Mike Matera

Although there was always a piano around the house, augmented by a modest collection of method books, Mike was more interested in learning drums during his childhood. Even so, it wasn’t until he was 17 that he started drum lessons. Those went more smoothly than they might otherwise have, given a modicum of music theory gleaned from informal piano study, as well as from the nuns at his Catholic grammar school.

Early bands included Kids Cook Microwave, Midnight Fury, The Motive, and Sneak’s Noise, where he met bassist Tony Donato (and guitarist Steve Ziolkowski, who briefly considered joining). Donato and Matera continued working together long after Sneak’s Noise disbanded, including such bands as The Original Virgins, Real Live Girl, and Standpipe. Matera also helped Donato form Jack Brag, and The Second Take, the latter of which led to Average of Three.

Mike still dabbles in piano and has crafted a motley collection of compositions, which have been featured in Real Live Girl, Jack Brag and Average of Three. He continues to hone his technical skills as a drummer and cajonist – and has enjoyed collaborating with Steve and Lindsay in this latest project.

Seven Questions for Mikey:

1. Coffee Or Tea: Coffee, but only good coffee. Most American coffee is watery. I prefer quality over quantity, so one good cup of strong coffee, twice daily, is enough. No sugar, and I prefer a splash of milk in the cup before pouring.
2. Favorite Beatle: They’re all favorite.
3. Dogs or cats: I’m aloof and mysterious, so you can probably figure it out.
4. Flying or Road Trip: Flying – window seat, please!
5. Would love a drum lesson from: Stewart Copeland
6. Number of towns in New Jersey I’ve resided in: 5 1/2 (if you include the summer I resided in Seaside Heights)
7. Best concert: Barenaked Ladies at the Meadowlands arena in early 2004