In C / Djembé

"In C / Djembé" is a captivating exploration of minimalism and experimental music, presented by the legendary Terry Riley. Released in 1994 under the Materiali Sonori label, this album is a testament to Riley's enduring influence on the avant-garde and ambient genres. The album features two extended tracks, "In C" and "Djembé," each offering a unique sonic journey that spans a total of 55 minutes.

"In C," originally composed in 1964, is a seminal work in the minimalist canon. It consists of 53 musical phrases that performers can repeat and layer in various combinations, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of sound. This album features a performance by the Ensemble Percussione Ricerca, Eddy De Fanti, and Terry Riley himself, showcasing the piece's enduring relevance and adaptability.

The second track, "Djembé," adds a rhythmic depth to the album, highlighting Riley's ability to blend traditional percussion with his signature minimalist style. The album's genres span minimalism, avant-garde, experimental, drone, and ambient, making it a rich and varied listening experience.

Terry Riley's innovative approach to composition and performance is evident throughout "In C / Djembé." His work has inspired countless musicians and continues to resonate with fans of experimental and ambient music. This album is a perfect introduction to Riley's unique soundscapes, offering a blend of structured composition and improvisational freedom. Whether you're a long-time fan of minimalist music or a newcomer to the genre, "In C / Djembé" is sure to captivate and inspire.

Terry Riley, born in 1935, is a pioneering American composer renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the minimalist music genre. His innovative approach, blending influences from jazz and Indian classical music, has left an indelible mark on experimental, rock, and electronic music. Riley's most celebrated works, the 1964 composition "In C" and the 1969 album "A Rainbow in Curved Air," are seminal pieces that have defined minimalism and continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Throughout his career, Riley has collaborated with diverse artists, including the Kronos Quartet and Pandit Pran Nath, and his explorations into just intonation and improvisation have expanded the boundaries of contemporary music. From his early experiments with La Monte Young and Fluxus to his ongoing collaborations, Terry Riley's music offers a rich tapestry of sound that invites listeners to explore the depths of musical repetition and innovation.