Interviews

Dutch artist Maarten Goetheer delivers a stunning tribute to Chick Corea with his album, ‘Suite For Chick’ out on Phil Cooper’s discerning NuNorthern Soul imprint. The album is a collaboration with one of Thailand’s most important drummers, Pong Nakornchai. On the week of the release, we get a chance to get to know a little more about Maarten.

Thank you for taking the time to talk Maarten. How's it going?

Everything is going wonderful. I'm here in Bangkok, Thailand where I reside, and rainy season is just finishing so it's time to enjoy some of the lovely weather.

I'd love to hear about the initial idea for the album Suite for Chick. When did you first approach this concept and what was your original intention with this release?

Like many, I have been a huge Chick Corea fan since I can remember. My dad plays the piano and he always played Chick's stuff around the house alongside Keith Jarret, Michel Petrucciani and many others. When I learned of Chick Corea’s passing the Idea started playing in my head to work on some of his material. When I laid down the first track City Gate / Rumble, I was talking to my friend Pong, and we decided to add his drum parts. I think the intention has definitely been to honour the original artists, and I guess through that process shine some light on the material. By using modern influences and production techniques I hoped not to just make this a Cover project but hopefully re-invigorate some of the material in an inspired way.

What was most important for you to convey through Suite for Chick?

As much as I love traditional jazz, fusion jazz has been a huge factor in my musical upbringing and really opened my ears to new possibilities in making Music. So, I wanted to put out a project that is kind of my take on the genre but influenced by my 25 years of DJg, being on the road and in the studio playing and recording genres like Techno, Digi-Dub, Boogie, Cosmic Disco, Proto House, Electro. I tried to bring some of those flavours and fusions to the table in the edits and the dubs of this EP. The Second thing is it would be great if this EP shines some light on the jazz scene in Thailand where I reside. My partner on this project Pong Nakornchai, is a fantastic musician whose improvisational talent and drum proficiency are on par with international artists through my ears. And there is a whole scene here that definitely deserves attention!

Do you feel that you were able to accomplish all of your intentions?

Yes, I’m quite happy with the outcome! Working with someone as talented as Pong is just a joy to record and be in the studio together working on the material together. The compositions and original drum parts are so inspiring to the both of us that it felt just right to approach it with an open mind.

What are you most proud of with Suite for Chick?

It is a bit hard to say as it is still about to come out, but there were some really kind words by some of the international community that meant a lot me. Making Music for over 25 years , it’s still wonderful that discerning listeners take the time out their (no doubt) busy schedules and listen and appreciate the work you put in. This music, unlike pop music, requires a sit down and proper listen, it is hard to digest on the road or casually on Youtube or Spotify or something. So, I really value and appreciate everyone spending time with it.

What was the most challenging part of bringing this release together?

Not to dodge the question, but this release just carried itself in a way. It was so much fun to put together. And I really enjoyed working with Pong who brought a real human touch to some of the sequenced and programmed melodies and keyboards.

I guess this album marks a lot of years in the music business, I’d love to hear your thoughts on how your creative process has changed and remained the same over the years. Do you approach anything differently now?

Yes, I like to think that the approach is more honest now in a way. Like many I started out by sampling others’ work, and I respect the art of sampling (a lot) but as my musical journey continued it became more important to find my own voice. I hope that when listeners hear my stuff they will hear that signature. A unique approach and accomplished musical identity is key.

What drives you to continue creating music Maarten?

Music expresses everything we cannot put in words. The emotional outlet it gives me is so powerful that I would not know what to do without it! (ha ha)

What has been one of your favorite moments from the past year?

This is going to sound cliché, but my son’s first day of school was the highlight for me. His name is Jerdja and he was so brave that day!

Where do you find the most inspiration when it comes to discovering new music?

I still enjoy going out to hear some of the local DJ scene here in Bangkok. There are a lot of talented guys and girls out there that inspire me when I hear them play. Can be new or old stuff, all types of genres, I am always on the lookout for quality.

You are releasing on your Phil Cooper’s NuNorthern Soul. What can you tell us about the imprint and how did you connect with them?

I met Phil when he was the Music Director at Potato Head Bali and as Music Heads we connected right away! Phil is personable, knowledgeable and sincere when it comes to his label. And I loved some of his previous releases. So, I did not need any convincing when he showed interest in the project. He is also a big vinyl proponent. It was important to me the work would find a home on the format.

What can we hope to see next from Maarten Goetheer?

Up next will be original work. Working together with the Thai scene I’m sure we can cook up more music for the world to enjoy!

Check out the latest release from Maarten Goetheer.