Best Coats for Cold Climates: Castles, CZ Style
Kabát and Wanastowi vjecy Rock Hrady CZ Festival,Leaving Fans “Well Tuned and Smiling”
Bezděz,Czech Republic – The Hrady CZ festival delivered a potent dose of Czech rock this weekend,highlighted by electrifying performances from veteran bands Kabát and Wanastowi Vjecy.The two groups, linked by both friendship and shared personnel, proved a winning combination for the enthusiastic crowd.Kabát, fronted by the charismatic Josef Vojtek, took the stage with a palpable energy. vojtek, in excellent vocal form, led the band through a setlist that balanced beloved classics with rarely-heard gems. As promised after their opening number, “Immortal Aunt,” the band delved into deeper cuts, showcasing their versatility and musicianship.
The performance was more than just a rote recitation of hits. During “In Coffee,” the band poignantly remembered friends lost,while “Hunting Ball” featured the extraordinary double bass work of Ivo “Rafan” Traxmandl. The set also included fan favorites like “To the North,” “Burlaci,” “Thirst,” “Shaman,” “Corrida,” and “Stará Lue,” each delivered with the band’s signature intensity.
“Josef Vojtek safely carried his voice and speech,” noted one attendee, “the musicians played what they planned to offer to the best of their ideas, and in their frontman greatly seconded.” The result was, by all accounts, an ideal concert experience, leaving thousands of spectators heading home from Bezděz, or back to their tents, “well tuned, sung, and with smiles on the lips.”
Adding to the evening’s rock pedigree was Wanastowi Vjecy, who share a unique connection with Kabát.Radek Havlíček, Wanastowi Vjecy’s bassist, also serves as Kabát’s first manager. The band launched into their set with the punk-infused energy of ”So I Was Nandey,” followed by a string of domestic hits that kept the crowd roaring. They even paid homage to Czech musical history, borrowing “Bedna from Whiskey” from the legendary Miki Ryvola.The decision to feature both bands on the same stage proved to be a masterstroke by the Hrady CZ organizers. The festival’s commitment to quality sound and staging, coupled with the understanding that their audience craves authentic rock music, created the perfect surroundings for both Kabát and Wanastowi Vjecy to shine.The festival continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for Czech rock fans.
