When the band Bert & Friends released one of their first singles, Plody morí, in 2017, many wondered whether it was a parody of cheesy beach hits, or a serious attempt to stir up the stagnant waters of Czech pop. In it, frontman Albert Romanutti sings the lyrics in a high-pitched voice over a sprawling disco beat that acts as a random word generator: “Fine, yup, beautiful, best, wonderful. If you’re asking what, or who, it’s you.” In the clip, she also stands on pebbles by the turquoise water, wearing a mermaid costume and pretending to play a fish when a wild guitar solo begins.
Despite their bizarre aesthetic, or perhaps thanks to it, the band managed to gain such a strong fan base in the following years that they sold out Prague’s Rudolfinum last year and are headed to Fora Karlín this year. Bert & Friends plan to christen there their first full-length album Česká moře, which they released at the end of October, after the shorter, four-song EPs Supr (2019) and Panna a netvor (2020). As the name suggests, it partially harkens back to the mood of the seven-year-old holiday hit. As soon as Romanutti’s dreamy singing is heard in the title track and immediately replaced by a warm acoustic guitar, the listener finds himself somewhere on the riviera.
Photo: Šima Müllerová
“The Czech Sea Plate is like a trip around the world. I’ve always associated the sun with the guitar, neons with synths,” explains Romanutti about the concept of the album.
“I have a Ferrari and also a banana, on the island of Ciao Ciao Bello,” the frontman in the pilot single from the debut album evokes an overly positive atmosphere. The video clip was not filmed in Italy, but in Orlík, where Romanutti, as a native of Příbram, often spent his childhood. Together with the director Šima Müllerová, they wanted to show that it is not necessary to travel far in search of the exotic, and with a little imagination it can also be found in Czech meadows and groves. The other guitar tracks Gemini Constellation and Funky Planeta are also carried in a similarly carefree spirit. In the song “Operátor”, the band draws inspiration from the elevator music used on info lines. “You are in order, sir. You probably have a lot of years ahead of you,” reports the singer to the repetitive instrumental motif.
Creation is like daydreaming
However, on their eight-piece debut, Bert & Friends interspersed purely escapist songs with darker compositions such as Superhad or Night Rider. Although they are not particularly gloomy, with their 80s synthesizers, they sound similar to, for example, the last albums of the singer The Weeknd or the work of a French producer named Kavinsky, who made the soundtrack of the movie Drive famous. “The Czech Sea Plate is like a trip around the world. You will feel the breezes of warm, summer air, visit Copacabana and have a Piña Colada. At the same time, you will drive on it at a speed of 300 kilometers per hour on the Tokyo highway, and the lights of the night city will flash around you. I’ve always associated the sun with the guitar, neons with synths,” explains Romanutti about the concept of the album.
The surreal texts, in which teleportation tunnels, a golden retriever, a squinting chihuahua and Jean-Claude van Damme suddenly appear, most of all resemble a child’s imagination, which is not yet bound by logic. “In the beginning, I always let my intuition guide me. For example, I think of a melody that reminds me of a dolphin, or I feel as if the music takes me to a cold forest. Based on initial visualizations, I then try to develop these imaginary worlds. Rationality enters them only later, when I try to curate the texts so that they do not scream motives that could disrupt the basic idea,” Romanutti describes.
For him, the subconscious also plays an important role in composing. A few musical ideas have even come to him in his dreams. “The day before yesterday, I just dreamed that I had a concert with musicians from New York. I remember Mark Guiliana was sitting behind the drums. We improvised together for about half an hour. I myself was surprised how we did. More often, however, melodies come to me in an awake state. At the end of the day, creating art feels like daydreaming to me,” smiles Romanutti. He acts like an ethereal dreamer even during an interview in a cafe in Prague’s Vinohrady. Sometimes he gets lost in his free flow of thoughts, as if he still has one foot in his fantasy world.
Photo: Šima Müllerová
In addition to frontman Romanutti, the band Bert & Friends also consists of David Herzig, Vladimír Mikláš and Jakub Šindler.
