Andrzej Święs - Flying Lion. Out on March 3rd, 2023 (SJRecords 071)

Flying Lion vinyl - premiere on September 22, 2023 - limited edition of only 200 numbered LPs. Only 45 pieces available in our store.

FLYING LION is a trio led by Andrzej Święs on bass guitar that seamlessly blends jazz, improvisation, and experimental music to create a unique sound. Andrzej's skillful musicianship serves as the foundation for the band's dynamic and innovative performances. Their music is a refreshing take on the familiar and will be enjoyed by both music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. Rafał Sarnecki's guitar work adds depth and complexity to the band's sound, characterized by a balance of virtuosity and restraint. Paweł Dobrowolski's drumming is a true force, providing a driving rhythm that propels the compositions forward. The upcoming album is a compendium of unique compositions that showcase the band's incredible range. Their improvisations and interactions are masterful and take the listener on a transcendent voyage through sound. The chemistry between the band members is palpable, creating an atmosphere that is both electric and intimate. FLYING LION is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music. Their live performances are not to be missed, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

• Andrzej Święs - bass
• Rafał Sarnecki - guitar
• Paweł Dobrowolski - drums

• music composed by Andrzej Święs, except tracks 7,9 improvised by all musicians
• recorded by Paweł Lipski, Michał "Mashtal" Rypień at © TAKE 1 STUDIO on 8 & 9th July, 2021
• mix, master: Robert Kubiszyn  © DREAMCATCHER STUDIO
• photos: Sisi Cecylia  © JazzySHOTS         
• cover: Tomasz Olszewski
• produced by Andrzej Święs

Andrzej Święs is a bass player who has dedicated his life to the art of music. He received his Master's degree from the Ignacy Jan Paderewski Academy of Music in Poznan in 2005 and the Jazz Institute of the Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice in 2008.

His debut on the jazz scene was in 2004 with Pawel Tomaszewski Trio at Cracow's Jazz Junior competition, where he earned a Second Prize. This early recognition was just the beginning of a highly successful career that has seen him win numerous accolades and awards. He was awarded, for example, the First Prize with Pawel Tomaszewski Trio at Jazz Juniors Festival (Cracow 2005) and Bielska Zadymka Jazz Festival (Bielsko – Biała 2006), Grand Prix "Jazz nad Odra" Festival with group Soundcheck (2005) and also Individual Distinction at the same festival (Wrocław 2008).

Throughout his career, Andrzej has had the opportunity to perform with a diverse array of musicians, including internationally renowned artists such as Stewart Copeland, Jules Buckley, Greg Osby, Lee Konitz, George Garzone, Randy Brecker, Jan "Ptaszyn" Wróblewski, Janusz Muniak, Zbigniew Namyslowski, Adam Pierończyk, Grzegorz Nagórski, Maciej Sikała, Joachim Mencel, Henryk Miśkiewicz, Dorota Miśkiewicz, Kuba Stankiewicz, Judy Bady, Jacek Kochan, Dominik Wania, Marek Napiórkowski, Kuba Więcek, Clarence Penn, Manuel Valera, Kasia Pietrzko Trio, Kamil Piotrowicz Sextet, Marita Alban Juarez, Krzysztof Dys, Adam Bałdych. These collaborations have allowed him to gain a wealth of experience and have been instrumental in shaping his unique style and sound.

In addition to performing in jazz clubs and major venues throughout Poland, Andrzej has also performed on international stages in countries such as Germany, Austria, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Denmark, Italy, Hungary, U.S.A., Morocco, Russia, the Czech and Slovak Republics, and Bulgaria.

Andrzej Święs has recorded over 50 albums as a sideman, most of which have been nominated for Poland's Fryderyk award (Polish Grammy). He continues to push the boundaries of his art, always striving for excellence and constantly seeking new challenges and opportunities to grow as a musician.

Photos by Sisi Cecylia / JAZZy Shots

Years ago, the bass was a scarce instrument in Poland, and specifically there was a shortage of bass players. Whoever caught one, guarded it like a treasure. In the modern times, they have become abundant, so you can choose, but everyone wants the best. As a certain bearded man said, quantity has turned into quality. But you have to guard it. And history repeats itself, because when you catch one, you guard it with a gun in your hand. Well, I can't complain. I'm lucky with those at the top. However, one of them is exceptional. Not only is he one of the best, but he also became a leader, and on top of that he released an album, and it even became the album of the year. I don't remember a double bass player with such a shot in our country. He is also very popular, because everyone wants to play with him, and he doesn't say no. Thank God for me too, and he can play anything. This time, there is only one hero: the recently awarded by Fryderyk - ANDRZEJ ŚWIĘS.

- Jan Ptaszyn Wróblewski (April 15, 2024 on FB)