The Drum Shuffle

Dylan Jack and his Dylan Jack Quartet have one of the most unique releases of the year with their Eine Quartett Des Grauens. It is a "spontaneously composed soundtrack to F.W. Murnau's 1922 film Nosferatu." Released just in time for Halloween, (on October 28, 2023) a fully improvised album set to a silent horror film has to be one of the coolest ideas we've ever heard of. On episode 161, Dylan joins Jamie to discuss this project and the rest of his career in a wide-ranging interview that covers a lot of topics and ground.

Bobby Falk is a Louisville, KY native, who grew up in a musical family. Bobby is a graduate of Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS) High school and the University of Louisville jazz studies program, graduating in 2005 with BA Jazz studies (emphasis Percussion). Upon graduating University of Louisville, Bobby started composing music and established the “Bobby Falk group” a contemporary jazz ensemble, in addition to sideman/freelance work in the Kentucky-Indiana area. Bobby has performed with such notables as Lionel Hampton, Lew Soloff, Bobby Shew, Jamey Aebersold, Dave Zoller, Tommy Poole, Phil Woods, Craig Wagner, Curtis Fuller, and Shelley Carrol. His new release Coming to Fruition is a must-listen release featuring a stellar band and compositions that will make you need to dance. On episode 160, Bobby and Jamie discuss the record in detail and preview the upcoming tour of Texas and the midwest region celebrating the release of this great new album.

Hailing originally from Tokyo, Japan, Rintaro Mikami is a jazz drummer, percussionist and composer based in New York City. Known for a wide range dynamics, supportive orchestration, and very narrative performance and compositions, Rintaro draws from a jazz tradition to a range of influences from rock to world cultural music such as Brazilian, Argentinian and mid-Eastern.    He started playing drums at the age of 12 and immediately showed his talent in local music community. After working as a drummer in rock music scene in Tokyo, his musical interest gradually gravitated towards Jazz.    Rintaro's early life on the small island of Kuchinoerabu in the south of Japan inspired his debut release as a leader, First Fish. For two years during childhood, Mikami gained life lessons on Kuchinoerabu that he likely wouldn't have in his native Tokyo.   First Fish refers to Mikami's earliest experience living on the island, a memory that would guide him as he matured and developed his own artistic sensibility after returning to Tokyo. Later he pursued music studies for seven years in the great music capital of New York, and grew to become the fine drummer and creative, well-rounded musician that we hear now. All nine tracks on First Fish weave together the story of Mikami's journey, from the island to this day.

Tina Raymond is making waves in the Jazz drumming world. Her second release as a bandleader, Divinations, will be out on October 6, 2023. She is also the Director of Jazz studies at Cal State Northridge and is president-elect of The California Alliance for Jazz. She certainly has a lot going on. Jamie caught up with Tina to discuss her brilliant upcoming release along with everything else she has going on. This interview covers a lot of ground and will be useful to all. If you aren't aware of Tina's drumming, here is your chance to get hip to a bright young star in the world of Jazz.

Cindy Blackman Santana. Need we say more? Cindy took time out of her tours with Santana and the Cindy Blackman Santana Band to discuss her stellar career, the state of music in general, and she offered up some undeniable advice that is pure truth. You would be hard-pressed to speak to anyone who is more thoughtful or insightful into the instrument that we have chosen to pursue. This is a cannot miss episode of The Drum Shuffle podcast and we are certain that Cindy will be back again soon to continue this epic conversation. Enjoy!

Nick D'Virgilio's drumming has been been heard with many bands, including Spock's Beard, Big Big Train, Tears For Fears, and most recently on the current Asian leg of Mr. Big's The Big Finish Tour. Nick is also the drum and percussion product specialist at Sweetwater Sound, so he is known around the world as a "drum guy." He is also a fantastic singer and multi-instrumentalist as evidenced in his solo releases under his own name. On episode 156, Jamie catches up with Nick to discuss all these things in an epic drum hang conversation with one of this era's great artists. There is a lot of knowledge to be gained in the episode of The Drum Shuffle podcast.

