WAAN

times subject to change

Together, saxophonist Bart Wirtz and keyboard player Emiel van Rijthoven are WAAN. They have collaborated previously on Wirtz’ latest album Beneath the Surface, and after a six-year hiatus, they now present a new formation which manifests their musical magic and energy. Their raw sound originates from an exploration which brings together contrasting worlds. A rich stew of electronically propelled grooves, atmospherically crafted melodies and eclectic, vigorous jazz, roots and funk.

WAANs’ debut album Echo Echo is self-produced with the help of Oscar de Jong (Kraak & Smaak). For the live line-up, they are accompanied by Matteo Mazzù on bass and Mark Schilders on drums.

About Emiel
Emiel van Rijthoven launched onto the scene with his band Sensuàl, which earned him an Edison award (the Dutch Grammy). The combination of pop and Brazilian music made him a highly valued keyboard player in all kinds of cross-over genres. He has played with Lilian Viera, Rebekka Ling and LuzazuL, as well as being a regular addition to the band Koffie. He is best known amongst a wider audience as the regular keyboard player and bandleader with Waylon.

About Bart
Bart Wirtz’ career took off after taking home an Edison (Dutch Grammy) in 2012 for his album iDreamer, which he recorded in New York with an all-American band featuring Nicholas Payton. His next album Interview (2014), for which Wirtz collaborated with American trumpet player Sean Jones, is a masterful fusion of musical influences. His fourth solo studio album Beneath the Surface (2016) saw the alto saxophonist explore a radically new direction, featuring a blend of hip hop, rock, jazz and funk, contrasting sharply with the sound of his previous work. Wirtz is a member of the Artvark Saxophone Quartet, performs with the New Rotterdam Jazz Orchestra and is cofounder of his own studio where he has composed and produced various albums.

Musicians
Bart Wirtz (NL) – Sax & effects
Emiel van Rijthoven (NL) – Keys & effects
Matteo Mazzù (BE) – Bass
Mark Schilders (NL) – Drums

Instagram @WAAN_music
Website