Album Review: Praj Mi Dobrú Púť Počítam by Pavol Hammel & Prúdy
Let’s get one thing straight—this album is like finding an old vinyl in your grandpa's attic that somehow still sounds fresher than half the stuff on Spotify today. Released back in '75 under the Opus label, this slice of Czechoslovakian prog rock goodness doesn’t just sit there collecting dust; it demands attention with its raw energy and quirky charm.
First off, let me say this: if you’re not into sprawling instrumental sections or dreamy keyboard solos, maybe don’t bother. But hey, life’s too short for boring music anyway, right? The band—featuring Pavol Hammel (vocals), Ivan Belák slapping bass lines like his life depends on it, Jozef Farkaš shredding guitar riffs, Jan Lauko tickling those keys, and Pavol Kozma smashing drums—is tight as hell. And then there’s Bezinky adding vocals here and there, which gives everything a cool, almost ethereal vibe.
Now, about the tracks. You’ve got only two songs listed, but trust me, they pack a punch.
Track 1: “Praj Mi Dobrú Púť”
This song hits you like a warm hug from someone who kinda smells like cigarette smoke but means well. It starts off slow, almost hesitant, like the band isn’t sure where this musical journey will take them. Then BAM! About three minutes in, the guitars kick in harder than expected, and suddenly you’re floating through some cosmic soundscape. Hammel’s voice has this rough-around-the-edges quality that makes you feel like he’s singing directly to YOU. There’s no pretense here—just pure emotion wrapped up in layers of proggy brilliance. This track sticks with you because it feels personal, like Hammel wrote it after staring out a rainy window for hours.
Track 2: “Počítam”
Okay, so this one’s wild. Imagine counting sheep while tripping on acid—that’s what listening to “Počítam” feels like. The rhythm section alone could carry the whole tune, but when Lauko’s keyboards come swooping in like a UFO landing in a cornfield, things really start cooking. What I love most is how unpredictable it is—you think you know where it’s going, and then WHAM, they throw in some weird time signature change that makes your brain go, “Wait, WHAT?” It’s chaotic, yes, but in the best possible way. By the end, you’ll find yourself humming along even though you have no idea what the lyrics mean.
Final Thoughts
Listening to Praj Mi Dobrú Púť Počítam feels like stepping into another world—one where rules don’t exist, and creativity runs free. Sure, it might not be perfect—it’s got its rough edges, and yeah, sometimes it drags a bit—but isn’t that what makes it human?
And honestly, isn’t it kinda beautiful how something made over four decades ago can still resonate today? Like, imagine these guys jamming in some tiny studio in Czechoslovakia, probably drinking cheap beer and laughing their asses off, creating something timeless without even realizing it. Makes you wonder what we’re all doing wrong now, doesn’t it?
So grab your headphones, crank up the volume, and let Pavol Hammel & Prúdy take you on a trip you didn’t know you needed. Oh, and if anyone asks why you’re grinning like a lunatic—just tell ‘em it’s the power of prog rock.
