Picture this: you’re strolling through a sun-dappled park, heart racing from a chance encounter that feels like fate. That’s the vibe of “Echt Even,” the latest Nederlandstalige indie pop gem from Amsterdams-Haarlemse music theater collective De Toestand. This track is a love letter to those unexpected moments of falling head-over-heels, wrapped in poetic lyrics and lush, dreamy arrangements. If you’re into Eefje de Visser, Spinvis, or Wende, you’re about to find your next musical crush. Let’s dive into why “Echt Even” deserves a spot on your playlist and why De Toestand is a band to watch in 2025.
A Sound That Sweeps You Away
“Echt Even” captures the euphoric rush of new love with a sound that’s equal parts intimate and cinematic. The track blends alt pop, dream pop, and adult contemporary influences into a warm, layered soundscape that feels like a cozy hug. Frontwoman Jeninke de Jong’s vocals are the heart of the song, delivering poetic Dutch lyrics with a sincerity that hits you right in the feels. Lines about believing you’ve found “the one” against all odds are paired with rich, evocative instrumentation that makes every note sparkle.
The magic comes from the band’s diverse lineup. Producer Gerrie Spaansen, a former TMF veteran, brings slick beats and electronic flourishes that give the track a modern edge. Jazz pianist Leo Bouwmeester adds virtuosic keyboard parts that weave through the melody like a gentle breeze, while bassist Florean Kruijswijk Jansen grounds the song with steady, soulful grooves. Together, they create a sound that’s both polished and deeply personal, perfect for fans of Nederlandstalige artpop with a theatrical flair.
First performed live at Arnhem’s Sonsbeek Theater Avenue, “Echt Even” is a teaser for De Toestand’s upcoming music theater production, Midzomernacht, set to premiere in 2025. The song’s storytelling feels like a scene from a play, with each lyric painting a vivid picture of love’s dizzying highs. It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to on repeat, whether you’re daydreaming about romance or just vibing to its lush production.
Meet De Toestand: A Collective with Big Dreams
Based between Amsterdam and Haarlem, De Toestand is a music theater collective that thrives on blending genres and backgrounds. Led by theater-maker and vocalist Jeninke de Jong, the band brings together an eclectic crew. Gerrie Spaansen’s electro-pop beats, Leo Bouwmeester’s jazz-infused piano, and Florean Kruijswijk Jansen’s basslines create a sound that’s as diverse as the band members themselves. Their music feels like a conversation between artpop, theater, and indie sensibilities, making them stand out in the Dutch music scene.
What makes De Toestand special is their ability to tell stories through music. “Echt Even” is more than a song—it’s a snapshot of a fleeting, transformative moment. Their upcoming Midzomernacht production promises to take this storytelling to the next level, combining music, theater, and visual art. With influences ranging from Eefje de Visser’s introspective pop to Wende’s dramatic flair, De Toestand is carving out a unique space in the Nederlandstalige music world.
Why “Echt Even” Matters in 2025
The Dutch music scene is buzzing with fresh voices, and De Toestand fits right into the wave of artists pushing Nederlandstalige music into exciting new directions. Dream pop and alt pop are having a moment globally, with artists like Maggie Rogers and Aurora blending introspective lyrics with expansive production. “Echt Even” taps into this trend while staying rooted in Dutch storytelling traditions, making it both universally relatable and distinctly local. Plus, its theatrical roots align with the growing popularity of music-driven performances, like the immersive shows gaining traction across Europe.
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Let’s Talk About “Echt Even”
“Echt Even” is the kind of song that makes you want to fall in love—or at least fall in love with music all over again. De Toestand’s blend of dreamy indie pop, poetic lyrics, and theatrical energy is a breath of fresh air in the Dutch music scene. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Nederlandstalige artpop or just discovering the genre, this track is a must-listen. Check out more about the band at www.detoestand.com and get ready for Midzomernacht in 2025.
What do you think of “Echt Even”? Are you feeling its romantic vibes or loving the lush production? Drop your thoughts in the comments and share this post with your music-loving friends!
