Frantisek Uhlir is once again bringing joy and beauty into our world with this album, COMING HOME.

The Frantisek Uhlir Team (F.U.T.), based in Prague, features Andy Schofield on alto sax, soprano sax, flute and clarinet; Standa Macha on piano; Martin Sulc on drums; and Uhlir on his magnificent bass. On two of the album’s ten Uhlir-composed tunes, the group is joined by a string quartet, with a chamber orchestra on the very last track.

Fittingly, the first sounds on this album are Uhlir’s bass as he begins the title track, “Coming Home.” Immediately one is swept up in the sheer beauty of the piece, punctuated by the string quartet’s subtle accents. Schofield’s lovely soprano sound provides a peaceful dawn of day feeling. Macha makes his presence known with his first superb solo, followed by the composer himself. When I listen to a Frantisek Uhler bass solo, I’m reminded of Lester Young’s dictum: “A musician has to tell a story,” and Uhlir’s stories are effervescent.

“Children’s Dreams and Games” is as memorable as its title. Opening with bowed bass and string quartet, the tune soon takes to the skies with Schofield’s flute and Martin Sulc’s crisp, soaring drum work leading the way. Says Frantisek Uhlir: “The string quartet in ‘Coming Home’ and ‘Children’s Dreams and Games’ plays in an unconventional line-up: two violas and two cellos.” The musical effect is exquisite.

Uhlir and his bass–as searchingly propulsive as Blanton’s and LaFaro’s–lead us into “I Lost In Her Eyes,” a dreaming piece of music, and another example of Schofield’s mastery of the soprano saxophone. Standa Macha’s piano solo is a highlight in an album filled with highlights.

Next is the breezy Caribbean feel of “The Untitled,” with Uhlir’s fluid, soulful bass leading the way. Andy Schofield’s flute playing is a revelation.

Karel Velebny (1931-1989) was a celebrated Czech musician, composer, and teacher who in 1975 invited a young Frantisek Uhlir to collaborate in the group SHQ. “I Remember Karel” is dedicated to this giant of European Jazz, with guest trumpeter Mira Hloucal locking in with Schofield’s alto. Exquisite.

Throughout COMING HOME, Standa Macha is truly exceptional; and “Vida je tu Ida” is a tender musical dance between Macha’s stately piano and Uhlir’s soulfully aching bass. I was not surprised to learn that this tune is dedicated to Frantisek Uhlir’s granddaughter, Ida, born in 2025. A gorgeous tune for a gorgeous child.

According to Uhlir, “I’m Not Finished Yet” is “arranged by Andy Schofield for the Septet, which includes, beside the members of F.U.T., the great players Premek Tomsicek on trombone; Osian Robert from the U.K. on tenor sax; and Mira Hloucal on trumpet.” Imagine being in a Prague jazz club, hearing this propulsive tune played by these gifted musicians!

“Vendelin” is dedicated to Uhlir’s grandson Vendelin, born in 2022. What a lad he must be! This gentle, thoughtful, engrossing song features Schofield on clarinet, and more of Macha’s deeply rich piano. Martin Sulc anchors his comrades with gracefully flowing swing.

According to the composer, “‘Big Mouth’ is a reaction to the second presidential election in [America].” Once again, each member of F.U.T. is given the space to breathe and shine.

COMING HOME’s last track is a delightful bonus: “Trialogue for Solo Violin, Jazz Q and Chamber Orchestra.” Says Uhlir: “This piece is dedicated to the violin virtuoso Oldrich Vlcek and the chamber orchestra Virtuosi di Praga.’’ Close your eyes and dive into the shimmering beauty of this remarkable music.

So there you have it, folks. Frantisek Uhlir’s COMING HOME, a feast of swing, mood, emotion, and boundless joyful creativity. Enjoy!

–Mick Carlon: Carlon’s Jazz novels (RIDING ON DUKE’S TRAIN; TRAVELS WITH LOUIS; GIRL SINGER, Leapfrog Press) are in the curriculum of 130+ schools in the USA, France, Spain, the U.K., and Mexico. “Carlon’s books are creating a new generation of Jazz lovers,” said the late Nat Hentoff.