Tim McCarthy first started playing the drums at the age of six. Growing up in Northwest Indiana, Tim became familiar with all styles of music, ranging from rock to jazz to classical.

Performing with many different groups during his teens (such as Omega Gallo and Black Rose), Tim went on to college, graduating with a BA in Music. While at college, Tim became a very sought after performer, writer and clinician, playing with a wide variety of organizations.

In addition to playing with The Mad Poets, Tim focuses on the club and studio circuits and is in constant demand. Tim’s abilities as a drummer/percussionist, vocalist, composer, arranger and producer make him a complete package of musicality. Most recognized as the drummer and vocal support of Justyn Kase (JK), Tim’s reputation as a “musician’s musician” keeps him on the go throughout the Chicagoland area.

Tim's favorite drummers range from Gene Krupa to Ringo Starr; David Garibaldi to Neil Peart; Hal Blaine to Danny Seraphine; and then some.

For rock gigs, Tim's pride and joy is "Betty" - 1964 5-piece Slingerland drum set, Black Diamond Pearl finish, with Remo Pinstripe/PowerStroke coated and clear heads. For jazz and combo gigs, Tim uses "Woody" - 1974 custom designed 4-piece Slingerland drum set, Natural Wood finish, with FiberSkyn 3 heads. In all situations, Tim uses Pearl hardware, Zildjian sticks and cymbals, and Latin Percussion (LP) accessories.