Drummers on Drumming

The Drum Panel: Jessica screams at Ben to shut up.

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

I’m Ben Hilzinger, and this is another segment of The Drum Panel.

Joining me:

Jessica Burdeaux (@jburdsbeats) Touring drummer (Covet, City Mouth) and content creator balancing real-world gigs with online presence.

George Martinez (@skinnygeorge) Former full-time studio drummer turned educator, content creator, and all-around thoughtful voice on longevity.

In this episode:

“It’s complicated” — how your relationship with drums changes over time
The weird shift from loving music more than drumming itself
Why chasing constant growth can actually burn you out
Letting students (or bandmates) make their own mistakes
The difference between chaos on tour vs. stability later in life
Content creation vs. real life: what actually matters
The pressure of the algorithm and why it messes with your head
Posting what you should vs. posting what’s actually real
Why documenting your own growth beats chasing views
The moment Instagram stopped making sense for everyone
Touring, playing live, and why that still beats the internet
The balance between being a musician and being a human
Saying no to gigs, content, or work that drains you
Why stepping away actually makes you better when you come back
The quiet insecurity of band feedback (trash can endings, anyone?)
Being your own worst critic… and why that never really goes away
What each of us is secretly proud of in our playing right now
Groove, touch, and making simple parts feel really good
Being easy to work with vs. being flashy
Why feel, energy, and stage presence still get you hired

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Drummers on Drumming (the book) takes you inside the stories, records, and moments that shaped some of the world’s greatest drummers. Built on the Big Fat Five format of digging into top influences, it’s packed with candid interviews and personal insights. Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years, this book is here to inspire you to sharpen your skills and find your own voice behind the kit.

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.bigfatsnaredrum.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, Twitter, and TikTok.

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The Drum Panel: The corkboard at Piggly Wiggly

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

I’m Ben Hilzinger, and this is another segment of The Drum Panel.

This week I’m joined by Eric Urrea (La Armada, Marina City) and Matt Crouse (Working Drummer podcast).

In this episode:

Why doing less with your podcast might be the only way to keep it alive
The quiet way a podcast can land you real gigs years later
Craigslist vs. Nashville vs. “just being in someone’s brain”
The real thing bandleaders notice that has nothing to do with chops
Caring vs. coasting, and why people can feel it instantly
The weird mental spiral of over-practicing and then freezing on stage
Why taking a break might fix something faster than grinding it
The shift from loving drums to needing them, and what that cost
We re-address whether drummers deserve songwriting credit… and why it’s still messy
Why some songs wouldn’t exist without the drum part, even if no one admits it

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The Drum Panel: We’re just junkies

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming ...a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum...

In this episode of The Drum Panel, I’m joined by Jared Shavelson (Joyce Manor, The Bronx, Seal) and Mike Robinson (Say Anything, Slayyter, Oliver Tree).

In this episode:

Playing festivals - yay nay or meh
The pefectly “sized” tour
The backline details that matter most when you’re trying to play your best
How each of us thinks about success, growth, money, and career momentum
Why big milestones can feel surreal in the moment and strangely empty right after
The pressure of chasing goals in music when the target keeps moving
What really makes a gig feel worth it, beyond the size of the stage

---

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James Gadson: The Groove Behind "Use Me," "Kissing My Love," "Dancing Machine," and More

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s episode is a special one.

In light of James Gadson’s passing, I wanted to bring this conversation back to the top of the feed. James was one of the all-time greats, and getting to talk with him was a real honor. The audio is a little raw, he was on his phone, moving around, doing his thing, but the stories are gold, and honestly, that’s part of what makes it feel like James.

Back when Big Fat Five was still the main format of the show, I asked James to bring in five records that shaped him. Instead, he flipped it and brought in songs he played on that shaped his career. That turned out to be even better.

We get into the grooves behind Charles Wright and the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band’s "Express Yourself," Dyke and the Blazers, "Dancing Machine" by the Jackson 5, Bill Withers classics like "Use Me" and "Kissing My Love," Cheryl Lynn’s "Got to Be Real," and even Beck’s "Paper Tiger." Along the way, James talks about jazz, Motown charts, studio instinct, restraint, feel, pocket, practicing with intention, and why the hi-hat has to talk.

This one is a reminder that a simple groove is not simple. It’s deep. And James Gadson was one of the deepest to ever do it.

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The Drum Panel: Preptides. Prepto-Bismol and how to maintain that prep in your step

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

In this episode of The Drum Panel, I’m joined by Eric Urrea (Marina City, La Armada) and Kris Mazzarisi (Founder of BFSD / Winnetka Bowling League)

In this episode:

Why prep pay still is not standard, even though most drummers are expected to show up overprepared
The weird state of touring right now, from DIY scenes disappearing to arena tours barely breaking even
The last breakthroughs we’ve each had in our own playing, from posture to vocabulary to control
Easy things that make a drummer more effective on stage
The difference between playing quietly with sticks and changing the whole sound of the kit
Whether traditional grip has any real practical use in modern drumming

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John Stanier (Helmet, Battles, Tomahawk) shares the records that shaped his playing

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

We're here with another segment of Big Fat Five and today’s guest is John Stanier of Battles, and if you know anything about powerful, creative, unmistakable drumming, you already know why I was excited for this one. John was also a founding member of Helmet, has played with Tomahawk, and has built one of the most unique voices on the instrument over the last few decades.

I saw him play once in Seattle and honestly felt bad for his snare. He hits with so much force, but there’s also so much thought behind it. He’s a powerhouse, but he’s also super articulate, deeply creative, and clearly hears the instrument in his own way.

I’ve known about John for a long time, so getting to finally sit down with him was a real treat, and he did not disappoint. He was kind, energetic, sharp, and just really fun to talk to.

JOHN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Rush Album - Permanent Waves Release Year - 1980 Drummer - Neil Peart

Artist - Siouxsie and the Banshees Album - Juju Release Year - 1981 Key Track - "Arabian Knights" Drummer - Budgie

Artist - Return to Forever Album - No Mystery Release Year - 1975 Key Track - "Sophistifunk" Drummer - Lenny White

Artist - D.O.A. Album - Bloodied But Unbowed Release Year - 1983 Key Tracks - "The Prisoner," "Slumlord," "Waiting For You" Drummer - Chuck Biscuits

Artist - Yes Album - Fragile Release Year - 1972 Key Track - "South Side of the Sky" Drummer - Bill Bruford

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Artist - Led Zeppelin Album - Houses of the Holy Drummer - John Bonham

Artist - Billy Cobham Album - Spectrum Drummer - Billy Cobham

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Drummers On Food On Tour On Drumming (Lactaid is sick)

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This week, we’re celebrating the release of Mike Robinson’s new Food on Tour Guide. Mike has toured with Say Anything, Oliver Tree, K.Flay, and many more and this guide is built from years of eating on the road.

It’s a curated digital map with more than 2,000 spots across three layers: food, drink, and tiki. It gets updated regularly and helps save you from wasting money on bad meals while touring.

To celebrate, Mike, Eric, and I each share five spots that have stood out to us over our combined decades on the road. Once you download the guide, you can find links to all the places mentioned in this episode by searching Drummers on Eating.

But in the meantime, here are the picks:

Ben’s picks:

Slick Rock Burrito – Spokane, WA
Decibel Sake Bar – New York City, NY
Molinari Delicatessen – San Francisco, CA
Thai Station – Carrboro, NC
Ichiran – Brooklyn, NY

Eric’s picks:

Kopp’s – Milwaukee, WI
Aqui Con El Nene – Tucson, AZ
Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles – Los Angeles, CA
Nicoletto’s – Nashville, TN
Terry Black’s BBQ – Texas

Mike’s picks:

Brat House – Milwaukee, WI
Sotto – Cincinnati, OH
Rossi & Sons – Poughkeepsie, NY
Nong’s – Portland, OR
Mai-Kai – Fort Lauderdale, FL

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The Drum Panel: What is a blue groove?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming...a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

In this segment of The Drum Panel, I’m joined by Eric Urrea (Marina City) and Matt Starr (Sarah McLachlan) for a conversation that starts in the weeds and slowly turns into therapy.

We kick things off with some proper nerd talk about trash can endings, stingers, and the infamous shugidaboom. From there, the conversation opens up into music education, what band programs still get right, and what probably needs to change if we want young musicians to feel like there’s a real place for them.

Along the way, we talk about community, ego, self-direction, and why playing with other people is still the part of music you can’t really learn from a screen. Then the back half gets more reflective, as we get into success, creative identity, and the weird pressure of trying to make something that actually feels meaningful.

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The Drum Panel: Is the sound in the room with us right now?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming...a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

In this segment of The Drum Panel, I’m joined by Eric Urrea (Marina City) and Ralph Alexander (Poppy) for one of those conversations that goes everywhere.

We start with life on the road and the physical reality of playing demanding shows night after night. From there we get into practice routines, creativity, and the strange balance between working hard and actually allowing yourself to rest.

Eric also brings in a few spicy listener takes, which sparks some fun debates about jazz vs rock, whether technical drummers lose their feel, and the never-ending argument about electronic drums.

