Volume 26 - Jim Marchuk

Volume 26 - Jim Marchuk

Ladies and Gents and drummers from all over,

I want to introduce you to Jim Marchuk. I met Jim through Facebook and the first thing I noticed about him was, he is a guy who loves drums and really enjoys drummers. You can often find supporting and encouraging all of us, with his kind words and shop talk. He is also one of the reasons why I started this blog. The player who you may never hear or see but the drummer who is always working and doing it well. It is an important part of our industry and these drummers deserve some appreciation and respect.

And on that note...Jim Marchuk is Talkin' Chop with me!

Name or Stage Name: 
 Jim Marchuk

Where are you from? 
Montrose, Michigan

How long have you been playing? 
43 years

What is or are your main genre of playing? 

Country and Christian Praise

How did you get where you are now? 

God, parental support and practice

What are your goals, short & long term? 

Would love to eventually become studio musician, but have a great opportunity with Sonny Thurnall and the Hitchen Post Band on EP, iTunes and upcoming album.

Artists you would like to play for? 

Always dreamed of sitting in with Chuck Mangione. Sonny is a good gig so far. Vince Gill or any current Christian Contemporary artist.

List some of your accomplishments:

Played in Opry House band in Lebanon Ohio

Had lesson with Thee... Joe Morello

Feeling pretty good about this opportunity with Sonny

Have met a lot of great friends in the drumming community

Made it on here to Talk Chop with De.

Do you have your own band? genre? 

Sonny Thurnall and the Hitchen Post Band, Country

Do you play any other instruments? 
No

What are your touring experiences, if any? 

Haven't toured professionally

Describe your current set up & gear - heads and sticks included and why you choose these items? 

DC California Custom Drums Maple kit, stock heads, Soultone Gospel Series Cymbals and SF-JX-L sticks by SilverFox Drumsticks. Best sounding equipment I have ever played on. And great people running these companies make you feel like family.

I know you're a Soultone Man, What was it about those cymbals that spoke to you? 
 The great sound and the fact they have so much knowledge and great selection of Cymbals for every genre.

How do you like your DC California drums? 

I play them all the time when I go and pick out new cymbals from Soultone.

I absolutely love the DC Drums. They are so well made. Look and sound great. The feel without the air holes gives great response and control of sticks. Their tone is unmatched in my opinion. The picture I have attached is my kit when it was new for NAMM 2012. I feel very honored to have this kit. I am sure many a great drummer, maybe even you, has graced the heads.

Do you have multiple kits and snares? 
Yes

Which wood shells do you prefer? 
Bubinga

Do you have a “Dream Kit”? 

Actually yes. And it is currently being crafted by Iki Levy and Tomer Rom at DC California Custom Drums. Steam bent Bubinga. Natural high gloss lacquer with a black graphic crown of thorns so that I can remember what Christ went through for me each time I play them.

How would you describe your drumming style? 

Jazz infused timekeeper, trying to add to the music being made at the time.

When you're on a gig, do you have a "drumming" objective for the night? 

Make the music going on around me sound the best I can. Adding to, not overplaying.

Why the drums? 

Buddy Rich and Gene Krupa! Need I say more?

If you weren’t playing drums, what would you be doing? I am actually a professional Packaging Engineer, but also love video games. But truthfully cannot imagine my life without drums!

How has drumming impacted your life?

Gives me a chance to let off steam by hitting the drums and has given me an opportunity to meet a lot of great people, like you, that I may not have otherwise met.

Is the music business your career? 

Trying to be that way.

Are you involved in the local music scene in your hometown? 

Not this minute. The Sonny gig is taking a lot of my time.

Name 5 of your drumming influences? why? 

Buddy-the best, Krupa-pretty awesome, Gadd-my favorite, Mack Pittard my mentor, teacher and friend, and finally Chad Smith-powerful and musical.

Plus Rich Redmond is one of my favs because of his playing and what he gives back in teaching.

#ThrowBack Jim

Name an inspiring concert that made you want to go home and start shedding? 

REO Speed Wagon at the Old Pine Knob in Michigan. Bryan Hitt just makes the right moves and is so musical and love their music to pieces.

How much time do you practice? 

1-2 hours a day now. Wish it could be more.

What things do you like to work on? 

Actually applying rudiments around the kit to build vocabulary and still working on double bass improvements.

Are you a songwriter? 

I have dabbled a bit. Mostly lyrics. My best friend Robert Kunc would compliment with the music part. He is really talented.

Do you sing and play? 
I have.

Do you prefer studio sessions, local live gigs or touring? Studio sessions would be my choice, but playing live is a great feeling.

What is it that you like about being in the studio, recording?

I like being in the studio because it allows me to be making my own sound rather than doing covers. I mean I like Country so I like doing covers, but people want to hear what they are used to. It feels kind of cool to be coming up with parts and in the back of my mind thinking..."yeah, this is something I am coming up with based on all the vocabulary I have gleened from listening and practicing." I just really enjoy the ability to create rather than copy.

