John Cale & Terry Riley

The Profile

Collaborative project between Welsh musician John Cale and American minimalist composer Terry Riley, best known for the 1971 album The Church Of Anthrax, which blends minimalism, psychedelia, jazz, and rock elements.

The Church Of Anthrax was recorded around 1969–1970 and released in 1971. Cale served as (executive) producer, and reported disagreements over the final mix led Riley to express dissatisfaction with the release.

A single review explores the John Cale & Terry Riley collaboration The Church Of Anthrax, tracing its minimalist roots and rock tensions. Highlights include the title track, The Soul Of Patrick Lee, and Ides Of March. The writer praises the energy and raga/jazz/psychedelic blend but notes unrealized potential. Production choices by Cale and Riley’s dissatisfaction are discussed, ending in a respectful yet measured verdict.