An Editor’s Overview
An Editor’s Overview – Influencers
"If I am an influence, I hope I’m a good one,” said this month’s cover artist, Steve Gadd, in his very first Modern Drummer cover story, in 1978. “I don’t play to be an influence. I feel a responsibility to the music I play. Let’s say being responsible to the music is the first step in accepting responsibility for people coming up."
Steve Gadd – The Innovator
In a career defined by technical innovation, multi-genre groove mastery, and studio perfection, he's never forgotten that, no matter the setting, it always boils down to basic human connectivity.
Simon Kirke
The Free and Bad Company cofounder releases a solo album that reaffirms his place in the top tier of rock drumming, as well as his stature as a solo artist to be reckoned with.
Mastodon’s Brann Dailor
Mastodon's discography follows a linear pattern, where each release moves into new sonic territory, making it a time capsule of sorts. Although this approach has earned the group a loyal and diverse following, it's a challenge to accurately explain a record before fans get a dose of it, even for drummer Brann Dailor.
The 2017 Modern Drummer Readers Poll Winners
The universally lauded multi-genre legend joins Hall of Fame, another contemporary giant sweeps three categories, and Neil Peart returns.
Ziv Ravitz
The leader and accomplice to jazz heavies Shai Maestro, Omer Avital, Joe Lovano, Esperanza Spalding, Ben Monder, Avishai Cohen, and many others obeys one master: the urgency of now.
Brazilian Girls’ Aaron Johnston
With his rudimental training, skillful electronic programming, and vast international influences, this New York City–based multi-instrumentalist and producer represents the future of drumming as well as anyone who comes to mind.
Aleks Girshevich
A twelve-year-old reaches into the “El Negro” clave bag, and more than holds his own on a disc featuring Eddie Gomez.
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