As a freelance photographer I want to tell a story that still has to be written. Thoughts, moments, atmosphere ….by nature also without a camera I am always wondered what motivates people, who they are, what do they think if they are sitting unadorned in their rooms or standing in line in the supermarket. As a photographer I’m not looking to capture reality but creating a picture in which I leave the question to the viewer. Because I love aesthetic images I prefer to create the right circumstances but the circumstances can always take over, a strict plan is useful because you can deviate from it ;-)

Meet Doeshka Vrede. The next big thing to come out of The Hague. The 19-year old singer - who also plays the piano and the violin - mixes influences of classic soul and modern electronic music.

Sometimes reminding us of Erykah Badu, at other moments reminiscent of
Amy Winehouse, but most of all Doeshka brings her own sound to the table.

On her forthcoming debut EP, which is due to appear in December, she presents her own songs with subjects ranging from the mundane (such as bags on Begging for Bags) to aiming to right the wrongs in the world  (as on Ticket to a Better World).

The EP also features a duet (Life is no Guarantee) that Doeshka recorded with Karen Bernot, who previously worked with Erykah Badu and D’Angelo among others. The rough mixes of all these songs can be found in the EPK.

Despite being only nineteen years old, Doeshka has a wealth of experience. The talented singer from The Hague already showcased her characteristic mix of soul and jazz at festivals such as the acclaimed North Sea Jazz in Rotterdam and The Hague Jazz. On stage she has an experienced band of four to support her, at times strengthened by a two-man wind section.

Together with her band, Doeshka makes every performance into an event. Her soulful voice, stunning showmanship and youthful exuberance sway any audience and create a unique atmosphere wherever Doeshka and her band perform. A must see!

You are lucky Doeshka is performing at the Melkweg in Amsterdam, December 27,  20:30, €10,-

Watch Doeshka online:
- De wereld draait door (Dutch Television)
- Youtube (Vintage - Doeshka Vrede & Julian Schneemann)

Established in 1973 and cherished by Bas Schaafsma today, The Pancake Bakery is located at Prinsengracht 191, an old warehouse originally owned by the prosperous and powerful Dutch East India Company (better known as the V.O.C.).

It is the middle building in a row of 3 similar warehouses previously owned by the V.O.C.. They are named (facing front from left to right) Faith, Hope and Love. These names were very popular during the calvinistic "Golden Age", a period when the development of trade was almost compared to a religious crusade. The original character of the "Hope" building can still be found in the nostalgic atmosphere of the restaurant.

The Pancake Bakery began as a small pancake restaurant with a basic menu. In 1980, Bas Schaafsma introduced several changes that made The Pancake Bakery what it is today: a world-known pancake restaurant loved by all.