The Drowning Waves

The Drowning Waves is the independent music project of longtime friends Rick Koudijs and Jos Dortmans. After more than two decades of playing in various bands, the Dutch duo chose complete creative freedom in 2020, transforming their home studios into a space where honest stories and timeless melodies could take shape. Blending indie folk, folk rock, and alternative rock, The Drowning Waves create music that balances intimacy with emotional intensity. Acoustic guitars, piano, rich vocal harmonies, and organic instrumentation support songs about vulnerability, resilience, loss and hope. Since the release of their debut single Brilliant Wave in 2022, the duo has built a catalogue of deeply personal songs. Tracks such as Some of Us, inspired by the true story of the Children of Ruinerwold, and Grieve, a reflection on family and mortality, showcase their ability to transform difficult subjects into relatable music. Recent releases including King for a Day, Running Away, and Bring Me Down continue that journey. Rooted in authenticity and shaped by years of friendship, The Drowning Waves craft songs for listeners who find comfort, strength, and recognition in honest music. Photography by Claudia Lambrigts and Peter van Esch Artwork for Brilliant Wave and King for a Day by Martijn Krop