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Janek van Laak: Drumming Up a Circle of Madness

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Today, the Spotlight shines On Berlin-based drummer, composer, and producer Janek van Laak.

Janek grew up in post-reunification Berlin which gave birth to a vibrant culture of music and art. He joined me earlier this year, around the release of his debut solo album, Circle of Madness (Sonar Kollektiv), a work that makes me glad I do not own a record store because I have no idea where I would file it. That said, it might not get filed at all because it would be playing all day.

Listeners will find jazz, improvisation, funk, some Berlin electronica, and more—sometimes all in the same song. Genre is not important when the music is this compelling.

Janek was as much fun to talk to as his record is to listen to. Please enjoy both.

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