DRUMS DRUMS

Hello, this is Nan. Kansas City Star did a nice write up of a bunch of us female drummers in KC! It was a really fun afternoon hopping around in The Brick with a lot of drummers I admire. I say hopping around as I danced and hollered for all of their drum solos. I couldn’t help it. When it was my turn at the kit, I sang and drummed a mini version of Swamp Thing. Because the KC Star had to edit the written interview a little for space, I am posting my full interview answers here. ALSO, I forgot to mention in “Bands I’ve been in”, that I drummed with Kelley Deal + Mike Mongomery’s  band R. Ring on their tour this spring! Well I’m telling you all now. Chances are if you’re reading this, you already know that….but what the hell.

25. I wrote songs on guitar for a few years before I played drums.Then I learned I could write songs on drums and I was off to the races.

Songwriters and friends in NYC (especially pals in the “antifolk” scene) definitely influenced and supported me when I began drumming. There was a kind of shared philosophy that writing good songs was the most important thing, and that your technical ability would develop over time- from the sheer act of doing it! This has proven to be true for me. I also studied with a wonderful drum teacher named Paula Spiro. She has been a mentor for me over the years. Also Matt (my partner and bandmate in Schwervon!) is a big influence on my playing…..he hears inventive beats in his head and has really inspired me to want to approach drumming like a dance – to be specific and problem solve what each song wants to be, using the drums to clarify and guide the song.

Name a favorite drummer or two and what you like about them
Janet Weiss (Sleater-Kinney, Quasi):

She is a powerhouse. So solid. I am in awe of how she plays the toms.
Georgia Hubley (Yo La Tengo):

I love her diversity- sometimes upbeat, sometimes very soft and syncopated. Also she sings so effortlessly while she plays the drums!

Serve the song. It’s a dance. Keep it simple. And don’t forget to breathe!