Kevin Haskins (born Kevin Michael Dompe; 19 November 1960) is an English drummer, percussionist, and songwriter, best known for his work with the pioneering gothic rock band Bauhaus and its subsequent projects, including Tones on Tail and Love and Rockets. Haskins has been active in the music industry since the late 1970s and is recognized for his distinctive drumming style, which incorporates tribal rhythms, dub influences, and innovative use of electronic percussion.
Early Life and Education
Kevin Michael Dompe was born in Hammersmith, London, England. He adopted the stage name "Kevin Haskins" early in his musical career. Details regarding his formal education and early musical training are limited in publicly available sources.
Career
Bauhaus (1978–1983, 1998, 2005–present)
Haskins co-founded Bauhaus in 1978 alongside vocalist Peter Murphy, guitarist Daniel Ash, and bassist David J. The band is credited with establishing the gothic rock genre, achieving commercial success with singles such as "Bela Lugosi's Dead" and the album In the Flat Field (1980). Haskins' drumming provided a driving, atmospheric foundation that contributed to the band's dark aesthetic. Bauhaus disbanded in 1983 but reunited for several tours and releases, including the album Gotham (2008).
Tones on Tail (1982–1984)
During Bauhaus's final touring period, Haskins and Daniel Ash formed the experimental project Tones on Tail, releasing the mini-album Burning Skies (1983) and the critically acclaimed EP Boom Boom Cat (1984). The project explored post-punk and ambient textures, with Haskins expanding his percussive palette through unconventional rhythms and electronic instrumentation.
Love and Rockets (1985–1999, 2007–present)
Following Bauhaus's dissolution, Haskins, Ash, and David J formed Love and Rockets, a band that blended alternative rock, psychedelic, and pop influences. Their most successful single, "So Alive," reached the top ten on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 1989. Haskins' contributions included both traditional drumming and programming of drum machines, reflecting the evolving production techniques of the era.
Solo and Collaborative Work
Beyond his primary bands, Haskins has contributed session work and production for various artists, including collaborations with his son, musician and visual artist Josh Haskins (known as "JT Lazer"). He has also been involved in music education, conducting workshops on drumming techniques and electronic percussion.
Style and Influence
Haskins is noted for integrating tribal drums, reggae, and dub elements into rock contexts. His use of unconventional time signatures and layering of live and programmed percussion has been influential among post-punk and alternative drummers. Critics have highlighted his ability to adapt his style across genres while maintaining a characteristic rhythmic intensity.
Personal Life
Kevin Haskins resides in Los Angeles, California. He is married to actress and director Kathryn O'Reilly, and they have two children. Haskins' son, Josh Haskins, is also a musician and visual artist.
Discography (selected)
- Bauhaus – In the Flat Field (1980), Mask (1981), The Sky's Gone Out (1982)
- Tones on Tail – Burning Skies (1983), Boom Boom Cat (1984)
- Love and Rockets – Seventh Dream of Teenage Heaven (1985), Earth, Sun, Moon (1987), Love and Rockets (1989)
Legacy
Kevin Haskins is regarded as a seminal figure in the development of gothic rock and alternative drumming. His innovative approach to rhythm and texture has been cited by subsequent musicians across genres ranging from indie rock to electronic music.