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| Sunday, 21 September 2003 |
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Percussionist at Large He hits things, he shakes stuff and he has played everywhere..
Sri Lankan born Sunil de Silva's professional musical career launched off when Raj Senewiratne leader of the successful group Savage got him down to Singapore as the replacement drummer. Sunil who was a follower of the Savage was happy to play for the band and was with them till the end of the one year contract and then decided to go to Australia where he became the acknowledged percussionist he is today. He has won many Australian instrumentalist awards including Best Studio Player, Best Jazz Percussionist and Best Latin Percussionist. He endorses LP drums and is an LP Clinician. At present Sunil de Silva gigs with the Rebecca Johnson Band in Sydney. Hey there Sunil, what have you been up to lately, gig wise? At the moment, lots of sessions. Been working with Doug Williams, Jenny Morris and Steve Edmonds. Heaps of cinema and TV commercials too, some soundtrack work and jingles for McDonalds, Bacardi and Sanitarium. Just enough! What kind of equipment do you take on these gigs? For sessions I've got to be prepared! So I take everything. It's all Latin Percussion brand stuff, congas, timbales, bongos, chimes, talking drums, cuica and hand percussion. Plus whatever else the producer wants. For live gigs I take my LP congas, timbales and hand percussion. I have only a small car! I use LP gear, Zildjian cymbals, Pearl drums, Vic Firths sticks and Evan Heads. What kind of preparation do you do before playing? No particular warm-ups but a big part is getting to the gig, setting up before everyone, making sure all is working the way it needs to. Then relax and chill. I do a bit of warm up on the table, to get my hands going and then enjoy the gig. What would be your biggest highlight and conversely, what is your personal 'gig from hell' story? My fondest memory is by far INXS. They're the best in terms of the professionalism of the band, the crew and the touring conditions. Played some great shows in front of huge crowds. That was lots of fun. Alternatively, my worst gig was playing drums (last year) to a sequenced track - which I hadn't heard until the sound check and had no click at all - with a brand new band!!! The first gig was the last gig for everyone. Of the musicians that you play with on a regular basis, which have special requirements of you? Presently, Steve Edmonds is wanting a lot of percussion solos. Doug Williams is looking for the Groove and Feel to be more predominant! Just examples of my colour. What tips would you give a young drummer on his first gig regarding setting up and breaking down equipment? First buy equipment to the best of your budget and then cases for all of it. Insurance is important. Respect your equipment. Get to the gig early. Set up and tune up. Rushing is a big no, no! Stress affects your gig, so relax and take your time. Drugs and alcohol affect you as well. You've got to live clean. I've worked with a couple of guys who didn't have it together. Sad really. What would be the most valuable piece of advice you would give a young musician to deal with this business? Be professional. Be patient, listen and learn from the best players. Listen to all styles of music. Be the best you can be and enjoy every gig. Music should be a joy to play. Courtesy magazine drummer |
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