This was nominated for a 2023 Latin Grammy Award for Best Jazz Album.
Pianist/arranger/composer William Maestre has been active in Colombian jazz since the 1980s. Discogs lists an EP from 2007 with his band Magenta, active since 1993, but his bio insinuates other recordings. He is a professor at Universidad El Bosque, in Bogotá, Colombia.
This was posted about the album on a YouTube interview: “Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Semblanzas, the first production of the William Maestre Big Band. This extraordinary album is the result of a research project supported by the Vice-Rector's Office for Research and the musical training program of El Bosque University. We explore the captivating rhythms of the Colombian Caribbean, immersing ourselves in the unique interpretation of the mooring drums and their vivid traditions such as the bullerengue and the tumbara. We have achieved a surprising fusion, combining traditional instruments with a contemporary orchestra, creating a rich melodic and harmonic mix inspired by jazz. This album includes seven instrumental tracks and an exciting composition in a reduced instrumental format.”
William Maestre Big Band, Semblanzas, full album: YouTube ; Spotify
This is on Grammy Jazz 2023 Albums, Jazz Best Albums 2023 and Big Band 2023 at Spotify/Jazz Todayish. 😎