moene: sessions 1-4
Francisco Espregueira
After building a reputation as a local rhythm prodigy in the Leuven jazz scene, drummer Moene (Moene Peeters) is finally stepping out from the back of the stage with his debut EP, Sessions 1-4. Released via forward-thinking Artisjok Records, this project is far more than just a collection of drum solos; it is the culmination of a unique mentorship trajectory that saw the young musician rubbing shoulders with respected figures. The four-track collection features direct collaborations with Lander Gyselinck, Le Motel, and XL Regular (alongside vocalist Helena Casella), and drum & bass veteran dBridge. It’s a record that sits comfortably at the intersection of jazz, broken beat, and electronic experimentation, proving that Peeters is ready to define his own sound.
The creative process behind the EP was anything but straightforward, unfolding as an intense and often confrontational search for artistic identity. What began as a dream scenario evolved into a grueling period of practice and self-doubt, a journey that required Moene to learn the hard art of letting go. This emotional arc is the backbone of the record, giving the tracks a raw, human feel that transcends technical proficiency. The entire struggle and triumph have been closely documented by director Willem Jones, whose accompanying film offers an intimate look at the blood, sweat, and beats that went into this release. Sessions 1-4 is a vulnerable, groove-laden statement from an artist who is earning his stripes. Available on CD and digital formats.