A vibrant jazz experience awaits Rotterdam as Tom Skinner takes the stage for an artist residency during the 2024 MOMO Festival taking place 18-20 April.

Tom Skinner's residency at MOMO Festival

For the third consecutive year, the MOMO Festival has invited an artist for a residency in Rotterdam. Following residencies by caroline and Black Country, New Road, drummer, percussionist, producer, and composer Tom Skinner is set to perform over three days at multiple venues across the city.

Jazz at MOMO Festival

In a departure from the alternative indie/post-/art rock sounds of previous MOMO Festival residents, Tom Skinner introduces a jazz vibe that resonates well with Rotterdam's rich musical atmosphere. Skinner, known for his diverse musical achievements, promises an extraordinary residency. He co-founded the acclaimed band Sons of Kemet with Shabaka Hutchings, Theon Cross, and Eddie Hick and, in 2020, formed The Smile with Radiohead's Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood, releasing the highly praised album “Wall of Eyes” on 26 January this year. Next month, Tom Skinner and The Smile are set to perform at a sold-out show at AFAS Live.

Voices of Bishara

In addition to his band projects, Skinner has made a mark as a solo artist. His debut album “Voices of Bishara,” released in November 2022, has received critical acclaim. OOR magazine highlighted the album's significance, placing it high in their 2022 end-of-year list. The album, recorded in a single day, features contributions from former bandmate Shabaka Hutchings and saxophonist Nubya Garcia.

New musical experiments at MOMO Festival

Since 2022, the MOMO Festival has challenged artists to experiment within their usual repertoires throughout the festival, resulting in extraordinary performances in unique locations. From an improvisation jam by Black Country, New Road in a church to a concert by the band caroline in the garden of the Boijmans van Beuningen museum undergoing renovation.

Tom Skinner's residency is expected to be full of surprises and discoveries, a hallmark of the MOMO Festival experience. This year's festival will feature acts like Dry Cleaning, Holly Macve, Deki Alem, Picture Parlour, and Ralphie Choo, taking place from 18-20 April 2024 at various locations in Rotterdam.

ROTTERDAM, 12 February 2024 – Metal enthusiasts in Rotterdam prepare as Baroeg hosts the intense battle of bands vying for a spot in the Metal Battle semi-finals.

Upcoming Metal Battle at Baroeg

A prestigious event in the Dutch metal scene, the W:O:A: Metal Battle, will see its Zuid-Holland preliminary round taking place in Rotterdam's iconic venue, Baroeg, on Friday, 16 February 2024. Four bands from the province have been meticulously selected through a rigorous selection process to compete in this round. The contenders include Redikin, known for their heavy rock sound; Goldwölff, merging heavy rock 'n' roll vibes; Rocket Fuel, offering a punk rock flair; and Khaotix, blending death, thrash, and black metal genres. This event promises an evening showcasing the promising talents on the verge of making a significant impact in the metal music scene.

The journey to the semi-finals

The competition intensifies as these bands aim for a spot in the semi-finals, scheduled for 22 March at Baroeg. They will join the ranks of already qualified bands: Inherited from Zeeland, Neverus from Noord-Brabant, Obstruktor from Noord-Holland, and Serotonia, the instromende finalist from 2023. The ultimate goal for these bands is to secure their place in the final round on 20 April at Estrado in Harderwijk, with the victor gaining an opportunity to perform at the renowned Baroeg Open Air festival on Saturday, 14 September.

Essential event details

For those eager to witness the clash of metal titans, the details are as follows:

• Date: Friday, 16 February 2024
• Location: Baroeg, Spinozaweg 300, Rotterdam
• Tickets: Starting at €5
• Start Time: 19:00

More information and tickets can be found on Baroeg's official website, www.baroeg.nl, offering a chance for metal fans to support their favourite bands and experience the intensity of live metal battles.

Directions to Baroeg

Baroeg is located at Spinozaweg 300 in the vibrant city of Rotterdam, easily accessible by both public transport and car. Situated in the heart of the city, the venue is a staple for the local music scene, known for hosting a wide array of concerts and events catering to various musical tastes. For those planning to visit, ample parking is available in the vicinity, and the area is well-serviced by public transportation, ensuring a hassle-free experience for attendees.

