An Interview With Mitch Gable Of SOil

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Written By: Robbie Rodriguez

SOiL Is:

Ryan McCombs (Lead Vocals)

Tim King (Bass)

Adam Zadel (Guitar)

Mitch Gable (Drums)

SOiL formed in 1997 as a Heavy Rock Band out of Chicago. With hits like “Scars” in 2001. They are best known for the classic hits “Halo”, “Unreal” and “Rededine” The band has some touring dates coming up in the Mid-West kicking off next month. Be sure to check out the website at www.SOiltheband.com for more information and all things SOiL.

I had the pleasure of sitting down and chatting with Mitch Gable now the official drummer for SOiL

Side Stage Magazine: What projects have you been a part of?

Echoes The Fall, SOiL

What albums have you played on?

Echoes The Fall- Bloodline,

Echoes The Fall- Echoes The Fall EP,

SOiL- WHOLE

Why drums, how did you choose drumming out of all the instruments out there?

Mitch: You know, good question! HAHAHA! I think I still ask myself that same question! I definitely should’ve signed up for one of the easier instruments like guitar or bass. Not much to set up and you can look cool flipping your hair around! Problem is, I’ve always been drawn to drums and I don’t have any hair to flip around! My dad played in some local bands in AZ when I was a kid, so his drum set was always accessible.

How long have you’ve been playing?

I’ve been playing since I was 14 years old. It’s been a long, up-and-down road to get here where I stand now. And to be honest, I’m not even halfway up the mountain to where I want to be.

Did you take any lessons? If so, who did you study under?

I’m actually self-taught. Drumming just always made sense to me. I could listen to a song, pick out the drum beat, and break down the hit orders and which drum was being hit. It is actually pretty wild to think about it now, looking back on how I picked it up. It just came to me and unwrapped itself.

What groups have you played with? How was the audition process?

I co-founded Echoes The Fall with my brother (Michael Gable). Not much of an audition there obviously. When ETF had reached its financial demise, I heard from an old touring buddy named Ryan McCombs (SOiL, Drowning Pool). You see, ETF was fortunate enough to share the road with Drowning Pool for a bit, and we all had a blast together! So, Ryan and myself stayed in contact. He told me that SOiL was going to hold a few auditions, and that I should get my A$$ out to Chicago! So, I learned some of the songs and made my way out to the Midwest for an audition. It felt so natural jamming with the SOiL guys. Everything just grooved together. Everyone had a smile on their face. So, needless to say, they hired me as the Touring Drummer.

How did you get the gig with Soil? How long have you been with them?

I’ve been with the SOiL boys for 4 years. It’s been pretty fun so far, with minimal friction. It’s been a pleasure to tour with these guys, share some jokes and laughs, and share some memories in front of hundreds of thousands of people!

Tell us how you prepare yourself for touring?

I’ll start to play frequently about a month before a tour. Practicing songs, building up the calluses on my hands, and working on endurance for those hour + sets. Obviously, being in SOiL, your drinking game better be on point! Those 1-2 bottles of Jager that go down BEFORE the show can pack quite a punch if you’re drinking tolerance isn’t at its peak!

What are the hardest issues you face on tour as a Drummer?

Well, sometimes I go out without a drum tech… Have you ever tried to pack up equipment after an hour + set, drunk, tired, etc.?? You never win and are constantly losing stuff hahahaha

How can the drummer next door get on a run with a group? What would you recommend?

Smartest thing I recommend? Show the national band respect when you play with them, be nice, shake a hand or 2, try to grab a drink with them. The best luck I ever had was bringing a bottle of booze or some beer to the national bands bus, and tell them it’s theirs if I can just share one with them and hang for a bit. I’ve reached where I’m at today from doing that.

Are you now a full member with Soil? Do you work with any other bands?

I am officially the full time Drummer for SOiL, and only SOiL. Those monkeys keep me busy enough hahaha

Tell us about your kit set up? Is it your design?

I have a very small setup on tour. One tom up, one tom down. It’s easier to manage, and I love the simplicity of it!

Who are you endorsed by? Any new equipment you’d like to tell us about?

My newest endorsement is Vic Firth! It’s always been a dream to have my signature on a VF stick! It’s the biggest stick company in the world, and the best! I’m also endorsed by DDrum, Tour Supply, JH Audio In-Ears, etc…

What tips or tricks could you share with up and coming drummers about the industry and playing?

It’s a tough industry to break. A lot politics. If you’re aiming to play for love of the music, then just play wherever and whenever! If you want in the business, it’s gonna take money and a lot of patience. Just to be blunt and honest. You’re gonna need friends in high places that have low intentions. Capitalize on EVERY chance you get. Play hard and practice even harder! Be yourself, have fun, and enjoy the ride!

What are your future plans?

Writing with the boys on a new SOiL record!!!!

Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with Side Stage Magazine.