My artistic work
As an independent artist I love working with other kind, talented, wonderful musicians.
Here you can explore a selection of projects I lead as a bandleader, alongside some of the projects I have been fortunate to collaborate on.
Vanessa Matthys Quartet
Vanessa Matthys Quartet is the acoustic jazz ensemble built around the charismatic Belgian jazz vocalist Vanessa Matthys. With Dominique Vantomme on piano, Werner Lauscher on bass, and Geert Roelofs on drums, she brings together an international quartet (BE/D/NL) in which the voice takes centre stage in a way that is truly unique.
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Vocal jazz where lyricism and improvisation go hand in hand - rooted in the jazz tradition, yet reaching out toward the sonic worlds of E.S.T., Gretchen Parlato, and Kurt Elling. There is room for storytelling and captivating melodies, as well as for virtuosic themes and improvisation.
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In May 2026, their new album The Secret Vault will be released, featuring their much-admired blend of contemporary jazz, traditionals, and timeless pop classics, all wrapped in a distinctive jazz aesthetic. Intimate and refined, yet powerful and spirited.
Listen to the first single Water!
Ivan Paduart & Vanessa Matthys
Pianist and composer Ivan Paduart & Vanessa Matthys dive into the rich Belgian jazz tradition and explores the repertoire of Belgian jazz greats such as Bert Joris, Toots Thielemans, Eric Legnini Legnini eo.
Vanessa’s pure and honest storytelling will take you on a trip starting in Belgium and then taking it oversees with some of the (hidden) gems from the Great American Songbook.
Thomas Decock invites vol. 1
Guitarist and composer Thomas Decock invites friends over to his studio for an afternoon of playing and recording, all in a spontanious manner and without rehearsing. Capturing the moment is the essence!
Thomas invites vol. 1 featuring Thomas Decock (guitar), Vanessa and Zjef Van Steenbergen (double bass) is available on all streaming platforms.
The Brussels Jazz Orchestra
In 2021 The Brussels Jazz Orchestra invited me to be a guest on their live stream concert "Swing of Unity". Bucketlist material for sure!
Vanessa & Marc Matthys
Growing up with 2 musician parents, I've been sharing the stage with my dad, pianist/composer/arranger Marc Matthys since I was 12 years old. We have come a long way and have done several fun projects together. Singing Toots Thielemans' songs in duo with him and collaborating on a project with jazz trio and string orchestra definitely are highlights for me. You can listen to our record "Time flies, sit back and enjoy" on all streaming platforms.