On episode 155, we are joined once again by Mark Poiesz. Not only is Mark a superb drummer, he is also a certified coach. He has mixed together both of these attributes to create The Big Three: Steps to the Big Stage, a multi-part course designed to help musicians advance their careers to the next life-changing gig. If you know anything about Mark, it's that he is always willing to help anyone. This course is no different...It is designed to help. Full stop. We had a great discussion around some of the things musicians can do to continue moving up the ladder of this crazy business that we all love. Mark is one of our favorite humans, and we can't wait for you all to hear this episode.

John Sparrow has been drumming for Violent Femmes since 2006. A class-act in every sense of the word, John spent some time with us to discuss the Femmes' recent tour, being in an iconic band, the insanity of the music business, always keeping your bags packed, restoring old drums while off the road, and so much more. This is such a great conversation that will brighten your drumming day, guaranteed!

Jamie Wollam has been drumming for Tears For Fears since 2010. After wrapping up the band's North American tour and a promotional tour of Europe, Jamie sat down with Jamie to discuss his backstory, the new Tears For Fears record, his pandemic day job, and they also discuss the difficulty of maintaining sobriety as a musician. This is such an important and educational interview, we know you're going to enjoy this one! Jamie is such a great guy and is a monster player that everyone should be hip to.

On episode 152, Jamie sits down with Dennis Diken of The Smithereens to discuss The Lost Album, a recording from 1993 by the band that was recently brought out of their archives. A true Smithereens record in every sense of the word, it is a can't miss for anyone that loves the band. Jamie and Dennis also talk about the earliest days of the group, getting back to the sheer joy of drumming, and of course, Ringo! Dennis is a true gentleman that has immense knowledge of all things rock n' roll. This is a must-listen episode of The Drum Shuffle.

Chris Parker has played with almost every artist under the sun in his legendary career. Along with filling the seat in the Saturday Night Live band for several years, he has been a staple of the greater New York music scene since the 1970s. The Chris Parker Trio have just released Tell Me, a brilliant jazz trio record that features his compositions along with his incredible playing. On episode 151, Chris joins Jamie to talk about the new release along with many of his other stops along the way.

Mark Kelso joins Jamie on episode 150 to discuss The Dragon's Tail, the newest release by Mark Kelso and the Jazz Exiles and so much more. The album is a must-have for any drummer's musical collection. Mark has played with a who's who in the music world and has been teaching for many years. He is a wealth of knowledge and information. This interview covers a wide range of topics and is sure to inspire everyone who listens.

Doug "Cosmo" Clifford stops by The Drum Shuffle once again to discuss another Cosmo's Vault release. This time it's California Gold, a recording from 1978 with Bobby Whitlock and Donald "Duck" Dunn. The fact this record hasn't seen daylight for 44 years is simply astounding. It is a FANTASTIC album that would have certainly been "California Platinum" had it been released back in 1978. Doug and Jamie discuss some of the reasons that it never got released, why the band didn't take off, (spoiler alert: The Blues Brothers strike again...), and how the record came together 44 years ago. It's always a treat when we get to have Doug on the podcast, so don't miss it.

Anthony Taddeo is one of Cleveland's busiest drummers, percussionists, and composers. After studying with Jamey Haddad and a stint in the New York scene while studying at The New School, he returned home to Northeast Ohio and settled into a busy sideman schedule. He formed Alla Boara as the vessel to release music that he was truly passionate about. Music that defined him as a person; Italian folk music that is much older than himself, yet re-imagined with his own modern compositional touch. Le Tre Sorrelle, is Alla Boara's first release and is well worthy of your attention. Out on October 21, 2022 with tour dates to follow, the album is a stellar and very unique freshman release. On episode 148, Anthony joins Jamie for an in-depth conversation about his studies, time in New York, and most importantly, a deep-dive into Italian folk music that is entertaining, enlightening, and highly educational for everyone that listens.

Dafnis Prieto is a non-stop music creation machine. His non-stop work ethic finds him releasing his ninth album as a bandleader, Cantar, featuring Luciana Souza on September 16, 2022. Dafnis is well-known as a composer, bandleader, and incredible drummer, but this newest release finds him taking center stage as lyricist as well. On episode 147, Jamie and Dafnis discuss the album, its recording process, and the songs that show a vibrant new role for an incredible musician. The thing that always shines through every time we have Dafnis on the show, is his sheer joy for music and the process of bringing it to the listener. There is a lot to take in during this interview that we know you will love. Enjoy!

