Drum Dog Podcast

We sat down with Vicky after her masterclass at UK Drum Show to dive into her incredible hybrid setup, touring life, and how drummers can start incorporating electronic and percussive elements into their kit.From live looping to trigger-based percussion, Vicky breaks down how she blends acoustic and electronic drumming into a powerful, creative setup - and shares practical advice for drummers who want to get started without feeling overwhelmed.If you’ve ever thought about building a hybrid kit, this is the perfect place to start.00:00 – Vicky’s Unique Hybrid Setup01:10 – How to get into a Hybrid Setups03:10 – Creative Process07:59 – The Anastacia Gig11:36 – Playing in Unconventional Places16:13 – A New Path in Life18:04 – Online Content20:17 – Current Projects26:10 – Dealing with Pressure28:00 – How to get into percussion31:12 – How Vicky Got Started👉 Check out Drum Dog for more lessons from world-class drummers: https://drum.dog#vickyoneon #ukdrumshow #anastacia Follow us on:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drumdogukInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/drumdoguk/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drumdoguk🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!👥 Join our Facebook Community to discuss everything related to drums with like-minded people! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1404257014183843/Support the show

We sat down with one of the most forward-thinking drummers on the planet - Jojo Mayer. Jojo talks about Me/Machine, his generative music system built from two years of pandemic-era coding, inspired by a session with Brian Eno. He explains how the system responds to his playing in real time, the role of probability in making music feel alive rather than mechanical, and why he believes this moment in human history is one of the most important we've ever faced.It was an honour and pleasure to speak with Jojo - he speaks with real passion and eloquence about music, art, and creativity. We hope you enjoy!00:00 - Intro & Setting 04:05 - Touring & Background 08:10 - MeMachine Origins 12:15 - Brian Eno & Generative Systems 16:20 - AI & Creativity 20:25 - Human vs Machine Expression 24:30 - Live Performance & Interaction 28:35 - Technology & Artistic Identity 32:40 - Future of Creativity 36:45 - Closing Thoughts & Reflections#jojomayer #drums #drummer🌟 Try Drum Dog for Free! 👉 https://join.drum.dog/upgradeFollow us on:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drumdogukInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/drumdoguk/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drumdoguk🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!👥 Join our Facebook Community to discuss everything related to drums with like-minded people! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1404257014183843/Support the show

We had the chance to speak to legendary drummer Gavin Harrison as discussed his incredible career, musical philosophy, and the realities of life behind the kit. Known for his work with Porcupine Tree, King Crimson, and countless session recordings, Gavin shares stories from decades in the music industry and offers thoughtful insight into groove, feel, and musicality.Gavin reflects on everything from joining Porcupine Tree and performing with King Crimson’s three-drummer lineup to the importance of developing a personal sense of time and feel. He also opens up about his decision to step away from drum festivals for a period, the impact of technology and phones at live shows, and the drummers who shaped his playing - including legends like Steve Gadd and Jeff Porcaro.Along the way, Gavin shares practical wisdom on practising, improvisation, writing drum parts, and the subtle art of laying back on the beat. 00:03 - Intro & early musical influences 01:40 - Musical mindset & creativity 04:25 - Improvisation vs composition 08:10 - Developing ideas & phrasing 12:35 - Working with bands (King Crimson / Porcupine Tree) 16:50 - Studio approach & recording philosophy 21:05 - Time, feel & rhythmic concepts 25:20 - Gear, sound & setup choices 28:40 - Career reflections & notable moments 32:15 - Advice for drummers & closing thoughts#gavinharrison #ukdrumshow #kingcrimson 🌟 Become a Drum Dog today! 👉 https://join.drum.dog/upgradeFollow us on:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drumdogukInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/drumdoguk/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drumdoguk🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!👥 Join our Facebook Community to discuss everything related to drums with like-minded people! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1404257014183843/Support the show

