He first gained recognition as a member of Danzig, where his powerful drumming helped shape the band’s signature sound. Over the years, he made a name for himself by also playing with well-known rock bands like Eagles of Death Metal and Queens of the Stone Age, further solidifying his reputation in the music scene. Before all the fame, though, it all started when he picked up the drums at just fifteen years old. That early passion led him to join the Los Angeles-based band Wasted Youth, marking the beginning of his journey in the world of rock music. On a personal note, he was once engaged to Pixie Acia, a talented tattoo artist and one of the stars of the popular show L.A. Ink. His path—from a young drummer in L.A. to sharing the stage with major rock acts—shows how dedication and raw talent can lead to a lasting impact. And throughout it all, he remained a key figure, often mentioned among the most influential behind the kit.
He was temporarily replaced by Dave Grohl during his time with Queens of the Stone Age. At that point, he had to step back for a while, and Dave Grohl stepped in to fill the role seamlessly. While he was away, he remained connected to the band’s vision, and he eventually returned when things settled down. It was a challenging period, but he managed to come back stronger. He always appreciated the support he received, especially how smoothly he transitioned back after Grohl’s stint. Ultimately, he proved that even during tough times, he could maintain his place within the group.