Four new tracks accompanied by live videos are being published by Zabelov Group. The Czech-belarusian duo comprised of multi-instrumentalist Jan Šikl and singer accordionist Roman Zabelov yet again invited film maker Tomáš Vlček for a collaboration. Madhouse Session is the second recording released under the Minority Records label after the album Eg (2018).

While the previous album Eg is a precisely puzzled highly-developed studio piece which came into being at multiple locations with contributions by various artists and did not allow for all the tracks to be performed live due to its demanding nature, Madhouse Session is a live recording of concert preparations which were also partly introduced live e.g. at the German Jazzclub Tonne or as a support for Portico Quartet at the Spectaculare festival.

“Madhouse Session had a strong ambition to emancipate itself in the process of recording. Most of the old pieces were the work of Matouš Godík, which was noticeable in the sounds and we were very happy with the collaboration. However, we needed to try the sound production ourselves. From samples to master recording it was up to us, everything was created in a home studio where we rehearse. We have to say that we are happy with the result. It turned out that limits are often opportunities for new and interesting solutions. We feel that we finished the process of a sort of musical emancipation“ says Šikl.

EP Madhouse Session is comprised of four tracks, the name originates from the constricted atmosphere in society and personal feelings of isolation. Spoviedz carries within itself a hope and quiet pain, which turns itself into a shout and a courage to fight, Sun is a pulsing cinematic cycle, I’m OK talks about a spiritual transformation from affect into a state, which we call normal, Juli processes communication with a person who does not pay you enough attention and thus begins a complex verbal fight.

Roman Zabelovs’ vocals are also used on the largest scale so far in Madhouse Session: “I always felt a little insecure about my singing, but for a long time I have lacked the courage to go to a professional and seek help. Last year I was finally brave enough and had the opportunity to attend opera singing lessons at HAMU. It was an unbelievable experience, we learned how to breath and how to create a full, clear sound. I am very grateful for this opportunity, thinking back on it I realize how needed was the technical and psychological help I have received, “ adds Zabelov.