Jim on a gig...

Do you prefer being in a band (artist) or being a sideman? 

Being in a band.

Do you have a crazy or interesting gig you can share with us? 

Played a wedding one time with my old band Ventura Highway, and at end of the last set noticed everyone was by the outside door looking out. Finished set, walked over to ask what's up, and found out Bubba and Joe were fighting. But that Bubba had just gone home to get his shotgun..... I never packed up and left so quick ever again!!!!

What are your words of wisdom for your fellow drummers out there? 

Keep the love and passion alive in your playing.

Last Words, Links, Hashtags and Thank You’s??? 

Just thanks to you, De for this interview. Praise God for my talents. And check out my artist pages at Soultone Cymbals, and DC Drums and SilverFox Drumsticks both coming soon.

Very kool stuff Jim, Thank You so much!

BTW- I know you're wondering "hey, where's the videos and audio clips?!"

They are coming....at this time Jim doesn't have anything I could use but he does have a project coming out very soon and I will post all of the info once I get it. But rest assured, he is good and more importantly a good guy.

Please visit Jim on FB. He's a good friend to have.

Would you like to be interviewed on Talkin' Chop?

Maybe you know someone who needs some free promo for themselves or their band...

Well get off your duff and contact me:

DeHaven - de@oliomusic.com

www.facebook.com/talkinchop

www.facebook.com/drtyde

#DrummersSupportDrummers #TalkinChop #DrumLife

I'M OUT!

Volume 25 - Lee Marciniak

VOLUME 25 - LEE MARCINIAK

Ok, we got our first Lefty on TC. Well not really...you'll see.

What we do have is a drummer who can pretty much do it all.

I had the pleasure of meeting him back in March, when his band and my band were on the same gig. Both bands competing for a chance to play the Warped Tour show in Alaska. It just so happens both bands are in the finals, so I get to see him do his thing again. Lee has a great work ethic, which always a good thing when you're a drummer. From sessions to original bands and everything in between is where you'll find this artist doing his thing. I was glad when he agreed to take part, he has a lot to offer and I'm here just to put out there. Lee Marciniak is his name and he is Talkin' Chop! 

Name or Stage Name:

Lee Marciniak 

Where are you from?

I grew up in Maumee, Ohio about an hour South of Detroit. I used to hang out there - In the Detroit area - and Chicago to see shows; played there in my teenage years also. 

I moved to Los Angeles after recording and touring out of Austin, Texas for five years. 

How long have you been playing?

Since I was a kid; I got my first drum kit when I was four. My godfather, Jeff, gave me his 1972 Rogers for Christmas when I was 8. That made a huge difference; just having a kit that sounded really cool and felt great to play on. 

What is or are your main genre of playing?

I really enjoy playing almost anything; I definitely practice outside of the range of what I end up playing most of the time. Which I also really enjoy and I find I can use things outside of those normal boundaries to push what’s “normal” in those genres. I think that’s what interests me most about things outside of what I normally play, is, “okay, this is cool. How can I use this?”, or some version of it. But, I’ve made most of my friends playing indie-rock and pop, so that’s usually what I end up playing. 

How did you get where you are now?

Well, I was born in a hospital, and then… ;-) … Hmm, it’s kind of hard to say exactly. I just do my thing everyday and try to address anything I may be overlooking, or I may consider a weakness. But, I just sort of keep playing, recording, and touring. I don’t think I’ve had any one experience that would help me explain how I got to where I am; it’s more a combination of several things. 

What are your goals, short & long term?

I want to play on as many records that I would enjoy being a part of as possible. I’m not sure I have anything more specific than that, making a living off of it is nice, I guess awards are cool. Everyone likes to be recognized for their work; but yeah, just records that others’ can enjoy. 

Artists you would like to play for?

I starting playing because I loved Tom Petty’s songs. He would be the first that comes to mind, but I think Steve Ferrone has a pretty good handle on that. haha … Prince… Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes)… Chvrches (They use a drum machine, but the groove is really there.)… I just played Noise Pop Festival in San Francisco with an artist from Austin named Mobley and his music is a ton of fun to play. I’m not sure if I have a dream gig; mostly I get excited about working with friends who are motivated and I dig. Also, to see them move up is really exciting too. 

List some of your accomplishments:

I’ve been lucky enough to work with some great producers… Jim Eno (Spoon), Jonas Wilson (Ghostland Observatory), and Ethan Kauffman (Avril Lavigne, Ryan Cabrera), Glen Phillips (Toe the Wet Sprocket). All of those projects were especially fun; I also have played the main stages at ACL, SXSW, FunFunFunFest, Tomorrow Never Knows, and Noise Pop. 

Do you have your own band or do your freelance?

