Janek van Laak: drumming up a circle of madness

The prolific Berlin-based drummer and producer talks about the magic of John Bonham, why humor is essential, the rhythms of India, and the process of recording his debut album, Circle of Madness.

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 Sonar Kollektiv release of his debut solo album, Circle Of Madness, 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.

(The musical excerpts heard in the interview are from Janek van Laak’s album Circle Of Madness)

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Dig Deeper

• Purchase Janek van Laak’s Circle Of Madness on Qobuz or Bandcamp, and listen on your streaming platform of choice.
• Follow Janek van Laak on Instagram
• A Music Lover’s Guide to Berlin
• Rhythm and Raga: Learn the basics of Indian music
• What Makes John Bonham Such a Good Drummer?
• Liquid Brain Orchestra on SoundCloud
• 8 Best Portable Audio Interfaces (For All Budgets)
• The 15 Loudest Bands in the World
• Kristof Hahn (Swans) | Interview
• Janek van Laak: Fifteen Questions about Drumming

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