Samuel Blaser
Winner of the 2019 European Jazz Award, as well as the 2021 Downbeat Magazine Critics Poll (“Rising Star Trombone”), Samuel Blaser is a 21st century trombonist.
The foundations of Blaser’s art are the breadth of his influences, his technical fluency, and the clarity with which he applies these assets. He grew up learning classical and Swiss folk music as well as jazz, and his projects include jazz-informed investigations of operatic, rock stead, and blues music.
Blaser approaches each endeavor as a leader and collaborator with a clear sense of purpose, knowing what he wants to accomplish and what each musical situation requires from him. His responsiveness is never more evident than in his solo performances, which use his bold sound to draw out the qualities of both architectural and environmental settings.
Samuel's latest album, ROUTES, saw him assemble a stellar crew to craft the ultimate Jamaican repertoire, paying homage to Don Drummond's legacy. ROUTES is the fruit of their musical bond, blending island traditions with jazz roots.
"“That is some damn good neat reggae. If you are a musician, that should have raised your eyebrow, and if you are just somebody who is cool, I bet it made you feel cooler.
Iggy Pop, BBC Radio 6 Music