Max Yates began learning drums at the age of twelve, but it wasn’t until he turned sixteen and got his first proper drum kit that his passion truly took off. From that point on, drumming became far more than a hobby — it became a calling. Max’s approach to music has always been driven by a deep respect for both sound and spectacle. He’s inspired by musicians who bring as much energy to their live performances as they do precision to their recordings. His biggest influence is Tommy Lee, not for sheer technical complexity, but for his ability to make every show feel like an event. “He doesn’t just play through the songs,” Max says, “he performs them.” That philosophy has shaped Max’s own style behind the kit — powerful, dynamic, and always engaging. He’s never wanted to be “the guy sat still at the back that no one notices.” Instead, his drumming is as much a visual experience as it is a rhythmic foundation, ensuring that every performance leaves a lasting impression.