Nostalgia for the utopian sixties
Detachment from everyday reality is quite possibly the reason why the music of Romanutti and his bandmates David Herzig, Vladimír Mikláš and Jakub Šindler is so captivating for the audience. At a time when melancholy is increasingly seeping into pop, Bert & Friends bring a utopia that is not affected by the gloomy present. The magic of the band is aptly summed up by a comment that one of the fans wrote on YouTube about the Czech Sea video clip: “If this was played everywhere, it would heal the world.” Although Romanutti doesn’t pretend that his work can save everyone, such reactions make him happy. “I always tried to look for the good in everything. There are so many problems around now that I want to contribute something positive myself,” he says.
However, compared to the stars of the domestic mainstream, Bert & Friends do not spread positive thinking so straightforwardly that they slide into banality. Thanks to indecipherable lyrics and sound experiments, even cynics, who tend to be immune to the joyful refrains of the domestic mainstream, can identify with their optimistic visions. They find an escape from the burden of today’s society, for example, at concerts, where Romanutti alternates between androgynous disguises from his video clips and the floral decoration of the stage revives the spirit of the sixties.
“The hippie era is close to me in its aesthetics and free-spiritedness. It reminds me of my growing up at a Waldorf school, where I always thought it was a bit hippie,” the 29-year-old singer returns to his childhood. Already in the “fairytale environment” of alternative education, which strives to develop the unique abilities of each student, he began to discover his musical talent. “Every day we played or danced to something. Thanks to that, I gradually fell in love with music,” recalls Romanutti. Although later during his studies at the Jaroslav Ježek Conservatory he devoted himself to serious music and jazz, during his adolescence at the turn of the millennium he looked up to similar idols as his peers, he liked for example Green Day, Eminem or Coldplay.
Weird, twisted things are nicer
“At that time, my mom mostly listened to jazz, I didn’t like it myself before, as well as classical music. But at eleven I was already composing my first things on the piano, and because I was interested in how far a person could go with the piano, it naturally led me to jazz and classical music. To genres that are so sophisticated in terms of expression possibilities that you can always discover something new there. At the age of thirteen, I started going to Prague for composition courses and gradually got into composing for chamber orchestras. I still have my old handwritten scores hidden in a drawer somewhere,” reveals Romanutti. He compares the creation of musical scores to building legos, which is why he enjoys it so much to this day. Nevertheless, he grew tired of composing jazz and classical music over time.
Photo: Renata Matějková, Seznam Zpravy
“I wouldn’t mind if it was clearly recognizable as humor in disguise,” mentions Romanutti.
“I tried so many complicated constructs at school that at one point I had enough of all these brutally thought-out procedures. I began to wonder what I was even doing at the Hedgehog Farm. I wondered if it was really important in music to practice 30 hours a day and reach some kind of Olympus. If it is not more important that the music develops your imagination and conveys some emotions. I longed for conceptual simplicity and pop chords. I don’t mean the awkward formulas that have been used a thousand times. Everything can be perceived in a new way,” explains Romanutti, why he and his classmates from the conservatory turned to pop.
He was inspired by, among others, the American MGMT or the Australian Tame Impala – bands that can write catchy hits, but at the same time, compared to big pop stars, they revel in obscure video clips or hard-to-read lyrics and draw heavily from the psychedelic sixties. “It’s the same as with a photo, for example. Either you capture something hyper-realistically on the iPhone, or you take an analog camera, wait for interesting light, add a special costume and maybe put a lizard in the background. In the end, you will find that these strange, twisted things are nicer, more original. I’d rather have fewer listeners than make music that’s been here a million times,” Romanutti thinks.
