Brussels, Music, Punk

The Klittens: Alternative Sounds from the Emerging Dutch 5-piece

June 12, 2023
By LC

The Klittens just played their second warm up slot for Otoboke Beaver to a sold out show at Ancienne Belgique. In this article we cover who The Klittens are, their latest releases and what we took from their first performance in Brussels.

Before we go into the details of the gig, we’ll introduce the band for those that don’t know. The Kilttens are a five-piece band from Den Haag & Amsterdam, self-described as “five musicians on a mission, untrained but unbothered”. The band have been releasing music since 2020 with six singles and one EP to their name so far.

We’re still left talking about their output. Truthfully, the 5-piece took to the stage reservedly. Prancing out to their positions to scattered claps before the crowd finally caught on that this was their warm-up act for the night. After a minor hiccup of a guitar strap replacement, they were at full swing.

What came to mind was everything and nothing all at once. From the Loud Quiet Loud Pixie-esque sound to Chastity Belt all rolled into one.

From song one to their closing track, the band made an impression on the audience in attendance for various reasons. The hand made Klittens decorations adorned the stage for most of their performance.

Truly, not many warm-up acts initiate a sing-along. But this Dutch band are clearly unconventional. More importantly, though, genuine in their approach.

It needs stated outright, the drumming was phenomenal. To see their drummer singing alongside 3 other members of the band without missing a beat or note was something worth watching.

There was confidence from The Klittens on their first trip to Brussels. It’s so obvious they are meant for more than just a warm-up slot.

That being said, for any British or Scottish readers interested in independent music, The Klittens are currently on tour in your neck of the woods. With their tracks on wax, t-shirts at the ready and a dorky coordination, it’s honestly one of the most honest acts we have seen all year.

Citrus is the first EP release from The Klittens from 2022. With 7 tracks, it gives a great overview of what the band is capable of. From a dream pop sounding Intro to The Vaseline sounding chords and beat of Herkenbosch.

The standout track for us is Acid Violet 43 for it’s No Wave Sonic Youth aura. A sound better suited their independent and DIY-nature.

Overall, discovering independent bands like The Klittens is a rewarding experience. Not only do you get to support smaller artists in the earlier stages of their career. You see some attendees leave the venue motivated, reliving an old belief that they might just be able to do the same.

Bands like The Kilttens are far and few between. But it takes a group just like this to remind you why no Spotify algorithm is going to present you with the type of sound you didn’t know you were looking for.

If you want to learn more about The Klittens, follow the links below.