Mark's Q & A

What would be your perfect gig?

If I was playing, it would be to come off knowing that I've played everything as planned with enough variation in the playing to feel that I have been creative with my parts. Problem is that never happens. There is always something to work on. I have never finished a gig yet where I would say I was completely happy with the way I played. But then if today is perfect what's the point in tomorrow. I read in an interview recently that we should welcome our mistakes because we can learn something from them, take them as a positive.

Also, if we are so inward looking when we play that's egocentric, and people probably haven't noticed. When all the attention is on our awesome Creator God, 'cus he's given us the ability to be creative', that's when it's all about the gift of music to us all.

Who are your favourite drummers?

Carter Beauford is one of my favourite drummers, He has a great feel, and his drum parts are really interesting, he uses a lot of dynamics and different sound sources in his playing. I also like the drummer from incubus as I love their music anyway and he really grooves. I like drummers who really play for the love of the music, not to compete with other drummers.

What has been the best gig you have played? 

I once played a gig on the seafront at Temby, it was a boiling hot day near the harbour, the road above formed a sort of second tier for people to watch from. Definately the most picturesque gig I have played in. My wife was singing in the band and my best man was playing Bass. What more can you ask for?

What's has been your most embarrassing moment while drumming?

When I was about 8 I played drums in the school play dressed as a shepherd, my parents still have the photo!

What song do you most love to play along to?

It used to be the Nirvana nevermind album. It could well be 'Wish You were here' by Incubus these days.