You have just currently ended a UK tour with ‘Dead Men Walking’. Can you tell us who’s in the band, and how the tour is being received?

DMW is made up of Capt. Sensible of The Damned, Mike Peters of The Alarm, Kirk Brandon of Spear of Destiny, and myself. The tour did great and we’re finishing an album and will tour again soon.

Most people remember you as the drummer that stands up with the stray cats, (Brian Setzer, Lee Rocker) do you play drums in the regular way when you record with your other groups?

I play sitting down when the music calls for it and stand up for certain gigs, it all depends.

Tell us about you the songwriter…do you write alone, with others, etc.

I usually write with someone – Lee and Brian in the past and currently with the Dead Men Walking guys. I’ve also enjoyed writing with Danny B Harvey, Tim Polecat, and Gilby Clarke – all great players and writers.

When you are looking for inspiration, who would you listen to?

I’ll listen to any of the original rockers. Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochran, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, and of course Elvis.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

Hopefully on the road and in the studio. Traveling and playing my drums.

Who would you most like to gig with?

I enjoy all live situations, but there will never be anything quite like a Stray Cats live show.

What is your ultimate goal with your music?

My goal has always been to make my living as a musician while doing good work.

What’s in your CD player right now?

Gram Parsons, Grievous Angel

What advice would you give to songwriters just beginning their careers?

Just keep writing, working the craft, and try to develop your own thing.

What do you think of the current music scene?

I don’t know that much about the current scene, but it’s probably like it always was, I like things that are roots-based.

What’s next for slim jim phantom?

Back to England to finish the DMW album and a few shows over Christmas.