About Jeffrey

I’ve been connected to music and drumming as an art form for as long as I can remember. After traveling the world with my military family, we eventually settled in Colorado, where I realized music was more than a hobby—it was a creative path and a significant part of my life. By the time I entered the University of Northern Colorado to study music and education, I was already performing professionally in country, ska, reggae, punk, and alternative rock bands to pay my tuition. Those early experiences sharpened my adaptability behind the kit and gave me my first real taste of life as a working musician.
 

My Musical Roots in the Mile High City
After transferring to the University of Colorado Denver to focus on Music Performance, I found myself immersed in the local recording studio scene. Between classes, I booked recording sessions and live gigs all over the Front Range area. My schedule was packed and demanded discipline—something that continues to serve me well. I think I thrive on the collaborative energy of studio work and still love working closely with engineers, producers, musicians, and artists of all genres.
 

A Leap to the Bay Area
Looking for new challenges and a bigger career, I headed west to the San Francisco Bay Area. I spent about a year there, soaking up the city’s vibrant music culture and building connections throughout the region. From intimate clubs to larger venues, I continued expanding my musical depth and refining my creative skills. I tried to make every session, every rehearsal, and every show add another layer of depth to my playing.
 

Los Angeles and the International Stage
Eventually, I moved to Los Angeles and into the international music world. One of my first major breaks was playing and touring with the iconic Nina Hagen Band, an experience that took me around the globe. Working with Nina and her team pushed me to elevate my drumming to match her truly unparalleled energy and creativity. Around the same time, I was fortunate to play with bands like Ghettoblaster, culminating in a deal with Elektra Records. That opened doors to nearly every major studio in L.A., where I collaborated with top-tier producers and engineers such as Eric Valentine, Geza X, Wayne Kramer, Jacquire King, and more.
 

A Turn Inward
In 2009, I made the choice to explore another side of my life - still staying on a creative spiritual trajectory. I took a step away from the music industry and based on many years of previous study, ordained as a Buddhist monk. For several years, I dedicated myself to teaching Buddhist philosophy and psychology full-time. That period was a profound time of reflection and provided me with new tools to help others find balance, fulfillment, and inner peace. During this time, I also deepened my studies in positive psychology and mindfulness coaching, eventually becoming a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation.
 

Back Behind the Kit
By 2014, things shifted again and I decided I wanted to bring my life experiences—on stage, in the studio, and on the meditation cushion—back into music as both a performer and a creative mentor. Under the banner of Mechanic Music, I returned to producing records, recording drum tracks, and leading workshops that merge creativity, mindfulness, and team collaboration. I also maintain a private teaching studio in San Francisco, offering one-on-one and virtual drum lessons for students who want to develop not just their technique, but their creative mindset.
 

A Holistic Approach to Music

In my approach to music, I blend years of rigorous practice and technical skill with creative awareness, introspection, and meditative focus. As a pro drummer, a university-trained music educator, a former Buddhist monk, and a psychology coach, I’ve learned—both through experience and from mentors in many creative fields—that powerful creativity emerges from a holistic, self-aware mindset. To that end, my lessons go beyond technique—they’re about understanding our shared humanity, fostering resilience, and nurturing a deeper sense of purpose both on and off the stage. Plus, drumming is fun and cathartic! Whether I’m on stage, in the studio, or coaching musicians and non-musicians alike, my real goal is to help people tap into their full creative potential, both musically and in life.
 

Select Credits & Collaborations
Today, I continue to collaborate with a wide range of artists, producers, and industry professionals in the Bay Area, nationally, and internationally—booking sessions, recording dates, and curated performances. But, in reality, for me, it’s all about forming genuine connections and creating sounds that resonate in a complicated world.
 

Producers & Engineers

• Eric Valentine

• Geza X

• Wayne Kramer

• Jacquire King

• …and many more
   

Performing and Recording Artists

• Nina Hagen – International touring & recording (1999–2008)

• Ghettoblaster – Elektra Records

• Josie Cotton – Scruffy Records

• Ralph’s World – Walt Disney Records

• Blood of Abraham – Atomic Pop Records

• Tyler Hilton – Maverick Records

• …and many more
   

Education & Certifications

• University of Northern Colorado (1986–1989) & University of Colorado Denver (1989–1990) – Music Education & Performance

• Buddhist Teacher Training (1999–ongoing) – Multiple silent retreats & international teaching programs

• Professional Certified Positive Psychology & Mindfulness Coach (PCC) – Accredited by the International Coaching Federation
   

I bring a unique blend of performance, education, and mindfulness to every project I'm involved in. If you’re looking for an experienced drummer for live performances, recording sessions, or remote drum tracks—or if you’re seeking lessons and one-on-one mentorship—please feel free reach out.​