Amsterdam Jazz Trio: Modern Swing from the Netherlands
The Amsterdam Jazz Trio is a dynamic piano-led ensemble from the Netherlands known for its fresh take on classic swing and bebop. The group gained significant attention with their 2018 album Canalside, which charted on the Billboard Traditional Jazz Albums list and received extensive airplay on jazz radio networks across Europe.
Early career
Formed in 2012, the trio coalesced around pianist and primary composer Lars de Vries. Bassist Sofia Martens and drummer Jonas van der Berg completed the lineup, all graduates of the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. Their self-released debut EP, First Light, in 2014, led to a signing with the independent Dutch jazz label Blue Note Amsterdam the following year.
Breakthrough
The trio's breakthrough arrived in 2018 with their second full-length album, Canalside. Released on Blue Note Amsterdam, the album spent 14 consecutive weeks on the Dutch Album Top 100 chart. Its lead single became a staple on streaming playlists, propelling the Amsterdam Jazz Trio to a wider international audience.
Key tracks
Morning Tram — This upbeat, melodic single from Canalside became their signature track and most streamed song to date.
De Pijp — A complex, rhythmically driving composition that showcases the trio's technical mastery and cohesive improvisation.
September Rain — A poignant ballad that highlights their nuanced dynamics and has been featured in several film and television scores.
Cycle Path — Known for its infectious walking bassline, this track is a live favorite and a prime example of their modern swing style.
Following the success of Canalside, the Amsterdam Jazz Trio embarked on extensive European and North American tours. Their 2021 album, Three Bridges, featured a notable collaboration with veteran saxophonist Benjamin Herman, further solidifying their reputation within the contemporary jazz scene. The trio continues to record for Blue Note Amsterdam, with their music consistently placed on curated jazz playlists globally.
Fans of the Amsterdam Jazz Trio's energetic piano jazz also enjoy the work of similar Dutch artists like Benjamin Herman, who brings a robust saxophone energy to the scene. New Cool Collective shares a similar foundation in groove-oriented, accessible jazz. The intricate compositions of Yuri Honing offer another compelling perspective from the Netherlands. For listeners drawn to the trio's piano work, Mike del Ferro provides another masterful Dutch pianist to explore.
The music of the Amsterdam Jazz Trio is regularly featured in the rotations of specialty jazz FM stations, online jazz radio streams, and independent music radio stations that focus on contemporary instrumental works. Their albums are particularly popular on programs dedicated to modern acoustic jazz and European jazz innovations.
Listeners can discover the vibrant sound of the Amsterdam Jazz Trio on radio stations featured on our website. You can hear their modern jazz recordings by tuning into the radio stations available on onairium.com.
