Full Artist Update

Jerry Mercer
Aging Like Fine Wine

Bands come and go, and fame often expedites the process. Yet after thirty-three years of chart-topping success and millions of records sold, Jerry Mercer continues to tour and record with critically acclaimed Canadian band April Wine. "I love to play," Mercer offers as an explanation. "I'm blessed to be able to make a living at music at the age of sixty-five."

On stage, Mercer's show-stopping drum solo - featuring his "slow-motion roll" - has been blowing away audiences all over the world for years. Regarding technique, Jerry explains, "I don't consider myself a big chops guy with extensive control of all the rudiments. My concept of soloing is to simply lay down some foundational carpet and dance on it. Regarding developing chops, a good attitude will take you further than any technique."

Besides Mercer's long career playing the drums, he's also involved in building them. Along with his partner Bill Hibbs, Jerry manufactures Monolith half-wood, half-carbon fiber drums. (For more info, check out www.monolithdrums.com.)

You can hear Mercer on the recently released CD April Wine's Greatest Hits Live 2003. And for the latest news on the band, visit www.aprilwine.ca.

Steven Scott Fyfe

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