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November 2017 Issue – Volume 41 • Number 11

Whether he’s developing new drumsticks, cymbal combinations, or electronic instruments, Johnny Rabb, who’s currently playing with the platinum-selling rock band Collective Soul, likes to remain on the cutting edge of innovation. “I had just graduated from Berklee and moved to Nashville,” Rabb says when asked about his first venture into product design. “I was waiting tables at Red Lobster, when suddenly this stick idea came to me. I drew it out on a napkin, and in that instant the RhythmSaw was born.”
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Articles in November 2017

Quintuplet Madness - Superimposing Odd Groupings

In this article we’ll play quintuplets within the space of three 16th notes. This concept can create some unique rhythmic statements, such as subtle hi-hat embellishments or twisted double-bass grooves. https://vimeo.com/235035256 Exercise 1 sets up a framework that places the…

by Aaron Edgar
Sep 27, 2017

Jess Gowrie on Chelsea Wolfe’s Hiss Spun

Drummer and singer reunite on one of the more highly anticipated albums of the year.

Story by Adam Budofsky | Photo by Priscilla C. Scott
Sep 27, 2017

Mickey Roker

Jazz drumming great Mickey Roker died this past May 22 in Philadelphia, at the age of eighty-four. Known for his propelling swing, Roker performed with top jazz artists throughout a career spanning six decades. A drummer sprung from swing and…

by Jeff Potter
Sep 27, 2017

LP - Uptown Sculpted Ash Congas and Valje Bongos

A textured veneer finish for the industry standard and the reintroduction of a legendary name in percussion.

by Michael Dawson
Sep 27, 2017

Josh Manuel With Issues

The drummer crushes a rising group’s live set thanks to a background heavily steeped in gospel, rudimental, and hardcore influences.

Story by Willie Rose | Photo by Ryan Watanabe
Sep 27, 2017
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What Song Inspired You to Start Playing the Drums?

This month’s cover artist, Tré Cool, certainly inspired plenty of drummers to pick up a pair of sticks. That got us thinking about what drew the rest of us to the kit, and when we asked our readers and social…

Modern Drummer
Sep 27, 2017

Jimmy Cobb

On Sticking a Powerful Jazz Ride Cymbal Pulse When I was a youngster I came up in an environment where the drummers were playing the big 4 on the bass drum. I never could do that strong enough for what…

Interview by Ken Micallef
Sep 27, 2017

A Lot Like Birds’ Joseph Arrington

That place where wild improvisation meets super-refined composition? It’s a very sweet spot indeed, and this drummer is at his best when he’s smack-dab in the middle of it.

Story by Ben Meyer | Photos by Lauren Jenkins
Sep 27, 2017

The National’s Bryan Devendorf

Bryan Devendorf’s drumming is deceptively simple. A brilliant accompanist to the National’s diverse, moody, and propulsive oeuvre, Devendorf provides vital rhythmic hooks to some of the group’s best-known songs. If you seek out a live performance of “Bloodbuzz Ohio” or…

Story by John Colpitts | Photos by Keith Klenowski
Sep 27, 2017

The Importance of the Offbeat

Tracing Its Use in Rock, Pop, and Jazz

by Peter Erskine
Sep 27, 2017

Steve Maxwell Vintage and Custom Drum Shop

Glendale Heights, Illinois; New York, New York

Interview by Patrick Berkery
Sep 27, 2017
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Embellished Jazz Time

Pushing Beyond the Standard Ride Pattern

by Joel Rothman
Sep 27, 2017

New Gear from Sabian, Canopus, Promark, Attack, Tama and more!

Sabian XSR Cymbals New models added to Sabian’s XSR line include 17" and 19" Fast crashes, which feature enhanced profiles designed to provide a quick, explosive attack with penetrating definition and power. The 22" ride offers a balance of stick…

Modern Drummer
Sep 27, 2017

Roland - GO:MIXER

A smartphone audio mixer for social-media video performers.

by Miguel Monroy
Sep 27, 2017

Jack DeJohnette, Jimmy Cobb, Art Taylor, Dale Crover, Nate Wood and More!

RECORDINGS Dig These Dug-Ups Three discs of previously unreleased sessions capture jazz giants swung by drumming greats. It’s not uncommon for “unearthed” recordings issued long after an artist’s passing to be shoddy affairs. But three recent jazz releases take the…

Modern Drummer
Sep 27, 2017

The Invasion

To bring more authenticity to his British Invasion tribute band’s live show, Howell, Michigan, drummer Donn Deniston plays this pristine 1960s Ludwig sparkling blue pearl drumset. Deniston explains that because the group specializes in ’60s-era music, each member strives to…

Modern Drummer
Sep 27, 2017

Faux Double Bass Drumming

Ten Single-Pedal Variations

by Matt Starr
Sep 27, 2017

Dunnett - Res-O-Tone and Res-O-Two Drumheads

Hazy timpani-style film for a warmer tone with fast attack and quick response.

by Michael Dawson
Sep 27, 2017
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Agner - Number, Name, and Signature Series Drumsticks

Durable, balanced, and great-sounding models made from hickory, maple, and the little-known hornbeam wood.

by Michael Dawson
Sep 27, 2017

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