In this collection of transcriptions, we look at the drumming style of Eric Kretz, the dynamic drummer of Stone Temple Pilots, whose beats have become the backbone of some of the most iconic tracks in alternative rock and grunge history. This book includes the complete drum transcriptions of five of their songs: Dead & Bloated, … More Stone Temple Pilots: 5 Drum Transcriptions ..read more

In this new episode, we explore the Samai Thaqil, a rhythm originating and used in traditional belly dance music, adapting it to the drumset. “Belly dance” is a Western umbrella term encompassing various dance styles originating from countries in the Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe (the Balkans), and Mediterranean Sea areas. The accompanying music … More Rhythms From the World #3 – Samai Thaqil ..read more

In 1974, Deep Purple released the album Burn, which included the title track as the opener. The impact of “Burn” was impressive, becoming one of the most iconic songs in rock history and contributing to the origin of progressive and heavy metal. The timeless guitar riff and solo, Jon Lord’s Hammond organ work, the soaring vocals, and the extraordinary drumming of Ian Paice are still inspiring today! “Burn” is a trademark of Paice’s signature sound, technique, and hand speed. His work is not merely rhythmic; it’s a dynamic force propelling the track forward. From a drum perspective, t ..read more

For musicians, the intricate and sophisticated Steely Dan’s compositions offer a treasure of inspiration. The band’s unique blend of jazz and rock has captivated audiences and musicians for decades. I’m thrilled to announce a new collection of accurately crafted transcriptions featuring five iconic Steely Dan songs: Green Earrings, Aja, Babylon Sisters, Gaucho, and The Last Mall. Each transcription captures the original recordings’ unique essence and intricate details, showcasing the drum grooves and fills of legendary drummers Bernard Purdie, Steve Gadd, Jeff Porcaro, and Keith Carlock. Every ..read more

With this lesson, we use the Stick Control Single Beat Combinations pages to develop our swing/shuffle feel. We start with the first 12 exercises, playing one bar in straight 8ths and then swinging in 8th note triplets, keeping the same sticking. Repeat the bar at least eight times and then move to the next exercise, starting slowly and gradually increasing the tempo. Once comfortable with the first 12 exercises, let’s move with all 72 combinations. Take your time and let the swing roll! As further suggestions, you can play the exercises with the brushes on the snare, playing the bass drum in ..read more

I’m thrilled to announce a partnership with the renowned European music store Thomann. On my “Pro Drum Gear” affiliate page, you can find 20 professional drum products and accessories to elevate your drumming to the next level. I don’t get paid to sponsor these products, but I earn a small commission for every product purchased. That’s a way to support the blog, motivating me to continue posting high-quality sheet music, transcriptions, and exercises. You can access the page here: https://thmn.to/thocf/wdcjwyy9me ..read more

With this second episode, we explore the Pambiche, a style of music and dance related to Merengue that originated in the Dominican Republic in the mid-19th century. It features rhythms and instrumentation similar to Merengue but has a distinct flavor. Pambiche is often associated with the eastern region of the Dominican Republic, particularly in areas like San Pedro de Macorís. It’s known for its energetic and infectious rhythms, ideal for dancing. In this article, we break down this style of music, adapting it to the drumset. Introduction We start introducing Merengue, known worldwide as a ..read more

Here we are with another drum practice playlist dedicated to the master Steve Gadd. The collection includes 20 songs of some of his timeless work with Chick Corea, Steely Dan, Paul Simon, Eric Clapton, and many others. The playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify, and if you find it useful, share it with your friends and subscribe to my channel. I crafted this playlist to my musical taste; let me know in the comments other songs you’d like to include. For more playlists take a look at my collections focused on specific genres, grooves, and drummers: 20 Classic Songs for Beginn ..read more

In this new episode, we uncover one of the most creative and impressive drum parts ever recorded. “Fool in the Rain” by Led Zeppelin, from the album In Through the Out Door (1979), is a tune embracing rock and samba with a solid rhythm section and a captivating arrangement, resulting in a timeless hit. The John Bonham drum part features one of the most famous half-time shuffle grooves, paying tribute to the pioneer of this rhythm, Bernard Purdie. Bonham’s innovative approach to “Fool in the Rain” showcases his unmatched drumming style, continuing to inspire drummers across generations. This ar ..read more

In this 7th episode, I’ll share an 8th-note triplet drum fill based on a defined sticking pattern. The key to mastering this idea is to memorize the sticking: LRR LRL. So, we start applying the sticking in an 8th note triplet subdivision on the snare, possibly playing the bass drum or hi-hat in quarter notes. Once comfortable, we move the “RR” diddles on the rack tom and the last two notes “RL” on the floor tom. The second idea is similar to the first one. It consists of replacing the snare in the second part with the rack tom. Here is my demonstration of the two ideas in a half-time shuffle ..read more