The drums of Marius Couvreur and bass of Otto Kint form the beating heart of the album. Each track has its own distinct groove and character, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Melancholic and intimate acoustic moments contrast beautifully with the energetic, jam-like feel that characterizes the other end of the album’s spectrum. Saxophonist Elias Storme joins guitarist Rebekka Van Bockstal in using effects, enriching the sonic universe even further.

Contrast and layering in the compositions allow the production by Peter Desmedt and the creative possibilities of Studio Ledeberg to take on a key role. The overdubs and the album’s warm atmosphere are a direct result of this close collaboration. The syllabic word Hamabiwa represents the names of the first-born children from each of the band members’ households. These little ones inspired the themes woven throughout the album. While our children give us endless energy, they also take some of it away — which is why drummer Marius Couvreur will step aside from the quartet. Jesse Dockx will be joining the band, bringing a fresh perspective to the release concerts.

Hamabiwa was born from the musical freedom the band experiences in their rehearsal space — a place where parenthood and daily responsibilities temporarily fade away in favor of pure musical joy. And you can hear that joy in every note. This album is an ode to the child within us all. A musical escape. A journey to a moment where time — just for a little while — seems to stand still.