Biography
Where rhythm
meets craft
My name is Yanal, working under the moniker Zutare. I'm a drummer, audio engineer, and educator based in Los Angeles, California, with over 23 years of combined experience playing, practicing, performing, engineering, and recording, and more than 8 years of teaching experience.
I've studied under Ian Purdy, Larry Salzman, Jack Van Geem, Jake Nissly, and Lenny Kiser, from my adolescent years through to my collegiate studies at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, where I earned a B.M. in Technology and Applied Composition (TAC). This foundation shaped both my musical approach and my deep interest in the technical side of sound.
My background spans a wide range of genres — from metal and funk to jazz — and I've performed with a diverse set of bands and projects in settings ranging from live stages to recording studios. Whether I'm playing, tracking, or collaborating, this keeps me adaptable and ready to mold to the task at hand.
In addition to drumming, I work as an audio engineer and producer, offering recording, mixing, mastering, and full production services for artists and bands. I bring a "drummer's perspective" to the production process, focusing on clarity, impact, and emotion, and helping artists translate their ideas into finished recordings that feel meaningful and true to their vision.
When I'm not in the practice room or the studio, you'll usually find me obsessing over the perfect cup of coffee, supporting local live shows, hitting the gym, or gaming with friends. Thank you for stopping by and reading my bio.