Local artist profile: Riley Hayes

THIS week we chat with another member of local heavy rockers Lost In The Past, drummer Riley Hayes, who said he took up the tubs after realising he was a “very rhythm-orientated person”.

What motivated you to take up the drums?

A while ago I realised I was a very rhythm-orientated person.

I’ll find myself tapping my leg or my hands a lot in random patterns without even realising. To add onto that I love music, mainly heavy music.

So, I decided to take up the drums around a year and a half ago. It was one of the best decisions I’ve made.

How would you describe your drumming style?

Fast and groovy.

My technique involves lots and lots of double kick – it’s a vital item in my drumming.

It brings out all the little accents and all the speed and groove to a song.

Other things like breakdowns are huge for me.

Which other drummers inspire you?

All the drummers from Slipknot have had a huge influence on my style: Joey Jordison for his speed, Jay Weinberg for his accuracy and Eloy Casagrande for his hard hitting.

Other amazing drummers like the infamous Danny Carey from TOOL are definitely up there too.

Another amazing prog rock/metal drummer is from an absolutely amazing band, Karnivool.

They’re Aussie too!

Have you had any mentors over your career so far?

I’d have to say my Mum, my friends, my friends’ parents and even some teachers from my old school and other local Bendigo bands.

Most importantly I have to thank my Dad, my band members and band managers, people who help out behind the scenes and the staff at our local music shops.

What are some fond memories you have from your time as a drummer so far?

My first ever gig at the Golden Vine Hotel. It was a small, “meant-for-practice” sort of gig.

But, the most important memory to me is the phone call I got from (lead singer and guitarist) Aaron (Pearce) to say that I was part of the band.

Where do you see yourself, as well as the band, in a couple of years? What about in ten years?

In a couple of years, I’d see Lost In The Past doing things we never thought we would achieve.

Ten years though is a while ahead.

I’d say the Legion would have grown, and if you aren’t part of it already, join the Legion!

I’d say our music would have expanded much further and bigger. I’d like to think we could be headlining festivals (and) collaborating with other huge bands.

We’ll find out in due time.

What would you say to aspiring drummers who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Take your inspiration and run with it. Work hard and practice. Once you’re comfortable, try giving things your own twist.

Don’t make the mistake of comparing yourself to someone who has been drumming for 10, 20 years.

Look online for tips and tricks. Even get drum lessons if you desire.

Create relationships with other people in the music scene, go to local shows, support your local artists.

Dedication to your band and practice is core too. Be friendly, be supportive, be mature.

Sensibility, dedication, inspiration and hard work – these things will take you much further than you think.

To learn more about Lost In The Park, follow @lostinthepastofficial_, or to follow Riley Hayes’ journey, follow him on Instagram @rhayesmusic_ or TikTok @rhayesmusic__