Samuel Blaser

With his brand new group consisting of Alex Wilson, Ira Coleman, Dion Parson, Michael Blake, and Soweto Kinch, one could argue that Blaser has successfully rounded up the ultimate lineup to present Jamaican jazz to a larger audience. But Blaser wouldn’t be Blaser if he didn’t ask himself: why stop there?! And thus, the ambitious musician and winner of the 2019 European Jazz Award, as well as the 2021 Downbeat Magazine Critics Poll (“Rising Star Trombone”), decided to expand his efforts even further.

ROUTES features a blend of Don Drummond classics and reggae, ska, and jazz-infused originals, with guest performances by Carroll Thompson, dubs by the late-but-great Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, and a full-on t-bone section for a newly arranged version of Drummond’s Green Island. It is a project that breathes Blaser’s hallmark grace, humor, and instrumental mastery while celebrating the input, background, and talents of his musical companions. ROUTES is an adventure, a party, and a celebration, and you’re invited.

PERSONNEL:

• Samuel Blaser - (trombone)
• Alex Wilson - (piano, hammond organ, melodica)
• Alan Weekes - (guitar)
• Ira Coleman - (double bass)
• Dion Parson - (drums)
• Soweto Kinch - (alto sax, vocals)
• Michael Blake - (tenor sax)
• Edwin Sanz percussion - (drums)

TRACKS:

• SIDE A
• A1. Silver dollar
• A2. Rainy days
• A3. Thoroughfare
• A4. Green island
• A5. Chronicles

• SIDE B
• B1. Beautiful bed of lies
• B2. Lady Rawlinson
• B3. Rainy days dub
• B4. Green island dub
• B5. End of the beginning