Eric is best known world-wide as the co-Founding member and manager of the progressive rock/metal band EQUINOX. In early 1996, Equinox's major label debut "Color Of The Time" - released on JVC / Victor - entered foreign hard rock album charts at #19 in Japan, #31 in Germany, and held similar Top 40 positions across Europe, South America, and Asia. Today, ASCAP and JASRAC report that Equinox songs still receive airplay in nearly 50 countries.

 

Eric's tenure in other bands includes:

• Skitzo Fonik (2014-present) a Top-40 dance band that features many of Eric's friends from previous musical projects. Recently partnered with local Top-40 radio station KS95.

• The Crown Jewels - Queen Tribute (2012-present) playing the timeless music of Queen.

• Common Ground (2012-2013) a Hard Rock and Metal band that also featured Shrapnel Records recording artist Todd Duane - (Listed as the 3rd fastest guitar player in the world by Guitar Player magazine).

• Joy Ride (2008-2012) a popular 'Top 40' variety/dance show band around the Twin Cities, playing the most exclusive venues and festivals in the region.

• Luna Sea (2004-2008) a classic rock oriented band featuring vocalist Melody Gilbert (performs with CROW, and blues-great Corey Stevens).

• ShakyJake (2007) a popular alternative rock band that played in the region's most exclusive venues.

• The Bad Animals - A Tribute To Heart (2006-2007 and current fill-in). The band also featured national recording artist guitarist Leni DiMancari.

• Torok (1994-2005) a hard rock group, that aside from featuring Eric, included guitarist Mike Torok (of shock-rock kings Impaler).

• The Mindy Gunn Band (2004-2005) a classic rock female vocalist who's band featured members of Steppenwolf, Jefferson Airplane, and Gypsy that toured extensively through America and Canada, routinely headlining large outdoor festivals.

• Vox Tempus (1998-2002) a prog-rock band that Eric started - originally named Equinox Opus - by recruiting some of Equinox's and Takara's former background touring musicians.

• Renaissance / Renaissance-13 (1988-1990) a funk/fusion band that featured Prince's cousin Tony V. The band signed a development deal with New Generation Records, which was a subsidiary of A&M Records.

 

Eric has worked with many top international recording artists, and his recording session work includes: commercial jingles heard throughout the United States, video game releases, independent releases, major label releases, and more. Eric can be hired for recording sessions AND live/touring work for your project. Inquire at itsme@ericdrums.com , or call directly at +1-612-29DRUMS. Eric also teaches as his schedule allows.

 

In addition to music, Eric is also an avid Martial Artist. He received his 1st Dan (degree) Black Belt on June 4, 1988 from Master Moon Kim (Minnesota Tae Kwon Do Center) after four years of hard training in TRADITIONAL Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido. On March 10, 1990 Eric was awarded his 2nd Dan Black Belt by Master Moon Kim. Throughout the late 80's and early 90's, he participated in numerous nationally accredited TKD and open-style tournaments - placing 1st in his sparring division nine times; 2nd three times; and 3rd one time. He also won and placed numerous times in Forms and Weapons competitions. With the mid 90's success of his band Equinox, Eric decided to cut his tournament career short - opting instead to focus on his musical career. However, he did continue to maintain his Dojang, The Minnesota Black Belt Academy - which became a member of the NKMAA (National Korean Martial Arts Association) in 2002. He was an instructor for more than 15 years, and continued to pursue excellence in his own training. He furthered his Martial Arts rank and standing up until sustaining a severe lifestyle-changing injury in late 2007, which left him laid up for 6 months. He has since completely recovered, but no longer teaches.

 

Eric is also a major horror fan, hobbyist magician, and collector of luxury wrist watches, horror memorabilia, drums, and ancient weaponry (mostly swords).