Robert Glasper - Canvas (2002) F

Robert Glasper's Canvas: A Masterpiece of Modern Jazz

Robert Glasper is one of the most innovative and influential jazz pianists of his generation. His album Canvas, released in 2005 on the legendary Blue Note label, showcases his remarkable talent and versatility. Canvas is a blend of progressive jazz, mainstream jazz, and post-bop, with elements of neosoul and hip-hop. It features Glasper's original compositions, as well as a stunning rendition of Herbie Hancock's \"Riot\".

The album is Glasper's first for a major label, and it received critical acclaim from various sources. Allmusic praised Canvas as \"both melodic and adventurous, and will please both Glasper's fans and anyone who appreciates good piano jazz\". The Guardian noted that Glasper is \"steeped in tradition yet audibly contemporary\". JazzTimes described Canvas as \"an example of sonic and formal creativity\" and \"a window into Glasper's emerging sound\".

Glasper is joined by bassist Vincente Archer and drummer Damion Reid for the main portion of Canvas, forming a tight and dynamic trio. They are also joined by tenor saxophonist Mark Turner and vocalist Bilal on two tracks each. Turner adds a rich and expressive voice to the title track and \"Riot\", while Bilal adds a wordless and atmospheric layer to \"Chant\" and \"I Remember\". The album also features a solo piano interlude by Glasper, titled \"Centelude\".

Canvas is an album that showcases Glasper's musical vision, technical skill, and artistic expression. It is a must-listen for jazz lovers and music fans alike. If you want to discover more about Robert Glasper and his music, you can visit his official website here.

One of the highlights of Canvas is Glasper's interpretation of Herbie Hancock's \"Riot\". Glasper plays both piano and Rhodes on this track, creating a loop of a five-bar phrase from the melody and using it as a basis for soloing. This shows his sonic and formal creativity, as well as his homage to one of his influences. Glasper also displays his versatility on other tracks, such as \"Jelly's da Beener\", where he switches from a swinging groove to a hip-hop beat, and \"North Portland\", where he plays a soulful ballad with a touch of gospel.

Glasper's original compositions on Canvas are also impressive, ranging from the complex and rhythmic title track to the delicate and lyrical \"Portrait of an Angel\". He also pays tribute to his mentor, pianist Kenny Kirkland, on \"Enoch's Meditation\", a reflective piece that features a spoken word sample of Kirkland. Glasper also showcases his solo piano skills on \"Centelude\", a short but beautiful interlude that connects the album.

Canvas is an album that demonstrates Glasper's mastery of modern jazz, as well as his potential for further exploration. It is a testament to his musical vision, technical skill, and artistic expression. It is a must-listen for jazz lovers and music fans alike. If you want to discover more about Robert Glasper and his music, you can visit his official website here. aa16f39245