Originally from Memphis, Nashville resident, Matthew “Matt” Skoda, began drumming about the time he could talk. At four, Matt entered formal lessons at the local church conservatory and furthered his lessons and performance efforts while at School of Rock. This culminated in his first public gig on his ninth birthday at the Hard Rock Cafe in Memphis on Beale Street!
Matthew continued his drumming lessons in addition to his work with the School of Rock until moving to Nashville in 2015. It was there that his music training would be furthered by Jon Hull, who also works with Jason Aldean’s band as well as Aldean’s drummer, Rich Redmond.
He currently works with his drum coach and mentor, Greg Upchurch, the drummer for 3 Doors Down and based in Nashville.
Matt formed his first band, NDB in January of 2017 and has been gigging since, playing classic and southern rock covers as well as the band’s original songs. Matt is the drummer for his new band, SKODA.
Matt has worked as a session drummer with independent rock and country artists, produces in his own studio and is continuing the development of musicianship through training in audio engineering, guitar, and drums.
Product (Snare Drum) : YAIBA II Birch
After playing the YAIBA II birch kit, I included the 6.5 x 14 snare for gigging. I also ordered an R series snare for my studio kit. I played both at NAMM and locally before placing my orders for my studio and gigging. These snares sound amazing and will break through any environment when played with my band and in studio. From a light touch to a hard rock beat, these snares perform and sound great.
Product (Drum Kit): RFM
The CANOPUS RFM series and the Yaiba II Birch Groove kit were the kits I ordered for my studio and gigging respectively. I had the chance to play everything from the latest R series to the birch and maple kits as well as the ash drums. I remember commenting that these kits made my current kits by another manufacturer sound like trash cans!
The beauty of the CANOPUS drum design and structure, from the wood used to the hardware, is that all these drums have deep resonating lows from the kick and toms and crack through with a clear and striking tone with the snares. I was amazed to see how little attack I had to use to bring out the wonderful buttery tonality of these drums. And when I played in my normal rock style, hitting them hard, the sound was just remarkable.
Product (CANOPUS Snares):
I also have several of the CANOPUS snare drums, not only for their sound but the unique elements they bring to my playing. These include ‘The Maple’; Yaiba II Maple; Type R Cannon; Black Nickel Brass II; Hammered Bronze; and the Aluminum Alloy snares.
Moving forward, I will be adding to my kits with the Birch and the Neo Vintage M2 series.
As a young drummer, I cannot imagine playing anything else as my career progresses. I am proud to endorse, record and play with my CANOPUS drum kits. They not only sound good but look good too!
