 Coming from a musical background (Al's father played drums with such jazz greats as Kenny Dorham, Sonny Stitt and J.J. Johnson). Al Webster's musical journey began as a member of the Coachmen Drum and Bugle Corp where performing for an audience evoked his passion for music and kick-started his career. After years of performing a variety of musical styles and private study in New York with the legendary drummer Dennis Davis (Stevie Wonder/David Bowie) Al became a drummer in very high demand.
Touring, recording and or performing with such artists as Jeff Healey, Long John Baldry, Edgar Winter, Mavis Staples, Billy Ray Cyrus, Kim Wilson, Robben Ford, Amanda Marshall, Duke Robillard, Randy Bachman, Jaco Pastorius, Colin James, Zachary Richard, Alanna Myles, Steve Lukather, Jim Belushi, Michelle Shocked. TV appearances on the Rosie O'Donnell Show, Much Music, Juno Awards, NHL Awards, and MTV. Al became renown worldwide for his drumming and easy-going personality.
While touring is Al's passion, he is also sought after for studio work, he has performed on recordings by Colin James "Little Big Band II". Long John Baldry "Right To Sing The Blues". Long John Baldry "Live In Hamburg". Long John Baldry "Live In Concert" (DVD). Amanda Marshall "Live At The Corona Theater" (DVD). Amanda Marshall "Intermission" (Best of) as well as countless independent releases.
Al's musical diversity and relaxed personality has landed him some great gigs over the years, allowing him to become one of the industry's leading drummers and a true Road Warrior.
Catch Al on tour with Jeff Healey.
FX - What are you currently working on?
AW - My new recipe for chicken vindaloo! Also I am currently touring North America and Europe with Jeff Healey
 FX - What has been your favourite project that you have worked on so far and why?
AW - Mainly working with Jeff Healey because of his brilliant musicianship and the diverse material we are able to play.
FX - What was your first experience with music software?
AW - My first software experience was with Ableton Live learning how to create loops!
FX - What FXpansion products do you own and how do you use them? Do you have any tips or tricks you would like to share?
AW - I use BFD as well as the BFD Jazz & Funk & BFD Percussion expansion packs. Mainly I use them live to enhance my acoustic drums and trigger sounds from my e kit.
FX - How has the introduction of electronic drums affected the way you perform and make music?
 AW - It has enabled me to access thousands of sounds at the push of a button and also save time by finding the perfect sound for any style of song. As well as creating my own sounds with the Yamaha Dtxtreme & Roland SPD-S I have been able to enhance my live drum sound with triggered sounds. With Amanda Marshall I took all individual kick and snare sounds from the record edited them in my laptop and loaded them into the DTXtreme that way every song had the exact kick and snare sound.
FX - Do you have a favourite BFD kit that you have customised?
AW - Actually the sounds are all fantastic! I usually go with whatever fits the style of music.
FX - What do you use in combination with BFD?
AW - I use Drumagog, Addictive Drums, Drums from Hell and a touch of salt.
FX - What would you wish to see next from software developers?
AW - More input and communication between software programmers and musicians. Also stand alone versions of software such as BFD as well as more support for electronic drums for live settings.
FX - What have you got lined up for the rest of the year?
AW - Nothing at all (besides patiently awaiting the arrival of BFD2). Actually, there will be more touring and a new CD with Jeff Healey.
Update:
May 2009 Jeff Healey's "Mess Of Blues" wins "Rock Blues Album Of The Year" at the 30th Annual Blues Awards in Memphis Tennessee
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