On episode 146, Jamie is joined once again by the great Peter Kogan to discuss his fantastic new album, Just Before Midnight. Peter discusses the writing and recording process for the album as well as his approach to each step in the creative process. The record hits the streets on June 24, 2022 and should be a part of everyone's collection. Peter always offers a wealth of knowledge when he stops by!

Bernie Dresel returns to The Drum Shuffle podcast to discuss his brilliant new album, The Pugilist. This record is a barn-burner of a big band swing album that simply sounds phenomenal and should be on repeat in your library. Bernie's playing is truly at the top of the drumming world. Bernie also discusses a few of his many movie and television soundtracks that he has been working on. Any fan of great drumming can learn a lot from Mr. Dresel. This is a can't miss episode and The Pugilist is a can't miss record.

Dave Potter's resume includes stints with Jason Marsalis and Marcus Roberts. He is one of Atlanta's busiest drummers and educators. On episode 144, Dave and Jamie discuss his latest release as a band leader, Retro Groove. Retro Groove is Dave's interpretation of nine classic tunes ranging from Chaka Khan to Peter Gabriel to Living Color that is absolutely fire-breathing jazz-funk fusion power. This album is a must-have in any drummer's collection.

Dan Schnelle has played with great artists such as Billy Childs, Larry Goldings, Alan Ferber, Sara Gazarek, Laurence Hobgood, etc. His career speaks for itself. Dan is now stepping out as leader and composer on his first album, Shine Thru, available May 13, 2022 via Outside In Music. On episode 143, Jamie and Dan discuss the album, his approach to composing, the recording process, and all his educational and career stops along the way. This interview contains a wealth of information and insights. If you are not hip to Dan's playing, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Shine Thru on May 13.

Jerry MacDonald's 30 plus year career in music is worthy of some best-selling novel or Hollywood blockbuster treatment. Jerry is best-known for his time playing in The Wrens who released what many consider to be one the greatest indie-rock records of all time in 2003, Meadowlands. That also happens to be the most recent release from The Wrens. A full 18 years later, after a few hints of a long-awaited follow-up that has yet to materialize, 3/4 of The Wrens formed under the moniker Aeon Station and released the brilliant debut album Observatory in late 2021. It may be as close as the world ever gets to a "new" album from The Wrens. In this wide-ranging interview, Jerry and Jamie discuss much of Jerry's backstory in drumming, the music business and what "success" means, the founding of both The Wrens and Aeon Station, and so much more. If any young drummer or other musician needs to find a reason or motivation to continue chasing their artistic dreams, they will absolutely find it in this episode...

Simon Phillips needs no introduction. His playing with artists such as Jeff Beck, The Who, Toto, Jack Bruce, and Judas Priest has now spanned six decades. In addition to countless recordings and tours with an A-list of music icons, Simon has been composing and recording his own music under the Protocol banner since 1989. On episode 141, Simon joins Jamie to discuss the upcoming and brilliant Protocol V album as well as allowing Jamie to delve into his storied past. Simon's career is legendary, his playing is other-worldly, and he continues to be a true ambassador for the drumming community.

Rich Wiley is not only a talented guitarist and songwriter, he is also the co-founder of TnR Products, the makers of True Vibe drum isolation mounts. On episode 140, Jamie and Rich catch up on all things TnR, talk about being successful in the music business (whatever that means) and how a guitarist helped invent the best floor tom isolation product of all time.

Simone Prattico joins us for episode 139 to discuss his unique career that is based out of Italy, France, and the US. He has just released his second album as leader, Oriundo. The album is fantastically composed and played and the production is top-shelf. Simone and Jamie discuss not only this great new record, but also Simone's early years as a student of the late Robero Spizzichino, making the decision to base his career from three different countries, and how to be yourself behind the kit. Simone's playing is wonderful and his personal story is inspiring.

