Record Reviews
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  | MAHAGON ~ MAHAGON (EXPANDED EDITION)
GAD 174 (Barcode: 5903068122545) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1977 Released: 2021
This is a reissue of the debut album by Czechoslovak Jazz-Rock Fusion band MahagonFind albums by this artist, led by bassist / composer Petr KlapkaFind albums by this artist, originally released in 1978. The collected lineup that recorded this album includes twelve musicians, with some of the best Jazz and Rock players in the country at the time, like keyboardist Michael KocabFind albums by this artist and violinist Jan HrubyFind albums by this artist. It was fronted by female vocalist Zdena AdamovaFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Klapka.
This new reissue is expanded by five additional tracks, which are radio recordings preceding the recording of the album, also all original compositions, one by Klapka and the rest by other members of the group.
This album was already reissued, together with the second album by the group, as a 2CD set in 2008 on the Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label label, but the bonus tracks are released here for the first time.
The music is absolutely timeless and amalgamates many influences, both the obvious ones like Jazz, Rock and Blues, and stylistically follows the Brass Rock ensembles like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist or ChicagoFind albums by this artist, adding also a strong Funk element and Eastern European twist, with some folkloristic inspirations. Combined with the superb musicianship found here, this album is a true gem from start to finish. The fact that this music had no chance to reach listeners in Western Europe at the time is a travesty, which can now be easily rectified.
Overall, this is obviously one of the best East European albums recorded at the time, and although it is forty-five years old, it sounds absolutely fresh and exciting. As usual, hats off to GADFind albums on this label Records for bringing this treasure back to life and expanding it with additional brilliant music, which deserves to be heard and should not be forgotten. No decent Fusion record collection is complete without this album in it. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 27/01/2022Posted: 27/01/2022 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | COMBO FH ~ VECI / SITUACE NA STRESE (CZECHOSLOVAK JAZZ-ROCK EXPANDED EDITION)
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 625 (Barcode: 8595026662520) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 - 1986 Released: 2008
This wonderful reissue collects all the recordings by the Czechoslovak ensemble Combo FHFind albums by this artist. It is a brilliant document of the music scene, which thrived in Eastern Europe behind the Iron Curtain, in all the so-called "Socialist" countries, and was every bit as interesting, groundbreaking and visionary as anything else happening at the same time in Western Europe or the USA. In spite of political pressures, artistic censorship and economic hardships, with very limited access to recordings from the West, decent equipment or proper recording facilities, these young and ambitious musicians were exploding with ideas and boldly exploring new territories. The resulting music created at the time remains completely relevant today and should be rediscovered by young audiences, as it lost absolutely nothing of its power and intellectual quality.
Combo FH was formed by the brilliant keyboardist / composer Daniel FikejzFind albums by this artist and over time included quite a few musicians as the lineup changed frequently. The instrumentation was quite unusual and included, apart from acoustic and electronic keyboards, also a plethora of wind and brass instruments, guitars, bass and drums. Some of the track feature also vocals. The overall sound was usually soft and acoustic.
The music (all composed by Fikejz) is completely original and wonderfully weird, with odd meters and constantly changing melody lines, quite Zappaesque at times and full of humor. This is definitely some of the most interesting stuff one can come across and since it is quite difficult to categorize, Jazz-Rock might be the best approximation.
The bonus material includes an ultra-rare EP, singles, tracks released previously on compilation albums and some archival recordings. In retrospect this is some of the best Eastern European Jazz-Rock, which should not be missed by any connoisseur of the genre. A must!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENERGIT ~ ENERGIT / PIKNIK (CZECHOSLOVAK JAZZ-ROCK EXPANDED EDITION)
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 626 (Barcode: 8595026662629) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 - 1978 Released: 2008
This wonderful reissue collects all the recordings by the Czechoslovak ensemble EnergitFind albums by this artist. It is a brilliant document of the music scene, which thrived in Eastern Europe behind the Iron Curtain, in all the so-called "Socialist" countries, and was every bit as interesting, groundbreaking and visionary as anything else happening at the same time in Western Europe or the USA. In spite of political pressures, artistic censorship and economic hardships, with very limited access to recordings from the West, decent equipment or proper recording facilities, these young and ambitious musicians were exploding with ideas and boldly exploring new territories. The resulting music created at the time remains completely relevant today and should be rediscovered by young audiences, as it lost absolutely nothing of its power and intellectual quality.
Energit was formed by the brilliant guitarist Lubos AndrstFind albums by this artist, after he left the legendary Jazz QFind albums by this artist ensemble, joining forces with two excellent young musicians from another legendary ensemble SHQFind albums by this artist: keyboardist Emil ViklickyFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Rudolf TichacekFind albums by this artist. The lineup was completed by bassist Jan VytrhlikFind albums by this artist and drummer Karel JencikFind albums by this artist. Andrst wrote most of the all-original material performed by the ensemble, which although Blues influenced, was at the time centered on the Jazz-Rock idiom, similar in sound to the early Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist.
For the second album Viklicky was replaced by Milan SvobodaFind albums by this artist, who also wrote the brass arrangement used on that album, and Jencik was replaced by Jaromir HelesicFind albums by this artist.
