The sound of a brass instrument is more than air and metal. It carries the echoes of a history that began on the banks of the Mississippi. James Williams and Eelco van Velzen found common ground in that shared legacy, with the ocean between New Orleans and the Netherlands proving to be little more than a detail. Together, they bring the raw energy of jazz’s roots to concert halls across Europe.
Two Worlds, One Language
James brings the soul and rhythms of his hometown, New Orleans, while Eelco adds the distinctive swing of the European jazz tradition through his trombone. The result is a sound that feels both timeless and alive — a conversation between two musicians who speak the same language without saying a word.
Back to the Heart of Jazz
Back to Louis goes beyond a tribute. It carries the spirit of Louis Armstrong forward. By returning to the roots of jazz, James and Eelco find fresh ways into classic tunes, honoring the pioneers while making the music their own.
Classic jazz, played today.