Lucas Garcia of Down Again stops by on episode 138 to cover a lot of ground. We catch up on his start into music, the formation of Down Again, and the band's new EP, video, and tour plans for the near future. Lucas is a great up-and-coming drummer in a fantastic band. If they aren't already, Down Again and Lucas should be on your radar!

Russ Kunkel has a legendary list of albums that contain his drumming. It is simply mind-boggling and too vast to list here, but some artist highlights include Warren Zevon, James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Stevie Nicks, Bill Withers...The list goes on and on and on. Russ has been playing and recording with Leland Sklar, Danny Kortchmar, and Waddy Wachtel, for many years on some of these records. That core group along with Steve Postell have recently released a self-titled album, The Immediate Family, which is simply incredible. On episode 137, Jamie and Russ talk about his legendary career and this stellar new album from this super group of A-list players. You don't want to miss this one!

Jared Schonig joins Jamie on episode 136 of The Drum Shuffle to discuss his fantastic new double album release, Two Takes: Volume 1 - Quintet and Volume 2 - Big Band. This is an ambitious release with differing takes on some brilliant material that sounds simply stunning. Jared is classically-trained, yet his Jazz drumming chops are very organic and shine on this release. Even though this is his debut as a leader, Jared has played with who's who in the Jazz world and he has filled the Broadway seat for The Color Purple and Moulin Rouge over the past few years. This is a can't miss episode.

Our good friend, Doug Clifford joins Jamie again this week to discuss a new release from Cosmo's Vault, Clifford-Wright. In the years following his success in Creedence Clearwater Revival, Doug started producing other artists. One of the bands that he assembled in those years consisted of Doug on drums and Steve Wright on bass from The Greg Kihn Band, and a stable of great guitarists including Greg Douglass (Steve Miller Band), Jimmy Lyon (Eddie Money) and a young gun named Joe Satriani before he was a solo artist. Doug and Steve wrote 11 great songs and rounded out their recording lineup with keyboard players Tim Gorman (The Who) and Pat Mosca (Greg Kihn Band) and Keith England on vocals. After the songs were recorded, Doug put them away in his vault until now. This record is a great example of power pop and rock and should be in everyone's library. The first single, For All The Money In The World, hit the street on August 27th. On episode 135, Doug discusses this project/album, the other contents of his vault, his label, Cliffsong Records, and a lot more. Doug has been a champion of The Drum Shuffle since our humble beginnings and he is such a wealth of musical knowledge for the world. Here on The Drum Shuffle podcast, we are grateful to Doug for his friendship and can't wait to hear what else he has up his sleeve over the next few years!

Roger Earl has spent the past 50 years as the drummer of Foghat. After 50 years and selling several million records, what's left for a fellow to do? Go on tour, of course. Foghat is out on the road this summer supporting their brilliant new live album, 8 Days on the Road that was recorded at Live at Daryl's House Club. On episode 134, Roger stops in to discuss his career with Foghat, the new album, their tour, and we even get into a little history of Savoy Brown...The one thing that rings true about Roger Earl is his wonderful attitude towards life and making music and that he is indeed a rock n' roll lifer. He graciously shares a ton of great knowledge and advice in this fantastic interview.

Todd Sucherman is certainly one of the world's great drummers. His playing with Styx for the past 25 years is legendary. He is also a first-call session drummer and clinician. On episode 133, Jamie catches up with Todd during the Styx tour to support their new album, Crash of the Crown. They discuss the new album, Todd's solo album from 2020, Last Flight Home, how Todd remained busy during the pandemic shutdown and lots more.

Uncle Tupelo. Wilco. Those two names ring out as the founding fathers of the No Depression movement in Americana and Alt-Country Music. Ken Coomer was behind the drums for both. Ken is a Nashville native that grew up playing in punk bands (such as Clockhammer) before joining Uncle Tupelo and later, Wilco. After his years in Wilco, Ken began recording and building some studio clientele. He is now a sought-after producer in Nashville as the owner of Cartoon Moon Recording. He has remained active as a session drummer recording or performing with artists including Al Green, Steve Earle, Sheryl Crow, Emmylou Harris, and Roger McGuinn. On episode 132, Ken joins Jamie to discuss his entire career and he shares some terrific advice and stories that are bound to help all musicians navigate the waters of the modern music industry.

