Blue Rooster - A Murder in Mississippi

A Murder in Mississippi is a six-piece band from Ghent, Belgium. Zoals de Mississippi-river winds its way through ten North American states, so they bring a rich stream of music styles to the banks of the Dyle. Expect an irresistible mix of Americana, Country, Folk, Blues, and Ierse Traditionals. The band members share their passion for music and weave their diverse influences into a colorful palette of sounds, with their own style and a fresh, contemporary twist. Their soft harmonies and compelling melodies carry you away to the vast plains of North America. The band is led by Leander Vandereecken, who was crowned Beste Vocalist in 2025 during the Belgian Blues Awards. Together with his band, he already made himself heard on leading stages and festivals such as Dranouter, Roots & Roses, Humo’s Rock Rally, and the Gentse Feesten. Their self-titled debut album from 2018 immediately showed what the band stands for: energy, infectious drive, and a playful Roots/Americana sound that invites you to sing along and swing along, full of echoes from the past and a wide range of moods. In 2021, 'Hurricane' followed – a title that refers to the turbulent corona period and the spring storms that raged over our country at that time. During that time, A Murder in Mississippi refined the dialogue between banjo and violins and took the space to give their songs more depth. The songs tell stories about personal loss, addiction, fear, and adversity, but at the same time point the way to hope and connection. The result is a versatile mix of Americana, Bluegrass, Folk, and Blues: from irresistible feel-good songs to ballads that warm the heart, and Dark Country-lamentations that send cold shivers down your spine. A storm is coming – and it is here to stay. The band consists of: Leander Vandereecken - Guitar, Lead vocals Mirthe Vandereecken - Percussion, Vocals Lore Heyerick - Banjo, Vocals Dieter Vanhede - Keys Alexandra Van Wesemael - Violin Stijn Bontinck - Double bass