Ottla, a band named after Franz Kafka’s favourite sister, was initially formed by Bert Dockx (Dans Dans, Flying Horseman) for a one-off performance series in 2019. What began as a fleeting experiment swiftly evolved into a full-fledged 6-piece band, leading to the creation of an album and numerous performances. After a temporary hiatus, Ottla resurfaced to support a 2021 improvisation for a monologue by Josse De Pauw. Ottla shed its skin, found new inspiration, and is ready to embark on a new chapter in 2024.
Their second full-length, Vogel (Bird), emerges as a vibrant and diverse exploration of jazz, improv, electro, noise, prog, afro, blues, groove, punk, and krautrock. Ottla has transformed into a quartet, with Bert Dockx, Thomas Jillings, Gerben Brijs, and Louis Evrard engaging in a playful dialogue, showcasing contrasts in strength and color. Ottla's journey is captured in the album, with the spontaneity and dynamics of live performances preserved. The result is an exciting and transformative musical experience.
