Kevin Foley - Irish Metal/Rock Drummer based in France

How did you become a drummer?

I started playing the drums when I was 5. My parents were always listening to Rock/ Metal music and I was always air drumming to it. They bought me my first kit at this time and I've never stopped playing since.

What is your drum gear setup?

I'm endorsed by DW drums and Paiste cymbals. I use everything DW Drums produces, from PDP concept maple to DW Collector Series. I'm also using Paiste 2002s.

Who are your drumming influences?

The drummers who made me want to play were the classic rock ones, Bonham, Paice, Moon. I grew up listening to them and they're one of the biggest reasons I play drums. I also like more "modern" drummers such as Vinnie Signorelli (Unsane) and Mackie Jayson (Madball, Bad Brains, Cro Mags)

How did the gig with Sepultura come about?

In May 2013, Eloy Casagrande hurt himself while playing in a show in Bourg en Bresse (France). I wasn't at the show, but a friend of mine told the tour manager I could learn the set and play with them the next day, instead of them having to cancel the whole tour. Luckily for me, the manager called me and I joined Sepultura that evening. We jammed in a fan's basement and played the show straight after that. Great memories!

What upcoming projects are in the pipeline?

I'm currently touring in France with a band called Lofofora. We've just recorded and released the first acoustic record ''Simple appareil".

I'm also gonna be touring with the Canadian Hardcore band "Get The Shot" through Europe in the upcoming days.

What advice would you give someone thinking about a career in music?

Always be honest to yourself and tour as much as possible. To me, touring is a better way of learning than going to music school.

Can you tell us your favourite songs or albums?

I would say my favourite song is "Against the grain" by Unsane, on their album called Visqueen. Everything is really simple here, but the energy and the sound are immense. Everyone who's into rock music should listen to this at least once.

Black and White photo was taken by David Sanchez.

The Sepultura photo was taken by Dutchpix.