Stephen Byrne - Drummer with One Morning in August

 

How does it feel to be releasing the One Morning in August debut album?

It's an absolutely brilliant, great feeling. John and I have played covers for years at sessions and with a collective of musician friends of ours at gigs, but to finally have our own original music, is a great feeling. When I was young, learning the drums, I wanted to get into a recording studio and be part of creating music, writing your own drum pieces, playing it, recording it and listening back to yourself and what you've made. I can't wait till Friday!

Apart from music, what else are you interested in? 

Lots of things, I'd give everything a try. Mainly into running and fitness at the moment. I cover about 40 kms a week on roads and trails and on the spin bike. Big rugby fan, I like going to Leinster and Ireland matches, motor racing, photography, videography, aviation. When it comes to TV, I love all sorts of documentaries.

How would you describe your drumming style?

I think it's sort of funk based, when learning to play I used to borrow cd's from Christy Stapleton. There was everything in there from Art Blakey the jazz drummer to Simply Red, Led Zeppelin and lots more. I like to think that stuff influenced me. I think my style mostly resembles Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, that mix of energetic funky rock. When it comes to our stuff, I try to create pieces that fit the song and the tone and feel of it.  

Who are your favourite musicians?

So many, Jimi Hendrix, Thom Yorke, Noel Gallagher, Pixies, Zeppelin. My favourite drummers would have to be Dave Grohl, Neil Peart (Rush), Danny Carey (Tool), John Bonham.

What are your favourite songs / albums?

Very tough as there's so many but here's a flavour....

Radiohead - The Bends

Oasis - Whats the story morning glory

REM - Automatic for the people

Smashing Pumpkins - Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness

Pixies - Surfer Rosa

Queens of the Stone Age - Songs for the Deaf

What's next on the horizon for One Morning in August?

Hopefully playing live gigs but that is way off yet with Covid-19 and all. We'll also get cracking on writing some new music; there are lots of ideas for songs all ready to go.

How have you been coping during the COVID-19 pandemic?

I found it very tough initially; I have a boy in school and a girl in a creche so they were at home with me for three months while I worked from home. The lack of social interaction was tough and thankfully I kept up the exercise regime to help keep the head right. Not knowing what's coming down the tracks is tough on people.