ALBUM OUT NOW

PHANTSMAGORIA Side A

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Album out now!

Phantasmagoria

Rafu is proud to announce the release of his debut album, Phantasmagoria, which has recently been mixed by Christine Verschorren and mastered at Studio Dada in Brussels.

Originally conceived as an instrumental project for piano and marimba, Phantasmagoria has since evolved into a collection of intricate compositions, featuring arrangements for violin, (bass) clarinets, percussion, and analogue synths.

Rafu’s music is like photographic film captured on a soundwave. He creates soundscapes that evoke imagery—his music is a cinematic experience, crafting dreams in imaginary worlds. The storyline determines the musical direction, guiding you through dramatic melodies, rhythmic movements, and mythical soundscapes. The result blends and transcends genres, from jazz and (neo)classical to world music. Let your imagination take flight with the album's suggestive power and cinematic flair!

Musicians

Phantsmagoria

Rafu: Piano, clarinet, electronic wind instrument
Bart van Aken: Marimba, percussion
Sep François: Drums and percussion
Firas Al Alwani: Clarinet, bass clarinet
Jef Mercelis: Synth bass
Marija Krumes: Violin, viola
Nathan Wouters: Double bass
Ona Mercelis: Violin

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Phantasmagoria: a group of real or imagined images that change quickly one following the other as in a dream.’ (Cambridge dictionary)

 

Rafu Tunes

 

Rafu, the stage name of Raf Mercelis, is a musician based in Antwerp, Belgium. His passion and inspiration are deeply rooted in the piano, which has been a constant presence throughout his life.

The name Rafu was given to him by his Japanese colleagues when he was working in Hamamatsu, Japan for Yamaha Music as a pianotechnician. 

In addition to composing music, Rafu works with Piano’s Maene in Belgium for a wide variety of pianolovers and renowned concert venues across the country, as a specialized Steinway concert tuner and technician.

Studio

Phantasmagoria was entirely produced in his studio, situated in Hoboken.
Filled with equipment and instruments, he had to decide with grief to get rid of his beloved Chesterfield Sofa to have some extra space …
Everything in this studio happens in the name of music..

The studio is used for rehearsals and recordings.
For more information: get in touch!

Rafu Contact