Progres 2

Exploring Progres 2's Mozek

Mozek, released in 1984, is a concept album by the Czechoslovak rock band Progres 2. The album is a product of their time, recorded in January 1984 at Studio Koliba in Bratislava. It was released on the Panton label. The band had recently undergone a lineup change, with the departure of Roman Dragoun and Miloš Morávek. This shift led to the formation of a new four-piece group, featuring Zdeněk Kluka, Pavel Pelc, Aleš Bajger, and Peter Peteraj.

A Conceptual Journey

The album serves as an audiovisual rock-theater show, inspired by Anatoly Dneprov's science fiction narrative "Maxwell's Equations." The story follows a young man in dire financial straits who sells his brain to a professor. Unbeknownst to him, his brain becomes part of a supercomputer. This narrative framework underpins the musical composition, allowing for a thematic exploration of technology and humanity.

Musical Direction

Mozek showcases a transition in Progres 2's sound, leaning into the influences of 1980s new wave. The band's music features crisp synthesizer sequences and more aggressive rock guitar riffs. Tracks like "Inzerát," "Neznámý Génius," and "Vzpoura Otroků - Počítačů" highlight this stylistic evolution. The arrangements reflect a blend of rock and electronic elements, offering a fresh take on the band’s earlier work.

Band Contributions

Each member of Progres 2 plays a crucial role in the album's sound. Zdeněk Kluka contributes drumming, vocals, and production, while Pavel Pelc handles bass guitar, keyboards, and vocals. Aleš Bajger adds guitar, keyboards, and vocals, and Peter Peteraj, formerly of Collegium Musicum, enhances the guitar work. This collaboration results in a cohesive yet diverse listening experience.

Release Information

Mozek was released under the catalog number 8113 0450. The album is available in vinyl format, emphasizing the physicality of music in the 1980s. The vinyl release reflects the band's commitment to their artistic vision and the importance of the album within the rock genre of that era.

This album was recorded in January 1984 at Studio Koliba in Bratislava.