The Bird Experience is raw desire set to rhythm, sweat slick on skin, the sting of whiskey on a split lip. Born from the mind of composer, singer, and harmonicist Mees Vullings (known for his work with the progressive psychedelic rock band Heath), it’s a mix of blues soaked in swamp water and psychedelia hallucinating under circus lights with the reckless spirit of jazz always riding shotgun.
Their upcoming self-titled debut album struts with a sexy, untamed swagger and delivers a wide range, from carnivalistic back-alley blues to maniacal anti-capitalist slow burns to catchy, foot-tappin’ funk, while maintaining an overarching, distinctive sound. The harmonica isn’t a nostalgic throwback here. It’s a centerpiece, sometimes wielded like a weapon, other times like a lover’s voice. This is music that bares its teeth with a switchblade smile and then kisses you slowly. Classy as a crushed velvet glove, dirty as the floor it lands on.
“Mees Vullings, the singer and harmonica player for Heath, has just launched his solo-project, The Bird Experience. Channeling his inner Paul Butterfield, Lester Butler, or even Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, this project shows Mees’ unbridled passion for raw, intense rhythm and blues and blues rock. “Canto VII,” recorded live at the famous Wisseloord Studios in North Holland, is a testament to his talent as a harmonica player and a vocalist, and it really makes me look forward to the full album.
While speaking to Mees about The Bird Experience, he said this is only “Canto VII” in its first incarnation. He’ll be adding a horn section and gospel backing singers to the project. It’s so great to
see a really talented, young musician coming out of The Netherlands, adding exuberance and energy to these classic styles.” – Walter Hoeijmaker (Roadburn)