Heimwee

I never thought I’d grow so fond of my own language. Honestly, I’ve never been a huge fan of ‘Hollands’—yes, it’s Dutch, but it’s quite different from the way we speak it. There’s a world of difference in how it sounds. Yet, now I’ve got Dutch songs in my playlist, thanks mostly to two fantastic women: Merol and Eefje de Visser. Eefje, though, has a bit of a Belgian link, as she lives in Ghent with her husband and child.

Bitterzoet

It’s hard to believe it’s already been four years since she wowed the world with her incredible album “Bitterzoet,” which translates to “bittersweet” in English. This album skyrocketed her to the top of the Dutch indie pop scene. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve listened to it. You can check out the music video for the title track below.

The challenge of creating something amazing is that it sets sky-high expectations for whatever comes next. Her new album “Heimwee” has been out since September 13. It’s her fifth studio album. The initial spark for what would become a new musical chapter started with the English lyrics “homesick in my hometown.” This set the stage for a fresh creative journey, one that promises to be just as captivating as her previous work, rich in depth and nuance. No one captures and uncovers emotions quite like Eefje de Visser.

I believe she is unique with her distinctive cryptic manner of writing song lyrics. The production quality is impressive, with producer and husband Pieterjan Coppejans showcasing his skill in artfully blending sounds. He flawlessly intertwines the vocals with the instruments, especially evident when you listen with headphones that allow you to immerse yourself in her world. This is a highly recommend listen!

Tycho - Time to Run

Scott Hansen, also known as Tycho, is an artist I've been a fan of for quite some time, and I regularly enjoy his music while working. Recently, he resurfaced with a refreshing new piece titled "Time to Run."

This particular track represents Tycho's first original release in a couple of years, apart from his noteworthy collaboration with Ben Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie. In this latest creation, Tycho ventures into new artistic territory by embracing a band approach, while remaining faithful to his fundamental artistic principles.

"Time to Run" features Zak Brown on the guitar and Kaelin Ellis on drum. Tycho embarks on a new rhythmic direction, while maintaining his distinctive atmospheric synthwork, resulting in a more uplifting journey than his well-known sound. The mixing contributions of Chris Taylor from Grizzly Bear add an enchanting touch.

In a statement, Tycho shared his profound connection between music and meditation, which has been a constant presence in his life and served as inspiration for the song. He reflected on his past as a competitive runner and how he would mentally replay loops of songs to manage the stress of races, focusing on rhythmic elements to find a sense of calm and maintain his pace. Tycho expressed that running has provided him with a unique form of clarity, a deeply human experience that fosters a profound connection between the mind, body, and nature. With "Time to Run," he endeavors to translate these ideas into musical expression.

My goal was to approach the composition from a new angle and let the rhythmic elements take the lead. I cast the melodic elements that have come to define the Tycho sound in a new light by juxtaposing them against a new foundation that takes cues from funk music.

Accompanying the release of the track is a captivating music video directed by Patrick Elmore, which beautifully weaves together the overarching theme of running with a nostalgic energy. The video captures the excitement of spectators, the guidance of coaches, and the watchful eyes of officials as the runners gather at the starting line. As the race begins, the runners disappear into the surrounding woods, symbolizing their escape from the pressures and physical exertion of the moment. Despite the intense strain, the music carries them forward, fueling their relentless drive to keep running without looking back. Ultimately, the storyline of the video encourages viewers to liberate themselves from the burdens imposed by others, inspiring a sense of serenity and fulfillment. This message is embodied by the subject of the video diving into a refreshing natural pool of water, symbolizing a moment of liberation and tranquility.

Sven Van Hees - Airflow

I've been an avid enthusiast of the 'chill' genre for as long as I can remember. Defining 'chill-out' can be hit or miss in many playlists, but one constant presence in mine throughout the years has been Sven Van Hees. He is undeniably the Belgian maestro of this genre. A crucial aspect of the 'inspiration' experience is being transported to a different world, and that's precisely what his new album 'Airflow' accomplishes. Each time you listen you discover a new background sound, especially with a headset. His music serves as an instigator for creativity and productivity.

I'm extremely happy & proud to present you my brand new album AIRFLOW! It's been one heck of a journey, probably the longest time i've worked on an album ever but I can't wait to share this one with you all.

This album possesses all the essential elements to establish itself as a future classic. The deep blues vocals of 'Cowasaki' combined with the Afrobeat Orchestra's chilled-out Ethiopian groove create a captivating fusion and it sets the tone of things to come perfectly.

The title track, "Airflow," along with "Beaver Fever," "Flowbama," and "Sventennial," continues the enchanting journey, showcasing divine vocals, exquisite arrangements, and dreamy guitars, all bearing the trademark Sven Van Hees' distinctive touch.

"Soulful Jazz" and funky beats take center stage in "Bear Necessities" and "Liquor all Over." The energetic Afrobeat tracks, "Afrosphere" and "Coca Cabana," have the power to ignite any beach bar with their uptempo rhythms. To conclude the album, we have "Return to Soles Bar," a homage to Sven Van Hees' cherished beach bar in the Dominican Republic. It serves as the perfect tune to wrap up an album that can only be described as pure listening bliss.

This musical Journey (best enjoyed in a hammock with cocktail) sets the sound of my summer 23! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Hydrogen Sea - Candy

No, this isn't a part of the 'hopium' hype campaign of Hydrogen but new music from my own soil, Belgium. Prepare for a refreshing musical treat from PJ Seaux and Birsen Uçar, as Hydrogen Sea unveils their latest single. Aptly titled "Candy", this song offers a delicious addictive glimpse into their forthcoming fall album. Mark your calendars for two exciting performances: November 22 at AB and November 30 at Paradiso, where they'll showcase their new material. 

Tickets are already on sale.

"Candy" features Birsen Uçar's enchanting vocals, accompanied by lively drums, guitar, and percussion. The song is an uplifting homage to the sweet sources of joy and comfort in our lives. While embracing a carefree and cheerful ambiance, the talented duo from Brussels doesn't shy away from acknowledging the thrilling unrest beneath the surface. Collaborating with producer Luuk Cox, they effortlessly capture a lush and dynamic sound in "Candy," infusing it with a sun-soaked and happiness essence that sets the stage for a delightful start to the summer season. This little taste makes me look forward to the rest of the album.

Liquid Love

My most listened album for 2022 is from a Belgian band out of Aalst. According to the Apple Music Replay feature I played this album 28 times in 2022.

Maybe you already guessed that I am referring to a band called 'Intergalactic Lovers'. The band has 4 members, Lara Chedraoui - Brendan Corbey - Maarten Huygens - Raf De Mey. I also enjoyed Lara, the singer as actress in the TV series 'Lost Luggage'. She plays a policewoman that has to return luggage to the relatives of an attack at Brussels Airport. This recent album comes after a 4 year hiatus due to personal setbacks and COVID 19. For me it was my first introduction to the the band. I also didn't know they already made 3 albums before this one. Personally I really like that the electronics are given a more prominent role in their music. In my humble opinion Intergalactic Lovers certainly does not make your average pop songs. The voice of Lara Chedraoui is the band's strongest asset. This album keeps getting better by more listening, hence the 28 times 😀

Give it a listen, you won't regret it.