Musicality and an infectious groove are what Toronto-based drummer Kevin Mendes brings to audiences both in his performances from the stage and under the microphone. “My personal philosophy with music, drumming and life in general is that less is more. I’m much more attracted to music that is centered around songwriting, and musicians that have the intuition and ability to play the perfect part for a given song are the ones who inspire me.” His unique voice on the drums can be heard on numerous recordings and his musical intuition on stage has made him a versatile and in-demand drummer on the Canadian music scene.
Most notably, Kevin has the pleasure of recording and performing with singer/songwriter Emma-Lee. His drumming, an integral part of her sophomore album “Backseat Heroine”, is a fine example of his attention to the songwriting and his creativity on the drums. “Kevin’s intuition and sensitivity to who I am as an artist has without a doubt helped me find my voice and sound. He’s been a trusted pair of ears and has helped nurture me as a songwriter. I keep working with Kevin because he inspires me and I straight up love the guy!” Kevin has been a full-time member of Emma-Lee’s band since the recording of her debut album “Never Just a Dream” released in 2008 and he has since had the pleasure of touring with her, both in Canada, the US and Europe.
In 2011, Kevin’s musical talents led him to the producer’s chair for the first time, in a collaboration with Jenny Mayhem where he produced the 3-song EP entitled “Wide Open”. “I’m lucky to have worked with Kevin. He puts everything into his projects and it shows. ” – Jenny Mayhem
Kevin has also had appeared on the drums with other notably talented songwriters, namely, Chris Assaad. His drumming can be heard on Chris’ debut solo-release “GloryFire” which features him on the drums and a multitude of percussion. “Kevin is a one of a kind musician and a great guy. He gives himself fully to everything he does and brings a sensitivity, attention to detail, and energy to my songs that is refreshing and inspiring.” – Chris Assaad
Having toured extensively in Canada and the US, Kevin has performed at a multitude of international festivals including SXSW, Canadian Music Week, NXNE and MIDEM, as well as live television appearances on Breakfast Television, CanadaAM and CBC Newsworld.
In addition to the aforementioned artists, Kevin has also performed alongside many other talented Canadian artists including Sean Jones, Saidah Baba Talibah, King Sunshine, Donna Grantis, Word People, Stacey Kaniuk, , Don Brownrigg, Escola de Samba de Toronto and many more.
Kevin’s musical education began at Mohawk College where he graduated in 2003 with honours in Applied Music. He then spent his following years studying privately and refining his skills under the mastery of several teachers, most notably, Jim Blackley. Today, Kevin embraces his own role as a dedicated and passionate teacher, having carefully crafted an effective and musical approach with his own students that he now shares with the world. Time-Keepers, his first fully-published, drumming instructional series in now available in print and online and will be released later in 2013 for the iPad. For more information, please see the Store Page.