Live Drummer - Session Drummer

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Digital - I, sadly, don't have the space or budget for a room full of analogue outboard gear.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: The variety. One day I'm recording ballsy funk, another it's subtle brushwork for a pop ballad, the next upbeat rock or chilled reggae.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: What format they want their files and what they want my playing to sound like. Do they expect an almost exact replica of their example track, or do I have free reign?

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

A: Know what you want. Make sure you can answer questions about file formats etc. Also, be proactive - if you like the style of a particular drummer, tell me, I'll see what I can do!

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

A: Both my parents are ex-pro musicians, having worked on ships and holiday parks. I got my first kit for the 3rd birthday, and did my first gig just after my 4th. Since then, I've studied with several great teachers, achieved grade 8 with high honours and a music degree. Since graduating, I've been a freelance musician.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My style definitely has a strong jazz influence. That doesn't mean that I'm only capable of playing light, background stuff, more that I put much more emphasis on using my ears than trotting out the same grooves and licks.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Get it right the first time - don't brush things off with "I can fix that in the mix".

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: All my musical experience! As a session drummer, I've always tried to be flexible. This has put me in numerous styles I may not have been familiar with, but my mantra has been to say yes, then worry about it afterwards!

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: First thing I'll do is find out what format my client is expecting, and if there's anything in particular they are after - a certain type of fill, the same groove they've used already or any desired light and shade. Then, once I've got the track to record, I'll listen through it, and sketch out the basic structure, including any notes from my client. From there, I'll start tracking. Once I'm happy with what I've recorded, I'll do a rough mix to send back for approval. From there, it's a case of processing payment then releasing the files.

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

A: My most common work is providing raw drum tracks for my clients to work with. Generally speaking, I've worked on pre-production material the most, helping artists provide a polished sounding track which reflects the music in their mind.