Somewhere along the way we end up talking about confidence, why most drummers struggle to say they actually like their own playing, and how your influences slowly shape the way you hear the instrument...who'd have thought?

In this episode:

Ralph shares the story of the Slayer shirt he’s carried to every show for over twenty years
The first drum parts we learned that actually felt like a real breakthrough
A debate about whether learning jazz really makes you a “better” drummer
Why some drummers worry that learning more might ruin their feel
The role rest and downtime play in creativity
Whether electronic drums should even be compared to acoustic drums
A rare moment where drummers admit they might actually like their own playing

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The Drum Panel: Does "good" technique HAVE to feel good?

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This is another segment of The Drum Panel featuring myself, Sarab Singh (MUNA), and Brendan Buckley (Shakira).

In this episode, we talk about:

Getting over the fear of recording at home and figuring out certain techniques later in your career
Why some producers and artists choose emotional takes over technically perfect ones
When quantizing, sample replacing, or comping starts to blur the line between your playing and studio editing
The tension between technique and comfort—and why great technique doesn’t always feel great
What makes a groove feel “bad,” and how context, consistency, and taste shape that judgment

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Tim Very (Manchester Orchestra) shares the five records that shaped his playing [Revisited]

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000

What is up? Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

I decided to move this episode toward the top of the feed and revisit it.

Last weekend, Tim Very, the drummer for Manchester Orchestra, passed away. While we weren’t super close, we stayed in touch over the years. He was kind enough to be part of my first book, and he also came on the podcast to do a Big Fat Five. That’s what you’re going to hear today.

Going back and listening to this conversation was a real gift. Tim was such a creative drummer. Powerful, playful, and always deeply respectful of the song. He knew exactly where to sit in a part. You can hear how thoughtful he was, not just as a musician, but as a person.

Quick heads up about the audio. He was calling in from the back of his tour bus over Zoom. The Wi-Fi was rough. There’s some generator noise. The first half isn’t perfect, but what he says is worth it.

About halfway through, the connection dropped completely. And just to show you the kind of guy he was, he re-recorded his final three picks as voice notes and sent them to me so the episode could still come out on time.

That’s Tim.

I first saw him live at The Fillmore in Philadelphia in 2018. I didn’t buy a ticket. I was playing upstairs at The Foundry with my band. To get to our dressing room, we had to walk along a path overlooking the main room. Manchester Orchestra was sold out below us.

It’s either motivation or humiliation, depending on how your tour’s going.

But I remember watching him and thinking, this guy really understands how to serve a song.

So with that said, this is Tim Very’s Big Fat Five. The five records that helped shape his playing.

I hope you enjoy it. And I hope it inspires you the way it inspired me revisiting it.

TIM'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Foo Fighters

Album - The Colour and the Shape

Release Year - 1997

Key Track - "Hey, Johnny Park!"

Drummer - Dave Grohl / William Goldsmith

Artist - AC/DC

Album - Highway to Hell

Release Year - 1979

Key Track - "Highway to Hell"

Drummer - Phil Rudd

Artist - Wilco

Album - A Ghost is Born

Release Year - 2004

Key Track - "At Least That's What You Said"

Drummer - Glenn Kotche

Artist - The Refused

Album - The Shape of Punk To Come

Release Year - 1998

Key Track - "The Deadly Rhythm"

Drummer - David Sandström

Artist - Colour Revolt

Album - Plunder, Beg, and Curse

Release Year - 2008

Key Track - "Ageless Everytime"

Drummer - Len Clark

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The Drum Panel: Chick Corea's cheap but good advice for playing music in a group PART ONE

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This episode is a new installment of The Drum Panel, and it’s Part One of Two diving into Chick Corea’s Cheap But Good Advice For Playing Music in a Group.

I’m joined by good friend of mine Rafa Vidal, who also plays with the band Almost Monday, who are currently killing it, and of course Eric Somers-Urrea is back on the panel. We start off reacting to a post from Tommy Igoe about drum education and who should really be setting the agenda in lessons. That opens the door to a bigger conversation about intention, listening, and what it actually means to function inside a band.

From there, we break down the first six pieces of Chick’s advice and what they look like in real life:

Play only what you hear.
If you don’t hear anything, don’t play anything.
Don’t let your fingers and limbs just wander—place them intentionally.
Don’t improvise endlessly—play something with intention, develop it or not, but then end off, take a break.
Leave space—create space—intentionally create places where you don’t play.
Make your sound blend. Listen to your sound and adjust it to the rest of the band and the room.

We also get into a Rafa's new endeavor called Touch Grooves. Check out more information on that HERE

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Patch Mahoney (Hilary Duff, Bebe Rexha) shares the records that shaped his playing.

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Big Fat Five, a segment of Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. This episode is a first for the show. For the first time ever, Big Fat Five has two hosts. I explain it more at the top of the episode, but today Eric Urrea is joining me as a co-host. Eric’s someone I trust musically and personally, and having him in the room added a different kind of energy and flow that I really loved. It felt natural, and honestly, it raised the bar.

Our guest today is Patch Mahoney. Patch and I share the same lockout facility, and I walk past his room all the time. I’ve wanted to have him on the show for a while, not just because he’s a great drummer, but because he’s genuinely one of the nicest dudes around. Patch plays with Hilary Duff, Bebe Rexha, and many more and has built a career rooted in taste, feel, and adaptability. We sat down and talked through the records that helped shape him into the drummer he is today, and along the way we got into things like practice habits, recording yourself, restraint, gospel influence, drum tones, and how a drummer’s voice actually develops over time. And with that, here’s Patch Mahoney’s Big Fat Five.

PATCH'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist – Tower Of Power

Album – Tower Of Power

Release Year – 1973

Key Track – “What Is Hip?”

Drummer – David Garibaldi

Artist – Steely Dan

Album – Aja

Release Year – 1977

Key Track – “Aja”

Drummer – Steve Gadd

Artist – Phoenix

Album – Bankrupt!

Release Year – 2013

Key Track – “Entertainment”

Drummer – Thomas Hedlund

Artist – Young The Giant

Album – Home Of The Strange

Release Year – 2016

Key Track – “Titus Was Born”

Drummer – Francois Comtois

Artist – Transformation Worship

Album – Overflow: The Album (Live)

Release Year – 2024

Key Track – “Impossible? (Nothing At All) – Live”

Drummer – Tony Taylor

Honorable Mentions:

Glory Sound Prep – Jon Bellion

Random Access Memories – Daft Punk

The Captain and Me – The Doobie Brothers

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The Drum Panel: Gunnar would request a bald cap first

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming ... a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This week's Drum Panel features myself (Ben Hilzinger) alongside Eric Urrea (Marina City) and Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer) aka **The Dream Team**

We talk about:

The specific tools we each use to stay on top of gigs, holds, and payments
The not-so-obvious challenges of over-scheduling and saying “yes” to everything
Gunnar’s hot take on whether live percussionists should be allowed cymbals
How double-drummer bands actually work, including famous examples and personal wish lists
The real anxieties and logistics behind committing to tours vs. staying available for “dream” gigs or family
Practical advice for 22-year-old drummers moving to new cities—and why being physically local still matters for working players
Social media as a calling card: when it helps, when it’s oversaturated, and how to post for the gigs you want

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The Drum Panel: The Bubble Solution

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming ... a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum

This week’s Drum Panel has me joined by Mark Stepro and Kris Mazzarisi for a wide-ranging conversation about what happens when gigs fall through, routines get shaken, and you’re forced to rethink how you want to work and live as a drummer.

In this episode, we talk about:

How to respond when a major gig disappears
Why direct, personal outreach still beats mass posts
Aging, touring, and shifting priorities
Social media’s role vs real relationships
Practicing vs working, and why confusing them stalls growth
Tracking progress without over-measuring
Onstage anxiety, depersonalization, and mental spirals
Balancing family, business, touring, and sanity
Letting go of shame around how your brain works
Building a career that isn’t dependent on constant touring

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The Drum Panel: A narcissist and a self-deprecator walked into a bar [gig]...

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This week’s Drum Panel features me, Ben Hilzinger, alongside George Martinez (aka @skinnygeorge) and Eric Urrea from Marina City.

We talk honestly about rejection, identity, and what actually gets built in the moments when things don’t go your way.

In this episode, we talk about:

Rejection as a mirror, not a verdict, and how quickly one “no” can distort your self-image
The danger of ruminating on tiny moments, and how over-analyzing the past steals energy from the present
Why authenticity matters more than perfection, and how trying to manage how others see you leads to bad fits
The hidden value of “failed” prep, and how deep study always compounds even when the gig disappears
The emotional difference between ego pain and income fear, and how each one shapes your reactions
Balancing confidence and self-doubt, and why artists need both to stay sharp and grounded
How unclear communication creates unnecessary emotional weight, and what that reveals about professional culture
Why creative freedom often shows up disguised as disappointment
New Year’s intentions around health, connection, communication, and long-term sustainability
Letting go of shame around how you work, and learning to build systems that actually fit you

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The Drum Panel: We all chose Grandma as our least favorite

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.
Happy New Year. This week’s Drum Panel features me, Ben Hilzinger, alongside George Martinez (aka @skinnygeorge) and Eric Urrea from Marina City.

