Jazz Café – Samuel Blaser Quartet

On his forthcoming double album ‘Amaaka / Shadow’, he brings together a remarkable quartet comprising pianist Russ Lossing, bassist Masa Kamaguchi and drummer Billy Mintz – three masters of improvisation renowned for their depth, sensitivity and creative interplay.

‘Amaaka / Shadow’ is firmly rooted in the jazz tradition whilst remaining open to modern forms of expression.

The album is structured as a double CD: ‘Amaaka’ presents a collection of compositions by Blaser, whilst ‘Shadow’ features original works by Lossing.

Both parts were recorded with the same ensemble and offer two distinct yet interconnected musical visions – lyrical, exploratory and deeply personal.

The title ‘Amaaka’ is a fusion of ‘Ama’ (Adam) and ‘Aka’ (Oscar), the childhood pronunciations of the names of Blaser’s sons – a subtle allusion to family and intimacy.

The project is followed by an EP entitled *Rosina*, which draws on folk melodies from Emilia-Romagna and pays homage to Blaser’s grandmother.

*Rosina* is a meditation on heritage and memory, and ties in emotionally and musically with the double album.

CAST

• Samuel Blaser – trombone
• Russ Lossing – piano
• Masa Kamaguchi – bass
• Billy Mintz – drums