New album out March 17, 2025.
The time is almost here for Out of the Picture to be finally out!
This one goes to eleven!
Soon to be streaming and available everywhere on CD and limited edition yellow transparent vinyl in a nice gatefold sleeve.
So far, 2 singles from this album have been released: Everyone There and 5000 DAYS. That leaves 9 more songs to go... check out the lyric video for EXODUS in the Video section!
Het is bijna zover en dan is Out of the Picture is eindelijk uit!
This one goes to eleven!
Straks overal te streamen en te krijgen op CD en limited edition yellow transparent vinyl in een mooie gatefold hoes.
Er zijn tot nu toe 2 singles van dit album uitgekomen: Everyone There en 5000 DAYS. Nog 9 nummers te gaan... maar kijk ondertussen in de video sectie alvast naar de lyric video van EXODUS!
Bram Strijbos is a Dutch singer-songwriter who has been creating his own unique blend of pop, rock and indie music since 2010. His distinctive sound combines honest lyrics with compelling melodies, which has earned him a devoted listening audience. In the past fifteen years, he has released three well-received albums, and his fourth studio album, “Out of the Picture,” featuring eleven new songs, will be released soon.
Bram takes complete control of his music: in his home studio, he plays and arranges everything himself. For “Out of the Picture,” however, he has hired a professional to finish mixing the record. It will also be available in Dolby Atmos, making for an immersive listening experience.
Although live performances are currently limited, Bram continues to actively promote his music through streaming platforms. In addition, his albums are physically available on LP and CD. With a keen ear for composition and a passion for storytelling, Bram Strijbos continues to grow as an artist and appeal to new listeners with his music.
Bram Strijbos is een Nederlandse singer-songwriter die sinds 2010 zijn eigen unieke blend van pop, rock en indie-muziek creëert. Zijn kenmerkende sound combineert eerlijke teksten met meeslepende melodieën, wat hem een toegewijde luisteraarsgroep heeft opgeleverd. In de afgelopen vijftien jaar heeft hij drie goed ontvangen albums uitgebracht, en zijn vierde studioalbum, "Out of the Picture", met elf nieuwe nummers, verschijnt binnenkort.
Bram neemt zijn muziek volledig in eigen hand: in zijn thuisstudio speelt en arrangeert hij alles zelf. Voor "Out of the Picture" heeft hij echter een professional ingehuurd om de plaat af te mixen. Deze zal ook beschikbaar zijn in Dolby Atmos, wat zorgt voor een meeslepende luisterervaring.
Hoewel live-optredens momenteel beperkt zijn, blijft Bram zijn muziek actief promoten via streamingdiensten zoals Spotify en Apple Music. Daarnaast zijn zijn albums fysiek verkrijgbaar op LP en CD. Met een scherp oor voor compositie en een passie voor storytelling, blijft Bram Strijbos groeien als artiest en nieuwe luisteraars aanspreken met zijn muziek.
Since 2010, Bram Strijbos has released four albums, each with its own sound and story. From atmospheric indie pop to melodic rock, his music balances between introspection and compelling sounds. Find out more about each album here, browse the lyrics and listen to the songs on your favorite streaming service.
Albums
🎵 Greatest Hits (2010)
The debut album that started it all. A mix of pure, honest songs and experimental melodies.
🎵 Never Wanted to Begin (2013)
A richer sound with deeper layers and different collaborations on some songs.
🎵 RAAS (with Jasmijn Steiner, 2016)
An EP (in Dutch) with a fresh sound, featuring both melancholy and upbeat songs.
🎵 Out of the Picture (2025)
The latest work, where everything comes together. Be surprised by new sounds and stories.
Lyrics
Curious about the words behind the music? Click on the album covers for more information and lyrics.
Sinds 2010 heeft Bram Strijbos vier albums uitgebracht, elk met een eigen geluid en verhaal. Van sfeervolle indiepop tot melodieuze rock, zijn muziek balanceert tussen introspectie en meeslepende klanken. Ontdek hier meer over elk album, blader door de songteksten en beluister de nummers op je favoriete streamingdienst.
Albums
🎵 Greatest Hits (2010)
Het debuutalbum waarmee alles begon. Een mix van pure, eerlijke songs en experimentele melodieën.