In this episode, we talk about:

Burnout as a signal, not a failure, and how to tell when you actually need to step back
The success trap of linking worth to being busy, and how scarcity thinking keeps you stuck
Dependability, kindness, and the invisible parts of your reputation that shape your career
Grace under pressure, and what tech failures and bad shows reveal about who you are on stage
Confidence without arrogance, and how to take your craft seriously without taking yourself too seriously

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My favorite moments from 2025 - Part Two

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This week features another batch of my favorite clips over the past year. Let me know if you agreeeee.

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My favorite moments from 2025 - Part One

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This week features a few of my favorite clips over the past year. Let me know if you agreeeee.

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The Drum Panel: 15 sec > 15 min

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:06:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

Featuring myself, Ben Hilzinger, with Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, TrackTribe) & Eric Urrea (Marina City)

Inside this episode

The real life of high-output music production
How drummers survive the modern content grind without losing their mind
Touring vs session vs teaching: finding the mix that keeps you sane
When your “Instagram drum sound” fights your natural playing
How to meet heroes backstage without being that guy
Building drum sounds, dealing with phase, and chasing ideas that actually feel good
Progress, burnout, and what it means to “feel like a drummer” again

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The Drum Panel: Choose your hard, but don't get bajiggity

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This week features me, Ben Hilzinger, alongside Eric Urrea (Marina City) & Zack Albetta (Working Drummer podcast, & Juliet Broadway tour)

Inside this episode:

When to chase a stable gig and when to walk away
How Broadway touring shapes your mind, body, and playing
Staying confident when you’re surrounded by people who could change your career
The honest math behind consistency vs freedom

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Madden Klass (Chappell Roan, Boygenius) shares the records that shaped her playing

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This is another installment of Big Fat Five, where I invite my favorite drummers on the show to break down the five records that shaped how they approach the instrument. Today’s guest is Madden Klass.

Madden grew up in New York and built a reputation as a player who can seamlessly transition between power, finesse, and tight technical playing without losing the heart of the song. She’s toured with Boygenius, Chappell Roan, Watsky, Mike Doughty, Wheatus, Big Wild, Matt Maltese, Nat & Alex Wolff, Allison Ponthier, and Dixie D’Amelio, while also carving out her own sound through original projects. With roots in progressive rock and pop, Madden has always treated the drum chair as part of the composition, not just the support.

MADDEN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Performance - Ilan Rubin's solo at the 2011 Guitar Center Drum-Off

Drummer – Ilan Rubin

Artist – Battles

Album – Glass Drop

Release Year – 2011

Key Track – "Futura"

Drummer – John Stanier

Artist – Hiatus Kaiyote

Album – Live in Revolt EP

Key Track – "Sphynx Gate"

Drummer – Perrin Moss

Artist – The Aristocrats

Album – The Aristocrats

Release Year – 2011

Key Track – "Bad Asteroid"

Drummer – Marco Minnemann

Artist – Ash Soan

Release Year – 2020

Key Track – "Ghostship Time-out" (video)

Drummer – Ash Soan

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The Drum Panel: The Freddy Krueger Method

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This week’s panel features Eric Urrea, me, and a new friend of the podcast, Brian Blake from Real Friends. Brian shares his experiences making a living in pop-punk, dealing with impostor syndrome, and finding ways to keep joy alive when your passion becomes your paycheck. Eric and I explore the feeling of "faking it" on stage, the tendency of drummers to overthink their playing, and how small mistakes can ruin your night if you let them. In this episode, we discuss:

The journey from feeling confident to realizing how much there is still to learn.
Brian's experience with the moment he thought, "Maybe I'm not good enough to be doing this," and how that thought motivated him to move forward.
Eric's nightmare scenario of being asked to "play a drum solo" in the middle of a set.
The ways stage banter can feel scripted and how bands should acknowledge it.
The idea that filming every show can help combat perfectionism, but also damage your ego.
The unglamorous yet essential skill of honest communication within bands after difficult performances.

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The Drum Panel: The most musical thing you can do isn’t musical

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

This week’s The Drum Panel features me, Eric Downs, and Chance Famighetti (aka Free Arlo). Eric’s the music director behind Nicky Youre’s current live show—the same gig Chance once bluffed his way into before I took over. Together, we dig into what it means to actually sound human on stage in a world obsessed with perfection. Eric opens up about imposter syndrome as an MD, Chance explains how he rewired his brain to stop overthinking fills, and I share what it’s like being critiqued for the first time by another drummer.

We also discuss: • Why drummers should separate identity from the instrument • Producing vs. drumming—and how one mindset improves the other • Improving via recording yourself before the haters get involved • The art of being coached without losing your confidence

We wrap by talking about playing for the audience versus the band, knowing your “why” on stage, and how to build a live show that feels real, messy, and alive.

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The 2nd mouse started asking questions...

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. We’re back with my bestest mouse, Chance Famighetti, aka Free Arlo. Last week we covered how he bluffed his way into the drum chair for Nicky Youre only to be replaced by me :) This time, we go deeper.

We discuss self-worth tied to art, the stress of carrying your own project versus the ease of being a hired gun, and why chasing fame can warp the very reason we make music in the first place. Chance opens up about struggling with persona-over-songs culture, learning to let go of the algorithm, and building a career that actually feels good.

We also get into: • How live gigs shape your sound more than the practice room • Eye contact on stage and the strange intimacy of being watched • Pocket aces, missed opportunities, and knowing when to shift plans • Free Arlo’s new music and finding pride in the work again

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I interview the guy I replaced...

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. This week’s episode features my buddy Chance Famighetti, also known as Free Arlo. He was the first drummer for Nicky Youre—the artist we both now tour for—but these days he’s behind the piano while I’m on drums.

It’s a wild and funny conversation about how Chance said “yes” to playing drums for Nicky… before he actually knew how. What started as a bluff turned into a crash course in drumming, arenas, and self-belief. We dig into how producing helped him fake his way through those early gigs, what it felt like to play arenas without knowing how to set up a hi-hat clutch, and how saying yes to one opportunity changed his entire life.

We also talk about his artist project Free Arlo, lessons from touring, why personality keeps you the gig more than skill, and how he’s built a creative life that spans piano, drumming, and sound design.

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Anika Nilles (Rush) shares the records that shaped her playing

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. If you haven’t heard, RUSH just announced a run of new shows with Anika Nilles behind the kit. I’m beyond excited for her—she’s going to absolutely crush those songs.

For anyone who isn’t familiar with Anika, I wanted to bring our 2020 conversation back to the top of the feed. It’s one of the first interviews I ever recorded, so I definitely sound like a baby, but I still love this one.

Technically, this was back in the Big Fat Five era—before the current format was established—but you’ll get the idea. I had such a blast, and Anika will also be part of another project I’ve got in the works.

In the meantime, enjoy revisiting my chat with Anika Nilles and learning more about the music that helped shape her into the unstoppable musician she is today.

ANIKA'S CHOICES:

Artist – Toto
Album – The Seventh One
Release Year – 1988
Key Track – "Mushanga"
Drummer – Jeff Porcaro

Artist – Nerve
Album – The Distance Between Zero And One
Release Year – 2011
Key Track – "Loot"
Drummer – Jojo Mayer

Artist – The John Scofield Band
Album – Überjam
Release Year – 2002
Key Track – "Überjam"
Drummer – Adam Deitch

Artist – Foo Fighters
Album – There Is Nothing Left To Lose
Release Year – 1999
Drummer – Taylor Hawkins / Dave Grohl

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The Drum Panel: Infiltrating hardcore with collared shirts

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to The Drum Panel with me, Ben Hilzinger, alongside Eric Urrea and Kris Mazzarisi. We cover a lot of ground today, but most of our conversation centers around image—what it means, how it evolves, and why it matters. It’s a loaded topic that hits everyone differently, but we do our best to share honest takes from our experiences as working musicians. Think of it as equal parts peer therapy and real-world advice for drummers coming up in the scene.

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Terry Silverlight breaks down the music that shaped him

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming. This is another installment of Big Fat Five—the series where I sit down with my favorite drummers and ask them to break down the five records that shaped how they approach the kit.

Lately I’ve been fortunate to have guests who’ve already appeared in other drummers’ Big Fat Fives, and today’s guest is one of them: Terry Silverlight.

Terry’s career is so deep and wide-ranging that I almost don’t even want to start listing artists. His discography is massive — you can check it out on his website HERE and he’s still extremely active today. He was already recording at 14 on his brother Barry Miles’ record, and he hasn’t slowed down since. Along the way he’s worked with everyone from George Benson to Roberta Flack to Natalie Merchant, just to name a few.

This episode doesn’t veer from the Big Fat Five format, but Terry interleaves the records that shaped him with the way music has been ingrained in his life from day one. I mention this at the top of our chat, but it’s worth saying again here — the through-line of music in Terry’s story is undeniable.