ROTTERDAM, 12 February 2024 – Podium Islemunda, a beacon of culture in Rotterdam IJsselmonde, celebrates its 10th anniversary with a series of unique events and community involvement.

Podium Islemunda celebrates a decade

On 1 March 2024, Podium Islemunda, located in Rotterdam IJsselmonde, marks its 10th anniversary. The venue opens its doors to the public for a birthday celebration, offering coffee, tea, and cake. Throughout March, a diverse array of ten special events are scheduled, featuring performances by artists with a connection to Podium Islemunda or the IJsselmonde area, including Jandino, Marlon Pichel, Stanley Clementina, and Shantykoor Rotterdam. Visitors are also invited to contribute to a special "MeeMaakMuur" (Participation Wall).

The birthday treats are provided on 1 March from 10:00 to 14:00. The cakes, prepared and served by students from the nearby Recon open-air school for special education, symbolized community involvement. Contributions to the "MeeMaakMuur" are also encouraged on this day.

A month of celebration

The remainder of March features ten events that highlight the venue's special relationship with its performers and the IJsselmonde community. The lineup includes a Comedy Night with Jandino and other notable comedians, a concert by Marlon Pichel, a dance afternoon for the elderly, and a live podcast by Women Connected. Additionally, the second edition of the I Feel Good Festival takes place, featuring Stanley Clementina & Friends on 2 March and a children's afternoon on 9 March. Brasserie op Zuid offers a special anniversary menu throughout the month for €10.

The "MeeMaakMuur"

During the jubilee month, visitors have the opportunity to add their fondest memories or future wishes for Podium Islemunda to a large canvas, through written messages, photos, or other creative expressions. This collection of images and experiences from visitors is set to become a permanent fixture in the building, serving as a commemoration of the first ten years and a vision for the future. Online submissions are also accepted, with a chance to win one of ten evening outings.

A decade of community engagement

Since its inauguration on 1 March 2014, Podium Islemunda has played a vital role in fostering art and culture within the community, making it a true "meemaakpodium" (participatory platform). With over 20,000 Rotterdam residents attending its diverse cultural programming annually, the venue has established itself as a cultural hub in IJsselmonde. The anniversary celebrations were supported by various local organizations and schools, underscoring the venue's commitment to community engagement and cultural enrichment.

Directions to Podium Islemunda

Podium Islemunda is situated in the heart of IJsselmonde, making it easily accessible to visitors. The venue is located on Herenwaard, a vibrant area known for its cultural significance. For those planning to visit, public transportation options are available, including bus and tram services that conveniently stop near the venue. The surrounding area offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural and community activities that define IJsselmonde.

In a unique blend of nature's wonders and the spirit of Valentine's Day, Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp) is set to become a sanctuary of love and discovery. For those seeking a distinctive experience, the zoo offers an inviting opportunity to explore the bonds of wildlife while celebrating the essence of love.

A special offer for Valentine's Day

This year, Diergaarde Blijdorp extends a warm invitation to couples looking to celebrate Valentine's Day in an unconventional setting. With a special promotion, visitors can enjoy two entries for the price of one on 14 February, encouraging lovebirds to embark on a romantic journey through the animal kingdom.

Celebrating love in the animal world

Until 25 February, the zoo will be dedicated to showcasing the themes of passion and romance. A variety of activities designed to enlighten and entertain will be available not only within the park but also through its website, app, and social media platforms. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting stories of how different species find and attract their mates.

The Lovers’ Lane experience

One of the highlights of this season's offerings is the special Lovers’ Lane, a pathway designed to engage couples in the magic of love amidst the backdrop of nature. This route will guide visitors through a series of romantic and educational stops, revealing the fascinating mating rituals and selection processes of various animals. Along the way, several photo opportunities will allow couples to capture their moments of affection with the picturesque zoo as their backdrop, turning a day at Diergaarde Blijdorp into an unforgettable romantic adventure.

Directions and area description

For those planning to visit Diergaarde Blijdorp this Valentine's season, the zoo is conveniently located in Rotterdam, offering easy access for both local and visiting couples. The area surrounding the zoo is well-serviced by public transport, making it an easy destination for a romantic day out.