I started playing drums when I was just 13-years-old, all because a boy I had a crush on played drums and I wanted to have something in common with him. Okay yes, I was a nerd! It was also mainly because my dad is a musician so I already had a musical background and this was a great opportunity to follow in his footsteps…only with a louder instrument.

Over the years, I’ve been asked by so many people what gear I use. I find it inspiring that so many musicians are open to hearing why other drummers like certain brands. Obviously everyone has their preference, and over time you become brand loyal – which is what happened to me with Remo heads and Pro-Mark drum sticks. So when they offered me an endorsement, of course I was so excited!

For me, Remo Pinstripe heads have always been the perfect head to give me the warm, full and controlled sound I like.

As for sticks, because I play in different bands with completely different feels, I need different sized sticks. So I have found the perfect combination:

Pro-Mark: Rock 747 – This is a lighter stick for when I play a softer feel or something a little less challenging, I prefer to feel the light, laid back approach by not having to grip the stick so tight.

Pro-Mark: Jimmy DeGrasso – I used these when I play with Chix with Stix. It’s a thicker stick, heavier than the average stick and I use it because we play a lot of rim shots. And, because of the intense energy I have when performing with Chix with Stix, I would otherwise break a pair of sticks every song.

Pro-Mark: Abe Cunningham – These are slightly heavier than the Jimmy DeGrasso, as well as a few millimetres longer, so I use these when I play with Splinter Town. Because the music is passionate, I like to play with sticks that help me feel that energy with every note I play by needing a tighter grip and having more power with each stroke.

These are obviously just my preference, but if any of these pairs interest you give them a try and let me know if they work for you.