Formed in 2022, DuGazz is a band that thriveson the magic of collaboration, bringing together four musicians with a shared passion for innovation and emotional depth. Mirko Cocco (bass), Ton van Engelen (guitar), Mandy Rotgans (vocals), and Michiel Nijs (drums) combine decades of experience in alternative music to create something fresh, atmospheric, and deeply evocative.
DuGazz’s sound is a unique blend of post-punk, jazz, classical, and cinematic influences. Their music is at once experimental and grounded, a rich tapestry of groove-driven basslines, atmospheric guitars, dramatic vocals, and dynamic rhythms. With Mandy Rotgans’s haunting, classical-inspired voice at the forefront, the band explores themes of love, vulnerability, and emotion, crafting soundscapes that pull listeners into an immersive experience.
The roots of DuGazz run deep in the musical legacies of Mirko and Ton, who first joined forces in the 1980s as part of Nar-Cist, a pioneering post-punk band known for its experimental edge. Their fearless approach to music laid the foundation for the sonic experimentation that drives DuGazz today.
Joining them are Mandy Rotgans and Michiel Nijs, whose time in the fusion band Celtic Tribe added a layer of mythic storytelling and rich, earthy influences. Together, these four musicians blend the avant-garde and the traditional, the experimental and the emotional, to create a sound that is truly their own.
Drawing inspiration from diverse sources—ranging from Morricone’s cinematic scores to the raw energy of post-punk—DuGazz’s music resonates with listeners on an emotional level. Each song tells a story, blending textures and tones to evoke powerful feelings without ever needing words.
With a sound that’s both forward-thinking and deeply rooted in musical tradition, DuGazz captivates audiences with their innovative compositions. Their music is a journey, an exploration of contrasts, where delicate melodies meet bold arrangements, and every note carries meaning.
Ready to discover something new? Explore DuGazz’s music and experience a sonic adventure like no other.