Robert Glasper

The Profile

Robert Glasper (born April 6, 1978) is an American pianist, composer and producer known for blending jazz with R&B and hip-hop and for leading both acoustic trio recordings and electrified projects.

Debuted as a leader with Mood (2003) and followed with Canvas (2005). Early trio work prominently features Damion Reid on drums and bassists such as Bob Hurst and Vincent Archer; guests on those records include Bilal, Mike Moreno, John Ellis, Marcus Strickland and Mark Turner. The early albums include interpretative homages to Herbie Hancock.

The available review praises Glasper's early trio albums Mood (2003) and Canvas (2005), highlighting his compositional output, trio interplay with Damion Reid and bassists, guest appearances (Bilal, Mark Turner) and a clear homage to Herbie Hancock. The reviewer recommends buying both albums.