Brussels, often celebrated for its cultural diversity and vibrant art scene, is quickly becoming a beacon for music lovers, drawing some of the most thrilling and eclectic musical talent from across the globe.
From jazz to Afrobeat, folk to punk, this November’s lineup is packed with performances that promise unforgettable nights.
Carefully curated, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best concerts happening across the city, catering to both new explorers and seasoned Brusseleirs eager to experience the heart of Brussels’ live music scene.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or looking to discover something fresh, these November gigs offer unique musical perspectives and stories woven into each performance. Here are the month’s top acts and hidden treasures to add to your Brussels calendar:
1 November: Geordie Greep at Botanique, Orangerie Stage (20:00)
Former frontman of alt-rock phenomenon black midi, Geordie Greep steps out solo with The New Sound. Known for his distinctive style mixing math rock, jazz, and punk, Greep’s new work diverges toward a smooth, AOR-inspired vibe reminiscent of 1970s FM radio with a touch of Steely Dan’s finesse.
Adding jazz influences and lyrics inspired by Charles Bukowski, his solo act holds the same exhilarating energy and rawness black midi fans have come to adore. Expect a show rich in complex, cynical narratives and the masterful musicality Greep’s performances are celebrated for.
1 November: Avalanche Kaito at Botanique, Museum Stage (19:00)
A fusion of traditional West African rhythms and Belgian rock, Avalanche Kaito brings a unique sound shaped by Burkina Faso’s griot, Kaito Winse, along with Belgian musicians Benjamin Chaval and Nico Gitto.
Their live shows are marked by relentless energy and intricate polyrhythms, with influences from electronic innovators like Cabaret Voltaire and 23 Skidoo.
They’ve already made waves at the UK’s End of the Road festival and received acclaim on the influential US station KEXP, so fans can expect an intense, genre-defying performance.
2 November: English Teacher at Botanique, Museum Stage (20:00)
English Teacher, the latest Mercury Prize-winning sensation, brings Northern grit and candid lyricism from Leeds and Lancashire.
Their debut album This Could Be Texas has already drawn comparisons to iconic Northern bands like Elbow, combining post-punk energy with thoughtful lyrics.
Frontwoman Lily Fontaine’s expressive vocals, underscored by a quintessential Northern accent, inject a raw authenticity into the music that resonates deeply with audiences.
Originally a dream-pop group under the moniker “Frank,” their latest incarnation has matured, delivering a sound that is both nostalgic and strikingly modern.
6 November: Kokoroko at Ancienne Belgique
London-based Kokoroko is an eight-piece ensemble blending Afrobeat with jazz improvisation. Led by trombonist Sheila Maurice-Grey, the group draws from West African rhythms and London jazz influences, their name meaning “be strong” in Nigeria’s Urhobo language.
Known for their hypnotic track “Abusey Junction,” Kokoroko’s live shows are often an infectious celebration, combining smooth brass melodies with dance-inducing beats. Fresh off Belgian festival appearances, they’re sure to create an electric atmosphere at Ancienne Belgique.
7 November: Les Négresses Vertes at Cirque Royal
Known in the 1980s as the “French Pogues,” Les Négresses Vertes blend punk energy with traditional French and gypsy jazz sounds. After the tragic loss of their charismatic frontman Helno in 1993, the band took a hiatus but reunited in 2018.
Their iconic hit Zobi La Mouche introduced them to UK audiences and remains a fan favorite, symbolizing their high-energy style and distinctive mix of genres. Their Cirque Royal show promises nostalgia and excitement as they reclaim their vibrant legacy on stage.
13 November: Empress Of at Botanique
Lorely Rodriguez, aka Empress Of, brings her dynamic synth-pop and R’n’B fusion to Botanique. Known for her breakout single “How You Do It” and her genre-spanning collaborations with stars like Dev Hynes, Muna, and Tove Lo, Empress Of infuses danceable beats with introspective lyrics, exploring themes of identity and resilience.
Her latest album, For Your Consideration, maintains her hallmark energy and experimentation, promising an evening filled with hypnotic beats and infectious grooves, perfect for fans of Carly Rae Jepsen and Robyn.
15 November: Ganavya at Ancienne Belgique
Ganavya combines her deep jazz background with the rich musical heritage of South India. Since Pakistani-American Arooj Aftab’s breakthrough, South Asian jazz fusions have been gaining international attention, yet Ganavya’s unique style remains singular.
Raised in Tamil Nadu, she incorporates Indian classical music with jazz improvisations, offering something genuinely innovative and deeply reflective. Ganavya’s performance will resonate with those drawn to culturally rich, transformative musical experiences.
16 November: Cassandra Jenkins at Botanique
Singer-songwriter Cassandra Jenkins is celebrated for her introspective folk songs and ambient pop infusions. Known for her album An Overview on Phenomenal Nature, her music explores life’s fragility through poetic lyrics and melodic landscapes.
Initially scheduled to tour with the late David Berman of Purple Mountains, Jenkins’ journey has led her to find her own voice and artistic direction.
Her Brussels performance will showcase tracks from her latest album My Light, My Destroyer, promising an intimate evening for fans of Weyes Blood and Laura Marling.
23 November: Shabaka Hutchings at Flagey
An influential figure in modern jazz, Shabaka Hutchings leads with powerful saxophone and flute compositions, blending Afro-Caribbean rhythms with avant-garde spiritual jazz.
Known for his work with Sons of Kemet and The Comet is Coming, Shabaka’s latest album, Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace, features collaborations with artists like Esperanza Spalding and zither pioneer Laraaji.
This performance offers a contemplative, soul-stirring experience inspired by jazz legends John Coltrane and Alice Coltrane.
1 December: Merope at Bozar
Merope, a duo merging Lithuanian folk with electronic soundscapes, releases their fifth album Vėjula on 5 November and will bring this ethereal sound to Bozar.
Featuring vocalist Indrė Jurgelevičiūtė and Belgian musician Bert Cools, Merope’s music creates an atmospheric space that transcends language, celebrating Baltic folk traditions with modern electronic artistry.
Their live show promises a haunting and immersive experience perfect for the intimate Bozar setting.
Brussels: A Melting Pot of Musical Fusion and Culture
Brussels is a city that has always welcomed diverse genres and unique musical voices. With concert venues like Botanique, Ancienne Belgique, and Cirque Royal hosting acts from around the globe, the city fosters a thriving musical culture that draws both international stars and emerging talent.
As November unfolds, these venues will be alive with the sounds of Afrobeat, jazz, punk, folk, and experimental genres, each show representing a different chapter in the rich narrative of Brussels’ music scene.
Whether you’re a fan of raw punk energy, intricate jazz compositions, or soulful folk, the Brussels music scene has something for everyone. This month’s lineup reflects the eclectic spirit of a city that values cultural exploration and artistic expression.
So grab your tickets, gather your friends, and prepare to experience the best of live music in Brussels this November.
