Steppin' presents: SMANDEM. (Live at Hidden Gem Studio)

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In collaboration with Amarte Funds, Steppin’ Into Tomorrow is continuing the series of intimate live performances in a fresh new space, Hidden Gem Studio in Amsterdam. Next up: SMANDEM.

SMANDEM. is an Amsterdam-based collective consisting of Aäron Bouwman (bass), Rafael
Devante Sinay (guitar), and Kick Woudstra (drums). Inspired by artists such as Herbie
Hancock, Christian Scott, and Wayne Shorter, as well as Kanye West and Brent Faiyaz, the
trio creates a sound deeply rooted in the jazz tradition while refusing to be confined by
stylistic boundaries or formal conventions. They continuously push forward, exploring ways
to connect their refined musicianship with contemporary popular music. The three first met
while studying at the Conservatory of Amsterdam, where it quickly became clear that they shared a similar vision and were destined to play together. Their debut EP, ‘Self-
Titled.’(2021), featuring contributions from Herbie Hancock’s flutist Elena Pinderhughes (USA), compellingly showcases their distinctive musical signature. In 2023, they followed up
with the album and accompanying tour ‘Elle (Reworked)’ in collaboration with Ntjam Rosie.
On stage, they captivate audiences with equal ease. Their remarkable synergy was even
noted by Kelly Coker, Dean of New York’s renowned New School of Jazz and Contemporary,
who remarked: “There’s never a feeling of trying too hard and that made it an absolute joy to
listen to you. You guys don’t sound like Weather Report, but feel like Weather Report.”
SMANDEM. proves that an exceptional skill set combined with an open-minded approach
allows genre distinctions to dissolve into pure energy. A philosophy that lies at the core of
both their music and their personalities is: “Tradition is a living thing. Not to be mistaken for
history, which is a passive concept. To be alive means to develop, evolve and adapt which is
exactly what we’re trying to do with our music.”

Steppin' Into Tomorrow is the musical doorway for contemporary music with an ear for today's sound. A platform and a community that provides in-depth articles, interviews, radio shows, and events to introduce you to the finest rising talent from Dutch soil and beyond.
Hidden Gem Studio was founded in 2022 with the philosophy to create a space within the city where artists can create, record and perform their unique experiences in a homelike and timeless environment.

Practical information:
This will be a performance of +/- 30min that will be filmed and recorded
If you're having trouble finding the entrance, see the FAQ for more precise directions
Please park your bikes across the street, not in front of the door
The event is a shoes off event
There will be drinks available for a moderate price

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