I do both; I really like to stay as busy as possible, so I just try and move with the ebb and flow. Usually I’m long-term friends with the bands I have consistently played with or I was referred by a mutual friend. I definitely enjoy work outside of that though; it keeps it fresh and challenging. 

How did The Eiffles come about and how long have you been in the band?

The Eiffels started playing together a little over a year ago. I had just moved to LA and a producer friend put me in touch with them.

(That's how I met Lee, we played the same show. A BOTB for a spot at the Warped Tour Alaska and will be doing it again)

The Eiffels

The Eiffles - I Did It Now

Do you play any other instruments?

I don’t. I learned music theory and a bit of piano in college. I prefer to really stick to one thing and master my craft.

What are your touring experiences, if any?

I’ve toured a bunch. Mostly US tours. When I left Austin I was playing around 200 shows a year on top of session stuff; most of that was touring. 

Describe your current set up & gear - heads and sticks included?

I usually play a Yamaha Oak Custom. It was one of the first Oak kits made, so it’s about 6 years old now. Just a really beautiful full-tone with great attack. I couldn’t have asked for more out of the box. I’ve re-headed it with Remo Powerstroke 4s Coated/Dot on the 12”,14”,16” toms with Remo Pinstripes on the bottom. It was super boomy when I first unpacked it; now it’s nice and focused which makes it more useful in the studio or live situations when I want to use triggers/hybrid kit. It nice and balanced now. The Oak snare has a Powerstroke 3 Coated/Dot on top with a batter bottom (Thin tape around the edges.) for that tight gated snare sound. Pure Percussion 30-strand to maintain some softness. 

I use Paiste 2002s 24” Ride, 22” Crash and a Twenty Series 20” Ride (As a crash.). I put sizzle beads on all of them t make them decay faster. I love how mid-range all of these cymbals are; they can get washy and still sit right in the mix. They also never over take the drums, as long as they’re not smashed on. Great projection with a lower volume hit was why I went big with fast decay. The Hi Hats are 16” Paiste 2002 Crash/16” Paiste Dry Crash on bottom; again same thinking… I do stack a 10” splash on the bottom inside - to dry it up - and a tambourine sitting directly on top. Again, to get them dry and chuckey, but still mid-range tone. 

Playing lefty, have you ever feel like the "odd man out" when it comes to drumming?

Hahaha, not really. I think I'm asked how it happened more often than not. I'm "naturally" right-handed. 

I switched when I was around 12 to increase dexterity in my left hand. 

It's fun now because certain open handed grooves or doubling the tom with the kick is very easy.

I notice you play with your snare at an angle, similar as if you played traditional grip but you play match grip, how did that come about?

I started doing most of this, including traditional grip, when I was in my teens.

It's a Buddy Rich thing. I've been playing it that way for so long that it feels and looks (from my stool) level to me now.

I angle it forward and left - towards my dominant hand at 10 o'clock. 

I really prefer traditional grip most of the time. Tilting it allows minimal stick clearance near the rim and a truer angle coming off the head. 

When I play match grip it's easier to do rim-shots. 

I play with all of the drums high... The center of the snare is equal to my belly-button and the toms are the same height as that. Aside from my rack tom. But that's also angled with the same idea in mind.

Do you have multiple kits and snares?

I also have a 1972 Rogers. They’re concert toms and the 24”x14” is one of the best sounding kicks in the studio. I also have the Chrome/Brass Dynasonic, the ultimate in thick metal snare sound and amazing projection. 

A buddy of mine just let me borrow his 68' Ludwig. I’m having a ton of fun with it. Sits so well in the mix. 

I also have a Noble and Cooley Maple 14”x6” Snare, and a Pearl Brass Piccolo 13”x3.5” (Although I haven’t used this in years.). 

Which wood shells do you prefer?

I really love my Oak kit. I think a Maple/Oak mix would be awesome. 

Do you have a “Dream Kit”? 

Definitely. Craviottos. 

How would you describe your drumming style?

It’s like a really spicy salsa. … But really, I love the deep pocket of soul, the fills of gospel, the explosiveness of rock and roll, the swing of jazz; I really enjoy figuring out multi-tracked drum parts and finding a way to make it all work. 

The Eiffels @ Hollywood Swim Club

Why the drums?

Not entirely sure; I can remember being a kid and being able to “see” patterns in my head. I think it was just there, in a way. 

If you weren’t playing drums, what would you be doing?

I was also really good at hockey when I was growing up, so I’d probably would’ve become Canadian by now. 

How has drumming impacted your life?

I’ve moved to two beautiful cities to further my career, so that’s a plus. I think moving through the music industry and making friends that live all over the country has changed me as a person. It’s definitely given me a better appreciation over all for my own life, and for the people I’ve met. 

Is the music business your career?

It is. 

Are you involved in the local music scene in your hometown?

Not at the moment; but I’d like to be. There’s a really neat building in Maumee called the Link Inn. It’s haunted. It’d make a great studio. Right on the water too. … There’s talent there, but no resources. 

