In the ever-evolving world of metal drumming, it takes a rare combination of technical prowess and artistic vision to truly stand out. Rohith is one such drummer whose mastery of metal grooves has left a profound impression on both peers and audiences alike.
Having witnessed his work firsthand, it’s clear that Rohith brings an intensity to drumming matched only by his creativity. His deep understanding of sub-genres like slam, grindcore, and death metal allows him to craft grooves that defy expectations, giving the music a fresh, unpredictable edge.
Rohith’s attention to rhythmic detail is striking. He doesn’t just play for the sake of speed or aggression—every beat serves a purpose. His use of odd-time signatures and polyrhythms adds a progressive dimension to his drumming, challenging the listener’s perception while staying rooted in metal’s core essence.
One of the defining elements of Rohith’s style is his double bass drumming technique. It’s not merely about endurance but about precision, clarity, and musicality. His feet move with remarkable dexterity, producing patterns that elevate the intensity of his performances without overpowering the rest of the arrangement.
Beyond his technical skill, Rohith’s sense of musical storytelling makes him a standout figure in the metal scene. His drum parts aren’t just timekeepers; they are pivotal to the narrative of each song. His fills and transitions feel like natural extensions of the composition, demonstrating a deep understanding of dynamics and tension-building.
What further sets Rohith apart is his versatility across different styles of rock and metal. His covers of Linkin Park’s iconic tracks showcase his ability to adapt to nu-metal grooves with a modern, polished touch. Additionally, his cover of “Afterlife” by Avenged Sevenfold highlights his mastery of complex drum arrangements, particularly the intricate transitions and syncopated rhythms that were hallmarks of The Rev’s drumming.
While his live performances are electrifying, it’s Rohith’s compositional mindset that truly defines his artistry. He approaches drumming with a balance of academic insight and practical experience, drawing from his Rockschool training to innovate within traditional frameworks. This blend of structured education and personal exploration has helped him push the boundaries of what modern metal drumming can achieve.
Rohith’s contributions are further distinguished by his ability to merge cultural influences into his playing. Rooted in both Indian and Western musical traditions, he brings a unique, cross-cultural perspective to his drumming. This refreshing approach resonates with a global audience, bridging musical gaps and creating new possibilities within the genre. As a drummer who has played for several bands, I’ve encountered many who excel in speed, technicality, or showmanship—but few manage to combine all these elements with the level of finesse that Rohith does. His dedication to his craft is evident in every performance, and his influence continues to grow both in the UK and beyond.
Rohith is not just another drummer in the metal scene—he’s a pioneer, pushing the boundaries of what it means to play metal drums. His ability to craft grooves that are both intricate and accessible is a testament to his deep understanding of the genre. For anyone seeking inspiration or insight into modern drumming, Rohith’s journey is one to follow closely.
It’s drummers like Rohith who will continue to shape the future of metal. His work reminds us that true artistry lies in evolution, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The metal world is undoubtedly in good hands with talents like him leading the charge.
(The music review is written by Akash Kishore, drummer for Warmarshall and Lurid.)
