136 – Jason Harrison Smith: Drumming for Albert Lee, Inspiring the Next Generation, Recording with Gary Husband
Finding a drummer with the chops and knowledge necessary to recapture a wide range of various styles authentically, is no small task. To make you believe you’re hearing the original recording is even more rare. Jason Harrison Smith does this and so much more. Currently playing simultaneously with Blues legend Albert Lee and guitar virtuoso Carl Verheyen, Jason’s a busy guy and likes it that way. His past credits outline his versatility, including time spent with Enrique Iglesias, Five For Fighting, Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson, Mike Keneally (former Zappa guitarist), guitar legend John Jorgenson, Kelly Sweet, Julia Fordham, Buzz Feiten, Wings’ Denny Laine and many, many more. On his debut solo recording, “Think Like This”, he’s joined by bassist Dave Carpenter and keyboardist/drummer Gary Husband. The music showcases a precocious, updated and unconventional take on the standard Jazz trio format.
In this podcast Jason talks about:
The business of entertaining the masses
Advice for those balancing the day job and a music career
Taking time off the road
Recording with keyboardist/drummer Gary Husband
Inspiring the next generation
Jason’s inspirational teachers
Working with Mike Keneally (former Zappa guitarist) and learning so much
Jason endorses: Innovative Percussion, Aquarian Drumheads, Pork Pie Drums, Paiste Cymbals
This episode is sponsored by Crush Drums
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In 1998 Jason was hired by Joe Puerta sight un-seen, from a trusted referral for one of Joe’s solo projects. It was a large band (Sunken City) which included 3 grammy winners onstage. Jason was young and we were surely apprehensive but he delivered so well, beyond expectations. We rehearsed twice and did an incredible legendary show. This live success was made possible by Jason’s offset of the old guys jaded outlook with his energy, total skill incredible virtuosity and one of the the best musical attitudes I have ever seen. After this gig was over he join up with Mike Keneally who was also in Joe’s band. This was fun to watch. Too bad there is nothing more too watch, There is no longer a real upward path unless you want to release digital loops.