With exaggeration, but without the desire to provoke
He admits that in his artistic creation he likes to balance on the edge between exaggeration and seriousness. “However, I would not be amused if it could be unequivocally recognized that it is camouflaged humor. Pure provocation doesn’t appeal to me, I still want to create things that are valuable in themselves,” he emphasizes. When performing at events where not only his target group goes, he says he still meets people for whom the band’s poetics is difficult to understand. Among their rock fans, on the other hand, Bert & Friends have built such a strong position that last year they could even afford to play an acoustic set in the Dvořák Hall of the Prague Rudolfinum.
Klasirdo, as they named the special concert, became an imaginary connection of their indie pop work with jazz roots. This fall, they also presented their work in classical arrangements on a small Asian tour, during which they played at South Korea’s Seoul Forest Jazz Festival and Japan’s Yokohama Jazz Promenade. “While Asia was exotic to us, our band was exotic to Asians. In Seoul we played in the open air, in Japan again in a big hall. One performance was more relaxed and the other, on the contrary, more focused. I was surprised when a Japanese girl asked me if I would play a solo on the fish,” laughs Romanutti, recalling a female listener who was clearly familiar with the band’s work.
Another meta awaits Bert & Friends already on November 23rd. They are going to perform a “concert as big as an elephant” at the Karlín Forum. It is said that visitors will really feel like they are on vacation by the Bohemian Sea during it, which should be supported by the original stage design. The shape of the scene will be based on Romanutti’s painting, which adorns the cover of the debut album. The stage will therefore include palm trees, an undulating water surface created with foils and lights, and a red Ferrari. The brass band Provodovjané, led by the artist František Skála, will perform as an opening band, who will name the album Bert & Friends.
Bert & Friends: The Funky Frontier of Czech Pop!
If you haven’t heard of Bert & Friends yet, welcome to the bizarre little corner of Czech pop music that might just make you question your sanity – or at least your taste in beach tunes! With their 2017 single, Plody morí, they took the extremely brave step of merging catchy disco beats with lyrics that sound like they were generated by a toddler playing with a thesaurus: “Fine, yup, beautiful, best, wonderful… oh, it’s you!” You half-expect to see a mermaid splash about in the turquoise waves, for good measure – oh wait, you actually do in their clips!
The Quirky Rise to Fame
Despite (or perhaps because of) their gloriously absurd aesthetic, Bert & Friends have swooped onto the music scene with the power of a flamingo on rollerblades, selling out Prague’s prestigious Rudolfinum last year! Now, they’re set to launch their debut album, Česká moře, at the Fora Karlín this month. Expect a musical journey that almost feels like you’re lounging on the Riviera while pinned under a pile of colorful beach towels.
A Journey of Escapism
“The Czech Sea Plate is like a trip around the world,” says frontman Albert Romanutti. Apparently, he equates guitars with sunshine and synths with neon – a delightful analogy that might need a separate dissertation on the psychology of sun fever! And let’s not forget the song about a Ferrari and a banana, because who doesn’t want to race F1 while holding a tropical snack?
Daydreaming or Serious Business?
It’s essential to note that while there’s a deliciously escapist vibe in their music, Bert & Friends aren’t merely frolicking through a fantastical field of daisies. Way more than just chirpy beats, their newest album marries fun tunes with darker shades like “Superhad” and “Night Rider.” Think of it as drinking a Piña Colada while secretly pondering life’s existential dread – y’know, typical Saturday night stuff.
Capturing Childhood Imagination
With lyrics involving teleportation tunnels, golden retrievers, and yes – a chihuahua squinting following the works of Jean-Claude Van Damme – they essentially reassemble the mind of a child left unattended in a candy shop of thoughts. We’ve all been there, right? “Creating feels like daydreaming,” Romanutti muses. Sure, buddy, I daydream about winning the lottery. But a concert with New York-based musicians? Now that’s some inspiration!
Nostalgia and the Sixties
While many pop artists continue to wallow in the melancholy pool of modern pop, Bert & Friends actively create a utopia that feels decidedly more sunshine-filled and psychedelic. The general message seems to echo what one fan said: “If this was played everywhere, it would heal the world.” I’m still waiting for my Spotify playlist to save a life – no pressure!