🎵 Never Wanted to Begin (2013)
Een rijker geluid met diepere lagen en verschillende samenwerkingen op enkele nummers.
🎵 RAAS (met Jasmijn Steiner, 2016)
Een Nederlandstalige EP met een fris geluid, met zowel melancholische als vrolijke nummers.
🎵 Out of the Picture (2025)
Het nieuwste werk, waarin alles samenkomt. Laat je verrassen door nieuwe sounds en verhalen.
📖 Songteksten
Benieuwd naar de woorden achter de muziek? Klik op de albumcovers voor meer informatie en songteksten (in het Engels).
🔗 Listen to Bram's music on streaming platforms including:
🔗 Beluister Bram’s muziek op onder anderen:
For sale at Media Store, Plato, Sounds and we're working on getting into more online stores!
Vooralsnog alleen online te koop bij Media Store, Plato, Sounds maar hopelijk wordt dat snel meer.
Follow Bram Strijbos on social media for exclusive updates on new releases, personal stories, behind-the-scenes looks and other nonsense. Or ask questions, exchange thoughts on music or anything else!
Volg Bram Strijbos op social media voor exclusieve updates over nieuwe releases, persoonlijke verhalen, een kijkje achter de schermen en andere onzin. Of stel vragen, wissel gedachten uit over muziek of wat dan ook!
In a playful twist on the traditional concept of a career-spanning compilation, Bram Strijbos chose to name his debut album Greatest Hits. This bold and unconventional choice perfectly reflects the DIY spirit with which he created the album.
Greatest Hits is a raw, unpolished yet sincere document of an artist introducing himself without any frills. The record features twelve songs where influences from indie, rock, and pop come together. The production is straightforward and direct, with Strijbos firmly in control of every aspect. His voice, catchy melodies, and personal lyrics take center stage, occasionally supported by subtle chords and sometimes by energetic arrangements.
Even as a debut, Greatest Hits already displays a distinct signature: introspective storytelling, a blend of melancholy interwoven with hope, and a down-to-earth approach to songwriting. This album laid the foundation for what was to come and firmly established Strijbos as an authentic and unconventional singer-songwriter.
I can hear the colour of spring
take it while you may
I can see the taste of love in
dream within another dream
crushing vacuum of silence
something's in the air
what is truth today, I wonder
can we live in doubt
yeah, we all know
that we know what we know
I can feel you moving toward me
beauty thrashing me
I can smell the sound of thunder
summer, winter and full moon
palpable emotions flying
rushing over me
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written May 2, 2008)
the hero's in his jail cell
spare time as it should be
everything provided for
get everything for free
just sits there and he wishes
life wouldn't be so long
sun is shining brightly
there's something going on
I cannot raise my children
my rights have been denied
but I'm good enough for breeding
my little guys will fight
you think you are so brave now
I think you must be mad
you think you're doing great now
but why are you so sad
my future is behind me
a life I've lifed before
tried giving you the best, love
all I got was the rest of
retain my sense of presence
not lost but gone before
because you gave up giving
I will be here no more
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written May 2, 2008)
never thought we were both lying
although I must have known somehow
knew all along I wasn't buying
convinced myself that all was fine
time never leaves us just behind
it scars along the way
and, you know, scars are not so scary
when you're inside a dream
couldn't help you stop your crying
helping out felt so alone
guess I should thank you all for trying
because you made me come alive
but since I since I watched you inside dying
life's been coming back again
you know dark and scary places
where winter overrules
got a glimpse of empty coldness
and it chilled me to the bone
remember when we were both flying
lay me down and don't get up
now I'm done with all the why-ing
answers on a postcard please
got so fed up with all the sighing
just realised - don't give a fuck
didn't know
didn't know
didn't know
didn't know I gave you up
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written Oct 1, 2007)
and there she walked and so I ran
towards beyond like one who can
and there she stood and so I ran
the look, the smile, touch of her hand
and there she lay and so I ran
into the void of no refrain
and then she called and so I ran
she tried to tell me, 'want no man'
but I recall that night of kissing tenderly
(hold back Lorraine)
like Cygnus kissed the deserts, flying on his wings of love
cloud number nine and so I ran
I lost myself in someone else
she tried to tell me but I ran
beside myself, out of my hands
and where she went I would have run
from Gandara under the sun
across the empire down to Thrace
I would have faced it all with grace
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written Aug 3, 2008)
who we are never stops changing untill we drop
somehow that is comfort, soothing too
right now you are still too young to sit on your mommy's throne
to deal with what comes and while you may
the one who is fucking up all my fantasies of you
will meet his end like it's destiny
for he will not live to see the greatness that you possess
in all its true forms and shapes to come
I think you must know by now that what I say here to you
will be like a dream within a dream
the things that will come to pass, they shall lead to it at last
that you will be here right next to me
we both can feel in the air - we've always known that it's there
some others most likely saw it too
right now all that we can do is sit and wait here for you
to realise there's no other way
I will be waiting until you arrive
to welcome you to your new place in the hive
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written Jan. 3, 2009)
there you're looking straight at me
you have a devious smile
you can get anything done
it only takes you a while
I wear the face of the undefeated
I wear the face of the undefined
it is a phase not to be repeated
it is a phase not to be declined
you, watching me teasingly
guilty look in your eyes
you know you're messing my mind up
you and your devious smile
I wear the face of the undeleted
I wear the face of the undefined
is it a phase not to be completed?
