The group SMANDEM. consists of Aäron Bouwman (bass), David Nino van der Grinten (keyboards), Rafael Devante Sinay (guitar) and Kick Woudstra (drums). They are all young musicians who met at the Amsterdam Conservatory. Although guitarist Sinay and pianist van der Grinten take the initiative when it comes to composing, Bouwman and Woudstra have major supplementary roles. Their debut EP from 2021 is called Self-Titled and, strangely enough, it was released as a 13-inch vinyl LP. The group is inspired by leading examples like Herbie Hancock, Christian Scott, and Wayne Shorter, but also by younger pop artists like Travis Scott and Drake. Although their feeling for jazz is undeniable, the sound of the foursome is not related to any country or genre. The quartet considers tradition to be a living thing, with an obligation to develop, explore and adapt.
