We recently caught up with drummer Andres Vega, an incredibly talented Alternative/metal drummer from Mexico, traveling all over the world with his music and working on a new EP with his band, Bandsteel. In this interview, we spoke about his influences growing up, his process when writing music and who he would most like to collaborate with if he had the choice. Here is what he had to say:
When did you first realize you wanted to be a musician?
I remember the first moment I thought about being a musician, I bought the ‘Live Aus Berlin’ CD of ‘Rammstein’ and as soon as I heard the first song I was shocked! I remember telling myself “This is what I want to do for the rest of my life”
Who were some of your influences growing up?
Musically my first influences were Rammstein, The Deftones, Chevelle, Korn, Disturbed, Foo Fighters, Evanescence and Linkin Park.
My first drumming influence was Travis Barker from Blink 182 and it was because of him that I decided to start playing drums.
What are your thoughts on being a professionally trained musician compared to a self taught musician?
In my personal opinion, both have pros and cons. If you are a self taught musician you get to have more feeling within the music, instead of thinking of having the right techniques. However, It’s also good to know about music theory and get to study, so at the end you can choose whatever technique is comfortable for you and break some rules!
As a drummer, do you find yourself listening to the actual music in the song more than the lyrics or both?
I actually listen to both, I need to keep the timing for musicians, but I also get to listen the lyrics to feel the song and tell the story with my drums. I usually sing the song in my head while I’m keeping time.
What has been one of the biggest achievements of your career so far and why?
One of my biggest achievements of my career is the fact that I always get to meet amazing people in the industry and each time I get more confident about my drumming and musicality. Also, that I’ve had the opportunity to play with big artists in Mexico and California.
What are some of the concepts that help you when writing new music?
I usually write drum parts and I love listening to guitars and bass so I can come up with drum ideas.
What would be one of your ideal collaborations if you could choose?
For sure, collaborating with Rammstein, since they were the trigger for me to get into music.
What projects or shows do you have coming up?
We are doing the tour with my band Haster by the end of September as well as recording a new album for next year. We are playing September 17th at Malones in Santana CA. Also, my band Bonesteel are in the process of recording our new EP.
What are your plans for the future as a musician?
To keep growing as a person and musician within the industry and contributing as much as I can as a drummer and working withtalented bands and musicians out there.
What would be your best piece of advice for aspiring musicians?
“Don’t ever quit your dreams, even if at the beginning seems hard, with hard work and dedication you can get wherever you want”!