Name 5 of your drumming influences? why?

Steve Ferrone - Powerful, reserved, mindful. Nothing ever sounds out of place. 

Steve Gadd - Amazingly dynamic and originally useful of rudimentary concepts. 

Thomas Pridgen - Love his fills and his energy. I thinking he is a one-of-a-kind in the gospel world - he’s very original, and also hits harder than some of his peers. His tone is just killer because of it. 

Glenn Kotche - Jazz applied to Americana Indie-Rock. I think his cross-genre references and creativity are just mind-blowing, and super tasteful.

Keith Moon - The first drummer I really ever liked; mostly because he drove a Cadillac into a pool.

*Ringo - I know, I know, “he doesn’t have chops”. Imagine The Beatles with “chops”; sounds horrible, right? That’s why he’s the best.

Name an inspiring concert that made you want to go home and start shedding?

My Dad was really cool about this stuff; I saw The Who three times, David Bowie, Rush five times, Alice Cooper three times, Jackson Browne, Tom Petty five times, and a bunch of others. I think seeing acts that were that well polished at such a young age set the bar really high. After everyone of those shows I was endlessly inspired. 

The Eiffels - More

How much time do you practice?

I would say I generally play 30-35 hours a week when I’m home. Whether it’s by myself or with other folks. 

Do you record drum videos of yourself? if so, how has it helped you?

I didn’t until recently. I don’t know if it has. I didn’t really start until I felt my playing was at a high enough level that it would be acceptable for other people to enjoy. Sometimes I’ll play dynamically different just so the mix sounds better, but always pre-mixing yourself is important. 

Do you like to concentrate on Chops or Grooves?

Both. Depends on how I feel inspired. I definitely think playing the fill to fit the groove and keep it going is the most important thing. 

Are you into electronic drums or programming?

I think triggers are the coolest thing. 

Are you a songwriter?

No, poetry and prose though. 

Do you sing and play?

I’ve done studio vocals, but live I’d rather not most times. Just so I can keep the groove working. 

Do you prefer studio sessions, local live gigs or touring?

Love all of it. I love traveling and taking photos, local gigs are fun when you recognize faces and make friends, the studio is exciting because you can enjoy all the hard work when you listen back. 

Do you prefer being in a band (artist) or being a sideman?

I like the idea of continually working with a number of artist. The more I play, the happier I am. I’ve done for-hire or one-off gigs; I don’t really have a huge preference. As long as everyone is professional we’ll get along. Good vibes are key. 

Do you have a crazy or interesting gig you can share with us?

Tommy Lee let me borrow his Roller Coaster. (Just kidding.) 

What are your words of wisdom for your fellow drummers out there?

Always try to get better, respect your predecessors and learn from them, and always conduct yourself professionally and with integrity. 

Last Words, Links, Hashtags and Thank You’s???

Firstly, I want to say thank you to DeHaven for inviting me to do this interview. 

You can find me on www.leemarciniak.com or by searching leemarciniak or #realloops on Instagram.

Final Thank You’s always go to friends, family, peers, and teachers. 

Cheers y’all,

Lee

https://soundcloud.com/lee-marciniak

Yo, Give it up for Lee Marciniak!

Good luck to him in his drumming endeavors.

It is always a pleasure when you get to meet katz like Lee and see that there are a lot of players out there doing what your doing and hustling and making it happen.

Please check out his band The Eiffels and his other work.

Support Indie Music and its Artists!

I'm always looking for more drummers to interview and profile. So, if you or someone you know falls into the category of Unknown, Up & Coming, Unsung or Underground...hit me up!

DeHaven - de@oliomusic.com

www.facebook.com/talkinchop

www.facebook.com/dirtyde

#DrummersSupportDrummers #TalkinChop #DrumLife

I'M OUT!

Volume 24 - Sean Moriarty

 Volume 24 - Sean Moriarty

Let me just say, that this guys "Crazy story"..is so L.A. music scene. I'm sure it was an eye opener for this drummer from West Virginia. Thank goodness that didn't deter Sean from continuing his work in Los Angeles. He and his band Varna are making great music and he is giving us some very solid and passionate playing.
I definitely have to check these guys out live, their studio tracks are very well done and capture all the instruments vitality. So, with that being said...I had to get Sean in on the Talkin' Chop thing, so he could give us more insight on his drum life.

Name or Stage Name: 
My name is Sean Moriarty, some friends call me "Marioparty", I answer to both! Hahaha

Where are you from?

Well, I'm a bit of a mutt when it comes to where I'm from... I'm the son of two pastors, which means you're more than likely going to move around a lot. I was born in Wheeling, West Virginia and lived there until I was about 1 and a half, then my mom and I moved to Los Angeles (my current home) and lived there until I was four, then up to Santa Maria, CA in the central coast and lived there until I was eight, then up to Central Washington and lived there until I was 11, and finally moved back down to Los Angeles and I've lived here ever since. It's been about 10 years or so, so I think I can finally call myself an Angelino! 