The bonus material includes an ultra-rare EP, a track released previously on a compilation album and some archival live recordings. In retrospect this is some of the best Eastern European Jazz-Rock, which should not be missed by any connoisseur of the genre. A must!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAGON ~ MAHAGON / SLUNECNICE PRO VINCENTA VAN GOGHA (CZECHOSLOVAK JAZZ-ROCK EXPANDED EDITION)
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 627 (Barcode: 8595026662728) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 - 1979 Released: 2008
This wonderful reissue collects all the recordings by the Czechoslovak ensemble MahagonFind albums by this artist. It is a brilliant document of the music scene, which thrived in Eastern Europe behind the Iron Curtain, in all the so-called "Socialist" countries, and was every bit as interesting, groundbreaking and visionary as anything else happening at the same time in Western Europe or the USA. In spite of political pressures, artistic censorship and economic hardships, with very limited access to recordings from the West, decent equipment or proper recording facilities, these young and ambitious musicians were exploding with ideas and boldly exploring new territories. The resulting music created at the time remains completely relevant today and should be rediscovered by young audiences, as it lost absolutely nothing of its power and intellectual quality.
Mahagon was formed by bassist / composer Petr KlapkaFind albums by this artist and included some of the best Jazz players in the country at the time, like keyboardist Michael KocabFind albums by this artist. It was fronted by female vocalist Zdena AdamovaFind albums by this artist and stylistically followed the brass Jazz-Rock ensembles like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist or ChicagoFind albums by this artist, adding also a strong Funk element. Klapka wrote the all-original material as well as the brass arrangements performed by the ensemble.
The bonus material includes several ultra-rare singles. In retrospect this is some of the best Eastern European Jazz-Rock, which should not be missed by any connoisseur of the genre. A must!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 08/06/2023Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | IMPULS ~ IMPULS (CZECHOSLOVAK JAZZ-ROCK EXPANDED EDITION)
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 628 (Barcode: 8595026662827) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1977 Released: 2008
This wonderful reissue collects all the recordings by the Czechoslovak ensemble ImpulsFind albums by this artist. It is a brilliant document of the music scene, which thrived in Eastern Europe behind the Iron Curtain, in all the so-called "Socialist" countries, and was every bit as interesting, groundbreaking and visionary as anything else happening at the same time in Western Europe or the USA. In spite of political pressures, artistic censorship and economic hardships, with very limited access to recordings from the West, decent equipment or proper recording facilities, these young and ambitious musicians were exploding with ideas and boldly exploring new territories. The resulting music created at the time remains completely relevant today and should be rediscovered by young audiences, as it lost absolutely nothing of its power and intellectual quality.
Impuls was formed by three young and talented Jazz musicians: keyboardist Pavel KostiukFind albums by this artist, guitarist Zdenek FiserFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Michal GeraFind albums by this artist. They were joined by brilliant bassist Frantisek UhlirFind albums by this artist and drummer Jaromir HelesicFind albums by this artist. The three founding members contributed their original compositions, which were the core of the ensemble´s material, but sometimes they also played standards. Impuls was the most Jazzy of all the Czech Jazz-Rock ensembles and the level of their performances and compositions is truly stellar.
The bonus material includes an ultra-rare EP and tracks released previously on compilation albums. In retrospect this is some of the best Eastern European Jazz-Rock, which should not be missed by any connoisseur of the genre. A must!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | LACO DECZI / JAZZ CELLULA ~ PIETOSO
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 629 (Barcode: 8595026662926) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2008
This is a wonderful early album by trumpeter Laco DecziFind albums by this artist and his Jazz CellulaFind albums by this artist ensemble, which includes the best Czechoslovak Jazz musicians of that period: saxophonist Petr KralFind albums by this artist, pianist Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, bassist Pavel GreifonerFind albums by this artist and drummer Laco TroppFind albums by this artist. Deczi, one of the forefathers of modern Czechoslovak Jazz, made a most significant contribution to the local scene over the years and is still active today.
The album, which is a classic Jazz quintet setting, presents eight compositions, four of which are originals (by Deczi and Kral) and the other four are Jazz standards. The overall atmosphere, as the title suggests, is deeply lyrical and melancholic, which is hardly surprising as the album was recorded just a few months following the brutal suppression of the Prague Spring movement, culminating with the military occupation of the country by the Warsaw Pact forces in August of 1968, which has shaken the fabric of the Czechoslovak society beyond recognition. The Czech intellectuals and artist bravely continued their activities, often risking personal retributions and even jail sentences, and had to wait for over two more decades to win their freedom from the Socialist regime, reaching some amazing Cultural accomplishment during those dark years.
Deczi and his cohorts perform beautifully, delivering some impressive solos and cooperating wonderfully as a unit. Deczi´s trumpet virtuosity is simply astounding, with a modern sound and tonal approach equal to the most advanced parallel output of American and West European trumpeters of the day. The album as a whole is an excellent example of East European Jazz at its best, and similar to many recordings of Polish Jazz made at the same period.
This reissue of the album, which has been unavailable for almost forty years, is a celebration of the Czechoslovak Jazz history and a most welcome reminder of how good and the music was at the time. It is an absolute must for all East European Jazz connoisseurs!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAZZ CELULA ~ OHEN AZ POZAR
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 630 (Barcode: 8595026663022) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1975 - 1976 Released: 2008
Trumpeter / composer / bandleader Laco DecziFind albums by this artist is one of the founding fathers of Czechoslovak Jazz. He has been active on the local scene since the 1960s, leading many excellent ensembles, which included the best local players and often also guest from abroad. The names of his ensemble changed often, usually being a variation on the Jazz CellulaFind albums by this artist motif (like Jazz CelulaFind albums by this artist, Cellula InternationalFind albums by this artist, etc.).