A Balancing Act of Exaggeration
Romanutti claims he loves a tightrope walk between exaggeration and seriousness, but let’s be honest – if you’re burrowing through the depths of cheery music, how much is too much? There’s a fine line between joyful exuberance and leaving your audience wondering who spiked their Fanta! At their concerts, amid floral décor reminiscent of the sixties, it’s a diverse training ground for what constitutes ‘pop’
What Lies Ahead?
With their upcoming elephant-sized concert on November 23rd, promises of an extravagant beach-themed show are on the table (palm trees, an undulating water surface, and a very real-red Ferrari!). Romanutti and his crew seem ready to make waves – and judging by their rise, we can only hope this quirky group continues their climb to redefine the sound of Czech music.
So, if you’re looking to spice up your Spotify and perhaps join a good dose of surrealism, Bert & Friends await you like a siren song luring you to their vibrant aquatic world. Dive in, the water’s delightful!
When Bert & Friends debuted their single “Plody morí” in 2017, it sparked lively debates among listeners: was it a cheeky nod to clichéd beach anthems, or a sincere effort to invigorate the Czech pop scene? The band’s frontman, Albert Romanutti, delivers the song’s lyrics in a distinctive high-pitched tone, riding atop an expansive disco beat that feels like a whimsical word generator: “Fine, yup, beautiful, best, wonderful. If you’re asking what, or who, it’s you.” Meanwhile, the music video catches viewers’ eyes with surreal imagery—Romanutti dons a mesmerizing mermaid costume as he playfully interacts with the beach-like pebbles and azure waters, only to unleash a wild guitar solo that enhances the fantastical setting.
Despite their offbeat visual style, Bert & Friends managed to cultivate a fervent fan base over the years, selling out the prestigious Rudolfinum in Prague last year and gearing up for another performance at Fora Karlín. This upcoming show is particularly significant, as it marks the launch of their inaugural full-length album, aptly titled “Česká moře,” which dropped at the end of October. This album continues the carefree spirit established in their earlier EPs, “Supr” (2019) and “Panna a netvor” (2020). The title track evokes the essence of summer vibes akin to their breakout hit, instantly transporting listeners to sun-drenched shores through Romanutti’s ethereal vocals paired beautifully with gentle acoustic guitar.
“The Czech Sea Plate is like a trip around the world. I’ve always associated the sun with the guitar, neons with synths,” Romanutti elaborates, revealing his conceptual vision for the album.
In the album’s lead single, “Ciao Ciao Bello,” Romanutti portrays an absurdly optimistic atmosphere: “I have a Ferrari and also a banana, on the island of Ciao Ciao Bello.” Intriguingly, the music video was filmed not in Italy, as one might assume, but in Orlík—an area where the native of Příbram fondly reminisces about his childhood adventures. Together with director Šima Müllerová, they sought to illustrate that a sense of the exotic doesn’t always require far-flung travel; with a sprinkle of imagination, the enchantment can manifest in the fields and groves of the Czech Republic.
In addition to whimsical tracks like “Gemini Constellation” and “Funky Planeta,” the band also delves into the realm of ironic and experimental sounds. They draw inspiration from the ubiquitous elevator music frequently heard on information lines in their track “Operátor.” With lines like, “You are in order, sir. You probably have a lot of years ahead of you,” the band cleverly juxtaposes an ordinary listening experience against a backdrop of repetitive instrumentals.
However, their debut album isn’t solely composed of lighthearted tunes. Throughout its eight tracks, Romanutti and his bandmates adeptly intermingle escapist melodies with darker undertones, as showcased in songs like “Superhad” and “Night Rider.” Despite their less-than-gloomy compositions, these tracks feature 80s-inspired synthesizers reminiscent of artists like The Weeknd and iconic French producer Kavinsky, who gained fame through the evocative soundtrack of “Drive.” “The Czech Sea Plate is like a trip around the world. You will feel the breezes of warm, summer air, visit Copacabana and have a Piña Colada,” Romanutti vividly describes, expressing the dual nature of their music that oscillates between euphoric nostalgia and thrilling escapism.
