The CSI sophomore and drummer is producing his own album, set to be released on SoundCloud this March. With the support of his bandmate and a relentless passion for music, Lapinski is ready to make some noise.
By: Thomas Paul LaRose
The steady rhythm of drumsticks banging against a snare filled the basement of the household. As the strumming of guitar chords filled the air, Max Lapinski sat behind his drum kit, eyes fixed on his friend as they ran through a warmup. With a sharp nod, he set the tempo, his steady hands guiding the beat while his bandmates followed his lead.
“It just felt natural,” said Lapinski. “I always loved music, but when I picked up an instrument, that’s when I knew what I wanted to do.”
A sophomore music major at CSI, Lapinski has spent years prior honing his craft. From picking up the drums as a child to now, his dedication has made him the standout musician on campus, displaying his talent for all to see at school, while also working on his own projects. This spring, his hard work will pay off in a big way.
“Yeah! I’m working on an album with my bandmate Michael, coming out at the end of March,” said Lapinski. “I hope to embody a type of musical middle ground that invites all kinds of people to listen, cross genre. You can catch it on SoundCloud!”
Michael Pollice, also a CSI student who’s majoring in music, and one of Lapinski’s closest friends, has been alongside him throughout the process. He credits Lapinski’s drumming as the backbone of their music, giving their songs structure and energy.
“Max is a great guy, but above all, he’s a great drummer,” said Pollice. “He holds down the tempo like no other. My playing wouldn’t be the same if I didn’t have him.”
Lapinski spends hours practicing, refining his technique and pushing his limits. His dedication has shaped his identity as a musician, driving him to improve with every session. Whether playing for an audience or rehearsing alone, his passion never wavers.
His journey hasn’t been without challenges. Lapinski admits that there have been moments of doubt, times when the pressure to continue his path in music felt overwhelming. But each setback only fueled his determination to keep going.
Lapinski and Pollice have spent months preparing for their album release. Late nights in the studio, endless refining of tracks, and the pursuit of the perfect sound have consumed them. But for Lapinski, it’s all worth it.
“The best advice I can give any aspiring musician is to never stop playing,” said Lapinski. “There are gonna be moments where you’ll doubt, but in the end, your intuition is your greatest asset.”
With the release of his album soon to come, along with a deep passion for his craft, Lapinski is set to make his mark in the music world like never before. His journey at CSI is just one chapter, but it’s clear that his story is far from over.
But beyond the music, beyond the passion for the art, love for the craft, and desire to make it. Lapinski wants others to remember one thing.
“Music isn’t just what I do,” said Lapinski. “It’s who I am.”
