This month, we feature two great tracks, three drummers, and one band—Godsmack! Our first transcription is “I Stand Alone” from Godsmack’s 2003 album, Faceless. The drum track was written by drummer and frontman Sully Erna and recorded by Godsmack’s original drummer, Tommy Stewart. Notice how the groove at times locks rhythmically with the guitar part, placing the snare on the “a,” the “e,” and the “&” of the beat before driving into a solid backbeat on 2 and 4 during the verses. It’s a great example of how an unconventional snare placement can reinforce a guitar riff and give it even more weight and momentum. “I Stand Alone” is also a great song to see performed live by the drummer who followed Tommy, Shannon Larkin—which brings us to our third drummer and second transcription this month, “When Legends Rise.” Once again, the drum part was co-written by Sully Erna, and John […]

October 2026 Issue