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Baker's Dozen

Speaking Rhythms: Valentina Magaletti’s Baker’s Dozen
Jennifer Lucy Allan , March 31st, 2021 09:57

Prolific drummer and collaborator Valentina Magaletti marks the release of Tomaga's finest album by telling Jennifer Lucy Allan about her favourite 13 albums, from The Cure to Miles Davis, Art Blakey, and Can to Deerhoof, This Heat and the Art Ensemble Of Chicago. Photo by Adele di Nunzio

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Steve Reich & Musicians – Drumming
You can’t not listen to this if you play the drums. It's so hypnotic, it's like guided meditation, but it's science and maths at the same time. It shifts, so your mind shifts. I have seen it a lot. Last time it was at the Southbank, and every time, I just drift. It never stops to entertain you, there’s always something new about the phasing. 

When did you hear it first?    

Probably in my 20s the first time. Now, Steve Reich and Terry Riley have made their way – not quite into the mainstream – but they inform loads of musicians in the way they approach things. Studying at the conservatory you had to approach Steve Reich. Nowadays, you can indulge yourself with beautiful box sets. There are so many incredible special editions – I always fall for that shit.