WELCOME, FRIEND
It’s great to meet you.
Tucked away in the countryside of Normandy, France I currently play with the bands Les Bras Casses and The Haystacks. When not working on things for the bands I’m in my home studio producing my own works for library use. The library music is a chance for me to work independently and explore a different side of music where I often use orchestral and folk instruments.
I also offer drumming tuition and mentoring for people of all ages to help introduce them to the world of drums and drumming. Growing up in south-east England I often faced difficulties when it came to finding somewhere to practice and explore drumming, especially in the areas of drumming that I was particularly interested in.
I hope to be able to ease these barriers for others who feel they face similar difficulties here in Normandy so people can experience it the way it’s meant to be.
In 2023, I took the opportunity to complete my undergraduate studies as a UWL student to help further myself and deepen my understanding of music and its fast-paced world.
The story so far…
Formed first band Fear For Romeo
5 friends from all over north Kent who got together and came up with a definitively radio-friendly punk-rock sound with songs about growing up and figuring it out.
Formed Tonight, We Ride
A chance encounter that ended up with a new band and new sound that had us playing all over the UK from festivals to the stickiest, sweatiest underground dive bars.
Moved to Normandy, France
Times moved on and a fresh start offered an exciting opportunity to try life in another country with the chance to create our own base and the life we wanted. France offered the chance to finally and properly embark on a career in music, plus so much more, and exactly how I always dreamt it to be; playing, travelling, my own studio (more on that soon) and a great musical culture. France seemed like the golden promise, so we took a chance on ourselves and dived right in.
Started drum tuition
After finding my way into the local music scene, I was approached after a show and asked if I offered drum tuition and if so, would I be available to give their grandson some lessons. At the time I had never taught drumming, but I was intrigued by the opportunity. A few days later I gave them a call back and we arranged a time to see how it would go. It went so well that I now tutor 16 people at a local music school as well as a few private students.
Joined Les Bras Casses and The Haystacks
In May 2023, I saw a post on social media from a local punk rock band looking for a new member. I very nearly didn’t contact them; language barrier, time commitments – all the regular excuses. But I did and we clicked so naturally that it just worked, so I became the new member of Les Bras Casses.
A few months later an old bass player friend contacted me asking if I was available as a drummer for his band. We played together when I first moved to France and kept in loose contact. The same hangups came up again; time, language, ability… a few auditions and hangouts later and The Haystacks sent me a very unexpected video congratulating me on being their newest member.
Moe joined the Haystacks recently and has adapted extremely well. Always in a good mood, a solid sense of rhythm and a great capacity for work which has enabled him to quickly become our fourth man.
JOEL THIRY
(translated from French)