Toward the end, I also ask him about a session that came up in Aaron Steele’s episode a while back, when Aaron brought up Terry’s work with the band Change. If you haven’t heard that one, go back and check it out — Aaron’s a young legend in his own right.

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SONGS PLAYED IN THIS EPISODE:

Artist – Barry Miles
Album – White Heat
Release Year – 1972
Key Track – "White Heat"
Drummer – Terry Silverlight

Artist – Max Roach
Album – Max Roach + 4 ... On The Chicago Scene
Release Year – 1958
Key Track – "Memo: To Maurice"
Drummer – Max Roach

Artist – The Tony Williams Lifetime
Album – Emergency!
Release Year – 1969
Key Track – "Emergency"
Drummer – Tony Williams

Artist – Ravi Shankar & Alla Rakha
Album – The Genius of Pandit Ravi Shankar
Release Year – 1990
Key Track – "Yaman - Gat in Matta Tal"
Tabla – Alla Rakha

Artist – Shakti
Album – Mind Explosion (50th Anniversary Tour Live)
Release Year – 2025
Key Track – "5 In The Morning, 6 In The Afternoon"
Tabla – Zakir Hussain

Artist – McCoy Tyner
Album – Trident
Release Year – 1975
Key Track – "Elvin (Sir) Jones"
Drummer – Elvin Jones

Artist – Airto Moreira
Album – Fingers
Release Year – 1973
Key Track – "Fingers (El Rada)"
Drummers – Airto Moreira & Ivan Conti

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Calvin Rodgers breaks down the five records that influenced his playing

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This week, I’m joined by the legendary Calvin Rodgers. His playing has helped define modern gospel drumming through his work with Fred Hammond, Kirk Franklin, and John P. Kee. And speaking of John P. Kee—Calvin’s performance on "Rain On Us" has come up again and again in other drummers’ Big Fat Fives. I had to ask him about it, and his story doesn’t disappoint.

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CALVIN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist – Walter Hawkins
Album – Love Alive II
Release Year – 1978
Key Track(s) – “Until I Found The Lord”
Drummer – Joel Smith

Artist – Hezekiah Walker
Album – Oh Lord We Praise You
Release Year – 1991
Key Track(s) – “Oh Lord We Praise You,” “He’s Sweet I Know,” “Walk In The Light”
Drummer – Gerald Heyward

Artist – Babyface
Album – Unplugged
Release Year – 1997
Key Track(s) – “Whip Appeal,” “I’ll Make Love To You”
Drummer – Ricky Lawson

Artist – Dave Weckl
Album – Synergy
Release Year – 1999
Key Track(s) – “High Life,” “Cultural Concurrence,” “Tower 99”
Drummer – Dave Weckl

Artist – Kirk Franklin
Album – The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin
Release Year – 2002
Key Track(s) – “Hossana,” “Don’t Cry,” “Brighter Day”
Drummer – Terry Baker

Honorable Mention
Artist – Mint Condition
Album – Definition Of A Band
Release Year – 1996
Key Track(s) – “Intro,” “Let Me Be The One,” “Raise Up,” “Sometimes”
Drummers – Stokely Williams, Chris Dave

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Zach Danziger breaks down the five records that influenced his playing

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000

We’re back with another installment of Big Fat Five - a segment of the show where I chat with my favorite drummers about the 5 records that shaped their approach to the instrument. This week’s guest is Zach Danziger...a drummer/composer who refuses to let tradition box him in. From early days with Wayne Krantz to collaborations across jazz, fusion, film, and experimental projects, Zach has built a career that’s as deep as it is unpredictable.

Sometimes you click with everything a guest says…and this conversation was just that. Talking with Zach not only made me more confident in who I am as a player, but also excited to explore elements I've been neglecting.

That being said, I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Zach Danziger into the player he is today. Cheers.

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ZACH'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist – Bill Connors
Album – Step It
Release Year – 1985
Key Track – “Step It”
Drummer – Dave Weckl

Artist – Chaka Khan
Album – Naughty
Release Year – 1980
Key Track – “Clouds”
Drummer – Steve Ferrone

Artist – McCoy Tyner
Album – Inner Voices
Release Year – 1977
Key Track – Uptown
Drummer(s) – Eric Gravatt & Jack DeJohnette

Artist – Luther Vandross
Album – Busy Body
Release Year – 1983
Key Track – For the Sweetness of Your Love
Drummer – Yogi Horton

Artist – Squarepusher
Album – Feed Me Weird Things
Release Year – 1996
Key Track - Squarepusher Theme
Drummer – Programmed by Tom Jenkinson (Squarepusher)

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The Drum Panel: Your Mind's Ear

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Today on The Drum Panel, we’ve got Dave Elitch and Sarab Singh.

Dave has worked with The Mars Volta, Weezer, The 1975, Justin Timberlake, and plenty more. Alongside his playing career, he’s become a sought-after instructor on body mechanics and the psychology of performing. He’s put out two online courses—Getting Out of Your Own Way and Staying Out of Your Own Way—that dive deep into how the body moves behind the kit. His brand-new online course, Your Mind’s Ear, shifts the focus to sound and gear. Check out all of his courses ⁠HERE⁠!

Joining us is our good friend Sarab Singh. He’s an incredibly talented drummer based in Los Angeles and currently plays with MUNA. Beyond that, he’s one of the best hangs I know, and the perfect bridge between me and Dave.

This isn’t just a promo. We cover a lot of ground as always—but Dave’s new course is the glue that holds today’s conversation together.

Check out all of his courses HERE!

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Xavier Ware (Bilmuri) breaks down the five records that influenced his playing

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Big Fat Five, I’m joined by drummer Xavier Ware. He’s currently out on the road with Bilmuri, and his playing is UNREAL—able to blaze with the kind of intensity that feels like he’s getting paid by the note, then pivot into a dynamic, nuanced jazz approach with left-foot finesse that I honestly can’t wrap my head around. Both of those styles live so far outside my own playing, which made this conversation especially exciting.

We discuss where he learned the jazz language, how he breaks down the incredibly technical songs he’s known for, and his journey toward appreciating the small things. And ultimately, how you shouldn’t strive for perfect timing or playing, but that perfect feeling, for both you and the audience.

XAVIER'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist – Nerve
Album – Prohibited Beats
Release Year – 2009
Key Track(s) – “Syncopath,” “Jabon,” “Far,” “7even”
Drummer – Jojo Mayer

Artist – Button Masher
Album – The 16bit.Wav
Release Year – 2020
Key Track(s) – “Siblings,” “Meta Knight's Revenge” (from Kirby Superstar)
Drummer – Midi

Artist – Louis Cole
Album – Quality Over Opinion
Release Year – 2022
Key Track(s) – “Laughing in Her Sleep,” “I’m Tight,” “Failing in a Cool Way”
Drummer – Louis Cole

Artist – Sonny Rollins
Album – East Broadway Rundown
Release Year – 1966
Key Track(s) – “Front to Back”
Drummer – Elvin Jones

Artist – Yellowjackets
Album – Blue Hats
Release Year – 1997
Key Track(s) – “CapeTown,” “Statue of Liberty,” “New Rochelle”
Drummer – Will Kennedy

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Steve Goold (Drummer / Educator) breaks down the five records that influenced his playing

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

I’ve been deep into working on the second book, which has me going back through a bunch of the older conversations. One that really stood out again was with Steve Goold.

If you don’t know, Steve is actually the Steve of Steve’s Donut. He’s also played with Sara Bareilles, Owl City, Mat Kearney, and Scary Pockets, to name a few. But more than the resume, I was reminded how insightful he is. There’s this part where he talks about there being no neutral notes—like, every note carries weight, it’s never just filler. That idea has been rattling around in my head ever since I revisited the chat.

Steve just put out his first release under his own name, a live recording called Solo Improvisations On Drumset, and you can watch the whole thing on YouTube HERE.

STEVE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist – Pearl Jam

Album – Vs.

Release Year – 1993

Key Track – “Go”

Drummer – Dave Abbruzzese

Artist – Owsley

Album – Owsley

Release Year – 1999

Key Track – “Oh No the Radio”

Drummer – Chris McHugh

Artist – Jeff Buckley

Album – Grace

Release Year – 1994

Key Track – “Mojo Pin”

Drummer – Matt Johnson

Artist – Happy Apple

Album – Body Popping – Moon Walking – Top Rocking

Release Year – 2000

Key Track – “Where Does a Stranger Go on Christmas Eve?”

Drummer – Dave King

Artist – Dogs of Peace

Album – Speak Release

Year – 1996

Key Track – “The Truth”

Drummer – John Hammond

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The Drum Panel: Every one of my friend's drum sets sounds better than mine.

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This Drum Panel episode picks up where we left off with Brendan Buckley (Shakira, Morrissey, Perry Farrell) and Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Mother Feather). If you missed Part 1, you’ll still follow along just fine—but it’s worth a listen.

We dive right in with drummer nightmares before moving into bigger conversations about finding your own sound, overcoming roadblocks, and balancing identity as both artist and “brand.”

