Archie
Macfarlane
10 years behind the kit — online lessons up to Grade 8 and remote recording sessions from my home studio.
The Story So Far
I'm Archie, a UK-based drummer, and music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started out on piano as a kid before discovering drums — and that was it. About 10 years behind the kit now, and I haven't looked back. Alongside drums I also play bass and tuned percussion — and the piano's always fun to come back to.
That multi-instrument background has given me a strong sense of musicality that carries into everything I play. From rock and pop groups to orchestras and concert bands, I've been fortunate to play across a wide variety of musical settings, developing a versatile drumming style along the way.
In terms of style, I'm drawn most to funk, rock, and pop — players like Stewart Copeland, Chad Smith, and Joel Waters have had a big influence on how I approach the kit. That mix of groove, feel, and pocket is what I'm always chasing.
Beyond performing, I've built up a lot of experience recording and mixing from my home setup, capturing professional-quality drum tracks in Logic Pro. Whether you want to learn drums yourself or just want to talk music, I'd love to hear from you.
Gear & Equipment
The tools I use to get the sound right, whether it's live on stage or recording at home.
Mapex Armory shell pack with two snares: a Mapex Black Panther Shadow 14"x6.5" as the main and a Tomahawk 14"x5.5" for a different voice. Cymbals are a mix — Paiste PST7 18" crash, Meinl 16" Classics Custom Heavy, 14" Sabian Sonix Pro hi-hats, and a 20" Sabian Sonix ride. Evans G2 coated heads on the toms, EMAD2 on the kick, Heavyweight on the snare, Pearl kick pedal, and Vater Los Angeles 5A sticks.
AKG mics covering the full kit, with a Shure SM57 dedicated to the snare. A reliable combination that captures everything cleanly.
Recorded through an 8-channel audio interface and mixed entirely in Logic Pro — from raw tracks through to a polished final product.
Recording & Mixing
Multi-Track Recording
Every part of the kit recorded on its own track, so there's full control over the sound at the mixing stage.
Mic Setup
AKG mics across the kit with a Shure SM57 on the snare — a combination I've found works really well.
Mixing in Logic Pro
I mix in Logic Pro, handling EQ, compression and everything else — or I can send you the raw stems if you'd rather do it yourself.
Remote Sessions
Send me your track and tell me what you're going for — I'll take the time to make sure it's right.
Lessons & Session Work
Whether you want to learn from scratch or need a drummer for your next project.
Drum Lessons
One-to-one online drum lessons tailored to your level and goals. From complete beginners to Grade 8.
- Beginner through to Grade 8
- Technique, timing, and musicality
- Learn songs you actually want to play
- Online via video call — learn from anywhere
- First lesson (30 min) just £10 — no commitment
Remote Recording Sessions
Send me your track, tell me what you're after, and I'll lay down drum parts from my home studio.
- Multi-track drum recordings via 8-channel setup
- Mixed to fit your track, or raw stems delivered
- Versatile across genres
- Video of the session available on request
- Interested in live work? Get in touch
What Students Say
I've had a few drum lessons with Archie, and as someone who had never played drums before, I was able to understand the basics and play a groove within just one hour. He explains things in a really clear and simple way, which made everything feel easy to pick up. I'd definitely recommend him to anyone starting out.
Videos
Let's Talk
Whether it's a session, a gig, lessons, or just to talk drums — I'm based in the UK and always happy to hear from you.
Say hello
I'm always up for hearing about new projects, collaborations, or just connecting with fellow musicians. Fill in the form or reach out directly — I'll get back to you as soon as I can.