Real Funky Drums & Percussion

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

A: I worked on an artist's EP as drummer and keyboardist in Seattle a few years back. It was the first time someone hired me to produce more than just drums on their songs, and the first time I recorded my keyboard skills on a track. I was proud because I really showed myself I could open up my skillset to more than just "the drummer". I had a lot of fun on them. You can check the artist and those tracks out on Spotify: Monte (https://open.spotify.com/artist/5hDozr6BMPWmEi9iDDHG1R?si=8jXbJ4kMQ3yOD4hikJTYkA)

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

A: 1.) Can you make sound-alike tracks? Yes absolutely- I enjoy the process of transcriptions, or reading sheet music when available. I also enjoy trying to replicate the actual sounds and textures in those scenarios. 2.) Based on this scratch track, can you come up with a unique part with your own spin on it? For sure, this is by far my favorite kind of project. I will always make sure you are happy with the end product, no matter how many revisions are required.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Digital is how I have learned to do what I do, yet I am fascinated by the history of analog recording. In terms of drums, analog of course all the way!!

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: Being able to meet and collaborate with musicians all over the world. I appreciate each and every opportunity and have something to learn from each client, no matter what.

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

A: Percussion means "I just play the bongos". The textures and accommodating rhythms I can layer on to a drum set track create my differentiating offering. While I do play bongo, some of my best sounding recordings had me playing Congas, Djembe, Shakers, Tamborine, Claves, Cowbells and much more.

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

A: Check out their vibe/personality and ask yourself: is this someone I could see myself working with for an entire career? Because if you find the right folks, that might just end up coming true!

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

A: Pair of Vic Firth MJ2's, Practice pad, solar powered generator, radio frequency emitter, transmitter. Gotta get off that island somehow!! And practice my rudiments while I wait...

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Strong, but sensitive. Once I understand the vibe of a song, I live in that world until its impossible for others not to join in and enjoy.

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

A: Vulfpeck. OOOoooooo, how I'd love to just lay down a tight funky groove while the band just burns up around me! That would be so much fun.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Mise en place (MEEZ ahn plahs) is a French term for having all your ingredients measured, cut, peeled, sliced, grated, etc. before you start cooking. Pans are prepared. Mixing bowls, tools and equipment set out. I believe the recording process is the same. Preparation is key!

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Coming up with the right part for the song. Sometimes I think of it on the first demo, and other times I collaborate to find the correct sound. I believe communication is key!

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring a tight funky groove, with a huge respect for the song and the other parts going on around me. I'm always looking for the best way to support the other musicians I am playing with.

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

A: Mike Johnston, Annika Niles, Robert "Sput" Searight, Jessica Burdeaux, Tyrone Hendrix, Negah Santos, & more

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I'm working on my 2nd EP, The Lovejoy Sessions, Vol. 2. Check out Vol. 1 on Spotify and everywhere today!

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

A: I know a few folks on the platform that specialize in mixing and bass and I'd be happy to introduce you to them.

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

A: I will make sure you are happy with the music I deliver you. I don't mind re-doing it until you are absolutely satisfied (although my goal is to deliver the best to you the first time).

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: How would you like the final files I send to you to be formatted? Could you please tell me your preferred settings? Could you send me some reference tracks so I can listen and craft the perfect groove for you?

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

A: I've played in bands, orchestras, ensembles, and have been working in music studios since I was 14. I started out playing the trombone, but always gravitated towards the drums. I've studied and worked on finding my voice on the instrument, and continue to learn and improve every year.

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

A: I love to play funk, r&b, rock, jazz, dance, disco, and pop music, but I am open to all styles of music.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Typically, I will listen to the demo the client sends and make my notes about the song form and groove. I like to ask lots of questions and stay in communication often to make sure I am on the right track for the artist's needs. Then, I will start recording ideas and sending them along for approval. Once the patterns are good to go, I work on creating a great performance and delivering a polished drum track to your inbox.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I go into more detail above about my specific setup, but I do perform, record, and mix everything you'll receive myself.

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

A: I provide high quality performances of drum set, conga, bongo, djembe, and auxiliary percussion recorded from my home studio.