WHO ARE THEY?
you might ask

With the ringing sound of open strings, a pounding bass, and flying drum patterns, CHELLOVECKS tears it up in full force. The Amsterdam-based trio, led by guitarist Philip Kurstjens, approaches jazz in a way where improvisation sometimes takes the lead—and at other times is deliberately left out. Combined with a rock-driven sound, atmospheric chords, and screaming solos, this creates an experience that even for the band itself is always a surprise.

The common thread: tight grooves within free structures, leaving playful space for each band member. The twin brothers on guitar and bass—both armed with strings and pedals—join forces with a steadfast drummer to form a dynamic whole.

The rock-stained (anti-)impro-groove of CHELLOVECKS follows in the footsteps of guitar heroes like Wayne Krantz and Scott Henderson, serving as an ode to the versatility of the instrument. The band seeks to break through jazz’s serious tone and shift the focus toward a new kind of musical pleasure: refined ferocity.

The musical outbursts of CHELLOVECKS promise to keep listeners awake well into the night. With their debut album Negative Space (June 2025), they’ve made their first mark on the Dutch scene—but their hunger is far from satisfied. There’s much more to come from this group, both live and through your headphones.