🌟 Become a Drum Dog today! 👉 https://join.drum.dog/upgradeIn this episode of the Drum Dog Podcast, we sit down with Mike Lowry (Future Islands) for a deep dive into groove, taste, and the long road of musical identity. From formative hip-hop shows in ’90s Baltimore to punk basements, funk clinics, and sharing festival stages with New Order, Devo, Beck, and Sparks, Mike traces how feel, subtraction, and tone became the cornerstones of his playing.We talk about learning drums later than most, rejecting chops in favour of pocket, the influence of legends like Clyde Stubblefield, David Garibaldi, Steve Gadd, and Dennis Chambers, and why less can often say far more. Mike also breaks down his approach to writing drum parts in Future Islands - balancing electronic foundations, live dynamics, and instinct - plus those surreal “how is this my life?” moments that only come from years of staying true to your sound.00:04 - Intro & musical background 01:20 - Joining Future Islands & early influences 04:05 - Developing groove, space & feel 07:30 - “Subtraction” concept in drumming 11:15 - Songwriting & band dynamics 15:40 - Studio process & recording approach 19:55 - Live performance energy & consistency 23:10 - Gear, setup & sound choices 26:45 - Creative challenges & evolution 30:20 - Advice for drummers & closing thoughts#drums #futureislands #mikelowryFollow us on:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drumdogukInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/drumdoguk/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drumdoguk🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!👥 Join our Facebook Community to discuss everything related to drums with like-minded people! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1404257014183843/Support the show

We sat down with the iconic Mel Gaynor at the UK Drum Show 2025 to reflect on his storied 38-year tenure with Simple Minds. Mel dives into the unique challenge of drumming and singing simultaneously - a skill he embraced later in his career - and shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes from recording with Elton John, the effect 'Don't You (Forget About Me)' had on him and the rest of the band. He also gives us a glimpse into life on the road, including just how many cymbals, sticks, and drumheads he’d blast through during a high-energy tour.00:05 - Early chat & grandson’s drumming01:05 - Introduction & joining Simple Minds03:30 - Early days with the band06:10 - Breakthrough & “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”10:20 - Recording process & studio stories14:45 - Live performances & touring life19:30 - Working with other artists (incl. Elton John)23:40 - Gear talk & drum setup27:50 - Challenges, mistakes & lessons learned32:10 - Advice for young drummers & closing thoughts#melgaynor #simpleminds #ukdrumshow 🌟 Become a Drum Dog today! 👉 https://join.drum.dog/upgradeFollow us on:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drumdogukInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/drumdoguk/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drumdoguk🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!Support the show

Renowned drummer and composer Antonio Sanchez (Birdman, Pat Metheny Group) joins us to discuss his latest projects, including the original soundtrack for the Apple TV+ series The Studio and his unique trio album featuring harp and banjo.In this interview, Antonio breaks down his transition from touring drummer to film composer, sharing stories about the "constant struggle" of interpreting director feedback and the unique improvisational process used to score the Oscar-winning film Birdman. He also dives deep into the philosophy of drumming, explaining why musicians need to prioritise storytelling and offers advice for drummers looking to become composers.This content was recorded live at the UK Drum Show 2025. If you want to buy tickets for next year you can find them here 👉 https://drumdog.vip/ukds-tickets#AntonioSanchez #Birdman #JazzDrummer #FilmScoring #DrummingAdvice #TheStudio00:00 - The drum community.01:12 - Scoring Apple TV’s The Studio (Seth Rogen & Evan Goldberg).07:56 - BEATrio.10:50 - Upcoming projects and Three Times Three.13:56 - The elusive Thom Yorke.15:36 - Jazz Improvisation.17:54 - "Drumitis Disease".20:52 - The "Scrambled Eggs" analogy.25:52 - How the Birdman score was improvised live to the script.28:15 - Politics in Jazz and the "Stupidification" of culture.31:45 - Advice for drummers who want to compose.🔗 Want to dive deeper and take your skills to the next level? Visit the Drum Dog website here: https://drum.dog for access to a vast library of lessons from top drummers!Follow us on:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drumdogukInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/drumdoguk/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drumdoguk🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!💬Join our Discord to chat all things drums! https://discord.gg/TJwFsaZySupport the show

