“The Atomic Clock” Gene Hoglan is one of modern metals most iconic drummers. He has been both a working member of amazing bands and the go to hired gun when it comes to drumming. Currently Gene is behind the kit for the thrash legends Testament. His trademark double kick rhythms have become the beats that have pounded through our headphones and speakers for years. Hoglan has won numerous best drummer of the year awards from Revolver, Modern Drummer, Terrorizer and various others. His capabilities behind the drum kit are a beat above anyone else. Bands Hoglan has been a part of either as a full member, live drummer or session drummer include Dark Angel, Testament, Fear Factory, Slayer, Devin Townsend, Opeth, Pitch Black Forecast, Strapping Young Lad, Forbidden, Death, Zimmers Hole, Meldrum, Viking, and even was the drummer for the animated band Dethklok, in addition to that he was also recently the drummer on Brendon Small’s Galaktikon (Dethklok) new album. Because Gene is such a revered drummer he has also released several dvds featuring his jaw dropping drum style, the most recent being 2016’s ‘The Clock Strikes Two’.
Host Joshua Toomey welcomes Gene Hoglan himself “The Atomic Clock” in this weeks episode of Talk Toomey: The Metal Nexus Podcast. Gene talks about Slayer first tour as he was a part of the tour and he will also be on Slayer’s final tour as well behind the kit with Testament. He mentions how some bands reunite after disbanding saying “Will Slayer Be The One Band That Sticks To It.” He elaborated on the opening acts of that tour which included Mace, Exodus, Wild Dogs, and various others. Gene also credits his extensive memory of the early days of his career because he didn’t drink or use drugs. He also talks about Tom Araya (Slayer) coming to his house and speaking to his sister about taking Gene on tour because he was under age and only 16 years old. Gene also talks about Testament’s tour and though he doesn’t create the setlist he mentions what he thinks it may contain, and mentions songs he would love to play live. Hoglan also talks about how useless the dvd players / televisions in tour bus bunks has become useless and in the way. Surprisingly Gene also talks about how Cher hired Cannibal Corpse to play for her sons at a private party. In addition to currently performing with Testament Gene also talks about upcoming plans with Brendon Small’s Galaktikon and his solo project in which Gene plays drums. To hear everything Gene and Toomey talk about you can hear the entire conversation below.