This album presents the ensemble in a septet format, with superb lineup including saxophonist Petr KralFind albums by this artist, trombonist Svatopluk KosvanecFind albums by this artist, pianist Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Zdenek DvorakFind albums by this artist, bassist Petr KorinekFind albums by this artist, drummer Josef VejvodaFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jiri TomekFind albums by this artist. They perform eight original compositions, three of which are by the leader, and all are quite excellent with a slight Fusion tinge, as appropriate for the period of the recording. The performances are excellent from start to finish and this is a first-rate document of the Jazz behind the Iron Curtain at the time. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAZZ CELLULA ~ LACO DECZI
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 631 (Barcode: 8595026663121) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2008
Trumpeter / composer / bandleader Laco DecziFind albums by this artist is one of the founding fathers of Czechoslovak Jazz. He has been active on the local scene since the 1960s, leading many excellent ensembles, which included the best local players and often also guest from abroad. The names of his ensemble changed often, usually being a variation on the Jazz CellulaFind albums by this artist motif (like Jazz CelulaFind albums by this artist, Cellula InternationalFind albums by this artist, etc.).
This album presents the ensemble in a septet format, same as the one which recorded their previous album "Ohen Az PozarFind albums with this title", with superb lineup including saxophonist Petr KralFind albums by this artist, trombonist Svatopluk KosvanecFind albums by this artist, pianist Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Zdenek DvorakFind albums by this artist, bassist Petr KorinekFind albums by this artist, drummer Josef VejvodaFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jiri TomekFind albums by this artist. They perform seven original compositions, three of which are by the leader, and all are quite excellent with a slight Fusion / Latin tinge, as appropriate for the period of the recording. The performances are excellent from start to finish and this is a first-rate document of the Jazz behind the Iron Curtain at the time. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CELLULA INTERNATIONAL ~ JAZZISSIMO
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 632 (Barcode: 8595026663220) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2008
Trumpeter / composer / bandleader Laco DecziFind albums by this artist is one of the founding fathers of Czechoslovak Jazz. He has been active on the local scene since the 1960s, leading many excellent ensembles, which included the best local players and often also guest from abroad. The names of his ensemble changed often, usually being a variation on the Jazz CellulaFind albums by this artist motif (like Jazz CelulaFind albums by this artist, Cellula InternationalFind albums by this artist, etc.).
This album presents the ensemble in a quintet format, with two guest musicians from the USA: trombonist Sonny CostanzoFind albums by this artist and drummer Dave WecklFind albums by this artist (before his rise to fame) and two Czech players: guitarist Zdenek DvorakFind albums by this artist and bassist Frantisek UhlirFind albums by this artist. This is a live recording in a Prague Jazz club. They perform three original compositions, two of which are by the leader, and two standards. The performances are excellent from start to finish and this is a first-rate document of the Jazz behind the Iron Curtain at the time. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | VILEM SPILKA ~ PODVOD
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 726 (Barcode: 8595026672628) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is the debut album by Czech Jazz guitarist / composer Vilem SpilkaFind albums by this artist and his quartet, which also includes saxophonist Radek ZapadloFind albums by this artist, bassist Vlastimil TrlloFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin KleiblFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight arrangements of songs written by veteran and prolific Czech singer / songwriter / guitarist Jan NedvedFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Honza NedvedFind albums by this artist).
The arrangements smoothly transfer the original Folk / Pop material into modern mainstream Jazz and the wonderful melodies are preserved, with their lyricism and melancholy intact. The respectful treatment of the original material is of course a great virtue.
The quartet members all perform impeccably, as expected, with the soloing divided between the leader and the saxophonist. Spilka plays excellent Jazz guitar, respectful of the Jazz guitar tradition and avoiding any Fusiony explorations, for which he deserves a special mention. Zapadlo plays tenor, alto and soprano saxophones with equal effectiveness, and changing the instrument adds to the variety of the music.
The album, released by the Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label label from Brno, owned by Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, is beautifully recorded and packaged in a digibook format full of wonderful black & white photographs, a great example of elegance and aesthetics.
Overall, this is a splendid listening experience of European Jazz, which offers great melodies and first-rate performances, accessible to a wide audience without compromising any qualities. Jazz guitar fans should be especially interested. Definitely worth being discovered!
| | Updated: 20/03/2022Posted: 20/03/2022 | CD 1 Digibook Recommend To A Friend |
  | STUDIO 5 ENSEMBLE ~ MODERN JAZZ
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 728 (Barcode: 8595026672826) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1958 - 1963 Released: 2016
This is the first of a series of eight reissue / archival albums presenting the recorded legacy of one of the Godfathers of Czechoslovak modern Jazz, vibraphonist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and his SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble. All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
This album presents early recordings involving Velebny, before SHQ was formed in 1961, performed mostly by the Studio 5Find albums by this artist ensemble, formed in 1958, which included alongside Velebny many of the Czechoslovak Jazz pioneers, such as baritone saxophonist / flautist Jan KonopasekFind albums by this artist, trombonist Artur HolitzerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Vladimir TomekFind albums by this artist, bassist Ludek HulanFind albums by this artist and drummer Ivan DominakFind albums by this artist.
The first twelve tracks on the album, recorded by Studio 5 (in various lineups from quintet to octet) between 1958 and 1961, are an expanded version of the original 10" LP by Studio 5 released in 1961 and called "Modern JazzFind albums with this title". The album also includes five bonus tracks, recorded between 1961 and 1963, which originate from the same session as other tracks recorded by Studio 5 but do not involve Velebny, or from a later session which involves Velebny and Konopasek, the founders of SHQ.
