Few drummers have travelled through as many different corners of British music as Dave Barbarossa. From the original line-up of Adam & The Ants and Bow Wow Wow to Republica, Fatboy Slim and Chicane, his career has taken in punk, new wave, electronic music, soul and club culture — all of which now feed into his latest project, Barbarossa Beat.
Built around Dave’s unmistakable drumming, Barbarossa Beat is a constantly evolving singles club, with each track bringing together a different collaborator. The first release, ‘Phattie’s Lunchbox’, sees Dave reunite with longtime friend and Mekon member John Gosling, with new tracks set to arrive monthly throughout 2027.
It’s a project that gives Dave the freedom to explore the full range of his musical interests, moving away from any one genre and instead putting rhythm, collaboration and experimentation at the centre. That eclecticism has always been part of his story, from growing up surrounded by Latin, jazz and soul to discovering T. Rex, Kraftwerk and countless other artists along the way.
With decades of experience behind him but no intention of slowing down, we caught up with Dave to talk about his first love — the drums — the records that shaped him, the advice he’s carried throughout his career, dream collaborations and why, as Malcolm McLaren once told him, the key is to “never compete. Stay unique.”
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Has to be the drums. Still love them.
What was the first band or artist you enjoyed when you were younger?
Possibly the Beatles – there was lots of music in my home, Latin, jazz and I loved soul, reggae and the glam rock of the 70’s
What was the first album you remember owning?
Electric Warrior T Rex
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
‘The first time ever I saw your face.’
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
So many. I keep returning to early Kraftwerk and Marvin Gaye albums. Bill Evans, Mark Kozelek, Four Tet, Snapped Ankles…
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
Don’t really have one. It’s all been a dream. Lucky me.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
Erm…PJ Harvey
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
Open to anyone as long as they are authentic and committed.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The creative world I live in is both calming and exciting. So many friends and positive adventures.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Clem Burk told me, ‘You gotta trick Davey, don’t ever lose that trick.’
Malcolm MacLaren told me, ‘Never compete. Stay unique.’
Stream the new single ‘Phattie’s Lunchbox’ in the player below
