Nick Augusto Drum Kit & Gear Setup — Former Trivium Drummer | MetalForge
Nick Augusto (born April 16, 1988, in Orlando, Florida) is an American drummer best known for his tenure with thrash/metalcore band Trivium from 2010 to 2014. He joined the band following the departure of Travis Smith, bringing a more aggressive and technically demanding approach to Trivium's sound. During his four years with Trivium, Augusto recorded two studio albums—"In Waves" (2011) and "Vengeance Falls" (2013)—and toured extensively, helping to expand the band's international fanbase. His drumming style combined thrash metal intensity with metalcore precision, perfectly complementing Trivium's evolving sound.
Complete biography of Nick Augusto, former Trivium drummer (2010-2014). Explore his career, drumming style, work on albums like In Waves and Vengeance Falls, and his influence on modern metal.
Nick Augusto Biography
Nick Augusto (born April 16, 1988, in Orlando, Florida) is an American drummer best known for his tenure with thrash/metalcore band Trivium from 2010 to 2014. He joined the band following the departure of Travis Smith, bringing a more aggressive and technically demanding approach to Trivium's sound.
During his four years with Trivium, Augusto recorded two studio albums—"In Waves" (2011) and "Vengeance Falls" (2013)—and toured extensively, helping to expand the band's international fanbase. His drumming style combined thrash metal intensity with metalcore precision, perfectly complementing Trivium's evolving sound.
Career Highlights
- 2010: Joined Trivium as drummer, replacing Travis Smith
- 2011: Recorded "In Waves" with Trivium, reaching #13 on Billboard 200
- 2011: Performed at major festivals including Download, Rock am Ring, and Wacken
- 2012: Completed extensive world tour supporting "In Waves" album
- 2013: Recorded "Vengeance Falls" with producer David Draiman (Disturbed)
- 2013: Album reached #15 on Billboard 200
- 2014: Parted ways with Trivium; replaced by Mat Madiro
Style & Influences
Nick Augusto's drumming style is characterized by high energy, powerful double bass work, and aggressive attack. He brought a thrash metal sensibility to Trivium's sound, with crisp execution and driving rhythms that propelled the band's heavier direction.
Key Influences:
- Lars Ulrich (Metallica): Thrash metal foundation
- Dave Lombardo (Slayer): Speed and intensity
- Joey Jordison (Slipknot): Modern metal aggression
- Chris Adler (Lamb of God): Groove metal precision
Signature Techniques:
- Powerful double bass patterns with groove emphasis
- Aggressive snare attack on backbeats
- Tight coordination with guitar riffs
- Dynamic transitions between sections
- China cymbal accents for metalcore punch
Gear Highlights
During his time with Trivium, Nick Augusto played a Pearl Reference Pure setup, pairing it with Sabian AAX Series cymbals for live performances and studio recordings.
Setup with Trivium:
- Drums: Pearl Reference Pure
- Snare: Pearl Reference 14"x6.5" Brass
- Cymbals: Sabian AAX Series (14" Stage Hi-Hats, 18" & 19" X-Plosion Crashes, 21" Stage Ride, 18" AAXtreme China)
- Hardware: Pearl Demon Drive Double Pedal, Pearl D-2000 Throne
- Sticks: Vic Firth American Classic 5B
- Heads: Evans
Setup Characteristics:
- Punchy, attack-focused tom tuning
- Tight snare for metalcore snap
- China cymbals prominently positioned for accents