1. what first inspired you to become a drummer?

I started out as most kids do who are not able to have a drumkit in their house, I used to always make pots n pans drumkits, cardboard boxes, whatever I could hit I'd use. I started playing guitar first, drums second.
But I always thought drummers had a certain integral and potent presence in a band that always intrigued me, plus it's a great stress reliever. the urge to hit shit was, and still is strong.

2. anything that you've learnt along the way that's really helped you
as a drummer?

Sometimes less is more. in both playing style and equipment, and use hearing plugs, if only during
rehearsal. it's worth it! I have also found as I have got older, my tastes and influences have become far
more ecclectic. I think this is a healthy thing for anyone playing any instrument or attempting to be
creative in an artistic sense. Don't get stuck on one thing when you might have fun trying a bunch.

3. who have you and/or who are you playing with atthe moment and what are the bands movements
   Anything to plug?

My main focus is HOTEL WRECKING CITY TRADERS
(http://www.myspace.com/hotelwreckingcitytraders)

We are a 2 piece experimental/instrumental band. Our current release is called 'EP' and is available now in all good Independent Melbourne Record Stores or via our Myspace page.

We also have a totally unrehearsed improvisational/collaboration release coming out with our good pals Deryck and Jawsh of Spidergoat Canyon/Computer Dying in a very limited hand packaged quantity, which we will make available at shows only.

Following that, we have a split 7" vinyl release coming out on local indie label Sonic Sound Records
with our recent tour partners and spiritual brothers Sons Of The Sun.  Our side of the record will be
recorded with Neil Thomason (Ricaine).

Then theres going to be 2 tracks featured in the next issue (Tab5) of cult DVD Magazine "Bad Acid" (UK).

And before the years end, another collaboration recording with our friends Raul and Dean of Magic
Dirt.

4. what gear are you using at present?

I am using a 2nd hand vintage Pearl kit (4 piece) Ibought from Revolver Drums for the princely sum of
$350, combined with a ltd edition collectors 13" DW maple snare and a combination of large Sabian, Paisteand Bosphorus cymbals. My kick pedal is a Tama Iron Cobra double-kick pedal.

5. what would be your dream gig?

One where we played with some of our favorite bands in
a warm outdoor location, with good friends, good food,
plenty of drinks and an abundance of lung food.

6. favourite drummers and/or bands and why?

I'm gonna say the following 3 Australian drummers
because they are world class, boundary-pushing
innovators and are definitely worth checking out, if
you haven't already:

Jem (Fire Witch)
He is utterly dynamic, precise and inventive and
always has his kit tuned to perfection.

Deryck (Spidergoat Canyon/Computer Dying)
D is left handed, furiously progressive and hits
harder than hell. you should see when Goatwitch play
and Jem and Deryck play together. Mind bending stuff.

Robbie Avenaim (wOg/What is Music etc..)
Robbie has a penchant for experimentation and its
indicative in his jazz-influenced style and use of
non-traditional setups, tunings and time signatures.
Very versatile and always fun to watch.

Thank you Revolver Drums!

-ben-