Recognized most notably as a drummer formerly of New York’s Immolation, he can be heard on their debut album Dawn of Possession and the follow-up Here in After. He was previously the drummer for the first death metal band from Philadelphia – Goreaphobia. Craig has toured the U.S., Europe, Japan, and South America.
Condition(s) & Date(s) of Treatment:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in both hands, experiencing symptoms since 1994, with no treatment until Musician Treatment Foundation in 2025.
What inspired you to start playing music?
I was first inspired by Buddy Rich via TV appearances at an early age, also classic rock, and there were many 60’s and 70’s era records playing on the family stereo.
Who are some of your musical inspirations?
There are many, from rock to metal and more extreme styles such as thrash and death metal.
Early on I was inspired by the following drummers: Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Peter Criss (Kiss), Sib Hashian (Boston), Phil Ehart (Kansas), John Bonham (Led Zeppelin), Ian Paice (Deep Purple), Bill Ward (Black Sabbath), Keith Moon (The Who), Steve Smith (Journey), Dennis Davis (David Bowie), Jim Hodder (Steely Dan).
Later on, I was heavily inspired by Clive Burr/Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden), Kim Ruzz (Mercyful Fate), Mikkey Dee (King Diamond), Dave Lombardo (Slayer), Lars Ulrich (Metallica), Charlie Benante (Anthrax), Chuck Profus (Agent Steel), Tony Scaglione (Whiplash), Dan Richardson (Crumbsuckers), and Pete Sandoval (Morbid Angel/Terrorizer). I’ve drawn inspiration from so many great drummers emerging within the thrash and death metal styles.
What was the injury that brought you to MTF, and how did the injury affect your music?
Carpal tunnel syndrome started in 1996. This condition was in both hands and affected my ability to practice, rehearse, learn new patterns, as well as articulate with dexterity, ultimately leaving me without the means to progress as a drummer
What was your experience with receiving care through MTF and your recovery afterward?
The experience with receiving care was above and beyond exceptional from the very moment of contact with MTF Executive Director Irene Chang Cimino, to the expertise and knowledge of Dr. Alton Barron and his entire staff. My surgical experience was pleasant and comforting. I was given a choice of music to listen to during the procedure, I thought Rush and Led Zeppelin, channeling the drum gods during surgery ultimately created a relaxed and focused atmosphere, as it wasn’t just about getting a surgical procedure, it was about the music, the ability for me to continue to create and evolve without the perpetual numbness/tingling that was so debilitating.
Now the recovery was as expected. Dr. Barron was thorough, clear, and concise in explaining the outcome after surgery. The total recovery time for me was about a couple of months to regain functionality, but as Dr. Barron told me, “90% of patients felt instant relief from numbness/tingling at that moment the surgery was performed,” and I was one of those. I can happily state that this was the best decision I could have made and was worth the trip I made from my home in Florida.
What’s coming up for you?
Currently writing and rehearsing for recording and live performance with Saeculorum. My post- surgery possibilities are limitless!
Where can people find out more about you and your music?
You can keep up with me on Facebook: Craig Smilowski Official; Saeculorum