November 2017 Issue – Volume 41 • Number 11
Articles in November 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.
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.
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…
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…
Agner - Number, Name, and Signature Series Drumsticks
Durable, balanced, and great-sounding models made from hickory, maple, and the little-known hornbeam wood.
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…
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…
JP Bouvet
Written on the wall of the ancient Egyptian temple of Luxor is the proverb Know thyself, and you will know the gods. Whether or not he’s come across that bit of wisdom during his travels, this drummer certainly gets the…
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…
Green Day’s Tré Cool
His multicolored pompadour in outrageous full effect, his powerful punch-to-the-gut drumming a testament to his long-term success and ongoing love of life and music, Tré Cool is the world’s eternal punk rock poster boy. Green Day has released twelve albums…
Steve Maxwell Vintage and Custom Drum Shop
Glendale Heights, Illinois; New York, New York
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…
Jon Cross - 6.5x14 Macassar/Gaboon Ebony Snare
A powerhouse segment-shell drum with more musicality than most.
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.
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…