Besides your main instrument, what is the one piece of gear you cannot live without?
(Laughs) Elastic bands; you have to stay fit on tour!!
What was the first album you ever bought with your own money?
Iron Maiden Piece of Mind. The cover was too cool!
Do you prefer to write/record at noon or midnight?
I’m more of a morning person, so the boring response is at noon.
What is the scariest movie you’ve ever seen?
Best and scariest, The Exorcist, hands down.
If you could record an album with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
Sting, ‘cause that’s what all other drummers say (laughs).
Would you prefer a vacation on the beach, or in the mountains?
Beach, totally! I love water!
What is the last book you read?
Ready Player One. For some reason, I usually don’t read many books.
What was your first concert?
Alice Cooper
Do you have a favorite superhero?
Not really.
Who inspired you to pursue music?
I think I just always wanted to play drums. Not passionately, but as a curiosity. After I began, everything inspired me. Music inspired me to pursue music.
What is your favorite junk food?
I would say burgers.
Outside of music, what activity helps you decompress?
Working out is a big part of my mental health. It helps my playing as well.
Do you have a favorite 80s pop band/song?
I have a few for sure.To name one, I’d have to say Tears for Fears; a couple songs.
Let’s say it’s been a busy week. How would you describe your ideal Friday night?
Just chilling and having a few drinks with my wife.
What projects are you working on right now?
Cryptopsy and Vltimas, that’s pretty much it. But, they are not projects they are bands (laughs).
Coffee, tea, or soda?
Coffee.
If you were offered a one-way ticket to colonize Mars, would you take it?
Nope, I enjoy having both feet on the ground here on Earth.
If you didn’t have a career in music, what type of work would you be doing?
Something to do with marine biology, or fishing.
Do you have any pets?
Two cats and one dog, more of my wife’s choice.
What was the last song/album you listened to today?
It wasn’t today, but in its entirety, Opeth Watershed.
What is your practice regimen?
Before this stupid virus shit, one hour a day. Now, whenever it happens.
What is your favorite way to listen to music: while driving, home stereo, or headphones?
Driving for sure!
What song gets you energized every time you hear it?
Chicago “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day”.
Are there any metal newcomers that have recently caught your attention?
Lots are coming out and lots of them are very talented. At the moment, I’m not listening to much new stuff, so won’t be able to name much. Just check out the new Ingested.
As a musician, what is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Fail-repeat, fail-repeat, fail-repeat, until you succeed. 
