Myrczek & Schmidt Quintet feat. Krzysztof Herdzin “Mlynarski. Not at all.”

Wojciech Młynarski spoke modestly of himself: “lyricist”. For many Poles, however, he was the sharpest observer of reality, who was able to dress our national emotions and absurdities in rhymes. His work returns to the stage in a completely new, bold version. Project “Młynarsky. Not at all.” is a meeting of three musicians: Wojciech Myrczek, Piotr Schmidt and Krzysztof Herdzin, who prove that the master's lyrics in the jazz entourage still sound current.

Młynarski, who died in 2017, left behind a treasure trove of texts that for many artists are an untouchable monument. However, the band Myrczek & Schmidt Quintet approached this heritage with a characteristic jazz freedom, without losing a single ounce of respect for the original.

The initiator and good spirit of the whole project is Michał Kalita. It is thanks to his passion and commitment that this extraordinary project was created. It was he who inspired the artists to “prepare” Młynarski for jazz — with class, humor and a touch of melancholy.

The heart of the project beats to the rhythm of an incredible dialogue between Wojciech Myrczek — a singer with a rare charisma, and Piotr Schmidt — one of the most appreciated Polish trumpeters. Myrczek not only sings, but also lives the lyrics, using acting means of expression. This makes each song a short theatrical form.

The musical foundation is the brilliant arrangements of Krzysztof Herdzin. The pianist and composer breathed new life into the works of such masters as Jerzy Derfel, Janusz Sent or Jerzy Wasowski. Herdzin managed to preserve the elegance of the 60s and 70s while introducing a modern, dynamic pulse of contemporary jazz.

The premiere of the project was widely echoed in the cultural environment. One of the most moved listeners was the outstanding actor Andrzej Seweryn, who did not hide his admiration for Wojciech Myrczek's workshop.

— Andrzej Seweryn did not hide his admiration for the interpretations of Wojtek Młynarski's songs, especially with what Wojtek Myrczek showed — musically and actorily. Gesture, facial expressions, diction, articulation. This is a rarity in the world of jazz — reported Paweł Brodowski, editor-in-chief of “Jazz Forum”.

Critics emphasize that the project is “a tribute to the master of word and melody”, and the jazz language of interpretation “reopens the door to his musical legacy”. This opinion is also shared by the audience, who come to concerts in large numbers.

The repertoire of the evening is a carefully defined journey through the achievements of Młynarski. Viewers will hear immortal hits, such as the eponymous “Not at all” or the moody “Moon over the Church”. They will be accompanied by lesser-known works, such as “I like crows” and “If you admit your courage”, which are performed by outstanding artists, gain surprising depth.

Project “Młynarsky. Not at all.” is real proof that art does not know the expiration date. Come to a concert in Wrocław and see that no one could write about Poland of the past and present as accurately as Wojciech Młynarski.