G’day, Modern Drummer readers! It’s Aaron Carruthers here, from the band Longreef. I’d like to say a big thanks to Modern Drummer for giving me the opportunity to tell you all what’s going on with Longreef at the moment.

Where do I start? Well, it’s been a huge couple of years for us. We relocated to the USA from Australia at the start of 2010, and so far it’s been more than we ever could have hoped for. The people of the USA really know how to welcome newcomers—the crowds have been awesome! We’ve had the great privilege of touring all over this great land. We’re currently on a summer tour of the East Coast, promoting our brand-new EP, Dirty Motel, and our DVD, Live at the Boulevard.

Dirty Motel was a big change for us musically from our last EP. We went for a much harder sound. The recording process was great. I’ve always loved the studio—unlike life, there’s nothing you can’t fix! I love the excitement that comes from finally hearing your ideas come to life. One of my favorite songs on the EP is the title track. For the rhythm track we really tried to focus on “less is more,” and I got to really draw from one of my favorite drummers, AC/DC’s Phil Rudd. I’m a huge fan of many styles, but I would have to say that my favorite aspect of drumming is getting people moving, so I really enjoy playing this track. Advertisement

Being in Longreef really has changed my playing immensely. I was always a big fan of funk-fusion and busy playing—and I still am. But I remember one of my first lessons with a great Australian drummer, Lloyd G, and leaving feeling like I just had my ass kicked, which we all need from time to time. It was a great gift to receive, although it didn’t feel like it at the time. I had to deconstruct the way I approach the drums and try to hear music again, not just the drums, if that makes any sense. Just playing for the song, is the point I’m trying to make. You hear it said often, and for me it really has been the best thing I ever did for my playing. Just thinking about every hit and never throwing a note away.

This year is proving to be another very exciting one for Longreef. Our tour has us sharing the stage with great bands such as Train, Puddle of Mud, Seether, Taproot, and Cheap Trick. One of the many perks of this great job is getting to meet bands you’ve been a huge fan of.

I’m really excited about our new EP, and it’s always great playing new tracks live. The response so far has been great, and with each month that passes, the Longreef juggernaut gains momentum. I really am blessed to be doing something I love with a great bunch of guys. Dirty Motel was released June 12, so listen for us on radio—or come check us out at a gig! Advertisement

 

You can find all you need to know about Longreef at longreefmusic.com. Another huge thanks to Modern Drummer. I’ve been a fan of the magazine for a long time. Thanks for reading, and keep on rockin’!