How long have you been playing?

I've been beating the crap out of inanimate objects since I was a toddler, but since that "doesn't qualify as a musical education" :P, the actual number is 10 years as of this passed February! I've finally hit a decade!!! Many more years are to come too! 

What is or are your main genre of playing?

My main genre is hard rock/metal! I discovered metal before I went into high school and it will always have a special place in my heart! It's an exciting genre that is always evolving. If you want to hear what a MIDI controller sounds like with metal, it's out there. If you want to hear ancient Celtic and Scandinavian folk instruments with metal, that's out there too! I love it! 

I also play Blues, Folk, Indie, Funk, Reggae, Pop, Gospel, Americana, Country.

I'd love to do a session for a Hip-Hop artist someday! I can play it, but when you're known as the town metal head, people aren't exactly jumping all over you to lay down some beats! XD 

I also play Cajon for various acoustic gigs. 

How did you get where you are now?

A lot of drumming, a lot of listening, help from some great people along the way, and just getting out there and taking every opportunity given to me! It's as simple as that. If you stay in the garage or the practice space because you keep telling yourself that you need to be better before you take the risk of putting yourself out there, you'll never do it. You cannot be afraid to fail! 

What are your goals, short & long term?

My goals are to do whatever makes sense for me and my band at any given moment. I've only been a professional musician for a few years, but what I've learned is that making strict plans and goals for yourself will only result in unnecessary frustration. The business side of the music world is so spontaneous, things are subject to change at a moments notice and that's just the way it is. Often times you'll find yourself stuck in a gray area; a lot of possibilities will be thrown your way, only a couple of them actually turn into something, and most of those circumstances leading to that result will be completely out of your control. You need to allow for some fluidity in the way you approach things. Not everything you want will happen right this second, and that doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong. Timing is everything! 

Artists you would like to play for?

I'll just list some dream gigs, whether the people are dead or alive lol.

Killswitch Engage, Galactic, Old Crow Medicine Show, The Roots, O.A.R, Plini, Periphery, The Meters, Toto, John Mayer, Meshuggah, Unearth, Testament, Trampled By Turtles, Jamiroquai, SRV, Jimi, Philip Sayce, Black Label Society....this list could go on and on for a long time! 

List some of your accomplishments:

Back in the high school drum line days, we went to the WGI World Championships in Dayton, OH during my Junior year; I was chosen as section leader my senior year; then after I graduated I was on the percussion staff for the following marching and indoor seasons.

In the professional world I've worked with great producers and engineers in the Los Angeles area such as Mitchell Froom, David Boucher, the staff at Gray Area Studios, and Dan Garcia, Greg Cortez, and Oliver Schnee while I was doing some tracking at New Monkey Studios.

I've frequented many venues in LA from restaurants, to bars, and music halls.

My band has received radio play, and attention from some local podcasts, and has received award nominations from Barebones Entertainment, the LA Music Awards, and the North American Independent Rock Music Awards. We received the People's Choice Award at the NAIRMA's.

@ NAIRMA's

In the last few months I've partnered up with a creative management company and will begin booking artists in several venues in and around LA, giving me a huge opportunity to learn about music business from a very successful group of people!

I have two young students that have entrusted me with teaching them how to play.

I'm also stoked that I became a Silverfox Drumsticks artist in January! 

You're in a band called Varna, tell us a bit about this project...

Varna is a 3 piece female fronted band from LA, and our sound has been described by several people as "Breaking Benjamin meets Kelly Clarkson", because of our heavy rock sound that we have paired with melodic vocals. Varna has been featured on Revolver Magazine, has played on Warped Tour, and like I mentioned above has received some award nominations, and has won a People's Choice award.

VARNA

Do you play any other instruments? 

I suppose I could play any instrument you hand me....if you like the sound of nails on a chalk board, hit me up! My rate is $30/hour hahaha.

I've played a few different instruments, but Drums is the only instrument I've cared enough about to stick with.

My first instrument was my families kitchen island, a drummer friend of my grandpas gave me my first pair of sticks when I was 3 or 4 and I went to town all over that thing! There were cracks in the tile along the edge all the way around! 

Later on, my instrument choices became a bit more traditional, and I started with guitar. I dropped it pretty quickly due to the size of my eight year old hands being too small to do much on the fret board. I took up Piano shortly after that, but never quite loved it. After I moved back to LA my mom caught me shredding on my air guitar (custom made, bright red Flying V, humbuckers, Floyd Rose...it's got the works), she then asked me if my love for the guitar had come back and I looked right at her and said "Heck no! I wanna play drums!". Ten years later....here I am! I had a short period of saxophone lessons from my grandpa a couple years after I started drums, but nothing can really compete with drums if you ask me! 

What are your touring experiences, if any?

