Matt 'Animal' Thomas

I began drumming at the age of 10, when my parents bought me my first drum kit. After just seven months of formal lessons, I became entirely self-taught—learning by listening closely to my idols and developing my own distinctive style behind the kit.

My musical foundations were shaped by my father and step-father, who introduced me to legendary bands such as AC/DC, Status Quo, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Dio, and many more. This early exposure ignited a deep passion for music that has only intensified over the years. As time went on, my tastes expanded across a wide range of genres from around the world, allowing me to perform multiple styles—particularly those that resonate most strongly with me as a listener.

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to meet and work alongside many incredible musicians, each experience further fuelling my drive and creativity. I’ve toured extensively across the UK and Europe, with performances ranging from intimate venues to major festival stages. Notable highlights include shows as far afield as Romania, appearances at Bloodstock Festival, the Civic Centre Wolverhampton, and the Transylvania International Film Festival, along with numerous other festivals and venues.

My main band is Rockabye Reaper, where I continue to push my playing to new levels through powerful, hard-hitting music and dynamic songwriting. My drumming style in this project is energetic and aggressive, featuring extensive double-kick work and movement across the entire kit. With exciting developments currently in the pipeline, the future with Rockabye Reaper is extremely promising.

Previously, I was a core member of And The Sky Darkened, a band known for its heavy impact and diverse writing. That project played a key role in shaping my approach to performance, endurance, and creative expression behind the drums.

Alongside these projects, HUNTED signed to Massacre Records in 2011, with another album scheduled for release, and I also perform with The Big Fat Blues Band, who gig extensively each year. Their vocalist also fronts S.E.X (Savage Excellence), another project in which I am currently the drummer.

My largest setup is an 11-piece TAMA Superstar (Titanium Fade) kit, paired with up to 25 cymbals, which I had the privilege of using on Deep Purple’s 2017 single release “Johnny’s Band.” For touring, I typically use a more compact 8-piece TAMA kit with a 9-cymbal setup, offering power, control, and practicality on the road.

I’m extremely proud to work with TAMA, Zildjian, Aquarian Drumheads, Hardcase Cases, and London Drumstick Co.

I’m a hard-hitting, passionate drummer who just keeps going.

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