Simplon UP
Antares Flare + Bibi and the boys

Antares Flare, an international (Italy, Malta, Slovenia, NL) based in Rotterdam, makes jazz that is as grounded in earthy rhythms as it is in sonic journeying. Guitarist Piero Conte, the creative force behind this eclectic setup, is inspired by the entrancing sounds of the Congo rainforests but also the electro-psychedelic atmospheres of Jimi Hendrix and Clever Austin. Taking cues from Jorge Luis Borges and the magical realist movement, he creates a sound that is rebellious and decidedly modern, interspersed with moments of profound clarity. Since their inception in 2018, the band has played various festivals (e.g. North Sea Jazz in 2023) and clubs in the Netherlands and Italy, also being finalists of the 2021 Erasmus Jazz Price Competition. Their eponymous debut album ‘Antares Flare’ was recorded at Labrstract Studio in Rome and released on vinyl by Amsterdam-based label Wicked Wax in 2022. Enjoy the sonic journey of Antares Flare at Simplon UP, where they blend South American realism, European psychedelic and afrobeat influences with ample space for improvisation.

Bibi & The Boys is a four-headed band consisting of Lasse, Collin, Justin and Bibi. Despite each member having a different musical background, they have found their common ground within the band. Bibi & The Boys use their music to make light of the common obstacles in life. Doing so, the band would describe their music style as ‘dancy rock’, characterized by grooving verses and rough choruses – a perfect blend for letting loose! The past few months have been eventful; they’ve opened for Inge van Calkar twice, won the KEIxUSVA band contest, and had the VERA-Downstage dancing to their tunes. Additionally, they’ve just completed the GRONDSLAG program by POPGroningen. Having fun is one of the band’s most top priorities, especially on stage where they sure know how to convey this to the audience. Every now and then the band takes a step back and lowers the tempo for an intimate atmosphere with songs and interludes that allow you to catch your breath. If you’re into dancy rock and a good dose of contagious enthusiasm, you have to catch Bibi & the Boys at Simplon UP!