Low-Fi Backstage with BAK//RORDAM

Jan Rordam and Frans Bak are a musical duo presenting melodic instrumental music. With Jan's virtuosic guitar playing and Frans' melodic piano style, their sound is a perfect blend of emotion and technical skill. As accomplished composers and producers, they have made a name for themselves in the film and TV industry. In this episode of Low-Fi Backstage, you will get an inside look at the dynamics of this talented duo and the magic behind their music.
Low-Fi Backstage with BAK//RORDAM

Frans and Jan are two musicians who have joined forces to create a unique musical project. Frans Bak finds his roots primarily in the jazz world and has spent the last 30 years working in the film industry. Jan Rordam, on the other hand, comes from the pop music world and has a background in pop rock. Despite their differing musical styles, the two artists share a love for creating music and have come together to produce a unique sound.

Jan and Frans first met when they shared a studio next to each other and eventually started collaborating on different projects. It was during a visit to Jan’s summerhouse where Jan was playing chords on the guitar and Frans thought “why not to add some melody on top,” that the two decided to form BAK//RORDAM project. Their first album was well received so they followed it up with a second one. Now they are playing with the idea of releasing a third album this fall.

BAK//RORDAM performing
Frans Bak and Jan Rordam performing

Inspiration for Jan and Frans comes from various sources. Frans is influenced by the new classical world and loves listening to artists in this genre. Jan, on the other hand, sources his inspiration in pop music with an edge, as well as some new classical instrumental pieces like Bremer/McCoy. “I also get inspired from listening to music where I don’t have to rush it. Sometimes I have a tendency to rush music and get on with it. So, in this project we try to have no hurry – Don’t worry, no hurry, Frans shares. BAK//RORDAM only play their own music and like to improvise and jam around their own songs. Although the songs have a fixed form, they enjoy going outside it and creating new unique sounds.

BAK//RORDAM performing
Frans Bak and Jan Rordam performing

One of the duo’s favorite musical memories together was playing a concert in a church. The reverb was beautiful and the audience was focused and attentive, making for a wonderful experience. That’s also why they are excited to play in the Low-Fi format as they believe it will allow the audience to concentrate and truly appreciate their music.

Frans and Jan were introduced to the Low-Fi community by Karsten Kjems, who heard their music and thought it would be perfect for this concept. “We want to keep on building this project slowly, keep on playing together and maybe play a larger venue this autumn,“ Frans concludes.

by Valentýna Jonášová
February 14, 2023