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On The Beat with Ryan Shank
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More than many other local drummers, Ryan Shank has evolved his craft over the years, in many successful Kansas City bands. He was a founding member of The Golden Republic, an indie rock band that eventually spawned The Republic Tigers and Soft Reeds; moved in to the mathematical rhythms of the Roman Numerals, and is a current member of the sonically complex Be/Non. Shank will be celebrating a reunion show of The Golden Republic at recordBar on New Year’s Eve, and we find out more about his technique and experience in the local scene.
The Deli: How did the drums find you?
Ryan Shank: A lot of people will find this odd, but I started playing when I was 16 at my church. Their drummer was awful, and I thought “I could do that.” Playing in church actually taught me a lot about dynamics and feel.
The Deli: Did you play any other instruments before?
RS: I played the trumpet in 5th grade for a couple months. You got to pick which instrument you learned by where your last name fit alphabetically. Unfortunately, my last name is Shank. I wanted to play drums, but honestly I probably wouldn't have stuck with it. I was a hyper kid. Needless to say, I don't remember much about the trumpet. Spit valves are disgusting, though.
The Deli: What type of kit(s) do you use?
RS: I used to play a Gretsch Broadkaster kit. I used it on tour with The Golden Republic, but I sold it a few years ago. Lately, I've been borrowing kits. I use Brodie [Rush]'s kit for Be/Non shows. I finally ordered a new kit, though. It should be done before the new year's gig. C&C, of course.
The Deli: Biggest influences?
RS: The obvious drummer influences... Bonham, Moon. I was actually hugely influenced by a guy who played for Matthew Sweet named Ric Menck.
The Deli: Who are your favorite KC/Lawrence drummers?
RS: Bill Belzer from Ghosty is my favorite drummer in KC. He knows how to play for the song, but puts something interesting in there when it needs it. Dave Conarroe from The Good Foot is also great. Solid. Super solid. Also, Nick Organ is a great drummer.
The Deli: How has your drumming style changed or evolved since The Golden Republic into the Roman Numerals and Be/Non?
RS: With The Golden Republic, I was a one-trick pony. I've tried to broaden my outlook and playing in general. The Golden Republic was kind of sloppy, Roman Numerals was more mathematical and square-patterned (does that make sense?), and with Be/Non it's a lot more diverse. I'm still a "less is more" kind of player, but my mind is open to more ideas. Since my Golden Republic days, I've played in several cover bands. It's actually changed my playing a lot. We started rehearsing for our new year's gig last week and the songs just sound different now...in a good way. We've all come a long way in our playing.
The Deli: You've been part of the KC music scene for several years now. What advice would you give to a drummer just starting out?
RS: Go see local shows any chance you get. Talk to the other bands. Eat Sunday brunch at recordBar. Buy me a drink.
The Deli: You have your hand in a lot of projects. Any particular ones you're looking forward to for next year?
RS: I'm really excited about the new Be/Non stuff. We're working on a lot of new and not-so-new material that people need to hear. I can't wait to finally play a new kit.
Shank will join his Golden Republic bandmates (Ben Grimes, Kenn Jankowski, and Harry Anderson) for a special New Year’s Eve show at the recordBar. They’ll be joined by Thee Water MoccaSins and a very special guest. Champagne toast and party favors will be included. Tickets are $12 and available at this link.
--Michelle Bacon
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Roman Numerals
 Photo by Todd Zimmer
Be/Non
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