Aaron Comess joined Spin Doctors in 1989, taking the drum chair as the band developed its groove-driven, funk-leaning rock sound. His playing during the early 1990s anchored the band’s rhythmic identity through their most active touring and recording period.
Comess appears on Pocket Full of Kryptonite (1991) and Turn It Upside Down (1994), albums recorded during the band’s commercial peak and extended international touring cycle. He exited Spin Doctors in 1996 as the band’s activity slowed. A return followed in 2001 during a regrouping phase, with continued involvement into the mid-2000s. In 2021, Comess rejoined Spin Doctors again, restoring the classic-era lineup for renewed touring and live appearances, a role he continues to hold.
Outside Spin Doctors, Comess maintains an active jazz career. He leads the Aaron Comess Band, a New York–based jazz project focused on original compositions and small-group improvisation. This work reflects his long-standing connection to straight-ahead and modern jazz, operating in contrast to the large-scale touring environment of Spin Doctors.
Spin Doctors returned in 2025 with Face Full of Cake, their first full studio album in over a decade. The record features all newly written material developed during collaborative writing sessions that began in the early pandemic years. Rather than revisiting old leftovers, the band built the songs organically through jamming and shared ideas, capturing a fresh, energetic feel that reflects where the group is creatively today.
Aaron continues touring with Spin Doctors since their 2021 reunion, alongside continued performance and recording tied to his jazz projects.
Gear: Yamaha; Zildjian; Vic Firth.
Sources: Spin Doctors official band history; album liner notes (Pocket Full of Kryptonite, Turn It Upside Down); contemporary interviews; live performance documentation; Aaron Comess Band project materials.
Update: January 23, 2026
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