The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble

Formed in Utrecht, Netherlands, around Jason Köhnen and Gideon Kiers, The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble took shape in 1999 as a soundtrack project for silent films, notably Nosferatu and Metropolis, before evolving into a collective where dark ambient, slowed‑tempo jazz, electronics, trip‑hop and avant‑garde touches intersect. The arrival of trombonist Hilary Jeffery and cellist Nina Hitz in 2004, followed by Charlotte Cegarra and guitarist Eelco Bosman, expanded the group's palette and established a more organic sound characterized by deep bass, veiled brass, strings, discreet rhythms and highly cinematic atmospheres. The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble released a self‑titled debut album in 2006, followed by Here Be Dragons in 2009 and From the Stairwell in 2011, as well as the EP Mutations in 2009 and the live album I Forsee the Dark Ahead, If I Stay in 2011. At the same time, members developed The Mount Fuji Doomjazz Corporation, a more improvised branch of the project. After splitting in 2013, The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble announced its return in 2025 and the resumption of concerts with its historic lineup.