Angus MacLise

The Profile

Angus MacLise (1938–1979) was an American percussionist, composer, and poet. He was the first drummer of The Velvet Underground and a member of La Monte Young’s Theatre of Eternal Music. MacLise later lived in Nepal, creating music and poetry influenced by esoteric traditions. He died at age 41.

Founding drummer of The Velvet Underground; collaborated with Tony Conrad, La Monte Young, Marian Zazeela, and Terry Riley; associated with the Theatre of Eternal Music; lived and worked in Nepal; recognized for experimental, drone, and minimalist works; died in 1979 at age 41.

One review traces Angus MacLise’s break from The Velvet Underground over a paid gig, his ties to the Theatre of Eternal Music, and his travels to Nepal. It highlights The Cloud Doctrine (Sub Rosa) as a varied entry among archival releases. The piece nods to his poetry, esoteric interests, and passing at 41.