Arejay Hale & Taylor Carroll | Punk Roots, Zeppelin Groove, and the Brotherhood of Drummers

Episode Guests:Arejay Hale — drummer of HalestormTaylor Carroll — drummer of LitHosted by Ari Gold — director/star of Adventures of Power, Guinness World Record air drummerIn This EpisodeAri introduces the “dueling drummers” concept — and the secret collaboration RJ + Taylor have been quietly building.A heartfelt Neil Peart tribute and why the Modern Drummer Festival special matters (proceeds supporting brain cancer research).RJ’s (semi-confirmed, semi-denied 👀) experience tracking with Neil Peart-style toms in the studio.Neil Peart as more than a drummer: artist, lyricist, humanitarian, and a musician shaped by real personal tragedy.The fandom “God complex” around Neil — and Ari’s story about fans being mad that Neil had… a sense of humor.Taylor’s early influences: Keith Moon, “Baba O’Riley,” and the gateway drug known as John Bonham.The “pocket” conversation: Bonham’s relaxed power vs. Peart’s intellectual force — and why both are legendary in different ways.A nerdy-but-great breakdown of time feel: how far you can sit behind the beat without falling off it.Two drummers onstage: why it works (Doobie Brothers, Allman Brothers) and why RJ + Taylor are itching to do it too.The Lit lore: AJ was originally Lit’s drummer — and yes, Ari demands dirt about singer-drummer backseat driving.Neil Peart’s lifelong study: traveling, learning rhythms globally, and staying a student forever.Why music education matters: rhythm improving math/science, plus confidence, emotional processing, and mental health.Taylor’s “13-year-old despair” soundtrack: Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull → punk (Rancid, Casualties, Millencolin).The origin story friendship moment: Mall of America, RV touring days, and the most iconic opener question ever:“Hey… you guys got any beer?”Pandemic creativity: the shift from touring life to Zoom hangouts → songwriting partnership.Updates on what’s next: writing/recording in progress, possible releases, and the “drop with no warning” philosophy. Get full access to CINEMA VERSES with Ari Gold at www.cinemaverses.com/subscribe