The Downbeat

Anup Sastry, an in-demand session drummer for artists like Marty Friedman and Devin Townsend, shares his musical journey and insights. He discusses the pressures of perfection in music and the importance of genuine connections in the industry. Anup also dives into the complexities of drum collaboration and recording dynamics, revealing the balance between live and programmed elements. The conversation spices up with humorous stories about sushi dreams and personal anecdotes, showcasing both his professional path and lighthearted moments in life.

A solo Q&A leads to hilarious revelations about life in music. The host shares personal anecdotes about drumming and the ups and downs of touring. Discover their top five favorite bands and humorous takes on unconventional questions like sleeping with a mermaid. The conversation includes endorsements, food poisoning stories on the road, and the quirky impact of haircuts on well-being. Expect a blend of nostalgia, relatable musings, and a dash of existential humor in this entertaining journey through music.

Kerim "Krimh" Lechner, an Austrian drummer known for his work with Septic Flesh, Decapitated, and Behemoth, shares his fascinating musical journey. He dives into the physical and mental challenges of drumming under pressure and the evolution of drumming techniques, emphasizing self-expression and individuality. The conversation also touches on tattoos and aging, intertwining personal expression with art. Light-hearted tales of hippo encounters balance intense discussions, showcasing the vibrant life of a metal musician.

Kyle Brownlee, the precise drummer from Counterparts and former world-ranked Rock Band champion, shares his fascinating journey from discovering drums at a cousin's house to mastering the instrument on stage. He recounts the challenges of touring, including burnout and mental strain, while balancing the fun of late-night gaming. They dive into the intricacies of sharing gear, the search for endorsements, and favorite tracks from The Black Dahlia Murder, all while navigating the emotional highs and lows of live performances.

Will Putney, a three-time Grammy-nominated producer and guitarist for Fit For An Autopsy, shares insights from his vibrant career at Graphic Nature studio. He discusses tips for drummers to enhance their studio experience and dives into exciting anecdotes about late-night jam sessions with famous artists. The infamous Gralter Challenge also gets a mention, showcasing the wild side of production. Putney also delves into the emotional depth of drum sounds in various genres, revealing how artistry and camaraderie collide in the world of music.

Dan Searle, the talented drummer from Architects, shares his journey through the music scene, reflecting on his days as a drum tech and borrowing gear from legends like Napalm Death. He delves into the upcoming album 'Holy Hell' and reminisces about the humorous chaos of touring. Their candid discussion includes navigating the pressures of live performances, the complexities of collaboration after loss, and the joys and challenges of parenthood, all sprinkled with light-hearted banter and captivating tales from their musical adventures.