of jazz moving. Highlighted as a contemporary jazz artist audiences should know by WBGO, Casado has already generated major buzz through her work with Terri Lyne Carrington, Vijay Iyer, Aaron Parks, Kris Davis, and other guiding forces in the music world, earning critical acclaim.

A notable bandleader in her own right, Casado leads her own working quintet. Backed by this group, Casado recently released her debut album, Reflection of Another Self, on Candid Records.

The evening will be opened by Steph Richards, a dynamic improviser known for her boundary-pushing approach to the trumpet and interdisciplinary composition. An “innately adventurous trumpeter” (Downbeat), Richards has collaborated with visionary artists like Henry Threadgill, Anthony Braxton, Muhal Richard Abrams, and John Zorn, as well as art-pop icons Yoko Ono, St. Vincent, David Byrne, and Laurie Anderson. Called “a rising force in avant-garde jazz…a virtuoso of otherworldly sound” (Jazz Times), Richards continues to redefine what the trumpet can be.

This concert is part of Angel City Jazz Festival’s multi-week celebration featuring the most innovative and original jazz musicians working today. Check out angelcityjazz.com for their full schedule of events.