A popular remark among drummers has always been that “simple is better.” Many drummers, especially beginners, tend to over-play, failing to realize that in most situations the drummer’s role is to lay down a foundation—a background for other musicians to build on—not to play as a lead instrument. However, the simplicity of a drummer’s work can lead to boredom and possible burn-out. Continually playing 8th- and 16th-note cymbal patterns on the hi-hat and ride can eventually lead to an overall disinterest in drumming. This seems extreme, but falling into a rut is not uncommon. An excellent method of preventing this plight is to use the hi-hat and ride cymbal simultaneously with a particular pattern. The concept will still provide simplistic rhythms that are tasteful and that will undoubtedly expand creativity. Hopefully, these rhythms will also stimulate the imagination to add variety to the scope of every- day playing. Steve Gadd […]

November 1984 Issue