is it a phase not to be denied?
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written Jan. 2, 2009)
tonight, not you or me
only memory, you see
for tomorrow we'll be gone
there's no chance for holding on
like a life I've lived before
won the battle - lost the war
although it's you that I adore
I'll let the silence sound like roar
if it's bitter at the start
it must be sweeter in the end
and if the truth shines from your eyes
we won't ever need pretend
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written Oct 17, 2009)
when you dream that you're awake
well are you truly sleeping?
then you woke up on the wrongs side
of the worst of nightmares
and the world was shattered
as life fell apart in shambles
all cried out, your eyes are dry
because there's no more tears left
darkness but light will pierce through
life will seem strange but renewed
time now for me and for you?
pushed so close up to the edge,
amazing you're still standing
take your time and sort out
all your thoughts and all the anguish
strength in you to move on
like you'd never have expected
let it all just wash away and
life will do the rest
there's an angel over there
I'd like to take her wings off
stroke her hair, just one caress
wish I could hold you closer
time will heal us
lift up, spirits rise
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written 20090111)
he gets out and starts to walk to work
just like he does every day
thinks about her, knowing there's no way
just another boring day
only get one chance each time
determine, don't ask why
make your choice in a split second
while time is rushing by
stop light, stand still, unaware
just like he does every day
passing cars, unnoticed, racing by
think about what she would say
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written July 27, 2007 and Sept. 6, 2008)
pain
hurt
lies
hope
fear
want
lust
feel
touch
urge
warmth
love
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written July 9, 2008)
I was sure I heard you crying
but I woke alone last night
and you weren't there beside me
guess I never got it right
only doubt is what remains now
not much left of my new pride
'cause your note caught me off balance
and it turned my day to night
how could I
let you get away
away from me
and the truth may never be known
for it sleeps inside us all
and the hope that still surrounds it
finds our weakness
hence the call
and what I regret especially
that you never gave a chance
to what we might have become
when you'd been open for romance
in the end
happiness is real
only when we share it
only when we care
only when there is us
only when you try me
or can you resist?
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written between March 17 and April 17, 2009)
funny how
what do you mean now
funny how
asked you a question
no, you relax
he's a big boy and he knows
what he said to me
maybe it's me
let me understand this
what do you mean
when you say funny
I don't know how
you said I'm funny
funny how
am I a clown now
or am I here
to entertain you
to make you laugh
or to amuse you
you stuttering prick
I almost had you
tell me, was he shaking?
you may fold at questioning
you may fold
you
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written Oct 7, 2007)
just found out it's over
been going on too long
forget that four-leaf clover
just sing this empty song
I thought I was so brave, oh
and you thought I was mad
though I was doing great, yeah
but why was I so sad
just found out there's nothing
nowhere for me to hide
life was one of a stranger
who had one lousy ride
I got to be and old man
how many nights I've cried
I guess I gave up giving
no longer tried to fight
I could not raise my children
my rights were all denied
but I was good for breeding
those little guys did fight
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written May2, 2008)
With Never Wanted to Begin, his second solo album released in 2013, Bram Strijbos builds on the sound he established with his debut, but with a more refined and introspective approach. This album clearly demonstrates growth in both songwriting and production, featuring songs that balance melancholy with hope.
