For Blake Allison, music started with a guitar he could barely hold.

Today, the drummer, songwriter, and producer brings that same curiosity to his work with Pop Evil, Egypt Central, and Devour the Day. Whether he’s behind the kit or helping an artist shape a record, his focus comes back to connection—and making music that makes people feel something.

Following our collaboration announcement, we caught up with Blake to talk about his beginnings, the players who shaped his approach, his Scorpion setup, and how a missing shipment of gear turned into an unforgettable Pop Evil show.

Photography by @mikey.photograph

From Guitar to Drums

How did you first get into music?

“My dad had an acoustic guitar that my mom gave him as a wedding gift. I remember wanting to play it before I was even big enough to hold it. He taught me how to play ‘Smoke on the Water,’ and I was hooked. I knew that was what I wanted to do.

“In grade school, I started a band as the guitar player, but every chance I got, I’d sneak behind our drummer’s kit and try to figure it out. Eventually, the drums took over.”

When did you get your first drum set?

“I’ve been interested in music for as long as I can remember. I started out playing guitar as a kid and got my first drum set at 14. I’ve been playing ever since.”

What was your first show?

“My first show was at my eighth-grade talent show.”

Who were some of your early drumming influences?

“Brad Wilk, Chad Smith, Chad Sexton, John Bonham, and Danny Carey. Each of them influenced my playing in different ways, from groove and feel to power, creativity, and musicality.”

Finding Connection Through Music

How has music changed you as a person?

“Music taught me discipline and the importance of connection. It showed me the value of hard work while giving me a way to connect with people on a level that goes beyond words.”

What do you remember most about the scene you grew up in?

“I grew up in the Memphis music scene, and what I remember most is how much it felt like a big family. There were deep friendships, healthy rivalries, and a real sense of community. I think those relationships are what make a local music scene special.

“I’m not as connected to the local scene these days, but I hope that same sense of community is still alive and well.”

What could bands do better?

“I think bands could benefit from focusing less on what everyone else is doing and more on developing their own identity. The most exciting music comes from artists who aren’t afraid to take chances and create something that feels authentic to them.”

Blake’s Setup

What does your current kit look like?

“Sovrn Drums: 22-inch kick, 12-inch rack tom, 16-inch floor tom, and 14-inch snare. Sabian cymbals, Evans drumheads, and Scorpion Percussion drumsticks.”

Which Scorpion model do you play, and why?

“Scorpion 3A Oval Tip with a natural finish. I love the balance, feel, and especially the durability. They hold up incredibly well to my playing style, allowing me to play aggressively without constantly breaking sticks.”

What’s your favorite part of your kit?

“My ride cymbal. I’m always experimenting with different sizes and models, searching for that perfect balance of a great crash, a defined ride, and a strong bell.”

What’s your snarehead of choice?

“EVANS Genera Dry. I love the natural response of a single-ply head with just enough overtone control to keep things focused. It gives me a great balance of sensitivity, attack, and warmth without needing additional dampening.”

How do you feel about playing with a metronome?

“This might sound strange, but I find metronomes inherently annoying, so my favorite click is one I barely notice. I want it to keep me in time without distracting me from the music.”

In the Studio and Behind the Songs

What’s your favorite way to listen to music?

“In the studio, where I can really appreciate all the details and nuances of a recording.”

Have you ever taught someone to play?

“Not formally. I’ve helped kids learn the basics here and there, but I’ve never taught professionally. That said, producing young artists is a form of teaching in itself. A big part of the process is helping them develop their skills, find their voice, and grow as musicians.”

What have you been working on musically?

“I’ve been working on the new Pop Evil record, and in my spare time, I’ve also been writing and producing new records for Devour the Day and Sierra Pilot.”

What advice would you give someone writing their own music?

“At the end of the day, what matters most is that you love what you’re creating. The act of creating is the gift itself. Don’t lose sight of that, and don’t waste it.”

Is there a common theme behind the music you write?

“I think the common thread in everything I write is the human experience. Love, loss, struggle, hope, and everything in between. I want to make music that makes people feel something.”

Can we expect more music from you?

“You bet your ass!”

When the Gear Doesn’t Make the Show

What’s a favorite memory from the road?

“On my very first tour with Pop Evil, the airline lost all our gear on a fly-in date. With no instruments and a show to play, we borrowed some acoustic guitars and a cajón from a local music store and decided to play the entire set acoustically for the first time.

“The funny thing is, I approached the songs more like a folk drummer, completely changing the grooves and feel of the original recordings. The band was hearing these versions for the first time right there onstage, and thankfully, they loved it! So did the fans.

“What started as a logistical nightmare turned into one of the most memorable shows I’ve ever played. Equal parts excitement, anxiety, and pure fun.”

If you could play drums in any band, who would it be?

“Rage Against the Machine. Their combination of groove, energy, and raw intensity is everything I love about playing drums.”

What’s your favorite part of being in a band?

“Getting to play music and laugh with my friends. I’m incredibly grateful that I get to spend my life doing both. I think that’s what life is really about.”

Love the Process

What’s one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a musician, and how have you handled it?

“One of the biggest challenges is learning to navigate the uncertainty that comes with a career in music. There are so many things outside your control. I’ve learned to focus on what I can control: my work ethic, my attitude, and my willingness to keep learning. You have to love the process, not just the outcome.”

From sneaking behind a bandmate’s drum kit to reimagining a Pop Evil set on a borrowed cajón, Blake’s story is full of reasons to stay curious and keep creating. His advice leaves musicians with something practical to carry into their next rehearsal, recording session, or show: put in the work, find your own voice, and enjoy making music with the people around you.

Explore Blake Allison’s Scorpion Percussion artist page for more about his setup, and follow him on Instagram and TikTok @iamblakeallison.

Become Immortal.