GERT-JAN DREESSEN QUARTET
This quartet is the result of a unique collaboration between Gert-Jan Dreessen and some of the most prominent European Jazz musicians, including Jean-Paul Estievenart (trumpet), Bram De Looze (piano), and Cyrille Obermüller (bass).
As a bandleader and composer, Gert-Jan brings his profound vision to life through interaction, ensemble playing, and a boundless love for music. The quartet embodies a distinctive sound that arises from the exceptional level of interaction among the musicians, individual craftsmanship, and deeply rooted musical traditions.
"A groovy tapestry of sound – the Gert-Jan Dreessen Quartet delivers an overdose of musical brilliance."
- Musiczine -
Debut Album Angle of Incidence
Recently, the quartet released its debut album Angle of Incidence, presenting Dreessen’s compositional voice in its most focused form. The album was met with strong international response and received extensive airplay across Europe, the United States, Japan and South America.
Angle of Incidence was selected by Focus Knack as one of the Top 10 Jazz Albums of 2025, confirming the quartet’s position as a distinctive voice within the contemporary jazz landscape.
“A debut that combines compositional clarity with a strong sense of collective interplay.”
— Focus Knack Magazine
Live, the quartet expands on the album material through open forms and extended improvisations, adapting the music to the acoustics and character of each venue while remaining faithful to the album’s core aesthetic.
Musical identity
Dreessen’s compositions combine clear formal thinking with freedom and intuition. Written material functions as a framework rather than a fixed script, encouraging interaction, risk and shared responsibility within the group.
Rather than foregrounding the drums, Dreessen approaches the quartet as a collective organism, shaping the music through texture, timing and subtle shifts in energy.
The result is music that is open yet grounded, refined yet direct, and deeply connected to the moment of performance.
Recognition & context
The quartet has been presented in major jazz venues and concert series. In 2024, it was selected by VRT/Klara as part of De Twintigers, a program highlighting emerging artists with a distinct artistic voice, resulting in a live recording session at the legendary Toots Studio.
Dreessen’s work has been described by Flagey and Jazzlab as that of “an artist to be reckoned with”, while All About Jazz confirms that they're “Some of the finest players working in Belgium today.”
— All About Jazz (USA)
Album Information
Release date: October 2025
Label: Hypnote Records Format: Digital, Digital HD, CD
Selected tracks include: Lopik ImRos Ninors Hymne (M) Dreamteam
The album received international airplay in Europe, the United States,
Japan and South America.
Musicians
Gert-Jan Dreessen – drums, compositions
Jean-Paul Estiévenart – trumpet
Bram De Looze – piano
Cyrille Obermüller – double bass
Booking & Contact
For booking inquiries, technical details or additional press material,
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Press photos, bio's, stage plot and full EPK available on request.