Monday, October 18, 2021

KAU trio. - II (2021)

KAU trio. is an instrumental project based in Brussels consisting of André Breidlid (drums), Matteo Genovese (bass) & Jan Janzen (keys). Representing various European backgrounds, their coming-together is in the spirit of the city they grew up in.

Taking inspiration from jazz, they create a head-bobbing atmosphere using bassy beats and catchy melodies. By implementing acoustic instruments, the trio stays true to an organic and rich sound, granting themselves the liberty for improvisation & spontaneous happenings. Influenced by artists like BADBADNOTGOOD & Christian Scott, their music is contemporary, powerful, and audacious. 

"II" is the second EP released by KAU trio… After experimenting with beats and live instruments, this second opus marks the evolution towards a more hybrid and powerful sound defined by their willingness to create extended compositions. The trio adds a unique flavor to each track by inviting guest artists to take part in the production. The bobbing and gritting atmosphere reigning in this EP is in the continuum of their first release, keeping in touch with their identity.

The first track "Nightgrazer" represents an exploration of the doubts and fears of our inner self in a remote place where there is nowhere to hide. Darkness is where it all starts...but trying to find a way out is the mission. This feeling is strengthened by the flute melody, which is sweet and hopeful.

"Challenger" makes reference to the tragic story of the U.S.S Challenger, a failed space shuttle mission resulting in the explosion of the vehicle moments after launch. This story is the perfect example of human pride, but also how desperate we are to reach the stars. The sweet trumpet melodies guide this narrative, which is ultimately tragic.

In "Pink", our courage is shattered by the electrifying roars of the guitar that leads us to feel anger and frustration. The epic ending of the track releases a feeling of understanding: letting go of our fears is the answer.

We finally see a ray of light piercing through the darkness in "Daylight". The only track with lyrics, sang by Rebecca Driesmans and accompanied by Maxime Dereux on sax, catches us into the hope that everything will be eventually alright.

Breathe and relax, everything is good. Led by the wavy synth and bass lines, ''Napoli" is this upbeat song where all you want to do is dance. We celebrate the fond memories and the magic energy that resemble the one you can experience in this vibrant city.

We conclude our journey with 'Dot', a track inspired by the famous speech by Carl Sagan which can be heard throughout the track. This tune is about looking at the world from outer space, reflecting on how really futile all our preoccupations can be compared to the vastness of the cosmos, the perfect ending to our story.

1. Nightgrazer 04:42
2. Challenger 03:41
3. Pink 03:43
4. Interlude 01:18
5. Daylight 04:23
6. Napoli 04:20
7. Dot 04:11

André Breidlid (drums)
Matteo Genovese (bass)
Jan Janzen (keys)

Features:
"Nightgrazer": Eduardo Yaguez
"Challenger": Marthe van Droogenbroeck
"Pink": Khalta
"Interlude" & "Daylight": Rebecca Driesmans and Maxime Dereux
Recorded and mixed: Louis Potin-Paraisot (King's Field Studio)
Mastering: Pieter de Wagter (Equus Mastering)
Artworks: Beatriz Leonardo
Photos: Virgilio Martini
Management: Alexandre Grimaldi (Right Hand Production)