The tracks on Never Wanted to Begin breathe a mix of indie, pop, and alternative rock, with Strijbos’s distinctive voice and melodic guitar parts taking center stage. The lyrics are personal and reflective, touching on themes of loss, longing, and the struggle to move forward. The album carries an intimate and at times darker character compared to his debut Greatest Hits (2010), while still offering moments of light and subtlety.
With a runtime of 40 minutes and 12 carefully arranged tracks, Never Wanted to Begin shows that Strijbos is following his own artistic path. This album is an essential chapter in his musical journey and serves as a bridge to the fuller sound found on Out of the Picture (2025).
tune out, log off
don't wait up *
intercept messages
desparate who
sad conclusion
scattering follows
lies and loneliness
request a backup
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
patience is nice but gets us nowhere
blinds us for what we can't embrace
tragedies just waiting to happen
hear them all crumble, trying to fade
watch bodies moving
feast on acuteness
can't shake the feeling
this is where we meet
modesty's fine but leads to nothing
feel like the man who dies every day
what makes life frightning's you don't own it
(because it owns you)
maybe you're praying to the wrong gods
watch bodies moving
feast on acuteness
can't stop believing
this is where she'll be
I scream, just take her out for ice cream
distorted mind says here you'll meet her
you wonder too - at night you hide
you want her to be by your side
maybe you're praying to too young gods
while others drink and dance alone
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
all I need
more than this
hunting high and hunting low
trail of tears
perfect day
only you
is there something I should know
wicked game
you and me
speed of sound
rage in eden
love is noise
golden brown
fade to black
only happy when it rains
suffer well
turn it on
one caress
damaged people
mercy street
free your mind
mystify (downside up)
simple creed (I will be there)
sweet surrender (you showed me)
all around (human nature)
hurry home
afterglow
sound of thunder
purple rain
almost there
now I'm here
back for good
true believers
world machine
let it be
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
old cars rusting nearby
wind is moaning and keeps wearing down
this empty old house
part of abandoned desire out here
these signs are of change
ground littered with forgotten towns
some telephone rings
the ones to pick up are long gone
land swallows you whole
(it swallows you whole)
endless sweep of the grass and wheat fields
(of grass and wheat fields)
nature reeks of life
(oh it reeks of life)
everything starts as a promise bequeathed
(starts as promises)
some cash and move out
(some cash and move out)
those left behind grow old and they are
(grow old and then they die)
numb in a vanishing world
(in a vanishing world)
living debris of abandoned lives
(our own sorry lives)
(home)
can’t watch, yet can’t look away
where does society go
drought and deprived hesitation makes
all power drain from within
when all hope and pride has vanished
time renders all of us lonely
obilivious to surroundings
death comes round one of these corners
indifferent to emotions
through the ages
everything must fade
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
he’s going nowhere in a hurry
trying to avoid too much trouble
she walks in the room
takes all thoughts away from what he was doing
he’s totally mesmerized
he does not see the trap
she singles him out
then starts dangling him
he hardly fights back
here the trouble comes
it works every time
when she is bored and needs somebody to play
can he react fast enough
to try to go on his way?
I have nothing to lose but everything to gain
so life is a game
won’t you please take my hand
take me to a place far away from here
pride - strangest emotion of man
pride - strongest emotion of men
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
In Schwanenflügel hülle ich dich das Licht in deinen Augen.
Wenn ich das sehe atmet das Land, die Nebel schwinden, Tropfen verdunsten.
Frühes Leuchten liegt im Grünen Zauber junger Blätter; es duftet in meinem Herzen.
Und unerklärliche Freude liegt in der Glut meiner Hand wenn sie reicht nach deiner.
