CI: How old were you when you came to America from South Africa?

AF:  I was in my late teens

CI:  What musical styles did you study at the New England  Conservatory of Music in Boston?

AF:  I applied for the jazz department and was accepted into the classical one [I don't know why]. I did courses for both degrees but because I had only paid for one degree, could only get one - so I received the classical degree.

CI:  What other instruments are you proficient in aside from the drums?

AF:  I play a little bit of keyboards and guitar - just enough for basic writing purposes - I would not say that I am proficient at either

CI:  According to your site, you have listed the Beatles amongst your influences. How did they influence your style and technique? Have you had an opportunity to meet and / or play with any of the Beatles?

AF:  They were very innovative in their songwriting and orchestrations. They sound quite unlike anything else before or since. I jammed with George in a studio in London [with Gary Moore], Played with Paul at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and did a comedy piece with Ringo on the Letterman show

CI:  What element of Jazz is evidenced in your body of work?

AF:  I love listening to jazz and only played that style for the 5 years I was in Boston. I think the improvisational quality of that music has influenced my rock playing tremendously. The records I did with Andy Laverne were absolute jazz records. The stuff I'm doing with Oz Noy is jazz although more modern and slightly fusion sounding and the live gig at the Metropolitan has blues and jazz roots. Also playing with Miles Davis on the Letterman show was quite special for me.

CI:  What is your favorite kit? What pieces do you absolutely have to have when performing in different stage settings?

AF:  I use a double pedal a lot of the time - so that would be the most important thing. Even if I never use it I like having it there. I use different kits for different situations - see gear section on my website - with the show being the biggest one to cover all the styles necessary for that gig.