James Ryan - Drummer with Big Generator

James, what is your drum gear set up? 

I've always loved Gretsch drums. They make some great kits. Right now, I'm playing a Gretsch New Classic series in Satin finish. Sizes are 12",16", 22". My main snare is a Pearl 12" x 7" Soprano maple. 

All Remo Emperor clear heads on toms and a Remo control sound on the Snare. Evans EMAD on my kick. 

Mainly Zildjian A-Custom cymbals but I've a liking for Paiste's stuff too. Have some vintage Paiste 2002 gear from 1976 on the kit that I'm blessed to own. 

Hardware is all Pearl. I find their gear durable and reliable. I play Pearl Eliminator series double pedals also. 

I use Vic Firth 7A wood tip sticks and Wincent Mallets.

When did you start drumming? 

I started drumming at 13. One of my friend's parents had bought him a drum kit and myself and a few others took turns playing. From that moment I knew it would be something I'd pursue and grow to love. 

Who are your drumming influences? 

So many to mention but around 2010 I became aware of Gavin Harrison and he's been my main source of inspiration ever since. The stuff he comes up with is so well thought out and tasteful that it has improved my playing massively ever since discovering him. I was lucky enough to meet him in 2011 at a drum clinic at X-Music Dublin. 

Besides him: 

Taylor Hawkins (Foo Fighters) 

Karl Brazil (session for Feeder, Robbie Williams, etc) 

Mike Johnston (Mikes Lessons), 

Matt Helders (Arctic Monkeys) 

and last but not least Ash Soan (session for Adele, James Morrison). 

What are your favourite songs or albums? 

Lots of variety. But the albums I'd pick off the top of my head:

Parachutes - Coldplay 

Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not - Arctic Monkeys 

In Absentia - Porcupine Tree 

(What's the Story) Morning Glory? - Oasis 

Anthology - Alien Ant Farm 

Wasted Light - Foo Fighters 

Polythene - Feeder 

What upcoming projects are you involved in? 

At the moment, I’ve just finished up with my current band in Cork and just started with the well known and talented guys in Big Generator as a full time gig. Looking forward to being busy throughout 2018 and beyond. Catch you out on the road! 

Read More