168 – Aaron Comess: Drumming for Spin Doctors & Joan Osborne, New Solo Record: “Sculptures”, Creating a Career that Fits Your Vision

Originally from Dallas, Texas, Aaron Comess is an extremely versatile drummer with a wide range of influences and playing experiences including his ongoing work as a founding member of the Grammy-nominated funk-rock band Spin Doctors with a total of 10 million albums sold and over 1500 live shows under their belt and all four original members intact. 2018 marked their 30th year. Aaron has also spent a decade-plus in the touring band of Joan Osborne. In 2017, Aaron appeared on new releases by Joan Osborne, Rachael Yamagata, James Maddock, Willie Nile, Garland Jeffreys, Chris Bergson and German platinum-selling artist Marius Westerhagen to name a few. He has also worked with Bilal, Edie Bickell, Chris Whitley, Mark Cohen, Roswell Rudd, Ivan Nevil and a host of others.

Aaron has been active as a band leader since his 2006 debut recording “Catskills Cry”. This was followed up with “Beautiful Mistake”, “Blues for Use”, “Aaron Comess Quintet”, “Live 2016” and most recently “Sculptures”.

In this episode, Aaron talks about: 

The current nature of touring and recording

The power of positive attitudes 

Curating a career that fits your vision

Drumming for Joan Osborne

Learning through experience how to create a sonic landscape in the studio

His solo projects as well as his new record, “Sculptures” 

The Spin Doctors

Learning to say “no” to some gigs

What to practice 

Staying relaxed 

Aaron endorses: Yamaha Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks and Remo Drumheads 

This episode is sponsored by Session Ace