The music, although clearly influenced by American Jazz from that era, is by far not an attempt to copy American Jazz but to use it as an influence and inspiration. As early as by the end of the 1950s Czech Jazz already had its own sound and character. Thirteen of the seventeen compositions on this album are originals and only four are American standards, which again exemplifies the extremely high Jazz awareness and deep knowledge of the idiom, which of course was characteristic not only of Czechoslovak Jazz, but also of Jazz being created behind the Iron Curtain in countries like Poland, and DDR (East Germany), and to lesser extent Hungary, Rumania, Bulgaria and others.
The brilliant performances testify to the high level of professionalism, despite the young age (late 20s early 30s) of the musicians involved and their familiarity with the contemporary Jazz conventions, as well as highly developed improvisation skills and compositional quality.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, the entire series is an absolute must, and the fact that most of this music is available on CD for the first time makes it an absolute treasure. Absolutely brilliant!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 02/03/2020Posted: 24/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHQ ~ RODINNA KRONIKA
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 729 (Barcode: 8595026672925) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1962 - 1963 Released: 2016
This is the second of a series of eight reissue / archival albums presenting the recorded legacy of one of the Godfathers of Czechoslovak modern Jazz, vibraphonist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and his SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble. All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
This album presents early recordings by the SHQ ensemble, shortly after it was formed in 1961 and before it recorded the first full album, altogether eighteen tracks. Four of these track were previously released as an EP, thirteen others appeared on several Various Artists Jazz compilation LPs and SHQ compilation LPs, and one is previously unreleased.
The first seven tracks (1-7), recorded in 1962, were performed by the first lineup of the ensemble, called at the time S+HQ, which included alongside Velebny baritone saxophonist / flautist Jan KonopasekFind albums by this artist, bassist Milan PilarFind albums by this artist and drummer Pavel StanekFind albums by this artist. Next four tracks (8-11) were also recorded in 1962 by S+HQ in the second lineup, which added guitarist Antonin JulinaFind albums by this artist and later changed the bassist to Jan ArnetFind albums by this artist. Next three tracks (12-14), recorded in 1963, were recorded by the quartet version (no drums) called S+H Quartet and finally the last four tracks (15-18) were recorded by various lineups including guests and finally called SHQ Ensemble.
The music, most of which is original and composed by Velebny (eleven tracks) or other ensemble members, offers a wonderful glance at early Czech / European modern Jazz, which is clearly influenced by the Jazz tradition originating in America, but already following a completely new Jazz aesthetics, distinct and unique to what was happening in Jazz behind the Iron Curtain since the early 1960s.
Already at that stage SHQ was a formidable ensemble, playing vital, sophistical Jazz, characterized by the vibraphone – baritone saxophone or flute front line, which set it apart from most of contemporaries. The brilliant performances testify to the high level of professionalism, despite the young age (late 20s early 30s) of the musicians involved and their familiarity with the contemporary Jazz conventions, as well as highly-developed improvisation skills and compositional quality.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, the entire series is an absolute must, and the fact that most of this music is available on CD for the first time makes it an absolute treasure. Absolutely brilliant!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 26/02/2020Posted: 25/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHQ ~ SH / JAZZ QUINTET
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 730 (Barcode: 8595026673021) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 Released: 2016
This is the third of a series of eight reissue / archival albums presenting the recorded legacy of one of the Godfathers of Czechoslovak modern Jazz, vibraphonist / pianist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and his SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble. All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
This album presents material captured during three recording sessions from 1964. The first eight of the ten tracks that were recorded during these sessions were released as the first full SHQ LP. Of the two remaining tracks, which are added here as bonus tracks, one was released as part of a Various Artists compilation LP and another one was a part of an EP release.
The SHQ lineup on these sessions included Velebny, who played tenor saxophone and piano, tenor / baritone saxophonist / flautist Jan KonopasekFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Laco DecziFind albums by this artist, bassist Jan ArnetFind albums by this artist and drummer Laco TroppFind albums by this artist. On five tracks the lineup was extended to a sextet with the addition of trombonist Zdenek PulecFind albums by this artist.
The music, surprisingly and with the exception of one track composed by Velebny, includes nine American Jazz standards, which contrasts with the direction preferred so far by SHQ to play almost exclusively original material. It is difficult to analyze in retrospect what let to this decision; probably the fact the SHQ started to play abroad and wanted to present more familiar material to their audiences there. My dear Friend and Mentor, Lubomir DoruzkaFind albums by this artist, in his review of the album published in 1965, also wanders about the choice of the repertoire, which after all is not really challenging, being just a collection of Bebop tunes, which by that time were already a bit dated.
However, SHQ being already a formidable ensemble at that time, plays this material with such professionalism and vengeance, that it easily stands up to any American combo active at the time. If anything, this material proves that European musicians at the time, even those separated from the West by the Iron Curtain, were truly up to date not only with American Music but also with the latest Jazz techniques and trends, and were able to perform them without any inferiority complex.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, the entire series is an absolute must, and the fact that most of this music is available on CD for the first time makes it an absolute treasure. Absolutely brilliant!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 29/12/2023Posted: 26/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHQ ~ [S+H]Q + FRIENDS
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 731 (Barcode: 8595026673120) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 - 1965 Released: 2016
This is the fourth of a series of eight reissue / archival albums presenting the recorded legacy of one of the Godfathers of Czechoslovak modern Jazz, vibraphonist / pianist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and his SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble. All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
This album presents material captured during three recording sessions from November 1964. The eight tracks that were recorded during these sessions were released as the second SHQ LP, shortly after the release of the debut.
