G Flip’s new album Dream Ride isn’t just inspired by the ‘80s; it sounds like the ‘80s. During recording, the Australian musician created a studio environment with real background singers, a saxophone, epic drum fills, and guitar solos.

Intially a drummer, G Flip has evolved into a pop star capable of emotional hooks and arena-ready songs that recall Pat Benatar and Belinda Carlisle. They even learned the saxophone for live performances.

We met up with G Flip in Los Angeles a few days before the album’s release for a photoshoot and conversation about creating new music.

Congrats on the new album! How does this compare to your other album releases?
I guess it’s different because it’s number 3. I’m older, I’ve matured as a songwriter and producer. I’ve lived more!

Were all the songs written for this project, or were they collected over time?
These songs were all written for this specific project. I had about three and a half months to write, record, and produce this album from scratch. It was a very fun period of time. I love writing and being in my studio for long hours.

What was the biggest challenge you faced during recording?
To be honest, there wasn’t many challenges. I love writing and creating. It’s one of the best parts of this job. I could maybe say a challenge was “What sonic direction am I gonna go?” and the stress of not knowing what “sound” you are gonna go for, but our process was “Let’s just throw everything at the wall until something sticks.” The ’80s stuck pretty early in the piece.

What advice do you have for young drummers just starting to play a full kit.
It’s all about practice, not just on the kit but on the practice pad as well. Practicing rudiments and getting your hands even on a pad really helps when you transfer to the kit. I also think you should find a friend that plays guitar and bass and try to jam as early as possible. It’s important to learn how to play with other people.

I know it’s difficult to pick a favorite, but which ’80s drummers inspired the sound on this album?
Well there are a few. Phil Collins would be a big one, ’cause I love his drum tones and being another lead-singing drummer I absorbed a lot of his music, and some of his iconic fills just scream ’80s. Although John Bonham died in 1980, I think he had such an influence on using big toms, deep snares, and had such a presence in the drum world. Also Sheila E. Her work with Prince is so iconic, and I admire her so much.

Since the album title is car-themed, what’s your dream car? Classic and/or modern.
A black 1966 Mustang coupe or the 1970 hot pink Barracuda from the album. The Barracuda is rented from a guy in LA and it was silver, but he let me do my own paint job on it, so now he has a pink car.

You’ve been living in LA for a few years. What do you miss about living full time in Australia?
My family and friends, drinking the tap water, my favorite beer, the smell of the air, the way people drive cause it’s not as hectic. So many things.

Who have you been listening to lately?
Justin Bieber Swag, new Dijon, new Sabrina Carpenter, jazz artist Mark Hopper, and audio books to fall asleep to.

Are you going on tour? What’s coming up?
Yes I sure am! I’m on tour right now across North America and Canada. Then will be hitting up the UK in November and coming home February and March for shows in Australia.