I play drums on this record. . .what an amazing experience! I’ve never had to work so hard in the studio. . .the music was challenging – but it was also really catchy and fun. This record was recorded at the Rare Book Room. . .about half the songs were without a click track. . .but to be fair – even when there was a click it was really difficult. I’m so happy that I was asked to be a part of this. . .

Of course following in the footsteps of the great Zach Hill is daunting. But I know Zach, he’s a friend of mine – and he’s so supportive and generous that I just set that fear aside.

Here’s a story from the session. We had tracked drums for 9 out of the 10 songs – I had been in the studio for three days straight – two 12 hour days and maybe another 8? Nicolas Vernhes brought the last song up on playback and I realized it was the one song that I really struggled with during the pre-production stage. I had arrangements for all the other songs – but this one. . .this song. . .oh no. . .I never figured out what to do here. I was exhausted. My heart sank. I put on a brave face, said something positive and walked into the studio. I told Marnie and Nicolas via talkback, “Hey guys I just need a minute in here.” I hid behind one of the drum baffles and got down on my knees.

I’m not a religious person but I prayed. I called out to the universe and asked for assistance to find the best drum part for this song. I was definitely hitting the session’s rock bottom. I didn’t believe I had anything left creatively. But I also knew I could not give up – for Marnie, for the album, for the session, For Nicolas, for everything. I had just quit my day job of ten years in IT and this was my first “session.” I also truly believed in this record.

Looks like I got through the song. It’s on the record somewhere.

“Nothing is easy.”