“Lefto is always right!” So it makes sense that we’re happy to share his vision for the future of Belgian jazz. That vision can already be heard on Jazz Cats 3. “I am very impressed by the amount of creative ‘jazz’ talent we’ve managed to compile over the last couple of years. Given the history and heritage of jazz in this country, it has managed to create a healthy jazz scene supported by festivals, venues, press, and labels. Therefore, I am very proud to present to you the third installment of Jazz Cats. This compilation is dedicated to the young and hardworking musicians who are the present and the future of Belgium’s jazz scene”, he says of his selection.

Signed up for the night:

7:45 pm – 8:30 pm > bodies

Brussels ensemble that experiments with sax and synths and has absorbed influences from the likes of Bendik Giske, Bonobo, Nubya Garcia and Bomba Estereo. Their track on Jazz Cats 3 certainly has us particularly curious and wanting more.

8:45 pm – 9:30 pm> CIAO KENNEDY

Brussels quintet that is – quite rightly – described as “an instrumental journey through post-rock, electro, and jazz”. Musically, they nod to STUFF., ECHT!, Badbadnotgood and drummer Mark Guiliana.

9:45 pm – 10:30 pm > AZMARI

Azmari – established in Brussels in 2015 – balances between ethio-groove and afrobeat, eastern sounds, dub and frenzied rhythms. On the latest and second album Maelström, their influences are clear to hear: from Okay Temiz, Heliocentrics, Whitefield Brothers, Surprise chef, Antibalas to Sons of Kemet. Live? Always a party!