The Journey of Hans Verbeke and Onno Hesselink: Chronicling Rock and Metal History
Beginnings of a Passionate Journey
Hans Verbeke (55): Growing up in Kortrijk during the late ’70s and early ’80s, my childhood was steeped in the sounds of hard rock. At just ten years old, I would cycle past the local hard rock pubs, feeling an inexplicable connection to that vibrant scene. The music of legends like Van Halen, AC/DC, and KISS formed the soundtrack of my formative years. KISS logos adorned my schoolbooks, a testament to my early love for hard rock, even as I explored other genres like punk. By the late ’80s, I had embarked on my own musical journey, playing in various bands and releasing numerous records. In 2019, I took a pivotal step into writing with my first book, “The Story of H8000 Hardcore,” co-authored with Onno.
Onno Hesselink (56): Together, we have recently co-written a second book titled “Heavy Sounds in the West,” published in June this year, which dives deep into the local music scene’s rich history.
The Inspiration Behind “Heavy Sounds”
Inception of the Project
(HV): As we researched the hard rock and metal history of West Flanders, we stumbled upon a wealth of remarkable stories. This region, with just one million inhabitants, was home to legendary performances from bands like KISS, Scorpions, Iron Maiden, and Van Halen in the ’70s and ’80s. The narrative was too compelling to ignore; we felt compelled to document it.
(OH): West Flanders’ entrepreneurial spirit, along with the influences of hardcore punk and heavy metal, provided a fertile ground for these stories to emerge. Our book includes long-hidden photos that are finally receiving the recognition they deserve.
From Idea to Publication
(HV): The journey from inception to publication took about a year. Organizing the myriad stories and details was a daunting task. We started from scratch, and progress was initially slow. However, once we began uncovering the first stories, momentum built rapidly. A turning point came when we discovered over 400 unpublished slides from the ’70s, which felt like striking gold. The process was indeed one of dedication and hard work.
Revelations and Discoveries
Exciting Findings
(HV): The stories narrated in the book primarily come from first-hand accounts. Often, what began as urban legends revealed themselves to be true. The anecdotes surrounding bands like RUSH, IRON MAIDEN, and KISS are particularly fascinating, but I’ll leave the details for readers to discover.
The Strength of the Local Scene
(HV): The music scene in Poperinge thrived due to the community’s proactive approach to organizing events. They didn’t overthink or plan extensively; they simply acted. For instance, the AC/DC show in 1977, when the band was relatively unknown, still drew a packed audience despite challenges like electrical issues. Poperinge hosted a remarkable array of bands, from Venom to Van Halen, fostering a competitive spirit with nearby Kortrijk, which also brought in major acts like KISS and Iron Maiden during their early years in Belgium.
Current Involvement in the Scene
New Blood in Belgian Metal
(HV): Classic bands like OSTROGOTH and KILLER remain active, while newer extreme bands such as LIVING GATE and DUDSEKOP are making waves. It’s a vibrant scene that continues to evolve.
(OH): CYCLONE, notable for having opened for both Metallica and Slayer, is still touring and is rumored to release new material in 2025.
Reception and Future Plans
Feedback on “Heavy Sounds”
(HV): The response to our book has been overwhelmingly positive, generating significant media coverage and interviews in both local and international outlets, including major metal magazines. We even received recognition from Kathryn Hanneman, which was a delightful surprise.
Looking Ahead
(OH): We’re excited about the prospect of writing a book on the Hageland Hardcore scene, targeting a release in 2026. This project delves into the vibrant underground music scene that emerged in Belgium during the ’80s, centered around the experiences of young enthusiasts who transformed their hometown into a hub for international bands.
How to Get a Copy
(HV): Fans can order the book online at heavyreads.bigcartel.com, and we ship worldwide. Limited editions with Metallica covers are still available, but they’re going fast. We’re also looking to collaborate with local distributors, so interested parties should reach out.
Advice for Aspiring Writers
(OH): Stay organized and capture fleeting ideas. Outline your storylines and don’t hesitate to use visual aids to plan. Enjoy the process—writing such books is a labor of love that requires time and dedication. Most importantly, have fun!
(HV): Thank you for the opportunity to share our journey!
Conclusion
The journey of Hans Verbeke and Onno Hesselink illustrates the passion for documenting the rich history of rock and metal in Belgium. Through their work, they not only preserve the legacy of past events but also inspire future generations of music enthusiasts and writers.
FAQs
What is “Heavy Sounds in the West” about?
The book explores the rich history of hard rock and metal in the West Flanders region of Belgium, featuring stories from the ’70s and ’80s and highlighting significant performances and local bands.
How long did it take to write the book?
The entire process from inception to publication took about a year.
Where can I buy the book?
The book is available for purchase online at heavyreads.bigcartel.com, with worldwide shipping options.
Are there plans for future projects?
Yes, there are plans to write about the Hageland Hardcore scene, with a targeted release in 2026.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Stay organized, capture your ideas, outline your storylines, and enjoy the writing process!