For many drummers, 13/8 is a meter that sits at the outer edges of what most players encounter regularly, yet its internal structure—like 7/8, 9/8, and 11/8 before it—invites creativity, balance, and deeper rhythmic understanding. When you learn to feel 13/8 rather than merely count it, you unlock new phrasing possibilities that can increase your rhythmic vocabulary for grooves and fills/solos in any context. Understanding the Shape of 13/8 At first glance, 13/8 appears complex simply because of its size—thirteen eighth notes per measure. But as with all “odd” meters, its musicality comes from grouping. Instead of counting to thirteen, think of 13/8 as a combination of smaller, familiar rhythmic groupings: 3+3+3+4 – The most natural subdivision, felt as a flowing extension of 9/8 with a four-note tail. 4+4+5 – Creates a powerful, angular feel common in progressive rock and cinematic scoring. 3+4+3+3 – Offers a balanced conversation between threes […]

November 2025 Issue