Groove
Juggernaut

Groove Juggernaut (Stephen D Haaker) is a rock drummer based in Los Angeles. His alternative metal band Cartographer is playing select shows this spring in support of their new EP "A Flair For The Obscene". Stephen is also the long-time drummer for Azealia Banks and the original touring drummer for Loveless. When not on the road, he works primarily as a session musician and producer, sharing a studio with his bandmates in NoHo. (remote recording available) Stephen moved to LA after leaving the U.S. Army Band in 2014. Sergeant Haaker played thousands of shows with many different groups including the Army's first heavy metal band, "The Four Horsemen of the Arockalypse". Their debut tour was a 13 month mission in Iraq, playing metal covers for troops and locals. He recalls, "The first real show I ever played was for 200 soldiers at a tiny outpost. They built us a small stage outside, pulled up armored trucks to use as stage lights, and drank non-alcoholic beer as they moshed and raged to Killswitch Engage and Lamb of God covers. It was clearly desperately needed... I started taking music seriously after that." Upon return, he performed all around Richmond, VA with big bands, jazz combos, country ensembles, and lots of wedding bands--further developing his vast repertoire and unique sound. ​​ The moniker Groove Juggernaut started as a reference to Stephen's diverse style, forged by intensive on-the-job training and refined by countless hours of study and practice. The term has since become synonymous with his indomitable spirit. Undeniable passion and humble confidence birthed by failure and triumph alike has created a juggernaut--forever learning, exploring and grooving.