The SHQ lineup on these sessions included the basic quintet with Velebny, who played vibraphone and piano, tenor / baritone saxophonist / flautist Jan KonopasekFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Laco DecziFind albums by this artist, bassist Jan ArnetFind albums by this artist and drummer Laco TroppFind albums by this artist, which was extended by a plethora of other musicians to form lineups varying from a septet to a thirteen piece band, which included: guitarist Rudolf DasekFind albums by this artist, trombonist Zdenek PulecFind albums by this artist, bassist Jiri MrazFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. George MrazFind albums by this artist), East German (at the time) pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist and many others.
The bonus tracks include three rare recording from 1965 of a short-lived SHQ quartet lineup comprising of Velebny, Dasek, Mraz and drummer Milan MadarFind albums by this artist and one track recorded in 1964 by the quintet lineup above, all released on a Various Artist compilation LP or a SHQ compilation LP.
The music, similarly to the debut album, includes mostly American standards, with just two original compositions (one each by Dasek and Velebny), but this time the large ensemble arrangements take the music quite away from its Bebop origins, and shows more sophisticated approach to orchestration and harmonic structures, bringing back the music to its European base. The bonus tracks are in contrast mostly original and point towards future development of the SHQ identity.
As expected the performances are phenomenal and with the presence of the formidable guests the music shows a much wider scope of local Czechoslovak talent and beyond. In retrospect the list of the names is a sad indication of the tragic fate of Czechoslovak Jazz, which resulted in many of its finest musicians fleeing their homeland. For example both Konopasek and Mraz fled to US, Kuhn fled to West Germany to join his older brother Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist and additional famous Czech musicians like Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist, Jan HammerFind albums by this artist and others did the same, before the "Velvet Revolution" finally freed Czechoslovakia from the Socialist shackles.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, the entire series is an absolute must, and the fact that most of this music is available on CD for the first time makes it an absolute treasure. Absolutely brilliant!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 26/02/2020Posted: 26/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | KAREL VELEBNY ~ ZTRATA NALEZENEHO SYNA
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 732 (Barcode: 8595026673229) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1966 - 1967 Released: 2016
This is the fifth of a series of eight reissue / archival albums presenting the recorded legacy of one of the Godfathers of Czechoslovak modern Jazz, vibraphonist / pianist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and his SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble. All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
This album presents material captured during two recording sessions from April and September 1966. The seven tracks that were recorded during these sessions were released as a Various Artist compilation LP, with the two lineups that recorded this music enigmatically named "All Stars" and "Jazz Soloists" respectively, with the SHQ moniker being omitted, but with Velebny present.
The different lineups on these sessions included Velebny, who played vibraphone, saxophone and piano, trumpeters Jaromir HnilickaFind albums by this artist and Laco DecziFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist, Milan UlrichFind albums by this artist and Evzen JegorovFind albums by this artist, trombonist Zdenek PulecFind albums by this artist, clarinetist Karel KrautgartnerFind albums by this artist, flautist Zdenek ZikaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Rudolf DasekFind albums by this artist, pianists Karel VejvodaFind albums by this artist and Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, bassist Jiri MrazFind albums by this artist and drummer Milan MaderFind albums by this artist, altogether a gathering definitely deserving the "All Stars" description. All the music is original with Velebny contributing three compositions and Krautgartner, Hnilicka, Mraz and Ruzicka each contributing one composition.
Additionally this album also includes one side (ten tracks) of a LP dedicated to a Jazz & Poetry project, which features SHQ (Velebny, saxophonist Miroslav KryslFind albums by this artist, Pulec, Dasek, bassist Petr MarcolFind albums by this artist and Mader) accompanying actor Jan TriskaFind albums by this artist who recites fables by Vaclav HrabeFind albums by this artist, the most important representative of the Czech Beat Generation, who died tragically at the ridiculous age of twenty four. All the music was composed by Velebny.
The music is all original and a giant step forward as far as Modern European Jazz is concerned, very advanced and complex, already using elements close to Free Jazz, multi-theme extended compositions, rapidly changing tempi and eschewing conventions, which dominated American Bebop. Although recorded just over a year of so after the second SHQ album was recorded, this music sounds as if coming from a different planet, being very similar to the revolutionary Polish Jazz, which was also exploding at the time in the "neighborhood".
All the performances are simply stellar and this music sounds absolutely as fresh as it did at the time it was recorded and in retrospect one can but wonder how such a revolutionary music was allowed to be performed and recorded during some of the darkest hours of the Socialist regime and the Prague Spring and Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia being just around the corner.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, the entire series is an absolute must, and the fact that most of this music is available on CD for the first time makes it an absolute treasure. Absolutely brilliant!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: 27/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAROMIR HNILICKA / KAREL VELEBNY ~ TYNOM TANOM
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 733 (Barcode: 8595026673328) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2016
This is the sixth of a series of eight reissue / archival albums presenting the recorded legacy of one of the Godfathers of Czechoslovak modern Jazz, vibraphonist / pianist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and his SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble. All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
Before taking part in the recording of this album, Velebny and SHQ released two albums out of Czechoslovakia: "NonetFind albums with this title" on SABAFind albums on this label (later MPSFind albums on this label) in West Germany and "Karel Velebny / SHQFind albums with this title" on the legendary ESPFind albums on this label label in USA (both recorded and released in 1968). Following the hiatus of the Prague Spring and the Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia in August of 1968, recording and releasing albums was suspended for a while.
