Michael Calabrese

Michael Calabrese

Lake Street Dive

Mike grew up in a musical family. His parents met in a rock band in 1973 called, ironically, "Just Friends." Holidays were guitar circles, weekdays were school band, weekends were basement jams with friends and summers were music camps. From '03-'07 he attended the New England Conservatory of Music, and by the end of his first year he had already met the people who would come to form Lake Street Dive, the band he tours with to this day. When not touring he's hanging out with his wife Greta and daughter Tilly. These two lovely ladies, as well as weightlifting and meditation, are what keep him happy and sane.

Michael
Calabrese's
IN 3

Michael Calabrese's
IN 3

  • WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

    I hate taking drum solos, but in 2018 Lake Street Dive needed to add one to a headline Red Rocks show to fill time. I was so nervous and in awe of the setting that I entered a fugue state and wound up playing for six minutes straight. I have no idea if it was any good.

  • WORDS OF WISDOM FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF DRUMMERS

    Outwardly, I draw inspiration from anything that makes me dance or feel like crying. Inwardly, the ability to relax and detach myself from expectation allows me to execute things I'm hearing more easily.

  • FAVORITE ZILDJIAN CYMBAL/COMBO

    Vic Firth sticks were the first I was ever given, and since then, no matter what other brands I've tried, I've always returned to them. You can just tell they're designed, tested and produced with skill and care. They never disappoint.

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