I have toured as far north as San Jose, CA, down to San Diego, CA and through the Southwest out to New Orleans. Varna just recently played in New Orleans at the Southport Music Hall as direct support for the band Drowning Pool. We've been friends with their guitar player CJ since we met at the NAIRMA awards earlier this year. We'll be back in NOLA this October as well!

Describe your current set up & gear - heads and sticks included and why you choose these items?

My current set up is a Mapex Pro M series, which came with 3 rack toms, one floor tom, one kick. I only use one rack tom though; it makes set up so much easier, and using less can really be more effective for your sound in my opinion. I'm a big fan of Mapex. Great drums, they don't break the bank, and do exactly what you need them to do. Hardware is all Mapex, my Pedals are Tama Speed Cobras, you can't really get much better than those! They ought to be advertised as foot operated jack hammers!

I use 14" Zildjian A custom hats, a 17" A custom Crash, a 21" Meinl Transition Ride (which is my favorite cymbal ever), and an 18" Wuhan China. I use Zildjian for their reliability. When you buy a Zildjian cymbal, you know that you aren't bringing home a piece of crap. I love Meinl cymbals because they think outside the box, and they're a very innovative company. The Wuhan China is awesome because it's cheap, and CAH-RAP is it FRIGGIN LOUD! 

Right now I have all coated Evans heads (except for my Mapex snare, which has a Remo Black Suede since I couldn't find an Evans Onyx). G2's on the toms, an EMAD on the kick, and a Heavyweight on my brass snare. I prefer Evans heads because they're so easy to tune due to the "Level 360" concept; the drums breathe a lot more and stay in tune for much much longer.

My sticks are all Silverfox, I have an assortment of the basic 5a's and 5b's, to 1a's and Sweet Pea's. I also have their Swiskas (brushes), and Clawstix (rods). Silverfox sticks are a life saver because they're so reliable. They don't break! That's HUGE if your a gigging musician, but way more so if you're a hard hitter like I am/have to be. 

Do you have multiple kits and snares?

I do not have multiple kits, but I do have two snares. A maple Mapex snare that came with the kit, 14x5, and a TAMA SLP Black Brass 14x6.5.

Which wood shells do you prefer?

Well I suppose I can only have a true preference for Maple shells, since that's what my kit is made from. I just recently got a chance to use an old Yamaha Recording Custom with all Birch shells, which received rave reviews from the sound engineer! I also really like the old vintage Mahogany kits from the 70's. Any wood that is pretty transparent and doesn't mask the sound because it naturally adds a lot of overtones. The last thing I want is a kit telling ME what It's gonna sound like! 

Do you have a “Dream Kit”?

It's impossible for me to have a "dream kit" lol. I love everything from old Ludwig's, Gretsch Broadkaster's, Tama Starclassic's, Mapex Saturn's, Sonor SQ2's, and all the custom shops like SJC, Evetts, North, and Truth. So what I really need is a warehouse full of somewhere, but not limited to, around ten bazillion kits. XD (better start working on that! I still only have one!)

How do you describe your drumming style?

Well based off the band I'm in, it wouldn't necessarily be wrong to think that I'm a straight forward rock and metal drummer; however there are a lot of other styles that I'm influenced by. Normally what I tell people is that if you were to put me behind a kit all by myself and just have me play, I'd probably sound like a funk rock drummer. My favorite drummers are Stanton Moore, Matt Halpern, Benny Greb, Jeff Porcaro, Bernard Purdie, and Mike Johnston; so take those influences, and put them in a loud, hard rock setting. That's the sound that I like to create and will continue to develop and hear evolve for the rest of my life.

Why the drums?

Quite honestly, I've never actually had a choice! Like I said, I've been damaging objects around my house with sticks since I was a toddler, so it was only a matter of time before I started learning how to properly use them! 

There's something pure about the drums that I caught on to early on. Probably because they're the oldest instrument...the original intent of a drum was for basic communication from far distances. I think it's by far the most organic, the most true, and the most transparent instrument. 

If you weren’t playing drums, what would you be doing?

Probably standin' around and eatin' gummy bears.

How has drumming impacted your life?

Drumming has given me a voice. Normally I'm fairly reserved, I prefer to stay quiet (unless I'm very comfortable with the people I'm around). So when people see me on stage pounding away at the kit with my rock band, it always comes off as a bit of a surprise, because all of a sudden I'm really intense! Overall I would say it facilitates emotional fluidity. It can convey anger, intensity, sadness, happiness, and everything in between in its rawest form, and I'm very appreciative really that it can help me do that because I'm not good at doing that on my own.

Is the music business your career?

It looks like it! My band is starting to tour, were writing new material, I've been hired for recording sessions independently, I'm partnered with a creative management company and learning/working on the business side of things. So I would say that the music business is absolutely my career! Got a LONG way to go...I'm only 22! 

Are you involved in the local music scene in your hometown?

