Throwback BRAND! 2022
The 7th edition of BRAND! was one to remember. With no less than twelve concerts spread over five festival days, it was the most ambitious edition of the festival so far. It was good to see that the concerts were well attended in the two halls of nona and the Stadsschouwburg of Mechelen. Notable among these was the great enthusiasm for homegrown jazz, which played a leading role.
Central guests Lara Rosseel and Vitja Pauwels were able to shine in ideal conditions with their dream projects that effortlessly met the high expectations.
Naima Joris, aki, Profound Observer & Bert Joris and Bombataz convinced with beautiful and incantatory music full of international allure.
The international stars also made their contribution: from the refined tension between Alexander Hawkins and Tomeka Reid to the popping turbo jazz of Gard Nilssen Acoustic Unity and the abstract exploration of Blind Io. And on top of that, the most inspiring guitarist of the past three decades, Marc Ribot! Each concert became an adventure that lured you to the edge of your seat.
It was an edition that made it clear that not only is there a wealth of captivating jazz, but that there is also an audience for it. That leads us seamlessly to the 8th edition: it will take place from Nov. 23-26, 2023.
Pictures: ©Geert Vandepoele - ©Eveline Smolders - ©Patrick Van Vlerken
