I dare not drink before a gig because I'll get tired and blow it. So I have to sit drinking tea in a caravan.

I don't consider that I'm particularly influenced by anyone or anything. But when I started playing, I was influenced by early soul. It was just that feel, that sound.

Brushes..? Nah. Hit 'em as hard as you can.

Not everybody likes or understands a drum solo, so I like to bring in effects and sounds to keep their interest.

Nowadays you can't be loud enough!

I never had any lessons. When I first started playing I used to read music. I was very interested in music. But when I started playing in groups I did a silly thing and dropped it. It's great if you can write things down.

There were times when I blundered and got the dreaded look from the lads. But that was a good sign. It showed I'd attempted something I'd not tried before.