100%! When it comes to the underground LA scene, I'm hoping I can become someone who will help cultivate a healthy and vibrant scene, and get musicians of the same, and different styles to be in a friendly community, not a competition. 

Also on the business end, the harder you make it for musicians to just make a few bucks, you lose all sorts of great talent to other places...sometimes even other countries, and that's a crime! Not just for the musicians, but the culture of the area. Literally everything about an area suffers when you suppress its culture, because....no one will want to go there! 

Do you like playing in the LA/Hollywood Scene?

Yes and no. There's great opportunities in LA for musicians. However, it's overcrowded, and it's become a bit toxic. I think the scene here has some real laziness issues on all sides. A lot of venues are willing to sacrifice quality for quick and easy money (via Pay to Play and Pre sale shows). Too many bands who have money do the pre sale shows and don't bother actually having awesome material or a good show. The general public has noticed the mediocrity and has stopped paying attention to their local scene altogether, which has made upward mobility pretty difficult to attain since it's so hard to get people to come out to shows. 

There ARE great artists here in LA. There ARE good venues that pay attention to who they book and PAY. There ARE people who really care and pay attention. The issue is, all of those things I just mentioned are few and far between. It'll get better though, many people are beginning to wise up and realize that the scene is not serving the people that it should be. We just need to "family up" and fix it!

   Varna - "My Heart" 

Name 5 of your drumming influences? why?

Stanton Moore (Galactic, Stanton Moore Trio), I love his vibe. You always know when it's him behind the kit. He doesn't sound like anyone else which is why he's my favorite! I can sit and watch him play for hours and hours and hours! 

Matt Halpern (Periphery), he's brought a whole new type of groove to metal. He hits hard, he's always right in the pocket, and he is able to make progressive metal sound fluid! 

Benny Greb (Independent, Moving Parts), his style is really innovative. His groove is incredible, and he has a great sense of dynamics!

Mike Johnston (Educator/Clinician), my grandpa was a music teacher so I admire people who have the ability to be to be "big time" professionals but choose to be educators instead. He's also greatly influenced my attitude towards playing because he's so vocal about drummers being positive toward themselves and one another. Ran into him at NAMM several times too, really awesome guy! 

Jeff Porcaro (Session Drummer, Toto), the perfect studio drummer! He was the definition of consistency, pocket, and detail. The Rosanna shuffle is my favorite beat to play, and I love teaching it to people! 

Name an inspiring concert that made you want to go home and start shedding?

Probably when I saw Killswitch Engage play the Palladium! KsE always makes me wanna hit things hahaha! They bring a raw energy that is just infectious, and they play such a good show you can't help but get into it! 

How much time do you practice?

I practice quite a bit every day! I live in a fairly quiet residential area, so unfortunately getting a lot of set time just isn't an option (neighbors....). I play on my pad a lot (always to a click), going through rudiments (I still play a lot of the exercises that I learned in drum line, they're still VERY important!), working on my chops (particularly with my left hand....the weak hand is always a nuisance isn't it?), always paying attention to technique (traditional grip, matched grip, accent tap, moeller etc etc). I do all sorts of foot exercises to keep the shin muscles active and maintain stamina for the times I need to do some pretty fast double kick. I normally show up to rehearsals early and spend a lot of time warming up my feet! My band rehearses frequently, I teach lessons, and I spend a lot of time listening to music every day. Practice isn't only playing time. Practice is also a mind set.

Do you record drum videos of yourself? if so, how has this helped you?

I do! Nothing serious, I don't have a YouTube channel (although once I am able to get a decent space, and some mics that is definitely going to happen!), but I will do some random tutorials of some of my favorite rudiments, or a short 4 bar ram that I'll write (thank you for the reminder! I haven't done one in a while!). Everything is recorded on my iPhone/iPad....purely for fun, and I just throw them up on my personal Facebook page.

Do you concentrate on Chops or Grooves?

Well, both I guess. I concentrate on musical freedom while I play! My mindset is very fluid, so every time I get behind the kit, I play what comes to mind and focus on my phrasing, dynamics, chops, groove, timing, improvisation, subdividing, originality, sound quality etc etc all in the moment! I don't understand learning things in a systematic, one at a time process. You're separating things that are supposed to be done simultaneously! Which I feel helps a lot, because when I get introduced to new material, I'm able to focus on connecting with the song, and using my ears to make sure I'm connecting musically with the other players instead of the basic mechanics. 

Varna - "Down" lyric video

Are you into electronic drums or programming?

E-kits need to become much more realistic sounding, and the price of those things need to come down significantly before I'll even consider supporting them as a good option. I still don't feel that they're worth the money you need to shell out in order to get anything close to the capabilities that a real acoustic kit will give you. If you want one strictly for practicing, then I understand. I just feel so limited when I play on one, and 99% of the ten bazillion presets that they have are useless for any serious player. There's also limitations when it comes to set configuration that I find annoying too. All in all I give them a thumbs down. They most certainly should not be considered a good replacement for acoustic kits. 

