Live drums. Folk/Indie/Rock

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: My band Sun Way Street. I’m a multi instrumentalist and in this band I play drums/bass/guitar/piano. We release new music every 6/8 weeks so I focus a lot on this project. I’m also recording with various local Colorado artists and doing remote sessions.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: Leif Vollebekk. I love his song writing and style.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Sometimes it’s best to record a take or two and then walk away for an hour and come back. Something magical happens in your brain when come back and you have a fresh perspective.

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: Singer songwriter and indie rock/rock.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I use a 13 mic setup with a hybrid Glyn Johns method when I record. I tend to work in Logic mostly and have 2 recording spaces to record in. Small and dead or a larger room with wood floors. I use high quality audio interfaces and top quality mics.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Can't choose and shouldn't have too. It really depends on the band/song. With Hello Kavita, we wanted a vintage warmer sound so we recorded analog (2" tape) and then converted it to digital for mixing. Both can sound great if everyone knows what they are doing.

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: I promise you will be happy with the final product or it's free.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I am addicted to the creative process and love working with new artists. Coming up with ideas that

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: What is your timeline? Are you going for a certain sound or style? Have you ever worked with a remote musician before and if yes, were you happy with the result?

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: First I listen. I listen for dynamics, pauses, emotional moments and ask myself if how can drums add value to each part. As I mentioned above, I like to be the back beat and look to practice restraint. I want to create something that will add to the song and not take over the song.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Listening & dynamics. I think listening to the artist is the most important part of the creative process. When you listen, you can hear all the nuances of the song and figure out what fits best for the song.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I tend to work fast and am highly communicative during the process. Send me the Logic session or the wav file, tell me the BPM and I can get started. If you have any ideas around the beat or sound, just let me know. I am drummer and father of 2 little girls so I am used to being told what to do. I take direction well and want you to be happy. I like to send you 2-3 versions using different snares and cymbals and you can choose what you like.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: The most common work is live drum tracking either for recording sessions or live gigs.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: I am a firm believer in less is more and I really try to practice restraint in my playing. I love to have 1-2 tasty fills in a track if it calls for it and not take over the song. It's not about me, it's about you and your song. I love the drumming of Aaron Sterling,Ted Poor and Darren King. Bands like Andy Shauf, Gregory Alan Isakov and Leif Vollebekk are some of my favorite singer songwriters. Of course these the obvious bands like Radiohead, The Beatles, RATM, and Nirvana that were all huge influences for me.