(music written by Bram Strijbos, lyrics written by Derek Strijbos)
ik loop langs witte singels
niemand anders hier vannacht
een kat vlucht gauw naar binnen
stilte aan de Nieuwegracht
achter de Sint Pieter
vroeger scheen hier ooit de zon
nu krijg ik stenen voeten
duik diep in m'n capuchon
ik ga nu door de Voorstraat
de bioscoop is al op zwart
het loopt al tegen 2en
vol verwachting klopt mijn hart
van het rode schijnsel
in de Hardebollenstraat
is het maar een stukje
naar de Lange Lauwerstraat
winterkou of sneeuw of ijzel
houden mij niet in bedwang
al vriest het 40 graden
ik miste jou al veel te lang
zou ze nog wel op zijn
zou ze slapen als een roos
als ik zo laat aanbel
wordt ze blij of wordt ze boos
ik zie nog lampen branden
in mijn hart begint het feest
daar staat zij al te lachen
mijn reis is niet voor niets geweest
winterkou of sneeuw of ijzel
houden mij niet in bedwang
al vriest het 40 graden
ik miste jou al veel te lang
(music written by Bram Strijbos
lyrics written by Jan Michielsen)
the sky is dark, warm and humid
got long thin legs, gets in position
be my host tonight
let me under your skin
I’m cutting in
deeper and deeper… I’m in
rain season is here
head down low, bring the tools out
a cutting blade and a feeding tube
be my host tonight
let me under your skin
I’m cutting in
deeper and deeper… I’m in
let the games begin
ride the wave, we ride the bloodstream
to the factory, that’s our only stop
be my host tonight
let me under your skin
I’m cutting in
deeper and deeper… I’m in
clouds gather, downpour erupts
we’re in the blood, we hack the network
something’s wrong, so wrong indeed
be my host tonight
let me under your skin
I’m cutting in
deeper and deeper… I’m in
they hatch, it surges
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
I do not know
what do I do
where do I go
is it with you
should I begin
to let you go
or stay within
I do not know
what will you say
if I tell you
will you walk away
or stay with me do
I have no clue
whether you'll go
when I tell you
that I love you so
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
they close the hatch
the descent starts, I'm going down
climb in the capsule
I am ready
all that awaits is darkness and they dwindle and fade
behind they stay
going down again
to the world that is under the sea
another hour is passing
still I'm descending
the temperature outside is falling below
as water pressure builds up slowly
can it be
thriving life appears
going down again
to the world that is under the sea
end is in sight
there is nothing there
yet we're going down
if a leak appears, it's game over
water will drill in like laser beams
must not think about those things right now
while we're going down again
where we cannot be
and we're going down again
where the landscape's an alien sight
and we're going down again
and the darkness is all that I see
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
for Anke
go to sleep now
set your mind free
next to me now
warm it will be
oh but it’s cold and
dark is the night
let’s keep the world far outside
every time that
we meet in this song
you can tell me
all that is wrong
will you not be alone
inside your nightmares
let me in now
to lay by your side
drifting together
succumbing to sleep
the night lingers on and on and on
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos)
In 2016, Bram Strijbos joined forces with Jasmijn Steiner for RAAS, a atmospheric and multi-layered EP that holds a unique place in his discography. While his earlier solo albums primarily focused on introspective songwriting and minimalist arrangements, RAAS offers a broader musical palette thanks to the chemistry between the two voices and a more expansive approach.
Jasmijn Steiner, who had previously contributed vocals on several tracks of Never Wanted to Begin (2013), takes on a full-fledged role on this EP as both a vocalist and a musical collaborator. Their harmonies create a dreamy, sometimes cinematic atmosphere, with the songs ranging from subdued and melancholic to engaging and dynamic.
With RAAS, Strijbos explored new production possibilities and a richer sound that would later influence his solo projects. This EP remains a special moment in his musical journey—a collaboration that feels both familiar and refreshingly innovative.
