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Gumby
 Louis Pinto "Gumby"
Gumby's name is not new to anyone who is in tune with the Pakistani music scene, although many people may go "Huh?" if you called him Louis Pinto!
Dubbed as one of the best drummers in the country, Gumby has played with almost all the top names, bringing his groove to the audience for many years now. He continues to play for different bands, recording albums and doing live gigs, with no intention to go exclusive with any one singer or band. He is popular, friendly, approachable, and extremely talented. He's got the knack for creating rhythm that takes the melody to a new height and the energy to improvise it beyond expectation. Just go to a live gig with Gumby and you'll know what we mean!
Here's an exclusive Interview with Gumby, so you can see how he got started and what he is all about...
 Tell us a bit about yourself: where you grew up, went to school, and a little bit about your family?
Am 31 years old, born and raised in Karachi. I had a very musical environment growing up. I am not much of a sports person; spent my summer holidays playing to The Police, Rush and Toto records. I was a real brat; I still am!
School wasn’t the best days of my life but I must say that from my principal to my teachers, everyone completely encouraged me. In fact one of my favorite teachers still keeps in touch and inquires about me on and off. I never went to college. Spent most of my teens traveling and playing gigs.
I’m the youngest in my family so I think I am a bit spoilt and definitely moody. I have an extremely independent nature. I love pets, especially cats.
When did you start playing drums and why did you pick drums over other any other instrument?
I started playing at the age or 6. That’s the earliest I recall. I used my imagination when I didn’t have a drum kit so I played air drums for the longest time. Got my first kit when I was ten and played my first gig when I was 13.
As for why this instrument, I have no answer to that. I guess I was a groove buff and it was something I enjoyed listening to and playing.
People in the music industry label you as the best drummer in Pakistan; what do you think it took for you to get to this level?
I’d say most people in the music industry are very kind. As for the best drummer part, I didn’t really think of it that way. I always play music for two basic reasons, the first being that I thoroughly enjoy it and second that it pays the bills.
How many different groups have you played for and who did you enjoy playing with the most?
This would be a very long list again but some interesting moments have been with Vital Signs, Junoon, Mekaal Hasan Band, Noori, Fuzon, Ali Azmat, and Aamir Zaki.
Are you presently a part of any band or considering joining one? If not, why?
I’m currently not a part of any band and don’t intend joining any either. I’m happy doing recordings with various bands and musicians. So if there’s time I tour and do concerts on and off.
 What is a drummer’s role in a band – do you work on the overall song composition as it is evolving or do you come in once the melody is done and add the beat?
The drummer's role is basically to keep the bass player sober (laughs!). My approach is to think more musically than just being a timekeeper in the band. Some projects are me just going in and recording what a client wants and then there are some that I work from scratch. A few melodic structures and mainly rhythmic structures. Most of my compositions are based on improvisation.
Who are your favorite drummers and do you follow anyone’s particular style?
Over time as my taste in music kept changing and so did the musicians, though musicians such as Dennis Chambers, Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Gadd, Jeff Porcaro, Jon Fishman, Jay Dittamo, Pat Metheny, John Coltrane and Steely Dan have always been a great source of knowledge and inspiration. I normally follow the melody and of course the names mentioned above and the musicians I’ve always been influenced by.
What kind of songs do you enjoy playing to the most?
Well, mainly improvised stuff does it for me.
Are there any foreign bands with whom you’d like to play if given a chance?
Well the list would go on and on but maybe Jamiroquai, Steely Dan, Steve Vai, Bela Fleck, Jaco, Tower of Power, and Phish.
What is the one most rewarding and the one most frustrating thing about being a musician in Pakistan?
I guess a couple of things, like respect and the fact that one can actually take this art form seriously in a place like Pakistan. The frustrating list can go on and on. But I’d also say that the reason I’m still doing this is primarily that I enjoy what I do. The rest is secondary.
What are your most and least favorite things in the world?
Hmmm, there are a lot of things I love and am passionate about and then there are a lot of things and people I would never give importance to.
What do you do when you are not practicing or recording? What are your hobbies and interests?
I read up on musicians and music related articles. Check out equipment online and keep in touch with old/new friends. Take long drives listening to my favorite music and watch movies sometimes. I cycle sometimes too or go running.
Are you married, engaged, seeing someone?
Keep guessing ;)
 What would you have liked to be if not a musician?
A businessman.
What message would you like to give to the readers?
I hope you guys enjoyed reading this article as much as I enjoyed answering it. Cheers!
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