On January 2015, Steven Wilson announced that Craig Blundell would be taking the drum seat for the band’s Tour of the Americas starting that summer. That particular tour ended and Craig has very much continued to be part of the band, playing in more concerts and even recording with Steven Wilson. Prior to the Steven Wilson gig, Craig had made his reputation as an in-demand teacher and clinician, and also by playing with other top-caliber musicians such as Stu Hamm and Jennifer Batten. Craig is now known worldwide and has gathered many accolades since the time this interview took place.
This conversation with Craig took place prior to the Steven Wilson show at San Francisco’s legendary venue The Warfield. Craig shared his thoughts on the following topics:
- His increased notoriety
- The physical demands of playing with Steven Wilson on him and his equipment
- His love of photography and his favorite US landmarks (Craig is an accomplished photographer)
- How he got in the band (including being recommended by Gavin Harrison, among others
- His audition
- Marco Minnemann
- Internet comments and people’s general reactions to his playing
- His influences, including comments on Buddy Rich, Bill Bruford, Neil Peart, Nicko McBrain and Dave Lombardo!
- Covering for Chad Wackerman with Stu Hamm
- The Steven Wilson Band and the Steven Wilson fan base
- His future plans (at that point in time)
- Prog fans
Plus a message to his World Prog-Nation fans!
Craig Blundell is a world-class musician who is dedicated to his craft, and also a gentleman. We wish him continued success. We would like to thank Steven Wilson’s PR and Management teams for making this conversation possible.
Enjoy the interview!
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