Sunflower

About

With Love Letters , drummer and composer Joost Lijbaart reveals a deeply personal side of his music. After more than 35 years in jazz, improvised music and world music, he felt the need to return to the essence of making music: presence, simplicity and genuine human connection. That search brought him together with singer-songwriter Amelie Spinks and bassist River Adomeit. Playing with these young musicians—Amelie (22) and River (28)—introduced a new sense of freedom and vulnerability into his music. For the first time, Lijbaart (58) deliberately sets aside much of his virtuosity as a drummer, choosing instead for simple grooves and a warm, open sound. The songs on Love Letters explore care, intimacy and the quiet strength of love. In pieces such as If I Was a Woman and Eight Hands on a Black Cat, Lijbaart reflects on empathy, loss and the longing to truly see one another. The result may well be the most personal work of his career: music without armour, driven by a single desire—to look at life and the world through the lens of love. Amelie Spinks vocals / guitar River Adomeit bass