Tom Van Schaik's drumming career is exemplary. A graduate of University of North Texas, he had already begun playing professionally in the Dallas scene in his teens. Tom is the original drummer of The Dixie Chicks, a member of the Austin City Limits All-Star Band, and for the past 24 years, has been recording and touring with Robert Earl Keen. On episode 131, Jamie catches up with Tom just as Robert Earl Keen announced his Feeling Good Again Tour. Tom recounts his early days of playing, making a name for himself in the Texas music scene, and joining Robert's band and eventually becoming the musical director for the group. He has recorded and played with an astounding list of artists around the world. Tom's playing is outstanding and his outlook and attitude are exactly what we all should aspire to emulate in our drumming lives.

Jeff Fabb grew up on Long Island in New York and started drumming as an 11 year old. By the time he was 20, he made the move to Los Angeles to chase his musical dreams. Being 3,000 miles from home and starting fresh in a big city didn't deter him or his ambitions of playing professionally. After finding success and several tours with In This Moment, he joined James Durbin's band. In 2013, he got a call for some fill-in shows with Black Label Society. About a year later, the call came to officially join BLS and he hasn't looked back since. On episode 130, Jamie and Jeff discuss his entire career, catch up on the latest Black Label Society news, and talk extensively on why being grateful and having humility is so important in the music industry. Jeff is one of the great guys in the business and we know you'll love this interview.

Dylan Howard is the groovy and creative drummer of Aeges. This L.A. band is known for a strong work ethic, non-stop touring, and undeniably catchy hard-edged rock. Dylan is a non-stop working drummer that openly shares his story with Jamie in this great interview. He discusses his entire career, including his time in The Vitals. Make sure to check out Aeges when they resume touring in 2021 and look for the video of their new single, "Colors" which is out now. We know you'll love it.

Michael Waldrop is arguably one of the most diverse percussionists in the world. He is comfortable in a jazz or commercial music setting as a drumset player and he is equally at home in a classical orchestral setting. He is a virtuoso marimbist, whether performing his own music, or that of other composers. Michael is also adept at hand drumming, having studied with some of the greatest hand percussionists in the world. On episode 128, we catch up with him to discuss his new release, Time Frames, which equally showcases his drumming and mallet skills. The record is out now on the Origins label everywhere fine music is available.

Cam Tyler is our guest today. As promised during the interview, instead of "show notes" here is the Cryptic Cadet bio. About Cryptic Cadet "What started out as the most brutal slap fight in the history of Las Vegas wound up being a collaboration that, for many local musicians, was the only topic worth discussing after the drugs had peaked and it was too late to get any more alcohol.  After a random meeting at a jam session hosted by a couple of music superstars whose names it would be considered gauche to drop, Owen and Tyler discovered a mutual love for hiding out in acoustically treated spaces, hunching over keyboards, and screaming obscenities at each other. This naturally led to the pair producing a slew of albums for local artists and their ensuing constabulary which led to the consumption of unhealthy levels of Indian curry and heated discussions about accurate hi-pass filtering. All of which contributed to an underground notoriety that produced $10-15 a week in side income and an overbearing ennui about why one does what one does because one is who one is. Or is not.  None of which have encouraged either of them to quit their night gigs with Cirque du Soleil or the Grammy nominated Blues artist who respectively employ them."   Brilliant bio from a brilliant band and drummer. Enjoy this episode!

Zeke Martin is a drummer's drummer. Having a famous drummer for a father, he almost chose tennis over music. Luckily for all of us, he eventually took up the family trade. Zeke makes his home in Boston these days where he is the founder and leader of Zeke Martin and The Oracle along with a full teaching schedule at Northeastern University. On episode 126, Zeke joins Jamie for a wide-ranging conversation covering his entire career and loads of great advice for all musicians.

Stefano Ashbridge was born in Italy and moved to the United States when he was 7 years old. He started drumming at age 16 and began teaching shortly after that. After moving to Los Angeles and playing in numerous bands, he continued teaching eventually founding drumlessonsinla.com. Stefano has an incredible dedication to his teaching practice and continues performing in LA as often as possible. On episode 125, Stefano joins Jamie to discuss his journey, his teaching practice, his approach to being a true teacher of drumming, and offers his perspective on success. There is a ton of great advice and information packed into this great interview.

