Marco Minnemann was very young when he heard the rock group Queen perform "We Will Rock You". Today, the German is one of the most gifted, innovative, cutting-edge drummers on international music scene with his unique interdependence style of performing.
"I pretty much decided to do music when I first heard 'We Will Rock You' from Queen. I was a really young boy when that album came out. The impact on me was just so pure and powerful that I just decided to investigate further into what music can do," Minnemann, who performed at Mumbai's Hard Rock Cafe earlier this week and will do so at its outlet here on Sunday, said in an interview.
"The first instrument I learned was the organ, then drums and guitar followed. I was always interested in composing music and take joy in presenting my work in the form of my releases. Whether it's solo or collaborative, it all counts," he added.
What then is interdependence all about? Essentially, it allows him to play various patterns with each of his feet or hands.
"Take all sorts of combinations or time signatures, play them with hands and feet against each other, one by one, starting slowly... and then form something musical with it. Don't make it look excessive. Make music with your own 'language'," Minnemann, who has published several instructional books describing the concept, elaborated.
What has his journey in the world of music been like?
"For eight years now, I have this little trio called the Aristocrats along with Guthrie Govan and Bryan Beller. Then, I'm part of Joe Satriani's band for five years. I have played and recorded with Steven Wilson, Kreator, Necrophagist, the Buddy Rich Big Band and also have solo albums out," Minnemann said.
In Mumbai, Mohini Dey (bass) and Rhythm Shaw (guitar) will accompany Minnemann.
"Both are amazing musicians, so come out, don't miss this. We'll be performing each of our material, some for the very first time. So it's going to be adventurous, exciting and hopefully we'll have lots of cool surprises coming your and our way," he said.