Here’s a little drum solo from last Thursday night with the Aly Keita Trio at the 12th Vibraphonissimo Nürnberg Festival 2025. Playing in 5/8 always comes with its challenges—our Western brains are so used to 4/4 beats that it takes time to find that same feel and confidence in other meters.

Why the Cajon? Let Me Explain!

Hey everyone! You might have noticed I’ve been sharing a lot of Cajon covers on my YouTube channel lately and wondered, “What’s up with that?” Well, here’s the story:

In many clubs and bars here in Berlin (and probably across the globe), traditional drum kits are being banned for one simple reason—they’re deemed “too loud.” Now, as drummers, we know that with proper technique, we can adjust our volume and perfectly "play the room." But let’s face it—it’s not always that simple.

So, what’s the solution? Enter the Cajon!

This little box of magic is compact, versatile, and when played with the right technique, it can sound remarkably close to a full drum kit. Yet, I often hear people say, “The Cajon just doesn’t sound right for certain styles of music.”

To that, I say: Challenge accepted!

That’s why I’ve been creating these Cajon cover songs. I want to show how incredible and dynamic this instrument can be, no matter the genre. You can check out my latest covers (and more) on my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@MarcelvanCleef 

Not Inspired Try Tomorrow 

A brand new Trio

Introducing NITT - “Not Inspired Try Tomorrow”, the new exciting trio mixes atmospheric ambient textures with heavy modern grooving waves, all flavoured by bursting solos and a highly interactive musical interplay. NITT are Omri Abramov on Saxophone and EWI, Roberto Badoglio on Electric Bass and Marcel van Cleef on Drums and Percussion. Thanks to their fresh use of cutting edge electronic instruments, synths and sound effects, the trio is capable of achieving vast and complex soundscapes and travel between them through a dynamic interplay. Omri’s talent of combining and sounding like multiple different instruments using his EWI gear, Roberto’s ability of switching between traditional bass playing and chordal ‘guitar-style’ arrangements, and Marcel shifting between drums and various percussions making the element of surprise a key feature of the band. 

Each member brings their unique sound and style to the band, elevating their music to new heights.