Need we say more than, Benny Greb is our guest today? Benny is one of the preeminent educators in the world of drumming, having produced the amazing instructional videos The Language of Drumming and The Art and Science of Groove. His new book, Effective Practicing for Musicians: The Ultimate Guide For How To Become Better At Your Instrument furthers Benny's teachings on how to improve and truly understand how to overcome hurdles as a musician. On episode 124 Benny and Jamie engage in a wide-ranging conversation on Benny's career, educational products, instrument innovations, and they even discuss the now infamous, SpongeBob Squarepants drum set video!

Steve Barney's journey as a drummer is a story of wonder and amazement. His Dad and uncle took him to a Genesis show at age nine, solidifying his desire to become a drummer. His story is familiar amongst burgeoning musicians; forming bands, playing pubs, talent shows, and festivals as a youngster. Steve eventually moved from his small, seaside hometown for Liverpool and became a member of a successful band that eventually signed a major-label record deal. That deal ended and eventually, so did the band. Like so many others before him, Steve started seeking work and gigs from within his network in the industry. He did not have to wait long. On episode 123, Steve joins Jamie to discuss how one gig led to another, and another, and another to eventually include albums and tours with the likes of Atomic Kitten, Jeff Beck, Annie Lennox, Mike and the Mechanics, and Anastacia. Steve's work and words are inspirational, motivating, and helpful for all musicians.

Stefan Chippeaux has been in the Nashville music scene for a few years. Having made the move from his hometown of Tampa, Florida, he wanted to broaden his career and opportunities as a young drummer. Since arriving in Nashville, he has been "climbing" the ranks and getting progressively busier every month. One of the Nashville scene's hardest workers, he is truly a drummer to watch as his career continues to grow. On episode 122, Stefan joins Jamie to discuss his early years, the decision to make the move to Nashville, and how a strong work ethic has blossomed into a busy career. This is a highly educational and inspiring episode.

Eric Findlay formed his band, Seahaven, in 2009. Amazingly, he was still in junior high and was the band's bassist. When the band's drummer left, Eric auditioned for the open drumming spot and was "hired". His personal story only gets better from there. Seahaven embraced the difficult (yet highly rewarding) do-it-yourself brand of recording and extensive touring. In November 2020, they released their third studio album, Halo of Hurt in the midst of a global pandemic that prevents touring. On episode 121, Eric joins Jamie for a deep dive into his personal story, the band's history, and how the DIY touring model can bring true success to musicians everywhere. Eric is a seriously talented drummer that should be on your radar.

Jeremy Brieske grew up as an aspiring drummer like so many of us. He found his path in the music business after a business degree in college, he spent some years working for several music instrument manufacturers until he returned home to drumming by founding Low Boy Custom Beaters in 2014. To say it's difficult to make bass drum beaters an exciting product is quite an understatement, yet that is exactly what Low Boy has been able to accomplish. Their products look, sound, and feel incredible and are hand-made in Colorado. On episode 120, Jeremy stops by to discuss his beginnings, founding his successful company, starting an artist endorsement program, and endorsements in general. This is a highly educational episode with a ton of useful information that will help drummers better understand how relationships between gear companies and artists truly operate.

We are joined again by the masterful Jeff Williams to discuss his newest record, Road Tales: Live At London Jazz Festival. We also discuss his prior release, Bloom. Every time you speak to Jeff, you can't help but feeling as though you just had a deep and meaningful talk with a zen-master or Jedi of drumming. Jeff shares his knowledge and approach to music freely, but you have to be prepared to receive that knowledge. We know you will understand after hearing this in-depth and wide-ranging chat with one of the great Jazz drummers of our time.

