Mandy Rotgans

Mandy Rotgans is a Dutch singer-songwriter and the captivating voice behind the band DuGazz. With a background in diverse musical styles, Mandy brings a unique blend of emotional depth and technical precision to her performances. Her vocal style effortlessly fuses elements of classical, jazz, and alternative influences, creating a haunting yet powerful sound that defines DuGazz’s signature style.

Before co-founding DuGazz in 2022, Mandy honed her craft through various musical projects, including her work with The Celtic Tribe, where she showcased her versatility as a vocalist. With DuGazz, she collaborates closely with guitarist Ton van Engelen, bassist Mirko Cocco, and drummer Michiel Nijs, crafting music that explores themes of love, vulnerability, and human connection.

Mandy’s songwriting is deeply personal, often drawing inspiration from life’s complexities and emotional intricacies. Her ability to connect with audiences through raw and introspective lyrics has made her a standout performer in the Dutch music scene. Whether on stage or in the studio, Mandy’s passion for music shines through in every note she sings.

Ton van Engelen

Ton van Engelen is a seasoned Dutch guitarist and composer, known for his expressive playing style and deep-rooted passion for music. As the driving force behind the band DuGazz, which he co-founded in 2022 with vocalist Mandy Rotgans and bassist Mirko Cocco, Ton brings a rich musical background that blends elements of post-punk, avant-garde jazz, and intricate melodic structures. His compositions are characterized by atmospheric guitar work and a keen sense of harmony, adding depth to DuGazz’s signature sound.

With decades of experience in the music scene, Ton has collaborated with various artists and explored diverse genres, ranging from jazz fusion to rock and classical influences. His style is inspired by legendary musicians such as Jeff Beck and Pat Metheny, and he continually seeks to push creative boundaries through his work.

Ton’s meticulous approach to composing and arranging ensures that every piece he creates resonates with emotion and sophistication. Whether performing live or in the studio, his dedication to crafting immersive musical experiences makes him a respected figure among fellow musicians and listeners alike.

Mirko Cocco

Mirko Cocco is a seasoned bassist and composer known for his deep, groove-driven style and innovative approach to music. His musical journey began in the 1980s when he co-founded the post-punk band Nar-Cist alongside longtime collaborator Ton van Engelen. With Nar-Cist, Mirko explored experimental soundscapes, blending post-punk with avant-garde elements, and gained recognition with the release of the 1989 album Strange Fruit.

After years of diverse musical experiences, Mirko reunited with Ton van Engelen in 2022 to form DuGazz, a band that fuses post-punk, jazz, and classical influences into a distinctive and immersive sound. As the driving force behind DuGazz’s rhythmic foundation, Mirko’s basslines provide both structure and depth, complementing the atmospheric guitar work and haunting vocals that define the band’s unique style.

With decades of experience and a passion for pushing musical boundaries, Mirko Cocco continues to bring his artistry to life, creating music that resonates with emotion and sophistication.

Michiel Nijs

Michiel Nijs is a Dutch drummer whose diverse musical journey has spanned various genres, from experimental rock to avant-garde jazz. Joining DuGazz in 2024, Michiel brings his dynamic and intricate drumming style to the band’s unique fusion of post-punk, classical vocals, and atmospheric soundscapes. Known for his ability to weave complex rhythms into emotionally resonant music, his playing adds depth and texture to DuGazz’s immersive sound.

Before his time with DuGazz, Michiel worked alongside DuGazz’s vocalist Mandy Rotgans in the band Celtic Tribe, where they explored a blend of Celtic-inspired music with modern rock elements.

Michiel has been involved in several other musical projects, showcasing his versatility and passion for rhythm. His ability to adapt to different styles and push creative boundaries has made him a sought-after collaborator. From experimental rock bands to intimate jazz ensembles, Michiel’s drumming is always marked by its distinctive groove and emotional resonance.

Michiel’s approach to drumming is rooted in a deep understanding of both the technical and emotional aspects of music. His rhythmic foundation is as intricate as it is expressive, and he thrives on the challenge of creating music that is both innovative and emotionally profound.