Miro Herak

“Complex, but precisely because of that, utterly fascinating. Time and again, they push boundaries.” – Koen Edeling, musiek-recensie (NL)

Dutch vibraphonist of Czechoslovak descent Miro Herak joins forces with leading Czech pianist Daniel Bulatkin in a project that is making waves across Europe and beyond. The music of this group is strongly influenced by Slavic and Gypsy folk, as well as impressionist classical music and rhythms from the Balkan, reflecting the shared Central European roots of both leaders.

"Herak is a magician on his instrument, and Bulatkin gets the most improbable sounds from the grand piano." – Jazzism (NL)

"There is a density to the soundscape, like walking through an enchanted forest..." "Refreshing and uplifting – highly recommended!" – Wendy McEwan, North West End (UK)

The compositions by Bulatkin and Herak blend wild rhythms, lush soundscapes and strong memorable melodies with a powerful narrative quality, based on old folk tales and/or current events. The specific sound of the vibraphone, light electronics and the use of extended techniques on the double bass make “Elysium” into one of the most exciting new outfits on the European jazz scene.

The project has been selected as ambassadors of Czech jazz for the “Year of Czech Music” in 2024, during which the band performed on big stages all over the world, including major festivals in Tbilisi, Amersfoort, Jerusalem, and even at the prestigious Jarasum Jazz Festival in South Korea. Their piece “The Simple Things” featuring master saxophonist Seamus Blake, earned the OSA award for “Best Czech Jazz Composition of 2024”.

In 2025 they didn’t slow down, vigorously touring the UK, Europe, and Asia, with highlight concerts at JZ Festival in Shanghai (China), Taichung Jazz Festival (Taiwan), Jazz Po Polsku Festival in Warsaw (Poland), and PizzaExpress Club in London (UK), the latter featuring renowned saxophonist Will Vinson. Without exaggeration, tens of thousands of listeners around the world have been enjoying the music of this project, hopefully with many more to come. The group is working on their long-anticipated, ambitious debut album.