This album presents material captured during a two days recording session from April 1970. The eight tracks that were recorded during this session were released as a LP, credited to a tentet co-led by trumpeter / composer / arranger Jaromir HnilickaFind albums by this artist and Velebny. The material included Jazz interpretations of Czech, Moravian and Slovak folk songs, five arranged by Viklicky and three by Hnilicka.
The tentet included Velebny, who played vibraphone and bass clarinet, and Hnilicka, who played trumpet, as well as saxophonist / flautist Zdenek NovakFind albums by this artist, baritone saxophonist Josef AudesFind albums by this artist, trombonist Josef PavelkaFind albums by this artist, French horn player Emanuel HrdinaFind albums by this artist, pianist Ludek SvabenskyFind albums by this artist, guitarist Rudolf DasekFind albums by this artist, bassist Karel VejvodaFind albums by this artist and drummer Josef VejvodaFind albums by this artist.
Recording folklore material was the oldest trick in the book as far as Eastern European Jazz scene was concerned and served the Jazz community for many years to avoid censorship and receive permission to play and record Jazz music in the first place. This is perhaps the motivation behind this project, mixed with the Czechoslovak National pride hurt during the invasion; whatever the reason was this release marks the return of Velebny to "active duty" after a couple of years of silence.
Although the music is somewhat less exciting on this album, the arrangements and performances are all first class, as appropriate by these highly professional musicians. The tentet has almost the power of a Big Band and the intricate arrangements skillfully use the rich instrumentation to transpose the folk material into the Jazz idiom.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, the entire series is an absolute must, and the fact that most of this music is available on CD for the first time makes it an absolute treasure. Absolutely brilliant!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 27/02/2020Posted: 27/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHQ ~ MOTUS
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 734 (Barcode: 8595026673427) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016
This is the seventh of a series of eight reissue / archival albums presenting the recorded legacy of one of the Godfathers of Czechoslovak modern Jazz, vibraphonist / pianist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and his SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble. All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
This album presents material captured during recording sessions in February and March 1971 by a quartet version of SHQ, which included Velebny playing exclusively the vibraphone, saxophonist Rudolf TichacekFind albums by this artist (future member of the legendary Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble EnergitFind albums by this artist), bassists Karel VejvodaFind albums by this artist or Petr KorinekFind albums by this artist and drummer Josef VejvodaFind albums by this artist. The eleven tracks that were recorded during these sessions were released as a LP and included only original compositions, five by Velebny, three by Josef Vejvoda, two by Tichacek and one by Korinek.
The music is absolutely brilliant and presents the epitome of East European Jazz, full of the Slavic lyricism and melancholy that characterize Jazz originating from that part of the Old Continent. The tunes, although melody based, offer sophisticated harmonic structures and quirky rhythmic patterns, which keep changing frequently and keep the listener on edge.
The fact that Velebny concentrates on playing the vibraphone creates a solid, unified sound and feel throughout the album, in spite of its diverse musical content. Since the vibraphone is relatively rarely used as the main instrument, in addition to Velebny´s idiosyncratic style, create perhaps the most focused showcase ever recorded of his vibraphone playing.
In retrospect this album is a milestone recording of the Eastern European Jazz in the 1970, and firmly belongs to the same holy grail category as the best albums released at the time in Poland, as part of the "Polish Jazz" series. The fact that this music remained unreleased on CD for so long was a Cultural crime.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, the entire series is an absolute must, and the fact that most of this music is available on CD for the first time makes it an absolute treasure. Absolutely brilliant!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: 28/02/2020 | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHQ ~ JAZZ NON-FABLES
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 735 (Barcode: 8595026673526) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2016
This is the last of a series of eight reissue / archival albums presenting the recorded legacy of one of the Godfathers of Czechoslovak modern Jazz, vibraphonist / pianist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and his SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble. All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
This album presents material captured during recording sessions in June 1972 by a quintet version of SHQ, which included Velebny playing vibraphone and saxophone, saxophonist Rudolf TichacekFind albums by this artist (future member of the legendary Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble EnergitFind albums by this artist), keyboardist Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, bassist Petr KorinekFind albums by this artist and drummer Josef VejvodaFind albums by this artist. The ten tracks that were recorded during these sessions were released as a LP and included only original compositions, two each by the quintet members.
The music is stunningly beautiful, full of great melodic themes and a rather mystic atmosphere, The sound of the ensemble is clearly influenced by the Jazz-Rock Fusion, which was a very strong influence on the East European Jazz at the time, although the instruments, except for the electric piano and bass, are still acoustic. It is the somewhat Rocky rhythmic direction that takes this music towards Fusion.
In retrospect this album is often mentioned as one of the most important recordings of Czechoslovak Jazz and remains a milestone recording of the Eastern European Jazz in the 1970, firmly belonging to the same holy grail category as the best albums released at the time in Poland, as part of the "Polish Jazz" series. The fact that this music remained unreleased on CD for so long was a Cultural crime. His later recordings from the 1980s are rather incidental or compilations of archival material.
