Tom Rainey

Professional drummer

What is Tom Rainey known for?

Tom Rainey, born in 1957 in Santa Barbara, CA, is a renowned American jazz drummer who has significantly contributed to the avant-garde jazz genre. Starting his career in the 1980s, Rainey has become a stalwart figure in the world of jazz music. He attended the Berklee College of Music before moving to New York City in 1979 to further his pursuit of music. (Santa Barbara, California)

Rainey had the privilege of performing with notable musicians such as Tim Berne, Nels Cline, Drew Gress, Mark Helias, Fred Hersch, Tony Malaby, Simon Nabatov, Tom Varner, and Kenny Werner. His collaboration with Tim Berne in the 1990s and 2000s particularly stands out, having worked together in the bands Big Satan, Hard Cell, Paraphrase, and Science Friction.

After thirty years as a sideman, Rainey broke new ground with his debut album, 'Pool School', in 2010, which he released as part of a trio that included guitarist Mary Halvorson and his wife, saxophonist Ingrid Laubrock. (Berklee College of Music)

Over the years, Rainey has amassed an impressive discography. As a leader, his notable works include 'Pool School' (2010), 'Camino Cielo Echo' (2012), 'Obbligato' (2014), 'Hotel Grief' (2015), 'Float Upstream' (2017), 'Combobulated' (2019), and 'Untucked In Hannover' (2021). He also co-led several projects and featured as a sideman in many noteworthy albums, showcasing his versatile talent.(Intakt Records) (Leo Records) (Skirl Records)

Rainey's contributions to the jazz genre have firmly placed him among the notable alumni of San Marcos High School, in Santa Barbara, California. His successful career has been a testament to the power of dedication, skill, and artistic innovation.(San Marcos High School)