RAUWFEST 2026

Inspired by Tokyo’s hyper-eclectic underground scene, saxophonist Benjamin Herman brings together acoustic jazz, electronics, no wave and improvisation in The Tokyo Sessions. Joined by Thomas Pol on double bass and Jimmi Jo Hueting on drums, the trio welcomes Japanese tenor saxophonist Tomoaki Baba — known for Electric Rider and his saxophone work on the acclaimed anime Blue Giant. Expect a bold meeting of Dutch and Japanese jazz, fuelled by experimentation and improvisation.

Instrumental trio Cocobolo channel the raw energy of 1960s surf music through reverb-drenched guitars, open drums and an unpolished drive. Their new EP Shooting From the Hipdives deep into those roots, blending vintage surf and western sounds into something restless, gritty and distinctly their own – 65 years after Dick Dale’s Let’s Go Trippin’ helped kickstart the genre.

Drummer Melissa Acchiardi and guitarist…