Karnataka name their drummer

Karnataka have added a full-time drummer to their lineup – they've welcomed Frenchman Jimmy Pallagrosi on board after previously working with session sticksmen.

The demonstration artist, tutor and composer has a range of performance experiences behind him – view his drumming for a track featuring Dream Theater keyboardist Derek Sherinian below.

Karnataka say: “In recent years we’ve been working with session drummers to ensure we had the best possible person in the drum seat, and we’ve been very fortunate to have worked with some of the UK’s top musicians.

“However, we’ve always felt that it would be great to have the best possible drummer who was also a band member and part of the team, playing a full role in songwriting and arrangements.

“Enter Jimmy, who hails from Lyon in France and is now based in London. He’s already bringing a fresh energy and dynamic to the band’s sound and the new album. We look forward to sharing that with you soon.”

Pallagrosi replaces most recent touring member Matt McDonough and joins Karnataka in time to contribute to their fifth record, which will follow 2010’s The Gathering Light.

Jimmy Pallagrosi in action

Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.