Kuniko’s fifth studio recording sees the hugely talented percussionist return to the music of Steve Reich, a composer she has championed since her debut recording in 2011. In Drumming Kuniko delivers a tour-de-force performance of the work which is widely considered minimalism’s first masterpiece. Performing all thirteen parts herself, and adopting the same multitrack approach which was so successful on Kuniko plays Reich, Kuniko once again displays the technical virtuosity and flawless musicianship for which she is renowned.

This seminal work employs Reich’s trademark phasing technique; subtle changes in timing and timbre cause the soundscape to build through a series of rhythmic loops which gradually evolve to create a wholly immersive experience. After hearing her performance on Drumming Reich commented: “The result is like a microscopic close up of the piece where all the finest details are heard with amazing clarity.” Drumming sees the award-winning percussionist once again demonstrate the musical intelligence and flair which makes such a captivating performer.

Kuniko is a soloist who is recognised around the world for her astonishing virtuosity, exquisite musical insight and expressive yet elegant performance style. She is renowned for her flawless technique when playing both keyboard and percussion instruments, which blends seamlessly with her profound musical intelligence. Kuniko’s debut Kuniko plays Reich was acclaimed by the media, becoming Linn’s bestselling album of 2011, whilst Cantus entered the Top 10 of the Official UK Specialist Classical Chart, Xenakis: IX was nominated at Japan’s Record Academy Awards and her transcriptions of J.S. Bach were named 2017’s #1 CD by Tower Records, Japan.

“The versatile Japanese percussionist's highly inventive and colourful arrangements of Steve Reich's music produced one of the discs of the year.” – Gramophone

“Her marimba version of Reich's New York Counterpoint elicits some of the most exciting playing on the disc.” – International Record Review

“Japanese virtuoso KUNIKO finds new sonorities in Electric Counterpoint and brings Vermont Counterpoint to dazzling, invigorating life on the vibraphone.” – The Observer