Sabian: 19-inch Chad Smith Holy China (x2); 19-inch AAX crash; 20-inch AAX crash; 13-inch Paragon hi-hats; 14-inch AAX hi-hats

Do you think your playing has changed since coming on board?

“I feel like I’ve learned more about myself as a drummer because I’ve watched YouTube videos of me on the first tour and I’m like, ‘Man, I wouldn’t do that now.’

“I’ve definitely gotten better - it has made me more aware of my playing. My set-up is a little different, it feels more comfortable, but have I changed anything? I wouldn’t say too much.

“I think I have a little more technique now and know how to use my legs better playing double bass. I’ve always played metal but there is a lot of double bass in the older stuff. There were certain beats I’d never played before and it made me a lot better.

“When we were recording the CD there would be some beats I didn’t get right off the bat at first, then I did them a couple more times and now I can do them really easily. I definitely feel like I’m better this year than I was last year.”