David Friesen Special Trio @ Jazz Dock 28.3
Very rarely has the word “Special” felt as justified as it did last night at Jazz Dock. Spending the evening with the David Friesen Special Trio—featuring David Friesen (bass), John Stowell (guitar), and Libor Šmoldas (guitar)—offered a masterclass in what happens when individual brilliance yields to collective storytelling.
For those who follow jazz, a “great” concert from these three is expected. They are, after all, internationally praised titans of their instruments. And yet, this was something more. The two-set performance was built entirely on Friesen’s original compositions—melodic, warm, and hauntingly beautiful pieces that felt simultaneously tender and fragile. They were presented with a rare harmonic depth, the kind usually reserved for ensembles that have played together for decades.
If I didn’t know better, I would have assumed this trio was a lifelong unit. In reality, this configuration only saw the light of day on March 18th in Germany. The seamless harmony between Stowell and Šmoldas offered truly astonishing moments; rather than a duel of solos, it was a study in togetherness. At the center stood the maestro himself, guiding the evening with his effortless originality and a “telepathic” interplay that anchored the two guitars.
For those who follow jazz, a “great” concert from these three is expected. They are, after all, internationally praised titans of their instruments. And yet, this was something more. The two-set performance was built entirely on Friesen’s original compositions—melodic, warm, and hauntingly beautiful pieces that felt simultaneously tender and fragile. They were presented with a rare harmonic depth, the kind usually reserved for ensembles that have played together for decades.
If I didn’t know better, I would have assumed this trio was a lifelong unit. In reality, this configuration only saw the light of day on March 18th in Germany. The seamless harmony between Stowell and Šmoldas offered truly astonishing moments; rather than a duel of solos, it was a study in togetherness. At the center stood the maestro himself, guiding the evening with his effortless originality and a “telepathic” interplay that anchored the two guitars.
50 Years in the Making
While the trio is new, the foundation is ancient. David Friesen and John Stowell began their collaboration over 50 years ago, though this marks their first European tour together since 1979. Their connection is so profound that it literally changed the map—John, originally a New York guitarist, moved to Portland, Oregon, simply because that is where David was.
Watching Libor Šmoldas step into the world of such an “old couple” could have been a study in pressure. I had intended to ask Libor how it felt to bridge that gap, but the answer arrived the moment the first note rang out. We often take Libor’s world-class skills for granted here in the Czech Republic; last night was a vivid reminder that he belongs exactly where he was: standing shoulder-to-shoulder with legends.
The trio is already discussing a return tour next year. If that happens, do not let the opportunity pass you by.
Thank you, David Friesen Special Trio.
Watching Libor Šmoldas step into the world of such an “old couple” could have been a study in pressure. I had intended to ask Libor how it felt to bridge that gap, but the answer arrived the moment the first note rang out. We often take Libor’s world-class skills for granted here in the Czech Republic; last night was a vivid reminder that he belongs exactly where he was: standing shoulder-to-shoulder with legends.
The trio is already discussing a return tour next year. If that happens, do not let the opportunity pass you by.
Thank you, David Friesen Special Trio.
To see all the evening’s pictures click HERE!
