Two Johns Music
With a growing number of song placements in TV, film, and advertisement, the Two Johns are examples of how to be sucessful independent musicians. Comprised of John Cimino and John Wagoner, Two Johns Music is earning a reputation for quality tracks that showcase catchy hooks and memorable grooves. We met the two Johns at the TAXI Road Rally 2010 where their music was played for over 2000 people and met with tremendous applause. John Wagoner came by our table and let us know how much he loves Drumcore and how it has formed the foundation for many of the Two Johns Music's tracks.
How long have you been making music together?
John W: We've been making music together for nearly a decade. We've done nearly a dozen albums with our "circle of friends," including pop, slow core, and Christmas records. We've also done dozens more miscellaneous projects together.
How would you describe your music and what are your influences?
John W: If you would take a handful of records from Neil Young, Neil Peart, and Neil Diamond and put them in a particle collider, it would make an awful mess, but we sound nothing like that anyway- I just thought it was a cool image.
How long have you been with TAXI and have you had any forwards? Placements?
John W: We've been with TAXI for 2 years now. Through using their critiques, we've been able to zero in on what we think the industry is looking for. We've had a good number of forwards and several placements as a result. Our most recent placement was for an east coast music library- a cool spy-sounding piece, which we had Stephen Perkins drum for that track ( courtesy of Drum Core!!!)
How did you come across DrumCore?
John W: We heard about DrumCore at last year's Taxi Road Rally. After we came back home, we were in a pinch to find a drummer for a last-minute session, so I bought and downloaded DrumCore on the spot. Wow! It saved the session, and I've been using it ever since!
Would you say that DrumCore helps with your songwriting?
John W: Absolutely! DrumCore gives me the flexibility and control to get great-sounding drum parts in a hurry. On the other end, sometimes when I'm in a funk, I play some DrumCore grooves and it inspires me to go in totally new directions. I also love the fact that DrumCore automatically adjusts to the tempo in my ProTools session; if a client wants a piece a little faster, I don't have to re-track the drums or do any time expansion. DrumCore does it for me.
Do you have any advice for aspiring songwriters/musicians looking to get into home recording?
John W: We are so blessed to be living in the digital age, where, with just a basic digital multitrack or DAW, anyone can make great sounding recordings. Also, don't get frustrated by technology. Learn the basics (setting up a session, checking levels, using plugins, playing to a click), and get recording. You'll learn something every time you screw up! :) I sure did! Also, if space and money is limited and you don't have the ability to track drums easily, DrumCore can give you what you need- great drums sounds and flexibility- for not a lot of money. For the money, it's a steal.
Where can our users hear more of your music?