Yes Pavlov + Dave Douglas

Yes Pavlov, the musical brainchild of saxophonist Ruben Verbruggen, joins forces with trumpeter Dave Douglas (USA, a musician with the renowned John Zorn). An explosive collaboration between an authentic Belgian jazz ensemble and an undisputed grand master of the international jazz scene, straight from New York. During a residency at Rataplan, they are joining forces to create new and original material. The result of this collaboration will premiere during a unique performance at Rataplan, after which the project will tour various venues across Flanders for a week. Jazz and improvisation at the cutting edge.

Yes Pavlov is a jazz quartet with a unique and unpolished sound. Their sound combines jazz with groove, Indian melodies and spontaneous interaction. In February 2025, they released their debut album, Agra, on ZenneZ Records. The band members – Ruben Verbruggen (Bulliphant), Ben Van Bortel, Jasper De Roeck (Serendip Quartet) and Simon Van Brandt (former Artist in Residence at Rataplan as part of Unfinished Business) – are based in Antwerp and active on the Belgian and international jazz scene; they come together in a dynamic and adventurous ensemble. Yes Pavlov stands for fresh jazz with plenty of character and a story all of its own.

Dave Douglas is a trumpeter, composer and teacher from New York. He has written hundreds of compositions and has performed on international stages alongside artists including Horace Silver. Always on the move, he draws fresh inspiration and energy from collaborations on a wide range of projects. In Rataplan, he shares the stage with Yes Pavlov for a concert full of improvisation and musical excitement.