Doors 6:45 PM, Music 7:30 PM – 1 set of music
Line-up:
Sam Glaser – Alto saxophone
Gareth Fowler – Guitar
Chris Eldred – Piano
Niklas Lukassen – Double bass
Marc Michel – Drum kit
About:
Sam Glaser is an alto saxophonist, composer and bandleader based in London, UK. He is a virtuosic improviser and a unique voice on the UK jazz scene, and his warm and distinctive saxophone sound, paired with lyrical, energetic, and emotive playing, have led to renown amongst musicians and listeners alike. Described by Stan Sulzmann as “A strong voice, steeped in the tradition as well as very much a soloist for today”, Sam’s saxophone playing is firmly grounded in the history of jazz music but takes great inspiration from modern masters including Will Vinson, Chris Potter, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Ben Wendel.
This performance is the first for Sam under his own name in several years, after a hiatus away from creative music. The project, entitled ‘Fear and Hope’, is deeply personal Sam. Having taken a step away from music during the pandemic to pursue a career working in mental health, he has recently returned to music making with renewed vigour, and a fresh perspective on the importance of music and creativity for emotional wellbeing and community.
The project is a eulogy to the human condition, and of suffering and resilience. The music explores different aspects of the experiences people face in relation to psychological wellbeing, and the attitudes and discourse surrounding mental health.
Sam has a distinctive writing style, inspired by many of the great contemporary jazz composers, including Kurt Rosenwinkel, Ben Wendel, Walter Smith III, and Kendrick Scott. Each piece is designed to evoke a specific mood and tell its own story, but a considered harmonic palette, idiosyncratic use of rhythm and groove, and a melodic narrative weave a continuous thread throughout the music.
The quintet features eminent players on the European jazz scene, all distinguished and highly regarded musicians in their own right. Collectively, they bring unparalleled creativity and energy to the project.