Drums for Film, TV, & Artists

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Always use reference material at the start of your production. It will help define the overall direction and make decisions easier as you continue.

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

A: I'd like to work with Jack White: I admire his no-nonsense approach. He's prolific in a way that I'd like to be.

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: What's the process for doing remote recording? Please read the terms of service on my profile, if you have any more questions, please ask - I'm always upfront about the process, timeline, and pricing.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Absolutely both - don't forget a quality A/D converter!

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: I'd bring a Ukelele, 4-track recorder with batteries, Kalimba, Bongos, and an SM57.

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: A big misconception in recording is that everything can be fixed in post production. Get it right at the source! Recording a drum-set is like recording a small orchestra - making the drums and cymbals work together dynamically before the sound hits the mics is part of what makes a great session drummer. There are some things you can't fix later. Let me help you do it right the first time!

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: Brandon Baumann is an excellent singer - call him if you're in need of voice-over or top-line male vocals!

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: In 2017 I released my first solo project, where I played the role of writer, arranger, producer, mixer, mastering engineer, and artwork designer. "The Countless" is available on all streaming platforms.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Lively, energetic, bright. Sometimes I need to play on top of the beat; other times I'll fall back. It just depends on what the groove calls for.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring the sensitivity to know when a part fits the song.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I am currently recording drum tracks for a client who is pitching to major network cartoons. I believe that my clients' success is part of my success.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: Questions that start a clear line of communication: what's the destination for your music? Knowing the audience helps give me perspective. Also, who or what would you like this to sound like?

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

A: I will exceed your expectations from start to finish - and do it fast!

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

A: The music type can vary depending on the project I'm involved in at the moment. In my younger years I played a lot of classic rock which taught me band dynamics. When i entered college the approach was more academic and I worked with more Jazz and World music. Upon moving to L.A. my focus began to shift as I received work in the film score industry, which is where most of my time is dedicated now.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Understanding your vision is vital. I like to begin by gaining an understanding of where the song needs to go so I can precisely execute that when I start recording. Once I've done a few passes, I send a mix and get your feedback - if it sounds right, I send stems. If it needs a revision, we talk it out and I track one more time.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Listen to your instincts. Once you make a decision, stick to it!

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: I'm able to anticipate my client's needs and deliver to them fast.

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

A: John Fogerty's drummer, Kenny Aronoff, is my inspiration. He has tons of energy and experience in the industry. He's taught me personally two important things: the value of adapting to musical situations and how to strive to be a people-pleaser in the studio.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: My career path began at age 5 under the influence of my dad, an accomplished guitar guru in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. After graduating Berklee College of Music in 2009, I moved to Los Angeles, where I currently reside. In addition to my work in LA as a drummer, guitarist, and audio engineer, I've also toured 13 countries throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.

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

A: I most often play drums for animations, cartoons, and movie cues. I also record plenty of rock, country, and even metal... I love double bass!

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I love the feeling of accomplishment when I take a sequenced production and give it human feel by adding my live drums.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I can record 24 hours a day in my North Hollywood Studio. I have 7 different kits that I use to find the perfect sound for the project. I find that 12-16 tracks is the usually right amount to cover all the drums, cymbals, and room, without being too much to work with during the mix stage. I only use high quality instruments and mics from my favorite brands, like Tama, Earthworks, Sennheiser, and Universal Audio. I often use a Tama Bell Brass snare, Tama Starclassic Maple and Bubinga drum kits, as well as a Yamaha Birch Custom Absolute.