These days, there seem to be a handful of podcast formats out there. There’s the celebrity-driven podcast in which celebrities come on to promote new projects and/or expel wisdom. There’s the recap-based podcast in which a topic or beat is discussed, often in a small group setting. There’s the radio show that presents itself as a podcast, given the lack of censorship or additional content not heard on the initial broadcast. And there’s the educational format in which nerds aim to teach other nerds in-depth information about a topic.
My favorite “nerd-on-nerd” podcast these days is I’d Hit That. Hosted by “Dave,” a drummer who opts to reveal little about himself or note the groups he plays with, I’d Hit That features a “who’s who” of modern session musicians. Dave regularly speaks to people who — past and/or present — have played with the likes of Paul McCartney, Elton John, Nine Inch Nails, Simon & Garfunkel, Sting, Bob Dylan and Weezer.
In listening loyally to I’d Hit That over two past years, I have learned some amazing things. Victor Indrizzo didn’t know that he’d played on an Avril Lavigne album until someone made fun of him for it. He also lost out of an opportunity to join The Cult after asking the guitarist to jam; lesson learned, Billy Duffy does not jam. Brain Mantra had to perform a full-length Guns N’ Roses show with pyro, on a soundstage, in the early morning to an audience of one. Josh Freese truly loves P.F. Chang’s without irony. Curt Bisquera got laughed out of a Motels audition without playing a note. Jim Keltner doesn’t eat onion rings. The list goes on and on…
I had the opportunity to conduct some Q&A with the mysterious Dave — a native New Yorker now based in Los Angeles — over email in late 2015. Given his dual existence as a working drummer and a popular podcaster, this needed to be a Really Busy People column.
Did you attempt any instruments before playing the drums?
Dave: My dad plays trumpet, and he started me on that when I was very young. It didn’t take.
What was the first band that you were part of?
D: My first band was called Unknown Fate. We were in 6th grade and played metal. The older kids called us The Metal Midgets.
And what was your first proper paying gig or band?
D: I’ve never been paid properly. Still waiting for that to happen.
Being that you’re a drummer by trade, where did the idea for the I’d Hit That podcast come from?
D: I was on tour in England in 2011, binge listening to WTF With Marc Maron. I thought the format would be cool with drummers.
The intro to the show often includes a prank phone call. Being a native New Yorker, were The Jerky Boys an influence on that?
D: Absolutely. Also Howard Stern and David Letterman. And my dad. He was great with telemarketers, way before Jim Florentine was doing it.
This month you finally got Jim Keltner onto the podcast after a lot of prodding. Who else is left on your list?
D: Jim Gordon.
Has having a podcast led to you getting more work as a drummer?
D: (laughs) That’s funny.
A common theme on your podcast is that things used to be easier for drummers since there were more high-paying gigs out there. In turn, some of your interview subjects seem to supplement their income with other work. Is that ever needed for you?
D: Yes. I’m also a highend escort, though I tend to keep that private, so let’s keep that on the DL.
Another noticeable thing about the podcast is that you don’t talk about yourself much. I would argue that a lot of listeners only know that you’re name is Dave and that you’re from East Coast. Is it your intention to be mysterious?
D: I would not argue with you on this.
During an interview on the podcast, did someone ever drop an insight or expression that changed you as a drummer?
D: Many times. Talking about gear, Curt Bisquera said to me, “it’s the Indian, not the arrow.” Also, Jim Keltner’s advice to “stop eating those damn onion rings.”
Are there any tools or apps that you especially rely on to stay focused and productive?
D: If you consider fear and anger to be tools…
You grew up in New York but are now based in Los Angeles. What prompted your move?
D: Winter.
What does Los Angeles offer to you that New York City does not?
D: Sunshine during the winter months, Mexican food, medical marijuana, In ‘N Out Burger, running into Eddie Pepitone at the supermarket…You get the idea.
When you’re not busy with the podcast or working as a drummer, how do you like to spend your free time?
D: Arguing with friends and family.
Finally, Dave, any last words for the kids?
D: Try not to be too financially-successful until you’re on your third and final marriage.
-by Darren Paltrowitz