I'm a fan of drum programming if you're a guitar player/singer/keys player etc etc who just wants to record a demo of something without having to set up for a full recording. Again, they most certainly are not a good replacement for a real kit played by a real drummer. They sound lifeless, and it's painfully obvious when someone is using programmed drums instead of a real drummer. The original selling point for programmed drums is that they would be a big time saver for producers in the studio, but what we've found is that programming a drum part for one song takes ridiculous amounts of time, and while you were programming the part for one song, you could've hired a group of good musicians to come in and have an album knocked out in just a few hours. 

There is no good replacement for real instruments! 

Are you a songwriter?

No, unfortunately. I have a good ear for flow, and can tell you when things work or don't work well together. If the ideas are good or if they're just lacking and need some work. If you have too much going on, or too little etc etc. I'm good for improvements, but in terms of writing my own material, I don't really have any way of doing that. 

Do you sing and play?

I have, but it's very rare. Always songs that are not too demanding with both vocals and drums lol Mostly the song Wagon Wheel when I'm at a party or something. 

Do you prefer studio sessions, local live gigs or touring?

I love it all! The studio I think is the most exciting for me personally because you get to trap yourself in your own creative/musical world for a while, try all sorts of crazy ideas to see if they'll sound cool, and record an awesome record! Playing live is always fun, but I love traveling, so touring is extremely exciting and I'm glad I'm getting some road time under my belt! 

Do you prefer being in a band (artist) or being a sideman?

Both of them have their benefits. Being in a band will allow for more individuality out of every member in order to create a unique sound, and you'll actually have a voice with the band and be visible to the fan base. A sideman gig is normally a "hired gun" situation (at least in my experience), so you learn some parts, you show up, and make your money...fairly simple. I prefer having the freedom to be myself with my instrument, and actually have a say in the group I play with though. I feel that I have valuable know how, and ideas to contribute with a group. I can be more than just a player.

Varna - "Running Away" lyric video

Do you have a crazy or interesting gig you can share with us?

The situation Varna was in before our New Orleans show was crazy to say the least, but I'll share another story because the weirdness level of this one is waaaay up there! 

The guitar player of Varna, Eddie Haddad, and myself were in a band called "What's Up" for a hot second, it was a continuation of the band that the vocalist Chipper started while he was living over in Japan. So we spent a few weeks rehearsing and getting a setlist together, and we played a gig at a venue called "TRiP" in Santa Monica. We play, everything goes well, we load our gear into our cars, then go back and hang out with some of our friends who showed up to see us. I go outside the venue for a quick smoke, and notice a woman who I had seen walking up and down the block before we played (by this point she had probably been doing that for around an hour or so...). She stops just to the left of the venue door (so she is also right in front of me), she looks at me, and then looks around in every other direction. I thought something really sketchy was about to go down, but I couldn't quite figure out what since I wasn't getting the feeling like I was in any danger. Next thing I know, she looks right at me again, pulls her pants down and starts peeing..... Of all places, on the block of Lincoln and Pico in Santa Monica...not exactly a deserted area! I yelled "AWW HELL NO!" and ran back inside!

(Damn!)

What are your words of wisdom for your fellow drummers out there?

Music is a fellowship, not a competition. Setting out to be the best drummer ever is a useless goal because you'll always think that someone is better than you, and other people will always like someone else's playing more than yours, get over it. Do your thing, play the way you want to play! Also, promote the music you love, instead of bringing attention to the music that you don't like. Trash talking other people's music is a waste of your time and makes you look like an ass. 

Last Words, Links, Hashtags and Thank You’s???

Thank you so much DeHaven for featuring me on your blog! This has been very cool! 

A big thank you to all the people at Silverfox sticks for supporting me and my band Varna! Thanks to the Varna fans, and friends and family who support what I do! 

Please check out my bands website: http://varnarocks.com

There are links to all our social media accounts where you can check out our music, see what's going on currently, and if you like what you hear you can get a copy of our EP "This Time It's Personal" on iTunes, and Amazon, if you're like me and prefer the physical copy please just shoot us a message and we will get one to you! We also are on Spotify if that is your streaming service of choice! 

We have a new EP coming out soon called #TheOnesInside! We are planning a surprise release date, so be sure to keep up with all our social media pages so you don't miss it! 

If you would like to keep in touch with me personally, I have a Facebook (Sean Moriarty) and a Snapchat account (seanbiscuit93), and I don't mind at all if you add me! 

Rock on! \m/

Rock on indeed! Thx Sean for giving a glimpse into your world.
I really enjoy your playing and Varna.
Everybody, Please go out and support this band and our fellow drummer. all the info is above.
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Would you like to be interviewed on Talkin' Chop?
Maybe you know a drummer that should be?
Either way, hit me up and let's make it happen.

DeHaven  de@oliomusic.com
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I'm Out!