This is also sadly the last important album recorded by Velebny and his SHQ, since he gradually retired from recording and concentrated on Jazz pedagogy, of which he was a great pioneer, and work with theatre as writer, actor and activist. He died in 1989, sadly before the "Velvet Revolution" freed the country from the Socialist regime, a freedom he was not allowed to enjoy.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, the entire series is an absolute must, and the fact that most of this music is available on CD for the first time makes it an absolute treasure. Absolutely brilliant!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 28/02/2020Posted: 28/02/2020 | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | RUDOLF DASEK ~ JAZZ ON SIX STRINGS
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 771 (Barcode: 8595026677128) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the debut album as a leader by legendary Czech Jazz guitarist / composer Rudolf DasekFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1970 and produced by my great friend Antonin MatznerFind albums by this artist (now sadly departed), which finds him in a trio setting with bassist Vincenc KummerFind albums by this artist and drummer Ivan SmazikFind albums by this artist. On a couple of tracks bass guitarist Lubos NyvltFind albums by this artist is added. The album presents nine tracks, five of which are original compositions by Dasek and four are Jazz standards.
All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
Although Dasek recorded earlier on with various Czechoslovak ensembles, including SHQFind albums by this artist and Jazz CellulaFind albums by this artist, this album has put him in the focus of attention as one of the greatest Jazz virtuosos of the time, easily equaling famous "classic" Jazz guitarists active since the 1950s on, but also standing shoulder to shoulder with the pioneering European contemporaries like John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist, Christian EscoudeFind albums by this artist and others. Numerous album releases followed in time, many of which were duo recordings, which appears to be his favorite modus operandi, and all of which are masterpieces.
The music is absolutely astounding, both the interpretations of the standards and the original compositions, superbly performed by the trio / quartet, with elegance, flair and typical European elegance presiding at the helm.
The virtuosic performances by Dasek are heaven on earth for guitar lovers and the musical environment where every single note played relates perfectly to the notes played before and after, which always characterizes Dasek´s performances, is a rare treat. The album sounds completely contemporary and is perfectly valid today, despite the fact that it was recorded half a Century ago, easily deserving the "timeless classic" status.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, reissues of this kind are an absolute must, and the fact that this music is available on CD for the first time makes it a wonderful treasure. Brilliant stuff!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 01/03/2020Posted: 29/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NAIMA ~ NAIMA
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 772 (Barcode: 8595026677227) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1985 - 1986 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the debut album by Czechoslovak Jazz quartet NaimaFind albums by this artist, which comprised of keyboardist Zdenek ZdenekFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Frantisek KopFind albums by this artist, bassist Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin SulcFind albums by this artist. The album presents six original compositions, all composed by Zdenek except one co-composed by him and Honzak, recorded in 1985. These tracks were released as the debut LP only in 1988. This reissue adds three additional tracks, also composed by Zdenek, recorded in 1986 and produced by my great friend Antonin MatznerFind albums by this artist (now sadly departed), released originally in 1986 (before the debut album was released) as part of a Various Artists compilation. One of these tracks features violinist Martin ZbrozekFind albums by this artist.
All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
The group´s name originates of course from the title of the John ColtraneFind albums by this artist composition, suggested by Kop, who was a dedicated Coltrane follower. In the years that followed Naima released three more albums, following some lineup changes.
The music is all melody based, offering mostly ballads, and quite typical of the 1980s European mainstream Jazz, with clear connections to the Jazz tradition but with an updated attitude and sound-wise often close to the European Fusion. The compositions are all well structured and prove that the second generation of the Czech Jazz scene was well versed in the Jazz idiom.
The performances are also all excellent, especially those by Kop, who offers brilliant soprano and tenor saxophone soli, which drive the music forward. Zdenek plays fluent piano and synthesizer parts, technically perfect but a bit over-influenced by Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist´s style. Honzak, a great bassist, adds the pulse, and only Sulc suffers from being way too low in the mix making his contributions hardy audible. Overall this album is a great listening experience, accessible to a wide audience, which still sounds great today.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, reissues of this kind are an absolute must, and the fact that this music is available on CD for the first time makes it a wonderful treasure. Brilliant stuff!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 29/02/2020Posted: 29/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | TRADITIONAL JAZZ STUDIO ~ ENTOMOLOGUV SEN
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 773 (Barcode: 8595026677326) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the third album by the Czech Jazz ensemble Traditional Jazz StudioFind albums by this artist, a nonet dedicated, as the name suggest, to Traditional Jazz, i.e. music that developed on the early days of the Jazz history (late 19th and early 20th Centuries) and included such genres as Ragtime, Blues, New Orleans, and early Swing. Traditional Jazz (also called Trad Jazz) enjoyed several revivals over time, such as the Dixieland revival in the US in the late 1930s or the New Orleans revival in Britain, which lasted between the mid-1950s to the mid 1960s. A "classic" Trad band, like the one on this album, included trumpet, cornet, trombone, two clarinets, piano, banjo, tuba (instead of bass) and drums. The album presents twelve original compositions, six by Antonin BilyFind albums by this artist (on side A of the LP), the band´s pianist and six by Pavel SmetacekFind albums by this artist (on side B of the LP), the band´s clarinetist.
All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
Traditional Jazz was extremely popular behind the Iron Curtain, especially so in Poland and Czechoslovakia, for many reasons, some musical and others political. This subject is way too complex to be explained here, but let´s just say that Trad was "safe", far from Avant-Garde ideas that might bother the State censorship and represent underground / subversive / revolutionary ideology. Therefore it was used by Jazz musicians and the local intelligentsia circles as a cover-up to do exactly what the state was afraid they would do. Also Trad had a spiritual sense of freedom and sensuality, which were of course taboo. Having said all that, one must also state that Trad could serve as a basis for quite complex improvisations and compositional challenge, and it had a genuine following both among the musicians and the enthusiastic listeners.
