
Thalas
Thalas is the new band formed by Guus Herremans and Ward Dhoore, two longtime friends whose musical paths have intertwined for over a decade in Belgium’s vibrant folk music scene. You may know them from projects such as Aelia, Airboxes, Entre Deux, Estbel, Les Bottines Artistiques, Nufolk Global Connections, Phlox, Siger, Snaarmaarwaar, Spilar, and Trio Dhoore. After years of collaborating in various constellations, they’ve now created a dedicated duo, a space that’s entirely their own.
Some collaborations grow slowly, steadily, and with great depth. Over the past ten years, Guus and Ward have shared stages, exchanged ideas, and cultivated a quiet musical connection. Those years of artistic growth and mutual understanding laid the foundation for this debut album. With As It Comes, they celebrate the power of patience and the beauty of the process. The music was born from trust, mutual admiration, and a shared decision to prioritize depth over speed. No rushed steps, no quick fixes, just music that comes as it comes.
Almost all of the album was composed and arranged together in one room, a reflection of their intuitive dialogue and shared vision. Guus, known for his expressive diatonic accordion playing, brings a melodic warmth shaped by years of composing across diverse projects, while Ward takes on the role of producer. His production gives the music space to breathe, while gently guiding it forward.
Both musicians were previously selected by classical radio Klara for De Twintigers, a recognition of promising talent in their twenties. Now, with Thalas, they channel that promise into something mature, honest, and quietly powerful. Thalas is not just a new chapter, it’s a celebration of friendship, shared roots, and the joy of creating something meaningful together. It’s music for deep listening, joyful dancing, and everything in between.