Walter Ryan - Drums

Date of birth: N/A
Born: Oakland, California
Other bands: Possessed, Madball, Dirty Rotten Imbeciles, Murphy’s Law

Biography:

In 1995, Machine Head would return to Europe for the summer festival season but the original drummer, Chris Kontos refused to tour and the band drafted Walter Ryan for the festival dates.

Walter Ryan joined Machine Head during the summer of 1995, a chaotic time for the band. They were touring heavily in support of their debut, Burn My Eyes, but original drummer Chris Kontos had become unable to tour due to a severe viral infection and internal band tensions.

The Call Up:
Walter was brought in to save the band's massive summer festival run. He had to learn the complex, groove-heavy setlist in a matter of days.

The "Monsters of Rock" Moment:
Walter’s most famous appearance with the band was at the 1995 Monsters of Rock festival at Castle Donington. Playing in front of nearly 100,000 people, Walter performed a flawless set that is still talked about by old-school "Head Cases."

The Transition:
Although he "came through like a champ" (according to bassist Adam Duce at the time), the band eventually decided they needed a permanent member who could contribute to the songwriting of their second album. This led to the hiring of Dave McClain later that year.

A Legend of the Underground
While his time in Machine Head was short, Walter Ryan is a titan in the hardcore and punk scenes. He is a "hired gun" legend who has played with an incredible list of bands.