Sencalar/Glassman Quintet

The Sencalar/Glassman Quintet, a vibrant jazz ensemble, has made notable contributions to the jazz scene with their thoughtful compositions and arrangements. Co-led by trombonists Altin Sencalar and Chris Glassman, the quintet stands out for its rich brass textures and sophisticated musical narratives. Their work is a testament to their technical prowess and deep musicality, particularly evident in their projects such as “Realization” and “The Solitude Sessions.”

“Realization,” released in January 2020, showcases the quintet’s ability to blend intricate arrangements with emotional depth. The album features a mix of originals and covers, including a notable arrangement of Herbie Hancock’s “The Maze” and John Coltrane’s “Impressions,” which are reinterpreted to highlight the quintet’s unique sound. The inclusion of Nathan Borton on guitar and Addison Frei on piano adds a dynamic layer to the band’s predominantly brass sound, allowing for a rich tapestry of jazz that pays homage to their roots while exploring new territories​​.

“The Solitude Sessions” EP, inspired during the COVID-19 pandemic and released in September 2020, is another significant work by the quintet. This project was recorded entirely remotely, with each member contributing from their home studios. It includes tracks like “Bolivia,” “Stardust,” and “Each Step,” showcasing the quintet’s adaptability and commitment to creating music even in challenging times. The EP is a digital-only release, emphasizing the quintet’s forward-thinking approach and their ability to utilize technology to overcome the barriers imposed by the pandemic​​.

Altin Sencalar, in addition to his work with the quintet, continues to pursue solo projects. He has been recognized for his “virtuosity, control, and articulation,” with recent praise from the New York City Jazz Record for his contributions to the Wayne Shorter Blue Ballads CD on Posi-Tone Records. This speaks to Sencalar’s esteemed position within the jazz community and his ongoing contributions to the genre.

Sources:
https://www.altinsencalarmusic.com/
https://thesencalarglassmanquintet.bandcamp.com/album/the-solitude-sessions