In this episode, we're joined by Audrey Tate, the incredibly talented drummer of the iconic band Franz Ferdinand. Recorded during their tour, Audrey shares fascinating stories from the road, including their recent high-energy performance at Glastonbury Festival.Audrey dives into the physical demands of drumming, discussing her pre-gig warm-up routines and her recent battle with "golfer's elbow," offering valuable advice for other musicians on how to stay healthy on tour. She also talks about the incredible surprise of having Peter Capaldi join them on stage for their hit song, "Take Me Out," and the story behind how that came to be.We also get into the nitty-gritty of her drumming style and influences. Audrey explains how she balances honouring the band's 20-year history while bringing her unique flair to the drums on their new album, The Human Fear. She opens up about her hip-hop drumming background and praises some of her biggest influences, including Questlove and Stanton Moore, giving a special shout-out to the legendary Funk Brothers.This is a must-watch for drummers and music fans alike, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a touring professional and the passion behind the performance.00:00 - Introduction: touring in a heatwave03:04 - The Glastonbury Experience09:07 - The Peter Capaldi Surprise12:27 - Pre-Gig Warm-up & Drummer Health20:56 - The Hardest Franz Ferdinand Song to Learn23:55 - Balancing Individual Style with the Band's Legacy26:55 - Favourite Grooves from the New Album30:09 - The Freedom of a Changing Setlist33:50 - Drumming Influences (Questlove, Stanton Moore & more)44:16 - The Dream CollaborationListen to Franz Ferdinand's new album, The Human Fear, on all major streaming platforms!#audreytait #franzferdinand #glastonbury🔗 Want to dive deeper and take your skills to the next level? Visit the Drum Dog website here: https://drum.dog for access to a vast library of lessons from top drummers!🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!💬Join our Discord to chat all things drums! https://discord.gg/TJwFsaZySupport the show

In this episode, we're joined by Rob Brian, a veteran session drummer and honorary Drum Dog ambassador. Rob shares stories from his extensive career, from his musical upbringing to touring with iconic artists like Siouxsie Sioux and Simple Minds.Rob opens up about the intimidating experience of joining Siouxsie and the Banshees and the importance of respecting a band’s musical legacy. He also recounts a hilarious, yet stressful, career highlight: headlining a massive festival in Pasadena with Siouxsie and the dramatic events that almost led to the show being cancelled.The interview delves into Rob's passion for drum history and his personal influences, as he names his four essential "desert island discs." He also discusses his love for Prince and his drumming on the album Parade, explaining how it shaped his understanding of combining acoustic and electronic drums.This conversation is a must-watch for drummers looking for career advice, and music fans curious about the stories behind some of rock's most legendary bands.00:00:00 - Introducing Rob Brian, Honorary Drum Dog00:03:02 - Rob's Musical Journey and Career Overview00:11:57 - The Story of Joining Siouxsie and the Banshees00:26:22 - Career Highlight: Headlining the Pasadena Festival00:34:52 - Starstruck Moments: From Kiefer Sutherland to Yoko Ono00:52:48 - Rob's Four Desert Island Drumming Discs01:03:09 - Rob's Upcoming Appearance at the UK Drum ShowLinks & InfoLearn more about Rob Brian's drumming style by checking out his masterclasses on the Drum Dog website, covering Buddy Rich, Ian Paice, and Tony Williams - https://www.drum.dog/You can find more information about the upcoming UK Drum Show in Liverpool and purchase tickets on the official website - https://theukdrumshow.com/Rob's website - https://www.robertbrian.co.uk/#robbrian #siouxsiesioux #drums 🔗 Want to dive deeper and take your skills to the next level? Visit the Drum Dog website here: https://drum.dog for access to a vast library of lessons from top drummers!🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!💬Join our Discord to chat all things drums! https://discord.gg/TJwFsaZySupport the show

In this interview, we sit down with Ollie Usiskin, a well-regarded session drummer who's played across a huge range of genres. Ollie shares his experiences working on a wide variety of music projects, from a free-jazz duo with an electric cello player to a heavy metal album with actor Christopher Lee.Ollie discusses his career as a session musician, including his philosophy on preparation and his approach to adapting to different musical styles. He speaks candidly about his collaborations with legendary musicians like producer Jimmy Haslip (Yellowjackets) and guitarist Carl Orr (Billy Cobham), emphasising the importance of treating everyone with respect and humility.A major focus is on Ollie's deep appreciation for fusion music. He talks about his love for the genre and the influence of iconic drummers like Tony Williams and his band Lifetime. In a brilliant story, Ollie recalls meeting Tony Williams and even being offered the chance to be his drum tech, and reflects on the incredible energy of his performances.This interview is a must-watch for drummers and music fans, offering valuable insights on professionalism, learning, and the importance of staying grounded in a world of musical legends.00:00:00 - Introduction to Ollie Siskin00:01:25 - Working with Producer Jimmy Haslip00:04:45 - The Free-Jazz Duo Project00:07:42 - The Trio Zone Album & Collaborations00:19:45 - Working with Legends & the Christopher Lee Story00:27:52 - Ollie's Versatile Playing Style00:38:31 - The Influence of Tony Williams00:41:40 - Meeting Tony Williams: An Incredible Story00:54:19 - Drummers Collective & Final Words of Wisdom00:56:09 - Dorset Drum Festival & Tuning WorkshopsLinks & InfoOllie's Bandcamp - https://ollieusiskin.bandcamp.com/#ollieusisikin #tonywilliams #drums 🔗 Want to dive deeper and take your skills to the next level? Visit the Drum Dog website here: https://drum.dog for access to a vast library of lessons from top drummers!🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!💬Join our Discord to chat all things drums! https://discord.gg/TJwFsaZySupport the show

