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Drumming Masterclass
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Start HereStart Here by Vince Mendoza
Buy used from: $21.98
Peter Erskine's playing on "Babe of the Day" is quite simply a masterclass in drumming. As well as reading the score, he is able to weave his own magic into this piece. The drumming on this track is easily the most musical drum performance I've ever heard. It's an album you must hear. A fantastic album.
PolytownPolytown by Mick Karn
Buy used from: $13.71
This is Terry Bozzio's finest moment. His drumming is unique, and often the drums are the main focal point of the music. With his massive kit, he is able to play rhythmic and melodic parts, while simultaneously laying down heavy, industrial sounding grooves. He plays bizarre fills, and highly infectious grooves - yet, his virtuosity always remains "musical".
HemispheresHemispheres by Rush
Buy new: $8.99 / Used from: $4.49
This album really raised the bar for all other bands to reach. The playing throughout is exceptional. From a technical standpoint alone, Neil Peart's drumming here is on a whole new level. His precision drumming allows him to create the most complex, inventive, and captivating drum parts, which fit the music perfectly.
Moving PicturesMoving Pictures by Rush
Buy new: $10.99 / Used from: $3.79
Neil Peart's drumming is quite simply brilliant. This is also a classic album, which captures the band at their height. The drum sound is awesome, and Neil's drumming is both muscular and dramatic. His precise tom rolls, and the way he uses paradiddle sticking when playing a ride pattern are his trademarks. Every beat, and every fill, are beautifully orchestrated around the music.
U.K.U.K. by U.K.
Buy used from: $9.96
This is probably the greatest Progressive Rock album ever. Bill Bruford defines his unique style and sound. It features his trademark snare drum "bark", and those bewildering rhythms. He turns conventional drumming on its head as he twists and turns his way through the odd meters. His beats often venture into linear drumming at times. A master of the polyrhythm. Sheer brilliance!
Footloose and Fancy FreeFootloose and Fancy Free by Bill Bruford's Earthworks
Buy new: $25.98 / Used from: $13.46
Bill Bruford has finally arrived as the consummate drummer and composer on this highly rated performance. His compositions are quirky and unique. His jazz playing is top drawer. This band SWING!
Hard Hat AreaHard Hat Area by Allan Holdsworth
Buy used from: $53.81
Gary Husband and Allan Holdsworth just click on this album. Gary plays with fire and passion, driving the band along. At times the emotion seems overwhelming, as they build the intensity. Stunning.
SecretsSecrets by Allan Holdsworth
Buy new: $34.99 / Used from: $59.73
In an interview, Vinnie Colaiuta said that most tracks were first or second takes. He's most happy with City Lights. His drumming is spectacular throughout, and the music gives him ultimate expression on the kit. There's superb interplay with Holdsworth, which adds to the intensity of the music. This must be one of Vinnie's most fiery drum performances, as he explores every rhythmic avenue.
The Sixteen Men of TainThe Sixteen Men of Tain by Allan Holdsworth
Buy used from: $7.69
Holdsworth again – this time with Gary Novak drumming. The highlight is track 4 - a fitting tribute to Tony Williams. Gary manages to capture the essence of Tony's playing perfectly. A rare gem.
Then! Live in TokyoThen! Live in Tokyo by Alan Holdsworth Group
Buy used from: $12.48
Gary Husband's ambidexterity gives him access to some incredible rhythms. He and Allan totally lock together. This band has reached a higher musical plane. PERFECT!
Performing This Week...Live At Ronnie ScottsPerforming This Week...Live At Ronnie Scotts by Jeff Beck
Buy new: $12.99 / Used from: $22.86
Jeff Beck is a fantastic guitarist, and with Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, this CD captures an incredible performance. His drumming is breathtaking as ever, as he plays through a whole range of styles. Vinnie can groove effortlessly, and still throw in those unique touches of genius. A true master of modern drumming.
DocumentDocument by Karizma
Buy new: $15.99 / Used from: $13.50
In this live recording, Vinnie Colaiuta gets the chance to let loose. His drumming is spectacular - crazy fills, polyrhythms, and dazzling dexterity. You get the feeling Vinnie can play anything - yes, he is that good! The whole band have that Zappa feel. Great interplay. A must for Vinnie fans.
Vinnie ColaiutaVinnie Colaiuta by Vinnie Colaiuta
Buy new: $11.98 / Used from: $4.78
Vinnie Colaiuta does what he does best - ASTOUND! He plays odd-note groupings, polyrhythms with fluidity, while keeping the groove! His solos are spectacular, and over complex music! WOW!
Compact Jazz: Buddy RichCompact Jazz: Buddy Rich by Buddy Rich
Buy used from: $4.74
Buddy Rich - the greatest drummer ever! He had total command of the kit and his genius is mind-boggling! This album shows his greatness. I saw him play twice. Met him too; charming man. What a drummer
Different DrummerDifferent Drummer by Buddy Rich
Buy used from: $74.00
Had this on vinyl too. "Straight, no chaser" was always my favourite track. Buy it while you can! Often overlooked album despite its quality. 100’s of his recordings now deleted BTW.
Big Swing FaceBig Swing Face by Buddy Rich
Buy new: $9.99 / Used from: $6.40
Classic album. Excellent choice of tunes. I still have the original on vinyl. I love the atmosphere during this live performance. A MUST BUY for Buddy Rich Big Band fans.
Public AccessPublic Access by Steve Khan
Buy used from: $2.32
Many Dave Weckl fans might have missed this album. Steve Khan is an unusual guitarist, whose music brings out a side of Dave's playing seldom heard. His drumming sounds loose and relaxed, yet his chops are astounding. Even his kit has a more natural, earthy tone. The drumming is wonderfully tasteful; making his drum breaks even more impressive. The solo he takes on Mama Chola is genius.
Forty ReasonsForty Reasons by Chad Wackerman
Buy used from: $49.99
Chad Wackerman at his musical best, and polyrhythmically most expressive. Brilliantly supported by Allan Holdsworth, this is a classic recording. A MUST BUY! Stunning playing throughout.
The Kold KageThe Kold Kage by Gary Thomas
Buy new: $16.98 / Used from: $11.11
A very dark album. Dennis Chambers is simply awesome on this! His trademark playing is astonishing. He plays some weird stuff on this. Dennis at his jaw-dropping best! A MUST BUY!
Vital Tech TonesVital Tech Tones by Scott Henderson
Buy new: $16.98 / Used from: $7.77
VTT provide Steve Smith with the perfect forum to display his talents. His solos are astounding, as are his grooves. Brilliant. He's found a home in this band. The best I've heard him play.