🎺 Beroun Live Music: Quartet Goes Quintet…

Once again, the performance by the Julian Hesse Quartet was nothing short of deeply impressive, featuring Julian Hesse (trumpet), Libor Šmoldas (guitar), Jesse Simpson (drums), Tomáš Baroš (bass), and a surprise masterclass addition: Jason Seizer (saxophone).

In many ways, the evening picked up right where we left off last year, delivering a melodic sound completely saturated with a profound harmony brought together by these world-class musicians. Julian’s soft, gentle trumpet tones—which effortlessly transition into sharp, blistering bebop lines—found a perfect sonic companion in Jason Seizer. His unexpected presence on saxophone was a brilliant surprise guest for the night, serving as a bonus addition to an already flawless evening. Hearing these two blow together, it was immediately clear that they have a deep musical history, to the great satisfaction of a completely sold-out room.

The frontline was anchored by a backing trio that could easily pack out any major venue in the country on their own merit. Libor Šmoldas delivered lines that were clear, tuneful, and beautifully harmonized—a true masterpiece of improvisation that never felt overdone. Meanwhile, Jesse Simpson and Tomáš Baroš on the rhythm section were so absolutely outstanding that I wouldn’t be surprised if they are approached by some of the biggest names in the global music industry very soon. As you can well imagine, the individual solos gifted to us last night are the kind of elite artistry you simply do not cross paths with every day.

Thank you, Julian Hesse Quartet—who treated us by turning into a roaring quintet. I sincerely hope we see you a little earlier next time. Make no mistake, we will all be waiting…