1. what first inspired you to become a drummer?

My brother Terry was a pop singer in Sydney and groups like the Atlantics and the Delltones used to come around to chat and jam. I loved the sparkle and pearl coverings on the drums. I was also fascinated by Ringo: the snoz, the head-shaking, the flat cymbals. I remember Terry played a gig on Bondi beach, and 8 year old me played along with my little bongo on the forecourt step in front of thousand of people. My first audience. Terry later organised Derek Fairbrass (a well known 1970s session drummer to teach me).

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

So much. It's not about biceps, it's about using the wrist and forearms. Close your eyes and feel the piece. Lay back on the seat and don't get too intense. Also resist the urge to hate the lead guitarist,( just know that they're all like that...)

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

Am just studying right now. Just left a band. Looking for the next blues baby. Am studying the djembe. Amazing how it crosses over with the kit.

4. what gear are you using at present?

Sonor Phonic circa 1982 (the same as Phil Rudd's Back in Black monster. I bought it new with meagre savings from working at Sydney's Flemington markets. First gig with it was supporting the Cockroaches which went on to become the Wiggles). Also using a fabulous Traps set-up in the studio for practice. Also a Yamaha DTX electronic. Have always used Zildjians, but Steve has seduced me into fantastic cymbals from Bosphorus and a really really good Stagg China cymbal

5. what would be your dream gig?

Midnight oil. They have it all: heart, attitude and fun.

6. favourite drummers and/or bands and why?

Simon Kirke from Free (major blues stickman. His hi-hat and snare shuffles are wonderful. His best work on the album Highway when he was a wee lad)

Stewart Copeland from the Police (brought the hi-hat back into the sphere of art)

Ian Paice from Deep Purple (a jazz player who rocks. Check out Livin' Wreck for snazzy bass/snare interplay; Fireball for just being Fireball (I'm nearly there with it after 30+ years); and Wring that Neck live at the Albert Hall 1999 album)

John Bonham from Led Zep for being cool enough to leave spaces

Rob Hirst from Midnight Oil for applying soul and energy (check out the electronics on Power and the Passion)

< Prev		Next >