ik zie dingen
dingen in m'n hoofd
eerst goed denken
want dat is waar ik in geloof
ik zeg dingen
dingen met m'n hart
veel te snel soms
voorbij nog voor ik was gestart
ik denk dingen
dingen in m'n hoofd
misschien heb je
heb je mijn hart geroofd
ik hoor dingen
(het) brengt me van de wijs
niemand kent ze
misschien breekt dan te snel het ijs
laat, laten we gaan
je ziet me ooit wel weer
geniet nog even van wij twee samen
we zijn hier maar één keer
tijd stond even stil
ik raad dingen
die er soms niet zijn
soms heel groot maar
nog veel te vaak ook echt heel klein
ik wil dingen
dingen die ik voel
snap er niets van
misschien is dat nou juist het doel
ik krijg dingen
doe mij geen verdriet
laat me wachten
tot ik de samenhang weer zie
ik zwijg dingen
dingen liever dood
wat te doen nu
ik bloos en langzaam donkerrood
laat, laten we gaan
je ziet me ooit wel weer
geniet nog even van wij twee samen
we zijn hier maar één keer
tijd stond even stil
tekst/muziek: Jasmijn Steiner / Bram Strijbos
tekstuele ondersteuning: Jan Michielsen
lyrics written september 2013)
ik weet niet waar het heen gaat
vier kwartier
mijn droom zweeft weg
ontwaak ik in leegte
en seconden die glijden verder
het is nog niet te laat
het uur dat niet bestaat
de tijd die verder slaapt
het uur dat niet bestaat
en van achter naar voren
vier kwartier
de klok vult zich
daalt neer in de ruimte
en de tikken die klinken luider
het is nog niet te laat
het uur dat niet bestaat
de tijd die weer ontwaakt
het uur dat weer bestaat
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos & Jasmijn Steiner november 2013)
kom nou mee naar buiten
voel de zon en breek de dag
pak me vast, we dansen
ook als het eigenlijk niet mag
kom ga mee naar buiten
pak me vast en blijf bij mij
kijk ons nou eens stralen
ik van jou en jij van mij
avond vol van sterren
na die eindeloze dag
alles komt nu samen
dans en drank en ons gelach
wij gaan nog niet slapen
alles broeit en fluistert na
loom de zomeravond
je denkt toch niet, dat ik nog ga
alle uren tellen
stop met denken, allebei
alle uren tellen
het is zomaar weer voorbij
tekst: Jasmijn Steiner / Bram Strijbos (met dank aan Jan Michielsen) muziek: Bram Strijbos / Jasmijn Steiner)
sinds je weg bent lig ik wakker
wachtend op een woord van jou
kom naar hier en kruip dichtbij me
droom met mij hier ver vandaan
beelden vullen mijn gedachten
uren dagen nachten lang
de mooiste blijf ik maar bewaren
oud geluk, ik berg het op
tranen zijn niet meer te stoppen
stromen, rollen naar jou toe
met hen mee reis ik het liefste
de wereld draait toch voor ons twee
onbegrensd blijf ik maar dromen
niemand om me heen grijpt in
berg en dal moet ik trotseren
om weer met mezelf te zijn
waar ben jij - waar ben je m'n liefste
waar ben jij - nu ik je zo mis
waar was jij - waar was jij je handen
schoon van schuld - ging jij op de vlucht
(words & music written by Bram Strijbos & Jasmijn Steiner november 2013)
de streling van de zomerzon
glijdt weg met ieder vallend blad
geel, rood en bruin ik dwarrel mee
en waar ik heen waai geen idee
Ik wou dat het weer lente was
toen wij nog samen en verliefd
maar dat was toen dat is voorbij
nu ga ik weg en waar ben jij?
de regen op het balkon
ik gaap en mis de zon
ik slaap en draai me om
en nog eens om en nog eens om
dwarrel weg, dwarrel terug
ik denk aan nieuw en hemelsblauw
waar wij weer dromen hand in hand
maar takken, mos en modderplas
maken geen plaats voor groen en gras
eenzaam reis ik mee met de wind
straks komt er winter, donker, ijs
maar ik waai naar het lentelicht
dan kus ik zacht weer jouw gezicht
(muziek: Jasmijn Steiner / Bram Strijbos tekst: Jasmijn Steiner / Jan Michielsen / Bram Strijbos)
pluis pluis pluis zat voor het raam
keek naar buiten zag het aan
geen mens met wie hij ruzie had
geen kat die aan zijn eten zat
scharrelde wat rond en toen pardoes
kreeg hij rake klappen, die lieve poes
boem pats zoef Pluis die moest daar weg
niets gedaan maar toch weggepest
wat bleek Pluis liep hand in hand
daarom nu in het asiel beland
geen idee hoe het begon
dacht dat je dat wel maken kon
met je liefde in een roes
niet in het land van de taboes
harde straf - niet langer met z'n twee
hij ging weg - een bootje op de zee
(niet) pluis pluis pluis in het asiel
waar een zware schaduw viel
hij was veilig maar gestrand
had-ie moeten blijven in z'n eigen land?
kijken waar hij blijven kon
[de] deur bleef dicht zonder pardon
waar nu heen - muurvast in het systeem
heel alleen - zijn ziel een molensteen
steek die kop maar in het zand
hier is nooit iets aan de hand
(music written by Bram Strijbos words written by Jasmijn Steiner and Bram Strijbos)
This album marks a significant evolution in his musical journey, presenting a richer and fuller sound than his previous works. This sonic depth is achieved not only through his growth as a songwriter but also by choosing to have the album professionally mixed instead of handling it himself. The result is a carefully produced, well-balanced sound that has certainly paid off.
