KUřE V HODINKÁCH

Considered by many to be one of the finest progressive rock albums from behind the iron curtain, Kuře v Hodinkách is a great bland of hard rock and early jazz rock. I don't know if this fits best under the jazz/fusion label, as the music is more blues based hard rock, with lot's of horn arrangments, with slight soul influence as well - think along the lines of Traffic or the German band Lucifer's Friend, mixed with early Uriah Heep. The album starts with a heavy guitar riff doubled by sax, followed by another heavy song "Rám Prístích Obrazu", with great hammond playing and sax work. After a great climax the track ends in a with Vladimir Misik singing a stunning high F#. The next track opens with a fast sax/guitar unison lick, and follows in a straightforward bluesy fashion. "Já A Dým" is another highlight, with soft acoustic guitars and flute supporting Vladimir Misik. In particular this track evokes some similarities to Traffic. "Par stoleni" is also another great ballad, with a dreamy atmosphere, because of the sustained vibraphone sound and flute. Overall a great album not to be missed in any collection of fans of Jethro Tull, Uriah Heep, Traffic...4.5 stars.