Derek studied classical guitar as a kid, learned computer geekery in his early teens from his dad, and took up the drums some years later. Today he works as Communications Manager and web guy for Navarik (navarik.com), a Vancouver software company, and as the drummer for The Neurotics (theneurotics.com), a classic-rock cover band. He started his blog at penmachine.com in 2000, released his self-produced album of podsafe instrumental tunes in 2005, and has co-hosted the Inside Home Recording podcast with Paul Garay since early 2006.