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Irish
Drummers; Dara, when did you start
drumming?
I don't know the
exact time. I started out on bass when I was 13, but whenever there was a break
during a jam session with whatever band I was playing with, I'd always just
mess around on the kit. I think I was about 16 when I joined a band as a
"drummer".
Irish
Drummers; Did you take lessons early on?
I never took lessons.
I feel though, because I started on bass, that I had a certain level of
understanding in regards to beats and rhythm that definitely helped when
starting off on drums. I feel I learn best visually so I'd just watch what
everyone else was doing. If I saw something I liked, I'd take it and try to put my
own spin on it. Part of me wishes I got lessons when I was younger but in the
past year I got myself a practice pad and actively practice rudiments and other
exercises, which I genuinely enjoy doing.
Irish Drummers; Who are your drumming influences?
Taylor Hawkins and
Dave Grohl first and foremost. I always loved the way Grohl played the drums
like any other instrument. Like if all you heard was the drum track and you are
still able to tell what song it is. It's hard to mention those guys without
mentioning Bonham. I love Sean Kinney from Alice In Chains, his playing is so
fluid and effortless looking. Matt Cameron and Tres Cool both deserve a shout
out too.
Irish Drummers; What is your drum gear setup?
I'm about to get a
new kit with my preferred specs, which are:
16x24" Kick
9x13" Rack
16x16" Floor
6.5x14" Brass
Snare
I use Sabian cymbals
and my current set up is 15" HHX Groove Hats, 19" and 20"
HHXpolsion Crashes and a 21" HHX Groove Ride.
Irish Drummers; What are your favourite songs / albums?
Woah! That's not an
easy or simple question to answer. How about we go with what I've been liking
recently? I'm enjoying the fuck out of the new Foo Fighters album.
There is this band
called Pond that I'm obsessed with. Their 2 most recent albums are psychedelic
rock masterpieces. Foster The People are usually on rotation on my Spotify as
well as Father John Misty. As for lesser known bands, Tigercub is an amazing band
from the UK that have something on another level. Check them out!
Irish Drummers; What advice would you give to someone
starting out in music?
I don't know if I'm
in a position to give advice but what I would say is make sure you are honest
with yourself about everything. Your goals, intentions, playing, songwriting etc…There
are sacrifices that will have to be made but if you are truly playing for the
love of it, they won't be a problem.
Irish Drummers; Your debut album has garnered great reviews,
you must be delighted with the response?
It's been insane. We
self-funded and recorded the album 3 years ago in the Ballyheigue, Co. Kerry
with one of our friends. It's so cool to finally have it out and even cooler
that people are enjoying the record. Can't ask for more than that!
Irish Drummers; What major projects are in the pipeline over
the next few months?
There are a few
really cool things we have planned before the end of year which I can't say
unfortunately, but mostly we will be touring. We are supporting SWMRS on their
UK tour at the end of the month then our own Irish tour in October which I
can't wait for. Last time was serious fun and I've no doubt it will be even
more so this time around.
Irish Drummers; In your opinion what makes Irish drummers
different to other drummers?
In other countries
I've often got a competitive feeling surrounding music. In the Irish drumming
community everyone is always supportive and encouraging. Sound bunch yiz are!
