Frontier People, Thomas Decock and Artan Buleshkaj

De Belgische guitarists Thomas Decock and Artan Buleshkaj found each other in 2024 in their shared love for Americana. The result: the intimate long-player Plain Songs. This album was released in 2024 by W.E.R.F. records and was warmly received by press and radio, and was, among other things, in the top 10 jazz releases of Knack that same year. Now a new adventure is in the pipeline: a dynamic quintet that is preparing to create a unique sound. Now Thomas and Artan form a quintet. Contrabassist Yannick Peeters and drummer Lionel Beuvens bring their versatile, tasteful rhythm tandem, while saxophonist Werend van den Bossche adds a fresh energy with his research into the intersections between jazz and Appalachian folk. The conscious mix of experienced musicians and uninhibited, young talent ensures an exciting cross-pollination. The new repertoire consists entirely of original work. The intimacy of Plain Songs remains palpable, but gets a more powerful sound, with rock influences and a richer production. This creates a band that not only builds on the past but also seeks its own voice in the present.