Current projects
Olivier Vander Bauwede Quartet
In this project Olivier performs his own compositions, exploring the range of the harmonica as a lead instrument in jazz. Based in Brussels, the ensemble brings together some of the city’s most talented young jazz musicians. Their improvisational spirit keeps their musical path unpredictable, promising dynamic adventures with every performance.
Leander Vandereecken & Olivier Vander Bauwede
Leander Vandereecken is a blues and roots singer and guitar player, and one of the driving forces in the Ghent blues scene. As an acoustic blues and roots duo with Olivier, they released their debut album in 2024 called 'Live From Room 13'. In 2025, they were awarded the title of 'Best Duo Act' by the Belgian Blues Federation.
Crimson Velvet
Crimson Velvet Quartet is a dynamic ensemble from Gent that blends swing and blues, drawing audiences into a world of passion and groove with captivating melodies and poetic harmonies. Featuring the talents of Sam Opstaele, Pieter Mortier, and Frederik Van den Berghe, the group brings unique artistry to every performance.
Olivier Vander Bauwede Trio
This Ghent-based trio crafts an intimate jazz experience with double bass, guitar, vocals, and harmonica. Blending soulful blues with swing and tradition, they breathe new life into forgotten gems and obscure classics, seamlessly alternating them with their own compositions. This lineup features Bart Vervaeck on guitar and Pieter Mortier on double bass.
Tamala
Tamala combines diverse musical influences, blending the traditions of West-African music with innovation. Mola Sylla, one of the great Senegalese singers, is accompanied by kora player Bao Sissoko, Wouter Vandenabeele on the violin and Olivier on harmonica and guitar. Together they recorded 'Lumba' in 2021 and just released 'Diboli' in 2024.
Missy Sippy All Stars
This group of young blues musicians was formed and lead by the late Tiny Legs Tim, who was one of the driving forces of the blues scene in Gent, Missy Sippy Blues and Roots club to be exact. In 2020 they released their album 'Missy Sippy All Stars Vol. I', capturing the vibe of their high energy live performances and improvisations.
.jpg?etag=%22615c9-656d0bbd%22&sourceContentType=image%2Fjpeg&ignoreAspectRatio&resize=2000,1335&quality=85)
Paradise Stompers
Paradise Stompers play groovy songs inspired by the era of old blues and swing. The band specializes in the repertoire for blues and swing dancers, and have performed at the biggest events of the scene, such as Big City Blues, Les Grands Bals, Boulevard Blues, Ghent Hoppers Exchange, Blues Remix and Duke's Blues.
Matt T Mahony
Matt T Mahony aka Matti De Rijcke, a talented guitar player and prominent figure in Ghent's music scene, has gained recognition for his unique blend of blues and jazz-inspired improvisation. His new album Good Man Blues explores themes of searching for home, merging tradition with innovation for a fresh, modern take on the blues.