Fort Bliss, an electronic band from Amsterdam, has its origins exactly between the Amsterdam Noord and Nieuw-West districts, where Auke (of the xylophone, analog synthesizers and drum computers) and Andreas (of the violin and piano) live. Somewhere in the middle came the creation of a musical landscape that is as diverse and inspiring as the city itself.

Auke (ex Human Alert, Frostparade and more) and Andreas (ex Novack and audiotransparent) both have more than 20 years of experience in producing, performing and recording music when they decided to join forces. The collaboration started with the exchange of beats and melodies, recorded in their own (home) studios. This led to the release of two EPs and a remix.

During the lockdowns, when the world came to a standstill, Fort Bliss found a way to continue their musical journey. The band worked on the debut album at home with great dedication and passion, with the empty, dark streets of the city and the majestic towers that adorn Amsterdam serving as their main sources of inspiration.

Hendrick de Keyser, the renowned architect who enriched Amsterdam with its iconic church towers, played a crucial role in shaping the musical vision of Fort Bliss. Each of the 11 tracks on their upcoming album, titled "Keys," is inspired by one of these towers. The band transformed the atmosphere and appearance of each tower into an instrumental work that takes the listener on a sonic journey through the city.

On October 31, 2023, the debut album "Keys" will finally see the light of day. This release promises to be a unique listening experience, with synths and violins colliding across 11 instrumental tracks. Fort Bliss' music blends influences from various genres, ranging from leftfield electronica to hip-hop, indie and cinematic soundtracks.

From North to New West, from lockdowns to high towers - Fort Bliss brought a concept work that reflects the soul of the city. Prepare for an extraordinary journey through the towers and sounds of Amsterdam with Fort Bliss and their debut album "Keys" on October 31, 2023.

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Album: KEYS

Production, beats, loads of synths, xylophone, guitar and vocals / Auke van der Wielen
Production, piano, violin and synths / Andreas Willemse

Special guests:
Drums / Floor Stevens

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EP II

Production, beats, loads of synths, xylophone, guitar and vocals / Auke van der Wielen
Production, piano, violin, synths, beats and vocals / Andreas Willemse

Special guests:
Drums / Floor Stevens
Drums / Niels Docter
Vocals / Marloes van Asselt

Artwork by Arjen Lancel

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EP I

Production, beats, loads of synths, xylophone / Auke van der Wielen
Production, piano, violin, synths, chain, some beats / Andreas Willemse

Special guests:
Drums / Floor Stevens
Vocals / Alexander van der Linden