Behind the scenes Dutch art-prog band studio mistakes
For a group like Lesoir, the music isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a living evolution. Guitarist Ingo Dassen believes that every new record should be an attempt to evolve, pushing the boundaries and bringing something fresh to the table. This philosophy is perfectly embodied in their latest offering, the album Tomorrow Is Now Today.
Their journey through the music world has seen notable shifts. Earlier works, like the Mosaic EP, leaned into progressive sounds influenced by artists like Pink Floyd, characterized by layered instrumentation and complex arrangements. This evolution continued with Push Back The Horizon, which allowed the band to embrace a more straightforward, rock-oriented mode. Now, the focus has sharpened further, shifting into an electronic, beat-driven phase, maintaining their signature sound while prioritizing rhythm.
Despite this sonic shift, the core elements that define Lesoir remain firmly in place: the rich tapestry of layered guitars, keys, flute, and pedal steel. However, the current focus is less on expansive complexity and more on propulsion. Dassen notes that the shift toward rhythm is exciting, making the music feel instantly kinetic and danceable.
The sound of Tomorrow Is Now Today is the result of intentional artistic choices, guided by a deep commitment to the creative process. The album was masterfully produced by John Cornfield, who has worked with the band since their earlier work on Transience in 2011. Cornfield’s touch captures the full breadth of Lesoir’s sound, refusing to settle for simple production techniques.
Ingo Dassen emphasizes that the pursuit of sound isn’t about sterile perfection; it’s about capturing genuine human emotion. The band approaches recording with a delightful disregard for flawless execution. They seek out the “golden take”—the performance that carries the most feeling—even if it includes the sounds of laughter, coughs, and accidental string slips. This willingness to embrace imperfection is what makes their music uniquely human.
Ultimately, Lesoir aims for a record that sounds authentically like them playing, rather than an over-processed studio artifact. They prefer a sound where you truly hear the musicians, not just heavily engineered textures. This approach ensures that each new album is not just a musical release, but a transparent window into the band’s ongoing, evolving creative spirit.
Tomorrow Is Now Today is available now.
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