Australian drummer, composer, conductor, and rhythmic explorer, Benjamin Shannon was kind enough to join us for an interview. Known for his work with Dropbear Lodge, Benjamin talks about his unique approach to experimental music and the art of conduction. We touch on everything from RuneScape to orchestral improvisation, personal fulfillment, and redefining what it means to be a musician in the modern world. Whether you're a percussionist, composer, or just someone figuring out your creative path, tune in!#benjaminshannon #drums #drumming #dropbearlodge0:00 - Intro03:45 - Not Just A Drummer05:16 - Conduction16:30 - Find Your Voice19:27 - Dropbear Lodge22:14 - Koala Artwork25:00 - 2:3 2:3 (The Rhumba of the Beast)29:43 - Drumming Inspiration38:26 - Other Instruments39:49 - Career Trajectory46:05 - Definition of Musician51:09 - Fulfilment Ben’s YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@eightshotringcapsBen’s bands: - Dropbear Lodge - https://open.spotify.com/artist/5jP16Yld1XSUCqHB9cr7b6?si=DelXzAkpR0qOJ6gG46mWQw- Milton Man Gogh - https://open.spotify.com/artist/7lJr0UXDR1svi3WbDV1EsV- Shamin - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0VislzoNw40ZenecDnO7AR- Kodiak Empire - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0KcuADSthqPxAn5iKRdQmT?si=rkGetZyMRmWMSQxpnmvohA&nd=1&dlsi=8b1d04facaeb4b2eArtists mentioned in the interview: Artisans Workshop - http://www.jonathandimond.com/discography-artisans.htmlBasil’s Kite - https://www.youtube.com/@basilskite6145The Chats - https://open.spotify.com/artist/1aQ7P3HtKOQFW16ebjiks1?si=kFHKiPJ-RiqU6ggPcH5Q_AKing Stingray - https://open.spotify.com/artist/3hA0yUEuLvjqvxtMlqznDb?si=1IeFFv2sRhekbDi2wxKNdgMark Guiliana - https://open.spotify.com/artist/798TUNb6IfpsZzMkkzVGu1?si=B3Tzf0YeS8mjqeLgSbODXwLouis Cole - https://open.spotify.com/artist/6uIst176jhzooPMetg2rtH?si=_D-xV_79QSmxWKcw_QrZggThe Mars Volta - https://open.spotify.com/artist/75U40yZLLPglFgXbDVnmVs?si=CGbOqyIfSiKMKHwhrzInTAThe Dillinger Escape Plan - https://open.spotify.com/artist/7IGcjaMGAtsvKBLQX26W4i?si=BGgAHE4TTjSlFB0pmluSdgThe Contortionists - https://open.spotify.com/artist/7nCgNmfYJcsVy3vOOzExYS?si=3CbiqtaZQWWDoKcF2C5x7AA Day to Remember - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4NiJW4q9ichVqL1aUsgGAN?si=VI0oxks_QAK2qB-8f6DEUQParkway Drive - https://open.spotify.com/artist/159qqlGwzE04xyqpfAwRLo?si=Xa9wMLV5QiqbXey-K9sKAgBorn of Osiris - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4HgqjpBaWctBWVHafQIpRt?si=SwdhkKUfQBCyAAj5lKX8dwAfter the Burials - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0uNj4RxFjG0iVPlZS753en?si=drd3QyPgSsSkddB-OQhlKgAs Blood Runs Black - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4LjQpQc5NB5G02zqfEIex7?si=z27jLZijQUaFPIN7bJMOdAThe Black Dahlia Murder - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4xTDPgk4jHCF0qui3dH6BS?si=eg6zZnorQZOXEJL6vVdUcAOceansize - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Opj9xi9HHrH0L9uHAKnKm?si=168fAyIISD6X8A4rp9R25wCog - https://open.spotify.com/artist/6gD6Pm7jo3mmKgDtyMruA6?si=cfJBjnW7TbSvjaknyjUlBADead Letter Circus - https://open.spotify.com/artist/3NW2VkBpoHFv327eSuH490?si=TvYx1OG9Sm2J3ktAmX5y-ADeftones - https://open.spotify.com/artist/6Ghvu1VvMGScGpOUJBAHNH?si=0Psed_rHSImsD1lrGHUU3wTool - https://open.spotify.com/artist/2yEwvVSSSUkcLeSTNyHKh8?si=nN2QFadzRbmm-dkt-lMkiwSun Ra Arkestra - https://open.spotify.com/artist/5V5vvh5MgM7vDuPp4lJYkh?si=zd9_xeZgR7-r2Q-lX4SQ0A🔗 Want to dive deeper and take your skills to the next level? Visit the Drum Dog website here: https://drum.dog for access to a vast library of lessons from top drummers!🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the wSupport the show

