Behind The Kit with Arizona Drummer

Behind The Kit dives into the lives of today’s most inspiring drummers — from Grammy winners to rising stars. Hosted by Kyle Smith of Arizona Drummer, each episode explores the real stories behind the beats: the hustle, heart, and passion it takes to make it in music. Whether you're a drummer or just love music, you'll find powerful insights and raw conversations that go way beyond the kit.Follow, like, and subscribe to never miss a beat!

Behind The Kit with Arizona Drummer is a music podcast hosted by Arizona Drummer, with 29 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Arizona Drummer hosts Behind The Kit with Arizona Drummer, a music show with 29 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #14

  Behind The Kit Episode 29: Austin D'Amond | With A Vengeance, Chimaira, DevilDriver

  Aug 10, 20261h 40mS2

  Episode 29 of Behind The Kit features an incredible conversation with the one and only @fnaustile1 !Known for his powerful, technical, and high-energy drumming, Austin has made a name for himself in the metal world through his work with @bleedtheskyofficial7476 , DevilDriver, @chimairatube , and now with @WithaVengeanceBand ! With years of experience touring internationally, recording acclaimed albums, and performing alongside some of the biggest names in heavy music, Austin has become one of the genre's most respected drummers.In this conversation, we dive into Austin's musical journey—from discovering drums and breaking into the metal scene to joining some of heavy music's most iconic bands. We discuss the realities of professional touring, recording in the studio, developing speed, precision, and endurance, and what it takes to perform at the highest level night after night.Austin also shares incredible insights into perseverance, consistency, preparation, and the mindset required to build a lasting career in music. Whether you're a metal drummer, a musician chasing your own dreams, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind the music, there's so much value packed into this conversation.Season 2 continues to bring together some of the most inspiring voices in drumming, and I'm incredibly grateful to have Austin join the Behind The Kit community.Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit.

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  Episode #13

  🥁 Behind The Kit Episode 28: Jess Bowen (The Summer Set, 3OH!3, Jax, Lights)

  Jul 6, 20261h 19mS2

  Episode 28 of Behind The Kit features an incredible conversation with the one and only Jess Bowen! Best known as the founding drummer of The Summer Set, Jess has built an impressive and diverse career behind the kit, performing with artists including 3OH!3, Jax, Cassadee Pope, Lights, NEKKTAR, and many more. Through years of touring, recording, and adapting to a wide variety of musical styles, she has become one of the most versatile and respected drummers working today. In this conversation, we dive into Jess’s musical journey — from forming The Summer Set and breaking into the music industry, to navigating life on the road, building a career as a freelance touring drummer, and finding her own voice behind the instrument. We discuss the realities of professional touring, developing versatility, balancing creativity with consistency, and the lessons she's learned from performing with artists across multiple genres. Jess also shares insights into perseverance, career growth, networking, and what it takes to create opportunities in an ever-changing music industry. Whether you're an aspiring drummer, a working musician, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind the music, there is so much value packed into this conversation. Season 2 continues to bring together some of the most inspiring voices in drumming, and I’m incredibly grateful to have Jess join the Behind The Kit community. Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

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  Episode #12

  🥁 Behind The Kit Episode 27: Alex Bent (Trivium, Battlecross, Decrepit Birth)

  Jun 22, 202653 minS2

  Episode 27 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been incredibly excited to share — sitting down with the one and only Alex Bent! Known for his incredible speed, precision, versatility, and technical mastery behind the kit, Alex has established himself as one of the most respected drummers in modern metal. Throughout his career, he has performed with acclaimed bands including Trivium, Decrepit Birth, Battlecross, Dragonlord, and many others, earning a reputation for delivering world-class performances both in the studio and on stage. In this conversation, we dive deep into Alex’s journey behind the kit — from his early influences and dedication to developing his craft, to navigating the demands of professional touring and recording at the highest levels of the music industry. We discuss practice routines, technique development, consistency, musicality, mental preparation, and the mindset required to perform some of the most challenging music in the world night after night. This episode isn’t just about speed and technical ability — it’s about discipline, perseverance, continuous growth, and the pursuit of excellence. Alex shares valuable insights into what it takes to build a lasting career while constantly pushing yourself to improve as both a musician and a person. Season 2 continues to grow through honest, inspiring conversations like this one, and I’m beyond grateful to bring Alex’s story to the Behind The Kit community. Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

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  Episode #11

  🥁 Behind The Kit Episode 26: David Nester (Disturbed, System Of A Down, Seether, I Prevail)

  Jun 8, 20261h 42mS2

  Episode 26 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been incredibly excited to share — sitting down with my good friend, the one and only David Nester! David is a highly respected drummer and drum tech who has spent years working behind the scenes with some of the biggest names in rock and metal, including @Disturbed, @SystemOfADown, @SeetherOfficial, and @IPrevailBand. In addition to his work as a world-class tech, David also spent many years as the drummer for ENMY, bringing his own powerful style and musicality to the stage night after night. This conversation was especially meaningful for me because David and I have become close friends over the years, and getting the opportunity to sit down and share his story with the Behind The Kit community was truly an honor. In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of life both behind the drum kit and behind the scenes. We talk about the demanding world of drum teching at the highest level, the importance of professionalism and preparation, balancing creativity with consistency, touring life, relationships within the industry, and what it really takes to build a sustainable career in music. This episode isn’t just about drums — it’s about passion, hard work, loyalty, friendship, and the countless unseen hours that go into making live music happen at the highest level. Season 2 continues to grow through honest, powerful conversations like this one, and I’m incredibly grateful to bring David’s story to the Behind The Kit community. Thank you for being here, and thank you for supporting Behind The Kit. 🥁

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  Episode #10

  🥁 Behind The Kit Episode 25: Jay Weinberg (Slipknot, Suicidal Tendencies)

  May 25, 20261h 28mS2

  <p>Episode 25 of Behind The Kit features a conversation I’ve been incredibly excited to share — sitting down with the one and only @JayWeinberg!</p><p>Known for his explosive energy, precision, and unmistakable intensity behind the kit, Jay has built an incredible career performing with legendary bands like @Slipknot and @SuicidalTendencies. His playing combines power, endurance, musicality, and passion in a way that has made him one of the most respected drummers in modern rock and metal.</p><p>In this conversation, we dive deep into Jay’s journey behind the kit — from his early influences and developing his identity...

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