Out of the Picture features a mix of personal songs and reflections on the current zeitgeist during its creation. Notably, the track “Exodus” originated during the sessions for his previous album RAAS (2016), though it only made it as a demo back then. Two singles from the new album have already been released: “Everyone There,” a Christmas hit, and the more recent “5000 Days.” Moreover, the album is mixed in Dolby Atmos, allowing listeners on supported streaming platforms to enjoy an immersive audio experience.
For those interested in exploring his earlier work, Bram Strijbos’s first two albums—Greatest Hits (2010) and Never Wanted to Begin (2013)—are available on various music streaming platforms.
no pain is no gain
no love is no shame
done with pretending
this isn't a game
flame bright as sunlight
fighting the good fight
loneliness crept in
as well as some spite
nobody budging
so I started judging
bigger and bigger
became my begrudging
BeReal or it's befake
be gone with the heartache
finally realised
which step I should take
added some distance
no more non existance
I let my guard down
let go of resistance
no fire is no flame
no more guilt to blame
out of the picture
and into the frame
some time has (now) gone by
we got to say bye bye
in came perspective
remembrance selective
I've framed you on my wall
I'm open for your call
to gather as old friends
but for now it's the end
music/lyrics: Bram Strijbos 20220427 - 20230213
energy leaking somewhere
it took me a while to see
felt like a swim against the tide
first we learned how to bear it
only then could I overcome
for all the response it got me
we might not have occupied
the very same moment here in time
people just keep on leaving
still no one wants to see the signs
for 9 months and 18 years
I rallied for all your cheers
some choices that didn't feel like mine
it's really a waste of talent
to do things which are repellent
to any self worthiness in life
how will you keep things together
or will it disintegrate in time
tumbling down
almost drowned
leaving town
the spirit of people changes
the exodus has begun
turns out I'm not the only one
yet through all the disappointment
the memories we made still linger on
and on
lyrics: Bram Strijbos 20220428 - 20230213
dew drops on leaves
weather deceives us
here comes the storm
the crowd, they swarm
we’re gonna break the mold
don’t want us to grow old
see here comes the big one
now the chant has begun
find me the rules of the game
and see me inside
come,ride the wave of fame
cast all doubt aside
the scene tranquil
discard blue pill
when the winds blow
we steal the show
the way we sound is raw
life deals us, then we draw
efforts are all compiled
wait till the mood gets wild
so find me the rules of the game and see me inside
(find me the rules of the game tonight)
come, ride the wave of fame
cast all fear aside
(come ride the wave of our fame with pride)
so find me the rules of the game and see me inside
(find me the rules of the game tonight)
come, ride the wave of fame
cast all fear aside
(come ride the wave of our fame with pride)
find me the rules of the game and see me inside
(find me the rules of the game tonight)
come, ride the wave of fame
cast all fear aside
(come ride the wave of our fame with pride)
(find me the rules of the game tonight)
(come ride the wave of our fame with pride)
(find me the rules of the game tonight)
(come ride the wave of our fame with pride)
got off the train, destination: your place
can’t wait to see you, the smile on your face
counting the steps until we can embrace
turning a corner, it won’t be long now
snow slowly falling, remembering how
we left things last year, what was that about?
