Enfnts Terribles

Since Bitterzoet came out, it took a long time before you could perform it on stage. How was it to see people’s faces for the first time?

Yes, a lot of fun. We have played a lot in front of an audience, but always in a COVID-proof setup and that is so different. And the first time we played without COVID measures was in Antwerp at the Open Air Theatre. And that really felt incredible for all of us: for me and the audience… It was raining too. And I just had this new song, which has something about rain in it—my new EP is also called Blauwe Regen (editor’s note: means Blue Rain), and it all came together so nicely.  That was also the moment that I realized how important it is that people can stand close to each other, can feel each other, and that the emotion spills over to people standing next to you. That is so special. That you become one group together. And I think we also need that group feeling. I have to say, that’s really the kind of magic you look for at festivals, and in clubs, you hope it will happen. Now that it has happened, it really exceeded my expectations. It’s been so much fun. People were totally on board and knew the songs well, too, because they’ve been out for so long. There was a lot of ecstasy. That’s what we want.

The album is nearly two years old; are you already thinking about the next step?

Definitely. I’m still searching. Of course, it’s also difficult because we’re already working with dancers, confetti, all that stuff… I don’t want to have to go even more bombastic or even more out of the box every time to blow up the show even more. I don’t want to become the type of artist where the show becomes more important than the music, so to speak. That’s a kind of balance I must find now. There’s a lot going through my head, but I don’t know what form it’s going to take.

Are you already thinking about your next album?

I’ve written lots of songs already. But I’m going to add many more. And a lot will fall off. But there is a lot of inspiration. There’s no time pressure. I’ve realized that Bitterzoet has been out for a long time now, and I would if it doesn’t take too long. But on the other hand, I want it to be really good, and I don’t want to rush anything. So, if it is necessary, it will take longer. 

What’s on your list for the coming year?

We have a tour coming up now. We are at [Belgian festival] Crammerock and then we do a club tour through the Netherlands. But now I can also announce that we are going to do a show in the Ancienne Belgique in Brussels on December 8th. And then we’ll close the Bitterzoet era down. Closing a chapter.