In the age of precisely calibrated mass-produced goods, the Grencsó Paradox Four offers an exciting adventure for those seeking a unique, one-off and unrepeatable intellectual and emotional experience. The core of the band consists of István Grencsó, a wind instrumentalist and a black-belt master of the Hungarian free music scene, and Barnabás Dukay, who is not only one of today’s most significant, uncategorisable and extravagant composers, but also an outstanding keyboardist. Their collaboration spans more than ten years, during which time they have consistently demonstrated a unique, one might say spiritual, artistic chemistry that is truly rare. Their joint performances have been immortalised on albums regarded as milestones in free jazz, such as Hátrahagyott dolgok apály idején, Esszék and When Down..., not to mention their outstanding concert recordings, which lie hidden in private collections. Joining them – not for the first time – is composer Bálint Bolcsó, a figure with his own distinct musical world, who brings his electronic instruments to the table; he has previously made remarkable duo recordings with Grencsó. Szilveszter Miklós is a percussionist of exceptional musical and technical prowess, and one of Grencsó’s longest-standing musical partners. What makes his playing particularly valuable is that it goes far beyond mere “drumming” to provide a rhythmic foundation: in free improvisations, he is a creative partner on a par with his fellow musicians.

This evening, we will hear the free flow of musical ideas conversing with one another from the very first note to the very last. This requires special attention from the audience as well, offering them the opportunity to enter into these musical flows, so that they may not merely be recipients but active participants in the creative process.