Fans of Chilliwack’s 1979 album “Breakdown in Paradise” may remember Rick Taylor as the Drummer for that particular incarnation of the band. After “Breakdown in Paradise,” Rick left the band to pursue other projects. We thought we’d take some time to catch up. Rick was kind enough to answer a few of our questions.
CFP: What is your musical background? Did you play drums for any other bands before Chilliwack?
RT: My background is pretty diverse with Rock, Blues and Country influences.
I have played with various groups as well as solo artist from Canada to Nashville.
CFP: Which groups or drummers did you listen to growing up?
RT: I grew up listening to the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Led Zepplin, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, The Police and even Merle Haggard.
CFP: Do you like to solo? If so how do you approach it?
RT: I'm not much of a soloist and I avoid "Wipe Out" at all cost! If asked I approached solos with a strong rhythm and groove, very straight forward.
CFP: What events led up to you landing the Chilliwack "Breakdown in Paradise" gig?
RT: I was recording and touring with the Seattle based band Striker. We were toward the end of a world tour, playing in Vancover British Columbia. At that show I met Brian MacCleod. We hit it off and I was invited into the studio as Bill and the band were putting tracks down on the Breakdown in Paradise album.
CFP: What are some of your favorite tracks you recorded with Bill and why?
RT: My favorites are "Communication Breakdown", "Trial By Fire" and I especially like "On the Road to Paradise". My reasons are simple, good lyrics and the sound.
CFP: Tell us about some of the interesting musical experiences you've had touring.
RT: Whether I am touring with a group, recording or just "sittin' in" I approach every gig, set or song as if they were brand new. I am never board with the music, it speaks to me. After 20 years I still love it!
CFP: What type of kit are you currently playing?
RT: I still have my old Ludwig kit I used on the Chilliwack tunes and it still sounds great. Although I have a beautiful D W kit I still break out the Ludwig to jam on.
CFP: What setups do you like to use in the studio?
RT: I am prepared to use whatever setups and sounds that are called for in the studio. Each situation is different as each live show is different.
CFP: What have you been up to lately?
RT: During the last few years I have been working and touring with an "up and comer" by the name of Scott Joss. Scott is a singer, song writer and can play fiddle or guitar with equal ease. Scott is also the fiddle player of about 10 years with the country maverick Dwight Yoakum. I am also working on a project with the guitar virtuoso Lew Fratis and the Lewminators. This is a hard driving Blues and Rock band based here in Northern California. The Lewminators are wildly popular around California and are getting ready to share the sound with the rest of the country.
Rick - thank you for taking the time to answer our questions! Best of luck!