Škvíry & Spoje - Hotel Spojár

The Czech and Slovak experimental/improv scene is currently experiencing a thriving renaissance. Numerous collectives, groups, and bands are emerging, and venues across both neighboring countries are eagerly hosting their live performances. Among these ensembles is Škvíry & Spoje, a CZ/SK quartet that has been an integral part of this enchanting music environment for the past ten years. Their first physical release, Hotel Spojár, serves as a double vinyl celebration of their anniversary, featuring a collection of retrospective and present-perspective tracks.

The name Škvíry & Spoje, which translates to "Cracks & Joints," is inspired by construction rather than drug-related connotations. "Škvíry" represents the cracks in a piece of material, while "Spoje" refers to the joining points. This construction analogy reflects the band's approach to their music, which revolves around entirely ad hoc improvisation. The duo Škvíry consists of Michal Matejka on guitar and Petr Vrba on winds and electronics, while the duo Spoje comprises Jozef Krupa on drums and Dalibor Kocián on vibraphone. However, these divisions are not strictly adhered to, as the quartet often engages musically in solos, trios, and quartets, with formations appearing, disappearing, and transforming throughout their sound dialogues.

Each member of the band brings their own seasoned improvisational skills and distinct musical influences from their backgrounds and various projects. The quartet delves into a wide range of musical escapades, including free jazz, noise, experimental sounds, ECM-inspired moods, harmonically complex walls of sound, extended techniques, traditional instrument approaches, polyrhythmic hypno-grooves, and more.

The A/B sides of the release offer a current snapshot of what one might expect to hear during the band's live performances. The C/D sides feature rarely released tracks from the band's earlier days around 2013. These earlier compositions serve as the foundation for the band's current sound. While today's Škvíry & Spoje explore bolder sonic territories and exhibit tighter musical cohesion, their earlier work is already musically eventful, filled with clever and eloquent sonic moments. The release is beautifully presented in a hand-crafted cover designed by Klára Zahrádková.