Robyn Flans is a legendary journalist and author in the world of drumming. She started writing for Modern Drummer in 1977 and had countless cover stories and interviews with THE legends of our chosen instrument. On episode 118, Robyn and Jamie discuss her career and go in-depth on her new book, It's About Time: Jeff Porcaro, The Man and His Music. Robyn's history and friendship with Jeff and the entire Porcaro family goes back decades and this book is the most revealing and deepest biography on his legendary career to-date. Jeff Porcaro is one of the most-recorded drummers in history and his discography covers a full thirty pages in the book. Wow! Robyn has covered his entire life and thoroughly recounted his career with dozens of first-hand interviews in this amazing book. It certainly belongs in the library of any serious musician. A million thanks to Robyn for so openly sharing her story with The Drum Shuffle.

Blair Sinta joins Jamie on episode 117 to discuss his career as an in-demand drummer. A graduate of the University of North Texas, Blair moved to L.A. in the mid-90s to begin working as a musician. After landing a tour with Alanis Morissette, his career blossomed to include credits with Annie Lennox, Gwen Stefani, Chris Cornell, John Fogerty, and so many more. Blair built his own studio and is consistently busy creating tracks for artists from around the world. He also teaches and has a great educational video series, Sticks and Wires, where he shares his deep knowledge and skills. He also recently created his own collection for the ever-popular Loop Loft software for home studio use. This is a wide-ranging interview that is full of great knowledge and information for all musicians, especially those that spend any time in the studio.

On episode 116, Jamie is joined once again by the great Joe McCarthy for an extensive conversation on drumming education. Joe has developed a new educational program for drummers called "BASIC Training." As the principal percussionist for the US Naval Academy for many years, Joe's passion for teaching is undeniable and the name is so fitting. Joe is an incredible drummer and educator and he talks openly in this interview about the type of study that will make good drummers into great drummers.

On episode 115, we welcome back Dafnis Prieto to talk about his new sextet release, Transparency. Dafnis is composing and creating some of the most mind-bending music available in the world today and this new release is no exception to that. Not only is Dafnis a Grammy-winning composer and drummer, he is also a world-class educator and a sincerely great human being. As always, he offers a ton of great information and advice in this in-depth interview.

Patrick Ferguson has seen plenty in his years of drumming. Having toured with the Athens, Georgia band Five Eight 200 nights a year between 1989 and 1998, taking "a 9-year long weekend" and returning in 2007, he's a seasoned road warrior. He also spent some time playing with the Psychedelic Furs and Mike Mills of R.E.M. Like many musicians, Patrick had struggles with substance abuse, anxiety, and depression. He now finds himself helping others through his amazing podcast, "Crash and Ride", that deals with those issues in the music industry. On episode 114, Patrick and Jamie have an epic "drum hang" discussing his career, his podcast, their mutual addiction to snare drums, the stigmas of being from the south, and the need for a kennel dedicated to dairy cows...Don't ask...This is a super-entertaining interview with a superb musician and human.

On episode 113, Jamie is joined by the great Rudy Royston to discuss his new solo album, Panoptic, his decision to donate all proceeds from the sale of the album to the Musicares COVID-19 Relief Fund, his background in the Denver, Colorado music scene, his move to New York, and chasing a career in the arts. Rudy has a very realistic and fresh approach to music; and to life in general that shines through in everything he does. This interview is full of great tips, advice, and knowledge that is sure to help everyone chasing their artistic dreams help those dreams become reality.

Danny Gottlieb has a drumming career that most musicians could only dream of. Danny studied with Mel Lewis and Joe Morello, played with the Pat Metheny Group, Mahavishnu Orchestra, Elements, The Gil Evans Orchestra, The Blues Brothers Band, and The Lt. Dan Band, has authored several books, and continues to be one of the great drum teachers in the United States. On episode 112, Danny stops in to discuss his new release with Mark Egan, Electric Blue, and ends up letting Jamie talk to him about his entire career in a wide-ranging and in-depth interview. Danny is one of the nicest guys in the business and shares so many great stories and freely provides wonderful advice in this fantastic conversation.

Dude! On episode 111, Jamie is joined by the phenomenal Harry Miree to discuss his path to becoming one of Nashville's busiest session drummers, touring 160 days per year, and having a YouTube channel with millions of views. Harry is an open book sharing his love for drumming and explaining his approach to his extremely busy career. He is truly one of the wittiest and hilarious guys you'll ever meet and he does not disappoint in this wide-ranging and in-depth conversation. You do not want to miss this episode. Dude!