Inside this episode:

Drummer nightmares on stage – including Brendan’s Shakira story that started as a trio
Bad advice worth ignoring – why “you need to play everything” isn’t always the path
Finding your own voice – doubling down on what makes you unique instead of being a jack of all trades
Hi-hat obsession – tone, touch, and why small changes shift the whole vibe
Roadblocks and breakthroughs – Gunnar’s kick pedal “yips” and Brendan’s double bass practice insights
Kit setups and identity – how your drum layout shapes your playing more than you think
Brand vs. authenticity – do drummers really need to market themselves, or is being great enough?

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The Drum Panel: Your electrician is my favorite drummer

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This Drum Panel brings together Brendan Buckley—drummer for Shakira, Perry Farrell, Morrissey, and more—and one of my closest friends, Gunnar Olsen of Puscifer, Mother Feather, Big Data, and ME to chat about...

...the difference between what works in the practice room and what works in an arena, charting versus memorizing, and how to respect the composition before making it your own. Brendan breaks down the “Shakira machine” and why clarity and projection beat busy parts when you’re playing to the back row.

We also cover deep-dive listening versus casting a wide net, Bowie’s Berlin era, and the time Brendan’s electrician turned out to be one of my favorite drummers—and his too. It’s equal parts practical advice, music history, and great road stories from working drummers.

Inside this episode

Arena truth: kick, snare, crashes beat ghost-note soup

The DW stainless kit that keeps coming back on tour

Shakira’s camp, subs, and how Brendan plans for “what if”

Learning 30 songs fast: charts, anchors, and staying calm

Deep-dive listening vs playlists, plus Bowie and Prince talk

The Alan Myers story and why “mic-friendly” drums matter

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The Drum Panel: What do you mean you like what I do?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to The Drum Panel!

Featuring: Ben Hilzinger (me!), Joe Lana Jr. (@thecowboydrummer), and Eric Urrea (Marina City)

Inside this episode:

Why Creators Struggle to Accept Compliments
The Trap of Overthinking Content Creation
Balancing Comedy, Drumming, and Self-Worth Online
When Do You Feel Like a Drummer vs. an Impostor?
The Subtle Art of Playing Soft and Why Grip Debates Are Overrated

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Cain Daniel (Jesus Molina) breaks down the five records that influenced his playing

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. I’m Ben Hilzinger, and this is another installment of Big Fat Five—where I ask my favorite drummers (and, honestly, just favorite people) to break down the five records that shaped how they approach the instrument.

Today’s guest is Cain Daniel. You might’ve caught him on a recent episode of The Drum Panel, but this time he’s here for the Big Fat Five treatment.

I first saw Cain play with Jesus Molina, and his creativity, clarity, and confidence behind the kit instantly stood out in the sea of drum videos I scroll through every day. He’s an LA-based drummer, a Berklee College of Music grad, and in recent years he’s played with Chappell Roan, Derek Hough, Engelbert Humperdinck, and plenty more.

So let’s get into the five records that helped shape Cain Daniel into the drummer he is today. And while this isn’t a Drum Panel episode, we still take a few fun side quests along the way.

CAIN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Dave Weckl

Album - Master Plan

Release Year - 1990

Drummer - Dave Weckl

Artist - Dave Matthews Band

Album - Busted Stuff

Release Year - 2002

Key Track - "Grey Street"

Drummer - Carter Beauford

Artist - Tigran Hamasyan

Album - Mockroot

Release Year - 2015

Drummer - Arthur Hnatek

Artist Rufus & Chaka Khan

Album - Stompin’ at the Savoy

Release Year - 1983

Drummer John "JR" Robinson

Artist - Tower of Power

Album - Back to Oakland

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - "Don’t Change Horses (In the Middle of a Stream)"

Drummer - David Garibaldi

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Artist - Avishai Cohen

Album - Gently Disturbed

Release Year - 2008

Drummer - Mark Guiliana

Artist - Dirty Loops

Album - Loopified

Release Year - 2014

Drummer - Aron Mellergard

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The Drum Panel: You’re totally not a mound of dirt

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Ben (me..hi!), Mark Stepro (The Wallflowers) and Eric Urrea (Marina City) talk about the gear that go away...
Our favorite BAD recordings
How to stay in love with drumming when it’s also your job
When to say yes to a gig—and when to walk away
Should you charge for prep time? And how much is your time actually worth?
Why some “Instagram drummers” aren’t your competition—and that’s fine

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Big Fat Five: Marcus Finnie (Drummer/Composer/Educator) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s installment of Big Fat Five features Marcus Finnie…a proud Memphis native now based in Nashville and he’s one of the most respected session drummers and educators around. His credits span genres and include icons such as Donna Summer, Billy Preston, Larry Carlton, Keb Mo, Taj Mahal, Lady A, and many more. He’s also played on multiple grammy winning and grammy nominated records.

I recently went down a rabbit hole watching his clinics and he was too insightful and talented NOT have on the show. So here we go. I hope you enjoy the records that helped shape Marcus Finnie into the impactful musician he is today.

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The Drum Panel: Gunnar Sounds Great!

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this PART 2 episode of The Drum Panel, I’m yet again joined by drummers Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Big Data) and Eric Urrea (Marina City) for a deep dive into the internal lives of drummers — the anxiety, the self-doubt, the flow states, and the fears we rarely talk about.

Today we discuss:

The adrenaline of live shows
How we learn songs
Reoccurring drummer nightmares
The power of simple praise
Content creation as practice
Drummer swap fantasies
The burden drummers carry
Looking ahead for The Drum Panel

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The Drum Panel: Debby Boone Pat Pat

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this episode, The Drum Panel returns with ME (Ben Hilzinger), alongside my co-host Eric Urrea (Marina City), Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Bruce Springsteen, Mother Feather) for a roundtable discussion on all things drum.

Today we discuss:

How Gunnar personalizes drum parts for legacy bands like Eve 6 while still respecting the original recordings
The balance between improvisation and replication—what “respecting the instrument” really means
Dream gear: Lars Ulrich’s ...And Justice for All Tama kit and Herb Alexander’s wild setup from “My Name Is Mud”
Behind the scenes of the Primus / Puscifer / A Perfect Circle tour and being at the center of major drum world headlines
Josh Freese’s quiet exit from Foo Fighters mid-tour and what Gunnar learned from watching him handle it with grace and intensity
The surreal story of getting the call to play on a Bruce Springsteen record
How much creative freedom Gunnar gets with Puscifer and how each tour takes on its own sonic identity
Navigating feedback in the studio vs. live gigs—and why the context always matters
Gunnar’s candid reflection after a rough wedding gig and how it reignited his desire to practice
Blending live drums with electronic stems: what Gunnar calls the “hip-hop show” approach
The mysterious phenomenon of “next day clarity” when learning new songs and why the brain needs rest
Overcoming overthinking, performance anxiety, and “the yips”—and the importance of showing yourself grace
Why not playing for a while might be the best practice you didn’t know you needed

'My Name Is Mud' Video - DRUM PICS

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The Drum Panel: The Schelp is Real...I'm Happy?

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this episode, The Drum Panel returns with ME (Ben Hilzinger), alongside my co-host Eric Urrea (Marina City), Cain Daniel (Jesus Molina, Derek Hough) for a roundtable discussion on all things drum.

Today we discuss:

How we get out of a creative rut
Redefining success — how your goals change as you grow
Self-work — therapy, breathwork, and staying sane on the road
Live performance as meditation — the balance between awareness and letting go
Gear stories that hurt
Pushing back on bad adviceIf your younger self saw you now… — the reality vs. the fantasy
Insurance tips every musician should know (seriously)

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The Drum Panel: Taste Is Fake, but My Feelings Are Real

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this episode, The Drum Panel returns with ME (Ben Hilzinger), alongside my co-host Eric Urrea (Marina City), Max Flanders (Lukas Nelson), and Dean Sinclair (Capital Soirée, Worry Club, Ostin) for a roundtable on the ever-fragile topic of taste.

Today we discuss:

How to handle unsolicited feedback without spiraling into existential dread
The delicate balance between self-expression and being hireable
Whether “good taste” is something you're born with—or can develop
That awkward moment when a producer tells you to “play something you’re already playing”
Learning to interpret non-drummer feedback without losing your mind
The anxiety of showing people your work… and how to move past it
Whether your teenage influences are a crutch… or your secret weapon
Developing your own voice in a world full of technically perfect drummers—and incoming AI
Overcoming “red light syndrome” in the studio and learning to groove under pressure

This one is for anyone who's ever questioned their taste, their technique, or their place in the industry. It’s funny, raw, and packed with perspective.

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Big Fat Five: Ari Hoenig (Drummer / Educator) Shares His Most Influential Records

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

My guest today is Ari Hoenig — drummer, composer, educator, and all-around wizard behind the kit. Ari is known for his melodic, almost vocal approach to the drums, especially his ability to bend pitch and bring out distinct note choices on the instrument in a way that sounds nearly impossible. He’s collaborated with artists like Chris Potter, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Joshua Redman, and many others, but it’s his own solo work that really puts a spotlight on his creative spirit.