Legendary drummer Bill Bruford reflects on everything from his drumming hiatus and short-haul European air travel to current projects and favourite tracks to play across his career. It was a real privilege to speak to Bill and hear him discuss his battles with drumming burnout,  earning a doctorate in musicology, and what it truly means to find your voice behind the drums. We, of course, spoke about his stint with prog rock giants King Crimson and Yes and focused on a couple of tracks in particular. It was such a pleasure to speak with Bill and gain his insights on so many fascinating topics to do with drums and music—this is one not to miss!00:00 - Intro01:25 - Drumming Hiatus04:40 - Return to Drums08:00 - Social Media & AI 13:00 - Favourite Tracks15:50 - Earthworks16:46 - Indiscipline20:00 - Bill’s YouTube Channel21:57 - The Talking Drum24:01 - Connecting with the Music 26:11 - Advice for Young Bill Bruford28:40 - Advice for Young Drummers30:35 - Dream Collaboration33:40 - The Bruford Sound32:15 - Ari Hoenig39:55 - Analysis of a Band’s Sound41:14 - Small vs. Big VenuesLinks: Pete Roth website: https://www.peterothtrio.com/Bill Bruford website: https://billbruford.com/Bill Bruford YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGCjL570rm8Gs8j2d5yenZwIf Summer Had Its Ghosts - Bill Bruford, Ralph Towner, Eddie Gómez: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/If_Summer_Had_Its_GhostsAri Hoenig: https://www.arihoenig.com/#billbruford #kingcrimson #progrock #drums🔗 Want to dive deeper and take your skills to the next level? Visit the Drum Dog website here: https://drum.dog for access to a vast library of lessons from top drummers!🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!💬Join our Discord to chat all things drums! https://discord.gg/TJwFsaZySupport the show

In this episode, we sit down with Sam Jones, a leading drummer, producer, and DJ from London's vibrant jazz scene. Known for his work with artists like Sons of Kemet, Joe Armon-Jones, and Nubya Garcia, Sam shares an in-depth look at his musical journey and professional life.Sam opens up about his unconventional start—from playing the oboe to a "mashed-down kit" from eBay—and the unique challenges of being a professional musician in London without a permanent practice space. He reveals his highly structured approach to practice, which he divides into three phases: maintenance, rehearsal, and learning, sharing his go-to exercises for staying sharp and fluid on the drums.He also provides fascinating insights into his creative process, discussing the influence of drummers like Chris Dave and Jojo Mayer. Sam breaks down the origins of the iconic grooves on Nubya Garcia’s new album, Odyssey, explaining how he blends inspiration from Cuban rhythms, dubstep, and hip-hop to create his unique sound.00:00 - Introduction: A Musician's Life and a Legendary Barber01:02 - Sam's Musical Beginnings and Early Influences06:09 - The Challenge of Practising in London08:06 - Sam's Practice Philosophy and Routine16:16 - The Influence of Jojo Mayer and Chris Dave20:46 - Breaking Down the Groove on "Set It Free"27:06 - The Story Behind "Solstice" and Its Hidden Groove52:48 - Golden Advice for DrummersLinks & InfoCheck out Sam's website: https://www.barrelljonesmusic.com/Listen to Nubya Garcia's 'Odyssey' here: https://open.spotify.com/album/1ZoZu4AeEVIKybGiGgOYdd?si=896hKEC5THG9pialncAOtA#samjones #drums #nubyagarcia #sonsofkemet #obongjayar🔗 Want to dive deeper and take your skills to the next level? Visit the Drum Dog website here: https://drum.dog for access to a vast library of lessons from top drummers!🔔 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more drumming content, gear reviews, and lessons from some of the world’s best drummers!Support the show