The first time I sat behind a drum kit, I was eight years old. My father (David Pickover) is a very talented and well respected drummer in South Africa, and he had this incredible and unique Staccato drum kit, which looked like something out of a sci-fi movie!

He wanted to try and teach me, even though I was more interested in video games, and I reluctantly agreed. Thank goodness he did, because as soon as my hands touched the sticks, bashed the skins and stomped on the bass drum pedal (Out of time of course), something ignited within me. A spark. A connection. A rhythm that resonated within my soul.

That spark, however, remained a flicker for a few years. It wasn't until I turned thirteen that the fire truly caught hold. Suddenly, drumming wasn't just a hobby; it was an obsession. Every spare moment after school and on weekends was spent practicing, exploring rhythms, and dreaming of playing on stage.

And play on stage I did! Countless bands, countless gigs, countless memories forged in the vibrant music scene of Cape Town and Wales. From the reggae-metal fusion of ill system, where we shared stages with giants like Fear Factory, Bloodhound Gang, and Bullet for My Valentine (Whilst we were based in Wales), to the raw energy of Arc Reactor's nu-metal assault, to the intricate soundscapes of Alinea's progressive metal journeys, and finally with Grand Mirage back in Wales, the drums have been my constant companion, my voice, my driving force.

Being a drummer has taught me far more than just how to keep a beat or learn how to use a double bass pedal. It's instilled in me a unique set of skills, a way of thinking, a philosophy of life that extends far beyond the stage.

You see, drumming is about more than just hitting things. It's about discipline, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of mastery. It's about listening, collaborating, and finding your place within a larger whole. It's about pushing boundaries, embracing creativity, and expressing yourself authentically.