In this episode, Ari walks through five records that helped shape his unique voice — from the expressive swing of Papa Jo Jones to the unconventional phrasing of Thelonious Monk. We also dive into Ari’s early classical roots, why Keith Jarrett changed his musical DNA, and how he began developing his signature melodic drumming approach.

Hope you enjoy the five records that shaped Ari Hoenig into the deeply expressive and fiercely original musician he is today.

Join Ari's Patreon HERE

ARI'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist – Keith Jarrett
Album – Belonging
Release Year – 1974
Key Track – "Spiral Dance"
Drummer – Jon Christensen

Artist – Jo Jones
Album – The Jo Jones Trio: The Everest Years
Release Year – 1959
Key Track – "Philadelphia Bound"
Drummer – Jo Jones

Artist – Kenny Garrett
Album – Trilogy
Release Year – 1995
Key Track – "Wayne's Thing"
Drummer – Brian Blade

Artist – Miles Davis
Album – Nefertiti
Release Year – 1968
Key Track – "Nefertiti"
Drummer – Tony Williams

Artist – Thelonious Monk
Album – Monk's Dream
Release Year – 1963
Key Track – "Monk's Dream"
Drummer – Frankie Dunlop

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Big Fat Five: Billy Martin (Medeski, Martin & Wood) Shares His Most Influential Records

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Billy Martin ... a world-renowned drummer, educator, visual artist, producer, and author. He has collaborated with some of the best, including (but certainly not limited to) John Scofield, John Zorn, Iggy Pop, Natalie Merchant, Flea and many more. Still, many people know him best for his work with Medeski, Martin & Wood, alongside John Medeski and Chris Wood. If you enjoy this episode, please go check out Billy’s interview with Mike Dawson on the Drum Candy podcast titled “Improvising and Cultivating a Creative Mindset”.

I recently re-watched his anti-instructional film, Life on Drums, and I can’t recommend it enough. It's essentially a series of conversations between Martin and his first drum teacher, Allen Herman. These discussions delve into topics such as soloing, time, tone, phrasing, free playing, and so much more. Interspersed throughout are some pretty rad solo and duet performances…all filmed with a cinematic aesthetic. So check that out if that interests you.

Right off the bat, we dive into the topic of soloing — something Billy encourages all drummers to do first thing when they sit behind the kit (even if just for five minutes), before jumping into the records that shaped him into the remarkable musician he is today.

BILLY'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Peter Tosh
Album - Legalize It
Release Year - 1976
Key Track - "Legalize it"
Drummer - Carlton "Santa" Davis, Carlton Barrett

Artist - Stevie Wonder
Album - Talking Book
Release Year - 1972
Key Track - "Superstition"
Drummer - Stevie Wonder

Artist - Dr. John
Album - Gris Gris
Release Year - 1968
Key Track - "Mama Roux"
Drummer - John Boudreaux

Artist - John Coltrane
Album - Interstellar Space
Release Year - 1974
Key Track - "Jupiter Variation"
Drummer - Rashied Ali

Artist - Charles Mingus
Album - Mingus Ah Um
Release Year - 1959
Key Track - "Better Git It In Your Soul"
Drummer - Dannie Richmond

Artist - Lil' Kim
Album - Hard Core
Release Year - 1996
Key Track - "Queen Bitch"

Artist - Wu-Tang Clan
Album - Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
Release Year - 1993
Key Track - "Wu-Tang: 7th Chamber - Part II - Conclusion"
Drummer - RZA (producer / beat maker)

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The Drum Panel: Pocket, Pep Talks & Paris Regrets

Wed, 28 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

In this part two episode, I continue my deep-dive chat with co-host Eric Urrea (Marina City) — picking up right where last week’s marathon conversation left off.

Today we discuss:

The most useful failures musicians face (and how to reframe them)
Why “pocket” means something different on every gig
Learning to own your voice — whether as a hired gun or band member
How to stay mentally and physically sane while on the road
Why doing non-music things on tour actually fuels your art

We open up about imposter syndrome, ADHD, burnout, and what it really takes to balance creativity with professionalism.

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The Drum Panel: Master Rights, Mid-Gig Panic, and the Myth of “Making It”

Wed, 21 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

In this episode of The Drum Panel, I’m joined by my co-host Eric Urrea (Marina City) for a laid-back but honest conversation about drumming, the music industry, self-worth, and everything in between.

We had originally planned to bring on a guest, but when that fell through, we decided to just catch up and hit record—which, honestly, ended up being exactly what we needed.

Today we discuss:

A belief we both held about drumming early on that we’ve since let go of.
Why learning kick drum patterns is my first step when tackling new material.
The very real anxiety of walking into a new gig and playing in front of a band for the first time.
Our approach to charting vs. memorizing—and why it changes depending on the situation.
Whether drummers deserve songwriting credit and how we navigate that conversation.
The difference between publishing and master rights, and what every drummer should understand about the business.
Our evolving definitions of “making it” as working musicians.
How our instruments can feel like both a source of pride and frustration—and how that ties into self-worth.
The constant push-pull between confidence and impostor syndrome, and how we deal with it.

If you’re navigating your own creative path, juggling multiple projects, or just trying to stay inspired through the ups and downs, I think this episode will hit home.

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The Drum Panel: Trash Can Lids, Technique Traps, and Amateur Traits

Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. In this episode of The Drum Panel, host Ben Hilzinger is joined by Sterling Laws and Fred Eltringham for an insightful roundtable on all things DRUM.

Meet the Panelists:

Sterling Laws: Grammy-nominated drummer from the Pacific Northwest, now based in Los Angeles, known for collaborations with Olivia Rodrigo, Kim Gordon, and more.
Fred Eltringham: Nashville-based drummer, a mainstay with Sheryl Crow since 2012, with credits including The Wallflowers, The Chicks, and kd lang.

In today's episode, we discuss:

Dream pieces of gear from music history.

Albums they wish they could have witnessed being recorded.

Balancing technique and groove, and the idea that overemphasis on technique might mask a lack of feel.

Essential, budget-friendly gear they rely on.

Personal experiences of re-evaluating their approach to the drum set.

Common drumming advice they find questionable, such as rigid techniques or creative limitations imposed by producers.

Trends in drumming they're eager to see fade.

Identifying traits that distinguish amateur drummers in live settings, like cymbal choices and hi-hat control.

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Big Fat Five: David Garibaldi (Tower of Power) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 07 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming…a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum.

I’m back with another installed of Big Fat Five — a segment of the podcast where we dive into the five records that shaped the way great drummers approach their craft.

My name is Ben Hilzinger and today’s guest is someone whose playing and educational work has impacted me personally in a big way. David Garibaldi is not only the legendary drummer of Tower of Power, but his book Future Sounds has been one of my go-to practice tools ever since my good friend Sarab Singh first turned me onto it. In this conversation, David shares the five records that shaped his unmistakable sound and approach to rhythm. I’m so honored to have him on — let’s get into it. I hope you enjoy my chat with David Garibaldi. Cheers!

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DAVID'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Count Basie

Album - Breakfast Dance and Barbeque

Release Year - 1959

Drummer - Sonny Payne

Artist - Sly & The Family Stone

Album - Whole New Thing

Release Year - 1967

Key Track(s) "Underdog," "If This Room Could Talk"

Drummer - Greg Errico

Artist - Aretha Franklin

Album - Aretha Live @ The Fillmore West

Release Year - 1971

Drummer - Bernard Purdie

Artist - The Meters

Album - Look-Ka Py Py

Release Year - 1969

Key Track(s) "Looka-Py-Py," "Rigor Mortis"

Drummer - Joseph "Zigaboo" Modeliste

Artist - James Brown

Single - "I Got The Feelin'"

Release Year - 1968

Drummer - Clyde Stubblefield

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Artist - Maceo & All The King's Men

Album - Doing Their Own Thing

Release Year - 1970

Drummer - Melvin Parker

Maceo Parker

Album - Made By Maceo

Release Year - 2003

Drummer - Jamal Thomas

Artist - Ray Barretto

Album - Que Viva La Musica

Release Year - 1972

Key Track - Alafia Cumaye

Timbales - Orestes Vilato

Artist - Herbie Hancock

Album - Maiden Voyage

Key Track - Maiden Voyage

Release Year - 1965

Drummer - Tony Williams

Artist - Miles Davis

Album - Four and More

Release Year - 1966 (Recorded in 1964)

Drummer - Tony Williams

Elvin Jones...all his recordings...(especially McCoy Tyner's album Inception)

...and MANY more...

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Big Fat Five: Jacopo Volpe (Post Malone, Salmo, Damiano David) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

We’re back with another installment of the Big Fat Five—where I invite on a drummer that inspires me to break down the five records that shaped their voice behind the kit.

My name is Ben Hilzinger and today’s guest is Jacopo Volpe. Born and raised in Italy, Jaco has played with Vanilla Sky, Post Malone, Damiano David, The Bloody Beetroots, Salmo, Portugal. The Man, and a bunch more. He’s got power, chops, groove, and the kind of confidence that only comes from playing on the biggest stages in the world.

I’ll let Jaco tell you more about his journey, but for now, let’s dive into the five records that helped shape who he is behind the kit. Cheers.

