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Forrest Neil Young
Known as the “Emergency Drummer,” Forrest Young studied jazz at Virginia Commonwealth University and has permeated the east coast music scene for over thirty years. He’s earned three Emmy Awards for his documentary soundtrack work and has headlined the Richmond Jazz Festival with his band featuring Chris Whiteman (Veronica Swift, D-Angelo) on guitar, Jonah Kane West on organ, and Dane Alderson (Yellowjackets, Bob Mintzer Big Band) on bass. Forrest is also a visual artist whose award winning word art drawings can be seen at LyricPortraits.com.
"Forrest plays so creatively with solid support, color, texture, passion, full dynamic range and even the use of silence. His compositional approach to creating parts has a beautiful visual effect. It's as if you're watching sound breathe!"
— Jeff Sipe - Aquarium Rescue Unit, Jeff Coffin
"Imagine how difficult it is for a substitute drummer to play authentic Afro-Cuban Jazz, who has never been exposed to this style before, and has to support our biggest concert of the year...Boy, did we make the right choice by hiring Forrest Young, the “Emergency Drummer!"
With only two days of preparation, a song list, basic charts, and with "zero" rehearsals, Forrest absolutely nailed the performance as if he had been playing this music all his life. His professionalism & exceptional musicianship carried jStop Latin Soul Band through the show! His determination & phenomenal work ethic drove him to lead the band in a way I was not expecting.
To be able to walk in & sub for a gig that is typical jazz or rock music is a challenge, to be able to walk in and dominate in a style that is completely foreign to you is the sign of a true master. I will recommend Forrest Young for any gig, especially one that requires a ‘super hero’ level of skill!"
— Joel Stopka, bandleader - Jstop Latin Soul
"It is always a privilege to play with Forrest Young! Our music is quite demanding and he puts it across with an ease belying the serious work he puts into it. His off-the-chart skills and positive, easy going demeanor make him the perfect drummer.”
— George Lowe - The Afro Zen All-Stars
"A more talented drummer I have yet to work with - and moreover, one of the nicest and most even tempered gentlemen I’ve had the pleasure to know. Early to every gig and eager to play. A teacher and scholar of percussion. A great addition to the band and well liked and respected by us all.”
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"Forrest plays so creatively with solid support, color, texture, passion, full dynamic range and even the use of silence. His compositional approach to creating parts has a beautiful visual effect. It's as if you're watching sound breathe!"
— Jeff Sipe - Aquarium Rescue Unit, Jeff Coffin
"Imagine how difficult it is for a substitute drummer to play authentic Afro-Cuban Jazz, who has never been exposed to this style before, and has to support our biggest concert of the year...Boy, did we make the right choice by hiring Forrest Young, the “Emergency Drummer!"
With only two days of preparation, a song list, basic charts, and with "zero" rehearsals, Forrest absolutely nailed the performance as if he had been playing this music all his life
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