Harry Thynne’s musical journey is the rhythmic narrative of passion, adaptability, and relentless creativity. Born in Sydney, Australia, this drummer, songwriter, and music producer has emerged as an outstanding artist whose work spans continents and genres. He does it all in a warm and distinctive style, putting an unparalleled commitment to his craft first–projects like WIM and Drop Tank or working with artists like Hero Fisher. Multifaceted, his artistry reveals a commitment to pushing the boundaries while being rooted in real visceral musicality.
Born to a musician and actor mother, Harry’s musical journey began when he was eight. While he was first attracted to the guitar, his small stature steered him toward the drums–a decision he describes as serendipity. “I climbed onto my older brother’s drum stool and felt an immediate connection,” he says. This early start was fostered by piano, violin, and guitar studies that laid the firm foundation for his diverse approach to music. He formally studied at the Australian Institute of Music, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, and JMC Academy while being mentored by Danny Heifetz, drummer for Mr. Bungle. “Learning from one of my idols shaped not just my technique but my philosophy as a musician,” he says.
In his late teens, Harry dived headfirst into the underground scene of Sydney, finding his element in the grungy warehouses of Marrickville. “Venues didn’t support heavy music, so we created our own,” he says. Those early years found him playing in punk and metal bands, holding drumming workshops, and being part of unconventional performances like live drum jams and street art events. “The underground was home,” he says.
Harry’s breakthrough came with WIM, a band he founded in 2007. Their self-titled debut album, produced by industry legend Bob Clearmountain, garnered critical acclaim, with NPR naming them a top emerging act of 2011. WIM toured globally, gracing stages at the Sundance Film Festival and SXSW. Harry shares the experience, “The sound of that album still catches me off guard. Working with Bob and his family was unforgettable.
Meanwhile, Harry let his raw energy burst into an incredibly strong, loud rhythm with Drop Tank. Shuttling between Los Angeles and New York, the band incessantly toured, putting together sweat-dripping underground shows with their loyal and ever-hungry followers. “Drop Tank was about raw intensity and connectedness,” Harry recalls.
He now juggles a prestigious session career with solo work, composing for film, and a host of other collaborations. Guided by a simple yet great mantra, Harry says, “Stay sane. Focus on what you make. Small increments are not backward steps.” Harry Thynne’s literal and figurative rhythm is one to follow in an industry marked by flux.
Alongside the likes of Andy Clockwise, Jason Lowrie, and Matt Ellis, Harry’s dynamic drumming and refined sensibilities bring unmatched energy, passion, and precision to every performance. His solo project, FYST, further showcases his innovative artistry, with new material set for release this year. This is exciting because if Harry has proven anything in his career, he will deliver excellence.
As fellow musician Matt Ellis states: “Harry Thynne is a one-of-a-kind drummer, seamlessly blending precision and groove with an infectious, energetic punk enthusiasm. His dynamic style brings both technical mastery and raw, unfiltered passion to every performance, live and in the studio.”
– Matt Ellis
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