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JACO'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Elton John

Album - Night and Day Concert - Live at Wembley

Release Year - 1984

Key Track(s) - "Crocodile Rock;" "I’m Still Standing"

Drummer - Nigel Olsson

Artist - Toto

Album - Toto Live in Paris

Release Year - 1990

Key Track(s) - "Rosanna." "Hold The Line"

Drummer - Jeff Porcaro

Artist - Stevie Ray Vaughan

Album - Live from Austin, Texas

Release Year - 1995/1997

Key Track(s) - "Texas Flood," "Cold Shot"

Drummer - Chris Layton

Artist - Blink-182

Album - The Mark Tom and Travis show

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - "Dumpweed," "Don’t Leave Me," "Mutt"

Drummer - Travis Barker

Artist - Foo Fighters

Album - Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace

Release Year - 2007

Key Track - "The Pretender"

Drummer - Taylor Hawkins

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The Drum Panel: From Garibaldi to Game Show

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to The Drum Panel—a roundtable-style discussion on all things drums.

This week, I’m joined—as almost always—by my co-host Eric Urrea, and today’s special guest is Jeremy Taggart: longtime drummer for Our Lady Peace and co-host of the Taggart and Torrens podcast, where he blends his love of music, comedy, and all things Canadian. At the end of the day, we’re just good buddies—and those are the kinds of people I like to have on The Drum Panel.

This episode kicks off in the middle of a little rant I was having about a recent encounter with David Garibaldi… which, if you stick around long enough, you just might hear for yourself. Let’s hop in. Cheers.

In this episode, we discuss:

Jeremy’s dream piece of music memorabilia
The records he wishes he could’ve been a fly on the wall for
Making peace with not keeping every skill sharp—and choosing what to let slide to serve your personal sound
Singing while drumming
A round of Word Association
And of course…Trivia!

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Big Fat Five: Sam Cohen (Glitter Party) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

What is up!? We’re back with another installment of Big Fat Five, where I invite on drummers who’ve inspired me to break down the five records that helped shape their unique voice behind the kit.

This week’s guest is Sam Cohen—a Canadian drummer who, much like Marco Kleebauer a few weeks back, popped up on my Explore Page and instantly caught my ear.

Sam also makes music under the name Glitter Party—a solo pop project he writes, records, and mixes entirely in his home studio up in Toronto. It’s raw, nostalgic, catchy, and perfectly saturated—DIY in the best sense of the word.

He does a great job of setting up his backstory and artistic approach right at the top of our chat, so I’ll shut up—for now.

Hope you enjoy the five records that shaped Sam Cohen into the musician he is today. Cheers!

Check out all of Sam's links HERE

SAM'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Amy Whinehouse

Album - Back to Black

Release Year - 2006

Key Track - "He Can Only Hold Her"

Drummer - Homer Steinweiss

Artist - James Brown

Album - Star Time

Release Year - 1991

Key Track - "I Got The Feelin'"

Drummer - Clyde Stubblefield, Jabo starks, Melvin Parker

Artist - Al Green

Album - Lets Stay Together

Release Year - 1972

Key Track - "Lets Stay Together"

Drummer - Al Jackson Jr

Artist - The Band

Album - Music from Big Pink

Release Year - 1968

Key Track - "The Weight"

Drummer - Levon Helm

Artist - John Coltrane

Album - Giants Steps (mono)

Release Year - 1960

Key Track - "Countdown"

Drummer - Art Taylor

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The 5 Pillars of Drumming

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

What is up?! Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming — a podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. My name is Ben Hilzinger, and today’s episode is a little different.

A few months ago, I was sent a book by drummer and educator Mark Feldman — founder of Bang! The Drum School. The book is called Drumming Decoded: The Secret Code to Quickly Go From Newbie to Confident Drummer. It’s a relatively quick read at around 180 pages, but it’s surprisingly comprehensive.

Now, I usually try to steer clear of too much “insider baseball” on this podcast because I want everyone to feel part of the conversation. That said, I also realized I haven’t really addressed beginner drummers directly in a lot of my content.

So I brought Mark on not only to promote his book (which I do recommend — link’s in the show notes), but also to have a conversation about building a solid foundation from day one. And while this book and convo are definitely geared toward novice drummers, there are a ton of takeaways that can help any drummer — no matter where you're at in your journey.

So, whether you’re just picking up sticks for the first time or you're revisiting the fundamentals, I hope you dig this episode. Even if you think you’ve heard it all before... you might just grow a little more.

Here’s to the beginners — keep going. You got this!

Check out Bang! The Drum School HERE

Snag your copy of Drumming Decoded HERE

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The Drum Panel: What IS Rock?, Social Anxiety & "Networking" as a Drummer

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Episode 13 of The Drum Panel

Welcome to The Drum Panel—a show where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions pertaining to all things DRUM.

For today's panel, we have my co-host Eric Urrea and special returning guest, Mike Robinson.

Today we discuss:

What the hell does it mean to be "rock"?
Dealing with social anxiety and imposter syndrome while trying to network for your career.
Why the word "networking" is gross

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Big Fat Five: Marco Kleebauer (Drummer/Producer) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This is another installment of Big Fat Five, a segment where I ask some of my favorite drummers to break down five records that had a major impact on their approach to music.

This week, I’m joined by Marco Kleebauer—an Austrian drummer and producer who very recently popped up on my Instagram Explore page… and instantly peaked my interest. His drumming is minimalist yet experimental, and his analog-leaning recording approach is exactly the direction I want to explore with my own sound. This is just another reason I love doing this podcast—I get to discover someone new, connect with them, and then bring them to your attention, too!

Go check out his website HERE where you can purchase his original music, grab some drum break packs, and explore playlists featuring artists he’s either collaborated with or who’ve used his drum breaks in their own music. And some exciting news… Marco is releasing a book called Notes on Drum Recording by the end of this year. It’s all about how to record drums in a small, less-than-ideal room—which, let’s be honest, is the reality for most of us (myself included). So be sure to follow him on Instagram—not only for a bunch of reasons you’ll soon discover, but also to stay updated on the book’s release.

Marco dives into his backstory right at the top of our chat, so I’ll get out of the way. But I implore you to listen to the entire episode—he sprinkles some very tasty nuggets throughout.

Alright, here are the five records that helped shape Marco Kleebauer into the highly sought-after producer and drummer he is today. Cheers!

Check out his website HERE

Follow him on Instagram HERE

MARCO'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - The Beatles

Album - Revolver

Release Year - 1966

Key Track - "Tomorrow Never Knows"

Drummer - Ringo Starr

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Album - Led Zeppelin 1

Release Year - 1969

Key Track - "Good Times Bad Times"

Drummer - John Bonham

Artist - Jimi Hendrix

Album - Are You Experienced

Release Year - 1967

Key Track - "Fire"

Drummer - Mitch Mitchell

Artist - Silver Apples

Album - Silver Apples

Release Year - 1968

Key Track - "Program"

Drummer - Danny Taylor

Artist - Flaming Lips

Album - The Soft Bulletin

Release Year - 1999

Key Track - "Race for the Prize"

Drummer - Steven Drozd

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Big Fat Five: Dee Simone (Doechii, Alison Wonderland, Madame Gandhi) Shares Her top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This is another installment of Big Fat Five, a segment where I ask some of my favorite drummers to break down five records that had a major impact on their approach to music.

Today, I’m joined by Dee Simone, a Bay Area-raised dummer currently based in Los Angeles. She’s funky, powerful, dynamic, and incredibly versatile behind the kit.

I have to give credit where it’s due—this interview wouldn’t have happened without Bill Burr. I was listening to his podcast when he gave a glowing review of Doechii’s recent Tiny Desk Concert for NPR, specifically shouting out Dee’s playing. For those who don’t know, Bill is a fantastic drummer himself, so that endorsement sent me down a rabbit hole of Dee's performances. Obviously, I have zero regrets.

Dee has shared the stage with an impressive list of artists, including Doechii, Alison Wonderland, and Madame Ghandi to name a few. She’s done a lot, yet she remains humble and hungry, and this was a really fun conversation.

Read Dee's Shoutout LA Feature HERE

DEE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - John P. Kee

Album - The New Life Community Choir feat. John P. Kee Not Guilty - The Experience

Release Year - 2000

Key Track - “Rain On Us,” "Right Here,” “I Do Worship”

Drummer - Calvin Rodgers

Artist - The Roots

Album - Things Fall Apart

Release Year - 1999

Key Track - “The Next Movement,” “Act Too (The Love Of My Life,” “You Got Me”

Drummer - Questlove

Artist - Kim Burrell

Album - Live In Concert

Release Year - 2001

Key Track - “I’ll Keep Holding On,” “Holy Ghost,” “Anything”

Drummer - Calvin Rodgers & Robert “Sput” Searight

Artist - Beyoncé

Album - HOMECOMING: THE LIVE ALBUM

Release Year - 2019

Key Track(s) - “Life Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” “Sorry,” “Bow Down,” “You Don’t Love Me (No, No, No)”

Drummer - Venzella Joy Williams

Artist - Thundercat

Album - Apocalypse

Release Year - 2013

Key Track - “Lotus and the Jondy,” “Heartbreaks + Setbacks,” “Without You”

Drummer - Thomas Pridgen

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The Drum Panel: Self-Promotion, Authenticity in Pop Gigs, and the Double Pedal Dilemma

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 01:37:00 -0000

Episode 12 of The Drum Panel

Welcome to The Drum Panel—a show where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions pertaining to all things DRUM.

