Harlej

Harlej is a Czech rock band formed in 1994, known for their distinctive crazy-rock style characterized by lively rhythms and witty, often humorous lyrics. The band was founded by vocalist Vladimír Šafránek and guitarist Antonín Rauer, whose instrumental compositions combined with Tomáš Miřácký's lyrics give Harlej a unique place in Czech rock.

The band's origins trace back to Rauer's collection of songs that didn't fit his original project. These rejected tracks were released under the name Harlej 125, and a record label chose them over Rauer's primary work. The classic lineup was completed by guitarist Ota Hereš (also known from Alkehol), drummer Daniel Šůra, and bassist Vítek Fiala. Their 1995 debut album "Aj mena ou bejby hel" launched them to quick success, with their music video "Toník a Vládík" winning multiple awards on MTV-style charts and the band regularly topping "band of the year" and "video of the year" polls in rock magazines.

In 2002, the band underwent a major lineup change, retaining only frontmen Šafránek and Rauer while adding bassist Kolins, guitarist Martin Volák, and drummer Libor Fanta from another project. This new formation brought a stylistic shift while maintaining the band's signature energy and lyrical quality. After Šafránek's departure in 2006, Tomáš Hrbáček took over as vocalist, continuing the band's legacy.