Jim White, the drummer from Dirty Three, is described by his bandmate Warren Ellis as being like Albert Einstein behind a drum kit. White is known for his extensive knowledge and opinionated nature, as well as his unique sense of style. Growing up as the middle child of a university professor and high school teacher, White initially excelled as a student but eventually found himself drawn to music, particularly rock and country. Despite initially wanting to study maths, he dropped out of university to pursue a career in drumming.
Throughout his career with Dirty Three, White has honed his drumming skills through open-ended improvisation and collaboration with various artists. While he has had the opportunity to work with artists like Lou Reed and Neil Young, he has always been drawn to singer-songwriters like Cat Power and Will Oldham. White’s drumming style is considered a composition in itself, reflecting and amplifying the emotions and lyrics of the songs he plays on.
Despite his lack of interest in the recording process, White found himself diving into music engineering when the pandemic hit in 2020. Setting up a makeshift recording studio in his Brooklyn apartment, he began experimenting with keyboards and other instruments, leading to the creation of his solo record “All Hits: Memories.” The album features a variety of tracks that showcase White’s versatility and willingness to explore new sounds and ideas.
White’s dedication to his craft is evident in the story of his beloved snare drum, which went missing during a trip to Portugal. Despite the challenges of finding and retrieving the snare, White has remained committed to using it in his performances, even turning down offers to reclaim or be compensated for the lost treasure. His attachment to the snare drum symbolizes his dedication to his art and the unique sound that he brings to his music.
As Dirty Three prepares to release a new album, White continues to push the boundaries of his drumming and explore new musical directions. The band’s upcoming record showcases their signature blend of instrumental punk and haunting melodies, highlighting White’s ability to create evocative and immersive soundscapes. With a career spanning decades, White remains a revered figure in the music industry, known for his innovative approach to drumming and unwavering commitment to his art.