time spent together with everyone there
thinking about all the people who care
nice and cold outside but inside it’s warm
gathering clouds well here comes the storm
should make up quickly, the mood is reformed
what really matters: who will show up
if everyone’s there then we’ll raise a new cup
drink to the future, to no more disrupt
lessons were learned, time now to reconstruct
time spent together with everyone there
thinking about all the people who care
#ZoLo
wish I could see who will follow me into the dark
I envision who will spring from me beyond the spark
cross that street and then just plant the seed
please take good heed
my turn this time say why not indeed
why not me
thinking of those who preceded me makes me feel hollow
what are people but a memory of those who follow
come to terms with what life dealt to me
our time is now
you are near I am waiting
days on end
I am you, you are me
let it be us, recuperate us
all this fear, don’t want to hear
let it be us, no time to discuss
you are there, I am here
let it be us, supplicate us
oh so close and yet so far away
let it be us, adorable much
cannot deny it
why don’t we try it
leaving all that was behind me when I start anew
(closer to you)
try avoiding errors from my past: what I should do
(closer to you)
get on your feet, let’s move to the beat
rhythm repeat (closer to you)
and I’ll show you my heaven
dance with me
for Anke
sun is rising, the breaking of day
future brighter, anchors aweigh
over 5.000 days
and counting ever since
took some guts with ideas preconceived
(will not deny)
built a home, we feel well received
(no more we cry)
didn’t crush it, the flower conceived
(take wings and fly)
half way 10.000 days
didn’t even flinch
100.000 hours
flew by - it’s been a cinch
(don’t cry)
(we fly)
(get high)
(get by)
(touch sky)
(sky high)
(new day is here)
(year after year)
more than 5.000 days
still feels like it begins
just try to breathe
can not believe
not really sure where you are
what’s going on
so just take it in
realise where you’ve been
relax do your best
and then wait for the rest
thought I had it figured out, this grown up life charade
turns out tiny humans rewrite every single day
bedtime stories used to be a distant, hazy dream
now I’m making monster voices with a tired scream
doubts in my mind
in the pale morning light
am I doing alright
spit-up on my shoulder and a symphony of cries
but a tiny hand reached out, the sleep just left my eyes
used to set my own time, made my own plans every day
now priorities have changed, routines all gone astray
thoughts in my mind
in the pale morning light
are we doing alright
remember nights out on the town, dancing ‘til the break
never thought I’d miss a beat, for bedtime stories’ sake
now the lullabies I hum, tunes I’ll improvise
feel my little one relax, the comfort it provides
sure in my mind
in the bright morning light
yeah we’re doing alright
one more moonrise
complete, no surprise
bright day end of june
teach me this tune
times change growing up
welcome, join the club
flawless afternoon
teach me this tune
1 star 2 heart
3 moon never apart
loudly fill the room
teach me this tune
six to seven million days and nights ago
different shoreline; 1-2-0 meters low
everlasting landscapes, nothing turned out quite less so
how many people living there we’ll never know
sunk and forgotten, none are left in Doggerland
tide kept rising, vanished from their hands
flash forward, time is running out again
all this depletion ending the known world of men
sowing doubts for no one wants to slow it down
careless reckless we’re ignoring all the sounds
sunk and forgotten, none are left in Doggerland
tide kept rising, vanished from their hands
wine me dine me then please sixty-nine me
sue me fine me kiss my tiny hiney
conflict of interests, no one seems to really care
monster awoken, no longer sleeps in its lair
sunk and forgotten, none are left in Doggerland
tide keeps rising, vanishing from our hands
none left none left none left none left
none left none left none left none left
sunk and forgotten, none are left in Doggerland
tide keeps rising, vanishing from our hands
sunk and forgotten, none are left in Doggerland
tide keeps rising, vanishing from our hands
none left none left
none left
you feel lonely if you dare to speak your mind
I feel the same when I’m trying to be kind
what it must feel like to turn me down right now
sense of powering will is hiding in that frown
never looking up from ever glowing screen
should I try forever? no, although I’m keen
give it quite the rest already, let it show
then I’ll be your Huckleberry when I go
dream a dream that’s twice your size, it’s quite alright
if you wake up then just call it your stage fright
the faint glow of a white dwarf is all I see
dark and empty void is all surrounding me
let’s get to it there’s no more time left to waste
wish it was as simple as a copypaste
give it quite the rest already, let it show
then I’ll be your Huckleberry when you go
locked the world out of our homes, we were afraid
but there were times when we thought it pretty great
it’s our sin we let some people cause divide
shouldn’t be a reason anyone should hide
thumbs out of your asses, come on get to work
at least try to refrain from going berserk
give it quite the rest already, let it show
then I’ll be your Huckleberry when we go