VI.BE

Cari-Jazz 8tet pays tribute to the fantastic Caribbean’s Jazz scene through rearrangement of songs written only by Caribbean composers. The band, led by guitarist and arranger Alexis Nootens, consists of five powerful blowers (trumpet, trombone & three saxes) tied together by the rhythm section (guitar, double bass & drums).

Together, the band play a very eclectic repertoire mixing fiery fast tunes, sunny rumba and mellow ballads. Each soloist has their blazing moment, leading toward epic sax battles or profound groove led by the warm sound of the trombone. The music, being completely rearranged for an octet, sounds like a mini big band with hard bop influences.

In 2024, Alexis Nootens founded the project inviting companions he had met during his studies (in both conservatories of Brussels - CRB - and Leuven - Luca School of Arts). After obtaining his master degree, the latter deepened his knowledge in jazz arranging with famous arranger and trombonist Dree Peremans.

Guitar & Arrangement : Alexis Nootens

Trumpet : Emile Hennuyer

Trombone : Alice Riberolles

Alto Sax : Elly Brouckmans

Tenor Sax : Tobias Volckaert

Bariton Sax : Antoine Lissoir

Double Bass : Edwin Theophile

Drums : Laurent Vigneron