Thrash metal drumming legend Tom Hunting sat down with Capital Chaos TV’s LL Cool Z for a deep and candid conversation about Exodus’ 33-year journey, his love of soul music, the early days in Richmond, California, and what’s next for one of metal’s most enduring bands.
LL Cool Z:
All right, this is LL Cool Z of Capital Chaos TV, and we’re hanging out here with Tom Hunting of Exodus. How’s it going, Tom?
Tom Hunting:
It’s going good! How you doing, LL Cool Z?
LL Cool Z:
I’m doing excellent. Just waiting on my gold chain and watch—but soon, I’ll be blinging and pimping Santa Claus style!
So, 33 years of Exodus—is that right?
Tom:
Yeah, that sounds about right. Many moons ago all this started. It’s been quite a journey.
LL Cool Z:
Out of Richmond, California, correct?
Tom:
Yep. Richmond/San Pablo area—East Bay. Kind of the ghetto. That’s where it all started, a long time ago.
LL Cool Z:
Some say you’re the only original member—is that true?
Tom:
Well, I’m the only one from day one—the high school days. Gary was originally Kirk’s roadie. We called them “roadies” back then—now they’re “techs.” He picked up a guitar and was just a natural.
LL Cool Z:
What band did you aspire to be like when you started out?
Tom:
We had lots of influences. I watched The Kids Are Alright and loved Keith Moon—his wild style inspired me. When I was 13, I probably wanted to be in Led Zeppelin. But really, I just wanted to be original.
LL Cool Z:
Was drumming your first love?
Tom:
Actually, I played guitar first. I’ve always felt like a singer trapped in a drummer’s body. I still do karaoke—mostly soul music.
LL Cool Z:
Like ’60s and ’70s stuff?
Tom:
Yeah—Tower of Power, Marvin Gaye, The Stylistics, Temptations…
LL Cool Z:
You sing “My Girl”?
Tom:
More into “Just My Imagination,” but yeah, I could do “My Girl” too. As long as it’s soulful—even a little Hall & Oates.
LL Cool Z:
Still play guitar?
Tom:
A bit. I switched to drums at 13 and never looked back. I learned guitar upside-down because all my friends were right-handed. Still play it that way.
LL Cool Z:
Has Gary ever written riffs based off your drum beats?
Tom:
Yeah, “Iconoclasm” from Exhibit A started with a drumbeat. It’s a great writing combo.
LL Cool Z:
Do you reminisce about the early days?
Tom:
What I can remember, yeah. It’s been a wild ride—lots of good and bad. Would make a great book someday.
LL Cool Z:
What’s the best Christmas gift you ever got?
Tom:
A Sears electric guitar and amp. Later, a pair of Zildjian Rock hi-hats I still have. I saw Phil Rudd playing them on the Back in Black tour and asked for them.
LL Cool Z:
You’re a Yamaha guy now?
Tom:
Yep. Bought my first Yamaha kit in ’86 before Pleasures of the Flesh. Became a Yamaha artist in 2011. They take great care of me.
LL Cool Z:
Any new gear?
Tom:
Just got a Yamaha drum rack—first time using one. It’s solid, sits low, and helps me dig into the grooves.
LL Cool Z:
Will we see you at NAMM this year?
Tom:
Depends on how the new record goes. I’ll try to make it for the Yamaha signing, but writing comes first.
LL Cool Z:
Any blast beats on the new CD?
Tom:
I’m not a blast beat guy—that’s more Nick Barker’s lane. Gene Hoglan does it with power. I love it, but it’s not my style.
LL Cool Z:
Which replacement drummer fit Exodus best?
Tom:
Johnny Tempesta and Paul Bostaph both brought their own thing. I respect them both. They have different training—I’m more groove-based. I blend with the riff.
LL Cool Z:
You’ve heard Bostaph and Lombardo do “Strike of the Beast?”
Tom:
Yeah—they bring their own flavor. It’s cool.
LL Cool Z:
Were you ever asked to join Slayer?
Tom:
No. I couldn’t do the footwork. My feet don’t go that fast! Plus, I’d feel weird—it wouldn’t be pure. That band’s legacy belongs to Paul and Dave.
LL Cool Z:
Rob Dukes has a new Generation Kill album out—thoughts?
Tom:
It’s awesome. Rob can really sing—not just scream. Maybe on the next Exodus record, we’ll explore that side of his voice more. There’s always room for dynamics if it’s good.
LL Cool Z:
Any last words for the fans?
Tom:
Just thanks for your time. Keep an eye out for the new record—it’ll be out when it’s done
Tom Hunting remains one of the most grounded, passionate, and soulful drummers in metal. From his deep roots in Richmond to his love of soul music and dedication to the groove, Tom proves that authenticity and humility go hand-in-hand with greatness. Stay tuned for more Exodus—and maybe even that long-rumored book.
Watch the full video interview below
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