The music offers a carefully reconstructed sound, style and feel of early Jazz and the original composition sound absolutely authentic to the era. The lineup (see above) and the acoustic sound also add to the authenticity. Overall this album is a great example of East European Traditional Jazz, which still sounds quite charming in historical perspective.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, reissues of this kind are an absolute must, and the fact that this music is available on CD for the first time makes it a wonderful treasure. Brilliant stuff!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 01/03/2020Posted: 01/03/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | LUDEK HULAN ~ JAZZ IN MY SOUL
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 774 (Barcode: 8595026677425) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1962 - 1964 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the debut album as a leader by Czech Jazz bassist / composer and occasional vocalist Ludek HulanFind albums by this artist, one of the pioneers of modern Jazz in Czechoslovakia and a founding member of the Studio 5Find albums by this artist ensemble. The album compiles music that was recorded over a span of two years with various lineups, mostly with a trio which included pianist Rudolf RoklFind albums by this artist or guitarist Vladimir TomekFind albums by this artist and drummer Ivan DominakFind albums by this artist, or a quintet / sextet which added to the trio musicians like: trumpeter Richard KubernatFind albums by this artist, trombonist Artur HolitzerFind albums by this artist, clarinetist / saxophonist Karel KrautgartnerFind albums by this artist or flautist Zdenek ZikaFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, ten of which are original compositions by Hulan and one is a standard. Three tracks, which were a part of a Jazz & Poetry project, include recitation.
All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
The music is all melody based modern mainstream Jazz, which moves between Bebop and Cool, with wonderfully structured harmonies and sophisticated multiple melody lines, which easily stand shoulder to shoulder with what was happening in Jazz across the pond.
The performances also don´t disappoint and are a showcase of professionalism and talent, with perfect interplay between the musicians and excellent soloing. Hulan, who is the focus of this album, proves to be not only a wonderful composer, but also a virtuosic bassist, which is plainly evident from his performances captured herein.
Hulan sadly managed to record only one additional album, called "Mila SpolecnostFind albums with this title" in 1977 before his tragically early departure before the age of fifty.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, reissues of this kind are an absolute must, and the fact that this music is available on CD for the first time makes it a wonderful treasure. Brilliant stuff!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 02/03/2020Posted: 02/03/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CH.A.S.A. ~ 1975 LIVE
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 775 (Barcode: 8595026677524) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2018
This is an archival album by Czechoslovak Jazz-Rock Fusion group Ch.A.S.A.Find albums by this artist recorded live in 1975, presenting material which was previously unreleased. The group consisted of vocalist Mirka KrivankovaFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / flautist Pavel ChmelarFind albums by this artist, guitarist Jiri AdamFind albums by this artist, bassist Ivo AlbrechtFind albums by this artist, drummer Antonin StrizFind albums by this artist and percussionist Ivan HavlicekFind albums by this artist. Violinist Jan BeranekFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. The album presents nine original compositions, seven of which were composed or co-composed by Adam and one each was composed by Striz and Albrecht.
All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
The group was founded in 1973 by Chmelar, Albrecht, Striz and Adam (hence the group´s name – an acronym), which were later joined by Havlicek and Krivankova. With the charismatic vocalist fronting the group they soon became a popular attraction on the local scene. Although the group existed until 1978, it never recorded a studio album and this material is their only recorded legacy.
The music is all melody based Fusion, based on excellent original compositions, which faithfully represent European Jazz-Rock Fusion of the 1970s. Complex, multi-themed compositions and odd rhythmic patterns make the music interesting even today, four and half decades later. Obviously the wordless vocalese by Krivankova is the main point of interest, remaining stylistically close to the work of the pioneering Polish vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist.
As usual in Fusion groups, Chmelar represents the more Jazz oriented side of the group´s music while Adam is the more Rock oriented contributor, and the balance between them is what makes this music work so well. The rhythm section is very solid and keeps the music flowing efficiently. Since the music was recorded live, it offers a lot of soloing by all the group´s members, which allows them to show their individual chops.
For fans of European Jazz-Rock Fusion and its history, reissues of this kind are an absolute must, and the fact that this music is available on CD for the first time makes it a wonderful treasure. Brilliant stuff!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 03/03/2020Posted: 03/03/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | VILEM SPILKA ~ CEKANI NA TOMA
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 787 (Barcode: 8595026678729) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019
This is the second album by Czech guitarist / composer Vilem SpilkaFind albums by this artist and his quartet, which also includes saxophonist Radek ZapadloFind albums by this artist, bassist Vlastimil TrlloFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin KleiblFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by the leader.
The music is typical modern European Jazz, with strong Eastern European melancholic / lyrical characteristics. The compositions are all solid and coherent, serving ideally as vehicles for the quartet members to develop their improvised soling. The balance between the four instruments is very well maintained and all the musicians get an opportunity to show their chops.
Spilka plays tasty Jazz guitar, managing to eschew Fusion excursions, which fits the introvert, calm character of the music. Zapadlo plays the soprano saxophone melodically, even when improvising and offers a clear, enticing ambience. Trllo provides the base tones with sensitivity and obvious harmonic feel and finally Kleibl keeps the rhythmic pulse precisely, with his unusual and dense drumming, without disturbing the quartet’s sonoric balance.
The music is excellently recorded and the album is lavishly packaged, as usual with Czech releases, which follow the great aesthetic traditions of doing things the proper way.
Overall, this is a well composed and played Jazz album, which is definitely worth listening to and being enjoyed by all Jazz lovers, especially those who love the sound of a Jazz guitar, which is not overwhelming everything else. Warmly recommended!
| | Updated: 15/01/2022Posted: 15/01/2022 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
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