Austin Marlow

SNACKTIME

Austin Marlow is a 30 year old, church raised drummer from Philadelphia, PA. Starting at the age or two, Austin was obsessed with drums and surrounded by music from his family. His parents enrolled him in several programs that would allow him to grow his musical knowledge including the Philadelphia Clef Club, an academy where students learn to play together and experience multiple styles of music. The experience of playing here led Austin to the opportunity to play for several years at The Cape May Jazz Festival.

After graduating high school Austin joined the Kimmel Center Youth Jazz Orchestra, a prestigious honor that is reserved for the most talented young musicians in Philadelphia. The experience at Kimmel solidified his passion to be a performer as a profession. Austin had the opportunity to attend Lincoln University on a full scholarship, but some family challenges forced a change of direction. Austin continued to play regularly and hone his skills on and off the drums. He played parties, weddings, shows around Philadelphia and did some work in retail at Guitar Center.

During his time at Guitar Center, a gentleman noticed Austin practicing during a work break and asked if he was available for a rehearsal/audition. This meeting led to a nine year association with the Stylistics. The tours took Austin around the world, performing their many gold record hits with the legendary band.

Covid halted the touring with the Stylistics but opened the door to a new and exciting adventure. Austin and some friends formed a band called SNACKTIME. With no venues open, the band took to performing on the streets in Philadelphia and began to get a reputation for putting on a great show. When venues opened again, SNACKTIME was in the position to play bigger and better events that led to opening for Portugal. The Man in 2024. SNACKTIME is currently the live band for Jason Kelce’s new ESPN television show, They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce.

Austin
Marlow's
IN 3

Austin Marlow's
IN 3

Most Memorable Next-Level Performance?

The most memorable Next-Level performance for me was playing Red Rocks with SNACKTIME when we opened for Portugal. The Man last year. Although I've performed at amphitheaters before, the fact that I was here with my band playing music that I helped create at such an iconic spot made this such a special performance. This was the kind of experience that makes you realize why you keep pushing to get better and that you can achieve what you work hard for.
What Drives Your Creativity?

What drives my creativity is the constant awareness of everything happening around me — both in the music and with the people I’m playing with. As a drummer, it’s about listening to what the other band members are doing and finding ways to enhance that, to contribute something that takes the overall sound to a new place. It’s a balance of staying in the pocket and staying engaged with what’s going on in the moment, but also being able to step outside of that and push things forward with a unique perspective.
Why Do You Choose Vic Firth?

I choose Vic Firth because they offer the most consistent quality across their entire line. When you're playing as much as I do, whether it's a small venue or a big stage, having sticks you can rely on every single time is crucial. Vic Firth has a wide variety of options that cater to different playing styles and preferences, which is something that really speaks to me. The durability is a big factor too. I’m on the road a lot, and when you’re playing hard every night, the last thing you want is to be worrying about your gear. Vic Firth sticks hold up consistently, which means I can play with the same set of sticks from gig to gig and they don’t wear out on me. For me, a drumstick is an extension of my hand. It’s not just a tool; it’s part of how I express myself and connect with the music. With Vic Firth, I’ve always felt like I can trust my sticks to respond the way I want them to, which helps me stay locked in with the band.