This month’s transcription highlights Bud Gaugh’s drumming on the song “Santeria.” The chart is as straightforward as the tune itself, illustrating what appears to be a simple part on paper. But make no mistake, Bud’s deep pocket and subtle fills make this song well worth a much closer study. One of my favorite elements in Bud’s groove is how the hi-hat doesn’t land with the snare on beats two and four. That small detail opens up the hands and allows the groove to breathe, making it easier to really lay back in the pocket. This approach to playing time—first highlighted for me by Charlie Watts of The Rolling Stones—can significantly change the way you think about groove and is absolutely worth exploring. The groove on “Santeria” is simply… sub****! Nope, I’m not going to say it. That would be too easy. Marc Atkinson, a dedicated musician, honed his craft under the […]

April 2026 Issue