The band’s surreal lyrics, filled with imaginative elements such as teleportation tunnels, playful dogs, pets with character, and references to pop culture icons like Jean-Claude van Damme, reflect a childlike creativity that defies logic. Romanutti shares, “In the beginning, I always let my intuition guide me. For example, I think of a melody that reminds me of a dolphin, or I feel as if the music takes me to a cold forest.” He meticulously curates these whimsical visualizations, intertwining them with rational thought during the songwriting process to maintain the essence of his imaginative worlds.
A crucial aspect of Romanutti’s creative process is the role of the subconscious mind, which frequently contributes to his musical output. He recounts that some of his musical revelations stemmed from dreams. “The day before yesterday, I just dreamed that I had a concert with musicians from New York. I remember Mark Guiliana was sitting behind the drums. We improvised together for about half an hour. I myself was surprised how we did,” he says, revealing that inspiration strikes both during slumber and while awake. “At the end of the day, creating art feels like daydreaming to me,” he muses, embodying the whimsical spirit even during interviews.
For him, the subconscious also plays an important role in composing. “I wouldn’t mind if it was clearly recognizable as humor in disguise,” mentions Romanutti.
While some may struggle to grasp the whimsical poetics of Bert & Friends, the band has undeniably carved a niche for themselves, even capturing a dedicated fanbase among the rock enthusiasts in Czechia. Last year’s groundbreaking acoustic set, Klasirdo, showcased their indie pop style fused with jazz elements at the esteemed Dvořák Hall in the Prague Rudolfinum. Their unique sound translates seamlessly into live performances, captivating audiences from all walks of life.
This fall, the band made waves on a small Asian tour, playing at the Seoul Forest Jazz Festival in South Korea and the Yokohama Jazz Promenade in Japan. Romanutti recalls with a smile how “while Asia was exotic to us, our band was exotic to Asians,” pointing to the cultural exchange that enhanced their performances. “In Seoul we played in the open air, in Japan again in a big hall,” he reflects, illustrating the diversity of their experiences abroad.
The anticipation for their upcoming concert, set for November 23rd at Fora Karlín, is palpable. Marketed as a “concert as big as an elephant,” fans can expect an immersive experience that evokes a sense of nostalgia and joy, reminiscent of a vacation by the fictional Bohemian Sea. The stage design will include elements inspired by Romanutti’s artistic vision, complete with palm trees, an undulating water surface, and even a red Ferrari parked onstage. The brass ensemble Provodovjané, under the direction of artist František Skála, will kick off the show, creating a vibrant connection between their pop sensibilities and the jazz roots that underpin much of their musical journey.
Nd if some of my songs were written during a dream state,” Romanutti confesses, suggesting that the blending of conscious and subconscious thoughts fuels his creativity. It’s this unique approach to artistry that allows Bert & Friends to craft music that feels both familiar and strangely otherworldly.
Their sound thrives on contrasts, balancing catchy melodies that invite listeners to dance with lyrics that might provoke deeper reflection. Romanutti’s penchant for childhood whimsy intersects with adult themes, creating a layered auditory experience; it’s as if he invites the listener to join him on a journey through his imagination while acknowledging the complexities of adulthood.
As Bert & Friends gear up for their concert at Fora Karlín, fans can expect not just a show, but a celebration of life’s absurdities wrapped in colorful melodies and a beach-themed ambiance. With their engaging blend of joy and introspection, the band promises to leave attendees pondering the larger questions of life while also feeling uplifted—a true testament to the exhilarating power of music.
So, if you’re intrigued by a fusion of vibrant soundscapes and playful lyrics, mark November 23rd on your calendar. Dive into the world of Bert & Friends, where sunny shores meet surreal reflections, and every melody is an invitation to explore the depth of the human experience while having a good time!
