DAVE SCHOPKE – Drums of Resonance!

1. How did you get into the music industry?

I began playing at age 11 and turned pro at age 15. My goal from the beginning was to form a band but the evolution to music as a career was gradual and not entirely planned/expected,just one thing led to another through hard work and perseverance.

2. Your new solo drum album is called “Tessellated Resonance.”  Which is the meaning behind the title?

Initially it was to be Tessellated Terraces which I pulled from some H.P. Lovecraft readings I was doing but after some thought I landed on Tessellated Resonance which I liked the way it sounded and I felt it brought forth some imagery. And while there was no intent to correlate the science-based meanings of  tessellations to my music,I did consider the look and feel of tessellated art or drawings and how the symmetry of it appeals to some of my musical concepts…of which I am still formulating. So to be continued!

 3. What type of musical gear did you use for the album and did you follow any special approach for the production of the album?

Standard drum set configurations, Ludwig brand in three different set ups never more than 7 drums,vintage 50s wood,70s plastic and new 2016 wood as well as some oddities with frame drum set ups and also a set consisting entirely of Roto Toms. The recording process itself was very minimal,no more than 8 microphones were used at once and often just 2 or 3 for a whole kit. I feel it keeps the sound more organic and true to the sympathetic resonant  frequencies that come alive when a kit is being played. Alot of which can be lost with over production or in the midst of other instruments. So for me,the simpler the better.

4. You have used field recordings, just like the singing birds on the track “Nemophilist”. What was so special that did inspire you towards using this recording?

Well,it was really the only good quality recording that was even usable as there was so much outside intrusion that it was hard to get good clips. I was more inspired I think by just being in the environment and tuning into the harmony of nature rather than actually what I captured.

5. Do you have any funny stories to share about trying to find sounds (field recordings) around you to record for the album?

Hmm,good question. Not really other than some of the time I was recording  my 6 month old son,capturing his enunciations,banging and stomping sounds in search of some obscure rhythms that were locked in his innate, uninfluenced dna and occasionally there would be some ehem, how should I say, bodily sounds? haha 

6. The album is very experimental and you use different types of tonalities for the final audio result. How do you approach musically the term experimental?

I try not to think too much in terms of musical labels but instead seek to push myself and my instrument into a corner. Meaning that I like to challenge myself with a setup or sound palette that will inspire me as well as draw new modes of approach that might be new to me physically and my thinking. So in that sense I am always experimenting whether it be with solo drum music or with any of the artists I work with. I really love trying new ideas,it’s a lot of fun!

7. Some tracks on your new album that remind me of chants and mantras. Is there any special spirituality on conceptual level?

Not intentionally at least. I do think that there are ways to connect spiritually to frequencies,rhythms and melodies and that is a very individual thing. As to whether it drives any part of my process is tough to say,maybe it does in my subconscious but I am not thinking about it. 

8. Did you have any second thoughts towards the release of an album consisting mainly of drum sounds?

Not at all,this is my 2nd album. I released my first all drums album in 2019 called Drums On Low. To pursue my craft in this manner was a lifelong dream and it’s been very rewarding to me on a creative and personal level. I strive for happiness there first,if that is intact then success or failure is purely business related which I try not to let influence my creative goals and decisions. Sure,I would love it if a million people purchased my album but I am realistic and know how this sort of thing is not for everyone,but,ya never know unless you try! I have a lot more music left in me to explore,and look forward to the process. 

9. How do you adjust yourself to the status of the digital music industry?

Whew,it’s been really challenging to sort through the digital maze and sometimes I feel like I am on top of it and other times I truly feel lost. I am glad in many ways for the new opportunity to reach people globally faster and easier but also I get overwhelmed by what and how to make the best,most productive moves.  

10. Do you have any new music plans for the near future?

Yes,I plan on releasing another EP of music this late fall with the German record label Djummi Records and by October I plan to relaunch my new live solo shows on the web via Facebook Live and YouTube. And if all things Covid clear up someday,I really would love to get back to Europe to play and travel. It’s one of my favorite places to be. All info can be found through my website at www.daveschoepke.com