The DRUMMER You NEED

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

A: My brother's instrumental album was a wonderful learning process, playing high-level instrumental music. It was a rewarding experience that challenged me to refine my technique and explore new sounds, significantly contributing to my musical growth

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I work recording in my own productions, and currently, I’m studying a lot to keep my performance clear and precise. Continuous practice and study are key to ensuring I keep evolving and delivering the best of myself in every recording

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

A: I can’t recommend anyone yet, as I’m new here and still getting to know the people and the environment

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: I prefer digital for the convenience it offers. It streamlines the creative process and communication, while allowing for quick adjustments and greater flexibility in the development of the work

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

A: I enjoy communicating through my art, always respecting the client's point of view. I believe the final work is always the result of a collaboration between both of us, where my contribution merges with the client’s vision to create something unique and authentic

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What I enjoy most about my job is the opportunity to collaborate with different artists and bring their vision to life. Every project is unique, and I love the creative process of interpreting the music, experimenting with sounds, and contributing to something that feels both personal and universal

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

A: When asked for my opinion on certain parts of a composition, I see it as a chance to collaborate further. I enjoy suggesting ideas to adjust the rhythm, vary the dynamics, or explore different tones!

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

A: The biggest misconception about my work is that many people think being a session drummer is just about following the music, playing the basics, and not adding much creatively. In reality, what I do is much more than that. As a drummer, I need to understand the composer’s and the project’s vision, adding personality to the music and bringing new ideas and sounds. Drums aren’t just a foundation; they have the power to shape the energy and direction of the song, giving it its own identity.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: How much personality would you like me to bring to your music??

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

A: Without a doubt, I will make a difference in your music. My experience, technique, and passion for the drums come together to add something unique and special to your project. I’m ready to take your music to new height

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

A: Hard question: pair of Neumann TLM 103, UAD apollo 8, my Sonor Drums and Paiste Cymbals!

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

A: I've been working with music since I was 11, and for the past 29 years, I've dedicated myself to the drums. I have extensive experience playing alongside musicians from various styles and backgrounds. I hold a degree in symphonic percussion and a master's in jazz, fields that have provided me with a solid foundation and a unique technical approach. The study of music has always fascinated me, and this constant quest for growth is what drives me to continue evolving as a musician.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I’m a drummer who respects the essence of the song, but I also love playing with intensity and emotion. I always strive to balance rhythmic precision with passion, ensuring that my sound is not only technical but also full of feeling and expression. My sound is refined, always adapted to what the music calls for, yet with the energy and power it deserves

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

A: John Mayer and Steve Vai are musicians I would love to work with, as they capture so much of what I believe in terms of musicality, particularly when it comes to the drums. Both integrate technique and emotion in a unique way, something I always strive for in my own performance. Working with them would be an incredible opportunity to take that rhythmic connection to an even deeper level.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: First and foremost, the quality of sound and performance should be heavily emphasized on the drums. I believe it’s the most important instrument in a recording because, from there, the music can go in any direction

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

A: Most of the time, I'm called to play rock and rhythms that require a strong sense of groove. My ability to create solid and engaging grooves has been a standout feature in projects that demand a strong, energetic rhythmic foundation

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My two main skills are the ability to play a wide range of musical styles with fluency and ease, and the ability to shape specific tones for each project. Whether it's rock, jazz, pop, or other genres, I can adapt to any style, always bringing the ideal sound and perfect tone to complement the music!

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring to a song is my ability to translate the composer's vision into a unique and authentic performance. With my experience and technique, I aim to add a new dimension to the music, whether through innovative grooves, subtle sonic nuances, or creatively adapting to the desired sounds. Every project is an opportunity to collaborate genuinely and bring the sound to life in a distinctive way.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I usually request a reference recording, whether it's in terms of musical language or the specific sounds the composer envisions. Together, we create a collaborative experience to capture the essence of the composer's taste, and from there, we bring the project to life

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: "I have three distinct and premium sets available, each offering unique features and high-quality performance: they are: SONOR SQ2 Medium Maple 22x16, 8x8, 10x8, 12x8, 14x13, 16x15 SONOR Vintage series BEECH 22x14, 20x14, 10x8, 12x8, 14x11, 16x13 TAMA STAR Bubinga 22x18, 10x7, 12x8, 14x14, 16x16 7 snares with different sizes and shells +- 20 PAISTE high end cymbals. all sets withREMO drumheads. MICS: AUDIX, Shure, Beyerdynamic, Lewitt, ElectroVoice

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

A: The musicians who inspire me are always those who manage to balance performance and technology, maintaining an authentic and innovative approach. I believe that the ability to adapt to new tools and sounds, without losing the essence of music, is essential to creating something truly unique. This fusion of technique and creativity drives my work as a drummer, constantly striving to evolve and explore new sonic possibilities

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

A: I work as a session drummer in studios for various artists in Portugal, contributing to diverse musical projects across different genres. My role involves collaborating closely with musicians to bring their vision to life, whether it’s recording for albums, singles, or live sessions