Vanderbuyst - In Dutch

A year ago Vanderbuyst released their self titled debut. Just one year later the second album is already delivered. While others would take a break between touring, Vanderbuyst is making records. In between the festivals this summer they did find the time to visit the Void Studio in Eindhoven (NL) once again. Together with Pieter Kloos, who also recorded their previous album, they produced ‘In Dutch’.

The band, in a rush of being on the road all the time, wanted to translate the passion and drive they radiate on stage to the record. So drums, bass and guitars are played live and recorded analogue. The no frill approach from before is taken even one step further as there are no overdubs or second guitars at all. For this you need guts; most bands rather hide behind an overproduced wall of sound. The result is that ‘In Dutch’ is raw and straight in your face. It feels as if the band is playing in your room and evokes the same atmosphere as the live gigs. You want to raise your fist and join their party.

Raw as it is, on this album you will find 8 catchy tracks of refined songwriting. Although ‘In Dutch’ is not a concept album, all lyrics are linked by the theme of being in dutch, that is, being in trouble or disfavor. Jonkman’s matured way of singing is just what this album needed. Due to the vocals the stories told are credible and you can easily identify with the persons in dutch. Listen to the ballad ‘Where’s That Devil’ and you will feel sorry for the guy standing at the crossroads.

Another strongpoint of the new album, as with the debut, is the guitar. The guitar sound reminiscent of the late 70’s, early 80’s is undisguised and very alive. Exactly the lack of distortion makes the riffs and soloing dynamic and spicy. Still, the bold guitar integrates into the songs in a natural way. The track ‘Into The Fire’ is just that combination of a great guitar riff and a chorus that sticks, absolutely like classic rock is meant to be. But also with their true heavy metal hymn ‘Leaving The Living’ it is hard not to sing along and grab your air guitar.

Vanderbuyst’s brand new album ‘In Dutch’ captures all what the band stands for: hard rock with a dash of early heavy metal. But besides the music, there is more: the fascinating artwork, created by Thomas Sciarone and Milena van den Berg from Studio Waan. You will find different elements hidden in the album cover. Every time you hold that gatefold you will discover something new. ‘In Dutch’ will be released on the acclaimed Ván Records on the 4th of November 2011.

Tracklist:

Black And Blue
Into The Fire
Anarchistic Storm
String Of Beads
Leaving The Living
Reap The Fields
KGB
Where’s That Devil