I am Joe, a 43-year-old music enthusiast from Daytona Beach, Florida. My journey into the music industry began at a young age, largely influenced by my Uncle Teddy J Mueller, who served as my mentor. Over the course of 28 years, I developed a deep passion for playing the drums in a Progressive Rock band, drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Rush, Dream Theater, Pink Floyd, and Tool. Their unique sounds and innovative styles fueled my dedication to music. To further hone my skills, I earned a diploma in Recording Arts from the First Institute of Recording Arts. This educational background, combined with my extensive experience, has shaped my understanding of music production and performance. Today, I continue to explore new musical avenues while cherishing the rich legacy of the progressive rock genre that has been a significant part of my life.
I started playing drums at the age of 12, and my passion for music deepened after I took lessons from my Uncle Teddy J Mueller, a member of the classic rock band Axe in the 1970s and 1980s. His guidance inspired me to take drumming seriously, and by 14, I formed my very first garage band in my father’s garage. Those early days were filled with excitement and creativity as we played cover songs and crafted our sound. At 16, I played my first gig, an unforgettable experience that solidified my love for performing in front of an audience. By the time I turned 18, my hard work paid off when I was hired by a local rock band. This opportunity marked the beginning of my journey as a professional musician, and I felt proud to be stepping into the vibrant world of rock music, fueled by the energy and passion that had started in my youth.
In my 20s and 30s, my passion for music deepened significantly, particularly in the realms of Hard Rock and Metal. As I explored these genres, I found myself increasingly drawn to Progressive Rock and Metal, realizing that they resonated with my creative spirit as a musician. This journey led me to form my own band, Smokin Joe & The Gents, which I have proudly led for the past 13 years. Our band is rooted in Classic Rock, and together we’ve crafted a sound that honors the greats while adding our unique twist. Through countless performances and jam sessions, I've built invaluable connections with talented musicians and have cultivated my skills as both a guitarist and a songwriter. The experience has not only enriched my life but has also allowed me to share my love for music with audiences, creating unforgettable moments and memories along the way.
I use a Roland V-Drums VAD316 kit, enhanced with three additional Octo pads mounted on a Gibraltar rack system. My journey with electronic drums began back in 2008, and since then, I have enjoyed the unique blend of real drum feel and modern technology that electronic kits offer. The VAD316 delivers an impressive range of sounds and responsive pads that allow for expressive playing, whether I'm practicing at home or performing live. The addition of the Octo pads provides even more functionality, enabling me to trigger various sounds and backing tracks effortlessly. The Gibraltar rack is robust and customizable, giving me the stability I need while playing. Over the years, I've appreciated how electronic drums have evolved, making it easier to simulate acoustic tones while providing the versatility to experiment with different genres. Overall, my setup has significantly enhanced my drumming experience, allowing for greater creativity and flexibility.
