Frankie Banali

Frankie Banali

His hard hitting, deep pocket, heavy rock drumming was a mainstay of the 80's LA rock scene, but Frankie Banali - the person and the drummer - goes much deeper than the grooves he plays with Quiet Riot, W.A.S.P. or any number of bands you may have heard him with.

Citing early influences including Ringo and Charlie Watts, Frankie got heavier via the influence of John Bonham, then deeper into technique through the likes of Terry Bozzio and other progressive players. This combination of influences set him up nicely for session work with everyone from Billy Idol ('Mony, Mony) and guitar whiz Gary Hoey, to Billy Thorpe, Monarch, and super-duo Glenn Hughes and Pat Thrall on their classic 'Hughes/Thrall' album.

"Still today the track 'Hold Out Your Life' is one of the best written and most exciting tracks that I have had the pleasure to be a part of," says Frankie. It's also a great example of Frankie's ability to drive a tune through all its dynamic variations and still make it rock mercilessly.

It's what he does with his longtime, band Quiet Riot. Through hits like 'Cum On Feel The Noize' and albums including Metal Health, he has added something more personal than just a big drum sound. He's brought an excitement and degree of integrity to the grooves 'But then that's Frankie Banali; a great drummer and person who has a deep perspective on music and life and brings a wealth of experience and commitment to every note he plays.