NELJA is a brilliant vocal quartet from Brussels, Belgium. The ensemble is comprised of Floor Denil (soprano), Muriel Urquidi (alto), Leander Moens (tenor), and Jonas Veirman (bass).
Founded in 2022, Nelja was inspired by the traditions of groups like The Manhattan Transfer, The Real Group, and New York Voices, and Nelja's signature sound is close-harmony jazz.


“Nelja’s a cappella interpretation of “My Sugar Is So Refined” is a captivating display of vocal talent and vintage appeal. Without instrumental support, the performance depends solely on the human voice, and Nelja meets the challenge with impressive skill. The lead vocals are playful and expressive, capturing the flirtatious spirit of the original song while adding subtle touches of their own. The background harmonies provide rhythmic and melodic support that imitates the bounce of swing-era instrumentation. 

 

What stands out most is the clarity and accuracy of the arrangement; each vocal part is clear yet blends smoothly, forming a rich soundscape that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The lack of instruments allows the listener to focus on the details of phrasing, timing, and tone, all delivered with delightful precision. It’s a lively, clever take that shows how much can be expressed using just the voice, and it highlights Nelja’s musical talent and creative vision.”

                                                                                                 — Behind The Mic