With Love Letters, drummer and composer Joost Lijbaart reveals a deeply personal side of his music. After more than 35 years in jazz, improvisation, and world music, he felt the need to return to the essence of making music: attention, simplicity, and genuine connection.

This search brought him together with singer-songwriter Amelie Spinks and bassist River Adomeit. Playing with these young musicians — Amelie (22), River (28), and Lijbaart (58) — opened a new sense of freedom and vulnerability in his music. For the first time, Lijbaart deliberately lets go of much of his virtuosity as a drummer, choosing instead for simple grooves and a warm, open sound.

The songs on Love Letters revolve around care, closeness, and the quiet strength of love. In pieces such as *If I Was a Woman* and *Eight Hands on a Black Cat*, Lijbaart explores empathy, loss, and the human need to truly see one another.

The result may be the most personal work of his career: music without protection, guided by one simple intention — to look at life and the world through the lens of love.

On the album three guest musicians will perform:

Wolfert Brederode – piano / harmonium / Wurlizer

Tim Langedijk – electric and acoustic guitars

Alexander Oliver – spoken word

Album release 23 October 2026

Buzz Records