From jazz to soul via Ghanaian highlife, our triple-header showcased the vitality and vibrancy of Dutch musical culture – with trumpets and saxes at the heart of the sounds. 

Kymara is one of the most exciting new voices in soul. Born in the Netherlands and now based in Brighton, her music has echoes of Nina Simone’s storytelling, D’Angelo’s soul and the rawness of Janis Joplin – and she comes to Bradford fresh from a tour with Rag’n’Bone Man.

The Sam Newbould Quintet were forged in Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most dynamic jazz scenes. Led by UK-born alto saxophonist Sam Newbould, the group’s sound has echoes of everything from classic jazz to English folk music and even Radiohead – as heard on excellent new album Homing.  

Peter Somuah’s new album Highlife is a rich journey that connects the musical heritage of the trumpeter’s Ghanaian roots with contemporary sounds. It’s a statement of pride, inviting listeners to reflect and dance to the rhythms of history and the future of jazz. 

Oranje Brass was part of The Big Brass Blowout, a weekend-long celebration of the best in brass.