What an album! CASSANDRA (cherith) by Andra Day moves us through the ebbs and flow of the interconnectedness of our relationships with self, others, and spirit. We join her as she navigates relationship entanglements and comes to a period of deep surrender and acceptance through stillness. With ease and grace she intentionally moves through Jazz, Motown, Neo-soul and R&B. A healing tincture of honesty, love, vulnerability, care and directness. From the phenomenal and dynamic vocals to the lyrics and storytelling, it’s a whole mood and I’m here for it!
Favorite Songs
- Empty: We’re living in times where it’s normal to function on E, for Empty. So many of us are exhausted from the busyness, the hustle and grind, constantly on the go, and wonder why we’re still on E after the weekend. Empty, gives us permission to fill our cups and reminds us of the importance of living, loving, moving, and functioning from a full cup before immediately pouring into another’s. Also, Empty, reminds us that it isn’t selfish, but rather it’s self-preservation, regenerative, intentional, caring, and loving. And we deserve that.
- Narcos: It brings to the forefront how loneliness can create moments to inflict harm on ourselves and others. Describing a relationship where the person puts Andra on a high pedestal. On a level of holiness, she is given standards and expectations that aren’t expected of the same person who projected them onto her. And that it will take God, a higher power, to dismantle the dynamics of the relationship.
- Where Do We Go: All I can say is…I don’t know where their neighborhood is, but I know I can get there from Woodman.
- Thank You God (Mom Reading Psalm ): Such a beautiful testimony of being still, with Andra’s mother reading Psalm 62 at the end. Building from the track Still (another absolute fave!), what I love about this song, is how it hones in on that feeling and experience of deep surrender and acceptance.
What are your thoughts on Andra Day’s latest album? Any favorites? If you haven’t had a chance to listen, do yourself a favor and go check it out. (To listen to the album)
To learn more about this album from Andra Day herself, check out the following interviews:
Jarifuller 