Spook - The Brood (2024) [Hi-Res]

SPOOK is Nicolas Rombouts on double bass, Simon Segers on drums and Filip Wauters on pedal steel and electric guitar.
Since 2020, they have been exploring collective improvisations laced with small pieces of composition. From intimate and minimal droning to explosive grooves, SPOOK focuses mainly on the intense interplay between the three members who always dive “into the moment” in search of new sounds and “instant composing.”

The defining sounds of the pedal steel and the very own use of effects pedals in this as well as the sound of the double bass make SPOOK a unique band that not only subsumes jazz, but also Krautrock, minimal, noise and free improv. The trance and melodic drum parts create an energetic tapestry that even invites dancing!

In 2022, W.E.R.F. records released their self-titled debut album, which was met with positive reviews and well-received concerts of which Gent Jazz in 2023 was a provisional highlight. Then Nicolas described their music as “free country” or “post western” because of the distinctive sound of the pedal steel.

On their new album “The Brood”, which will be released May 31 on W.E.R.F. records, they create a more contemporary sound away from “country.” You could almost detect Eastern influences with more meditative improvisations and more abstract repetitive compositions.

The cover is a work by Japanese artist Kumi Sugaï that he created when he stayed in Paris in the late 1960s and discovered abstract art. The work almost symbolizes a kind of cloud of sound that SPOOK dwelled in during the creation of this album. The sound is less “dense” than the first album, but rather open and lighter in color. More air, more clouds.

Filip Wauters: pedal steel, guitar
Simon Segers: drums
Nicolas Rombouts: double bass