Articles - Interviews

Q.Are you looking forward to playing in Hong Kong for New Years Eve?

A.Very much so.  This will be my first ever trip to the far east, and due to my oriental heritage, it will be a New Years Eve to remember.

Q. How did you start playing to House Music?

A close friend of mine at University was very much into House music and he asked me to play bongos at one of his house parties.  This is where it all began.

Q. How does playing with a band compare to playing with a DJ?

A.The thing I love about playing percussion alongside a DJ is that you get the opportunity to really express yourself, try new rhythms and patterns that you’ve been practising, and it’s all ad lib.  Where as in a band, you tend to have to stick to the agreed pattern and not try new chops.  Plus you might have to turn up for rehearsals 2 or 3 times a week; which is highly time consuming. Also, with House music, it’s a lot easier to play along with a 4/4 time signature, where as some tracks in bands can be varied time signatures.

Q.You have played with some top DJs; who is your favourite DJ? And why?

A. My favourite DJ has got to be Carl Cox.  He is such a natural entertainer when he is behind the decks, his track selection is second to none, and he’s a really nice, approachable guy.
 
Q. You play a variety of instruments; do you have a favourite?

A. With being a percussionist, I love to have as many percussive instruments available to me during a gig.  Some like to just use congas, but not me.  If I had to choose one instrument from my set up, it would have to be my Pearl Piccolo Snare.  Piccolo drums are a lot more swallow than conventional drums, which gives it a crisper sound.  Hence the reason why I have snare in my stage name ‘BrotherSnare’

Q. What’s the best thing about being part of the Hed Kandi team?

A. The professionalism and you do get treated very well (not just during the gig).

Q. Have you travelled much with Hed Kandi this year?

A. This will be my first time abroad ever with Hed Kandi. Mainly featured in Swindon for HK this year.

Q, What’s the best gig you have played at this year?

A. In the Taman Gang venue in Mayfair.  The acoustics were amazing, and it’s surprising how of a difference it makes to the whole night.

Q. What are your plans for 2010?

A. To continue playing aboard for Hed Kandi; releasing an album, which is 2 years in the making; and featuring in 2 major film productions being released next year.

Q. Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?

A. Learn how to snowboard.

BrotherSnare will be in Hong Kong with Hed Kandi on the 31st December 2009. For more information visit http://www.hedkandi.com.hk