Today, we've got two fantastic guests joining the conversation:

First up is Eric Leiderman. Eric is a producer at Late Night with Seth Meyers, where for years he oversaw the rotating drummer chair—regularly bringing in incredible drummers to fill in with the 8G Band when bandleader Fred Armisen couldn't be there. Eric’s done a ton to elevate the drumming community, and we’re stoked to have him on.

We're also joined by Neal Daniels, an amazing drummer who's worked with artists like Liz Phair, LP, and Matchbox Twenty. Neal always brings thoughtful perspectives to the panel, and we’re excited to have him back.

Today we discuss:

How can drummers authentically promote themselves online without feeling fake?
How do we maintain our artistic voice while making a living playing pop gigs?
Is recording yourself the key to growth?
Should every drummer learn double pedal?
How can drummers practice self-compassion?
Which historic recording session would you have loved to witness?

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Big Fat Five: Fred Eltringham (Sheryl Crow) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Fred Eltringham! If you listened to our recent episode with Sterling Laws, you heard Fred get a lot of love as one of Sterling’s five picks—so it was an honor to finally have him on the show himself.

And I gotta say…his voice is so soothing and calm. Puts mine to shame.

Fred has been playing with Sheryl Crow since 2012, but his résumé also includes The Wallflowers, The Chicks, kd lang, Willie Nelson, Gigolo Aunts, Juliana Hatfield, Ben Kweller, and plenty more. He’s a steady, calm ship at sea behind the kit, and it seems like songwriters line up around the block to work with him.

In addition to his international touring with Sheryl, you can catch him on Instagram whenever he’s doing something cool in Nashville—especially with Jules Belmont, as part of their tasty little instrumental group.

So, please enjoy my chat with Fred Eltringham about the five records that shaped him into the musician he is today.

As promised…CLICK HERE for Fred’s current play-along playlist…

Cheers!

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FRED'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Album - Led Zeppelin I

Release Year - 1969

Key Track(s) - "Good Times, Bad Times," "Dazed and Confused"

Drummer - John Bonham

Artist - The Beatles

Album - Abbey Road

Release Year - 1970

Key Track(s) - "Come Together," "You Never Give Me Your Money," "Polythene Pam," "She Came In Through The Bathroom Window," "Golden Slumbers," "Carry That Weight," "The End"

Drummer - Ringo Starr

Artist - Squeeze

Album - Singles

Release Year - 1989

Key Track(s) "Pulling Mussels," "Tempted"

Drummer - Gilson Lavis

Artist - Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers

Album - Greatest Hits

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) "The Waiting," "Last Dance With Mary Jane," "Free Fallin"

Drummers - Stan Lynch, Phil Jones

Artist - Sheryl Crow

Album - Sheryl Crow

Release Year - 1996

Key Track(s) - "If It Makes You Happy," "Sweet Rosalyn," "Home"

Drummers - Michael Urbano, Brian Macleod, Jim Keltner, Pete Thomas

Any Honorable Mentions?

Lucinda Williams - Car Wheels on a Gravel Road (Donald Lindley on drums) / Essence (Jim Keltner on drums)

Mitch Mitchell - The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Buddy Miles - Band of Gypsys

Jim Keltner - All things: Steely Dan, Leon Russell, John Lennon, George Harrison, Traveling Wilburys

Jim Gordon - Sessions, Leon Russell, Harry Nilsson

Harry Nilsson - The Point (John Guerin on drums), Nilsson Schmilsson (Jim Gordon on drums)

Charlie Watts - All things Rolling Stones

Keith Moon, Kenny Jones (The Faces) - The Who: Who's Next, Tommy, Live from the Isle of Wight, It's Hard

Nick Mason - Pink Floyd

Gary Mallaber - Steve Miller Band Greatest Hits 1974–78

Levon Helm - The Band

Alex Van Halen

Dave Houghton - Joe Jackson's Look Sharp

Dave Grohl - Anything he drums on

Queens of the Stone Age - First 3 albums: Nick Lucero, Gene Trautmann, Dave Grohl, Alfredo Hernández

Steve Jordan / Charley Drayton - X-Pensive Winos: Live at the Palladium, Main Offender

Stevie Wonder - Songs in the Key of Life, Innervisions

Prince - Dirty Mind through Diamonds and Pearls

Roger Hawkins - Muscle Shoals / Sessions / Aretha Franklin: The House That Jack Built, Respect

Russ Kunkel - Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, Carole King

The list goes on and on and on...I've reached max characters!

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Records That Define the 70's Drum Sound

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s episode is going to be a little different. I’m starting a new, perhaps self-indulgent series where I pose a question on the Big Fat Snare Drum Instagram and make an episode out of your responses. Maybe it’ll stick. Who knows?…but these are the conversations I have with my musician friends anyways, so now I’m just pushing record. The first question posed was “which records helped define the 70’s drum sound?”. We got A LOT of responses and opinions were certainly shared (THANK YOU!) Ihad to shave a 5,000 hour playlist down to a handful of songs. Then, I called up my good buddy and amazing drummer, Jake Reed, to chat with me about his views on 70’s recording techniques and listen to the songs with me. Please enjoy!

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Big Fat Five: Chris "Woody" Wood (Bastille) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, the podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. This is another segment of Big Fat Five, where I invite my favorite drummers to break down the five records that shaped their approach to the instrument.

Today, I’m joined by my friend Chris “Woody” Wood, drummer for the internationally loved band, Bastille. Since exploding onto the scene with Bad Blood in 2013, Bastille has become a staple of modern alt-pop—balancing sweeping, atmospheric moments with massive sing-along choruses.

Woody’s playing is a perfect example of how space, groove, and feel can elevate a song without ever getting in the way—something especially crucial in an arena-sized band like Bastille. But make no mistake, he still finds his moments, keeping his playing fresh, musical, and relevant for well over a decade.

Beyond the kit, Woody is just a hilarious and thoughtful dude. He even co-hosts his own podcast, Away Days w/ Woody and Piers, a comedic deep dive into the world of away football fandom. We get into all of that and more—while uncovering the five records that shaped him into the drummer he is today.

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CHRIS' BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Red Hot Chili Peppers

Album - Californication

Release Year - 1999

Key Track - "Scar Tissue"

Drummer - Chad Smith

Artist - Queens Of The Stone Age

Album - Songs For The Deaf

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - "Hangin' Tree," "Millionaire"

Drummer - Dave Grohl

Artist - Smashing Pumpkins

Album - Mellon Collie and The Infinite Sadness

Release Year - 1995

Key Track(s) - "Jelly Belly," "Bullet With Butterfly Wings"

Drummer - Jimmy Chamberlin

Artist - Mars Volta

Album - Deloused In The Comatorium

Release Year - 2003

Key Track(s) - "Inertiatic ESP," "Cicatraz ESP"

Drummer - Jon Theodore

Artist - Nate Smith

Album - ANYTHING HE PLAYS ON

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The Drum Panel: Mental Health > Paradiddles, Signature Sticks and Dream Lessons

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Episode 11 of The Drum Panel

Welcome to The Drum Panel—a show where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions pertaining to all things DRUM.

For today's panel, we have my co-host Eric Urrea and special guest, Britt Bowman (Demi Lovato, KiNG Mala, Meg Myers, Royal and the Serpent, Toni Cornell).

Today we discuss:

What’s the one piece of gear you’ve held onto the longest—and why?
Are signature drumsticks a genuine advantage or just a marketing ploy?
If you only had one hour per week to practice, how would you maximize your progress?
Is it more beneficial for your creativity to immerse yourself in one album for a full week or explore a new record every day?
Why every drummer needs a creative outlet outside of their career.
How mental health directly impacts your drumming—and what to do about it.

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Big Fat Five: Ian Matthews (Kasabian) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming, the podcast powered by Big Fat Snare Drum. This is another segment of Big Fat Five, where I invite my favorite drummers to break down the five records that shaped their approach to the instrument.

Today, I’m joined by Ian Matthews, drummer for the "future rock" band Kasabian—a group that, like many of the greats, enjoys massive success outside the U.S. while somehow remaining criminally underrated stateside. With eight studio albums and a reputation for explosive, anthemic live shows, Kasabian has been shaping the sound of modern rock for decades. And at the heart of it all? Ian Matthews—the powerhouse engine behind their dynamic and electrifying sound.

We cover a lot in this conversation—stuff that will help any drummer level up their playing and presence on the kit. I also want to mention something special: If you've listened to The Drum Panel recently, you know I’ve talked about a certain project from November 2024 that I was really stoked about. Well, Ian was one of my main inspirations for those sessions.

This one meant a lot. Enjoy the five records that shaped Ian Matthews into the drummer he is today.

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IAN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Buddy Rich

Album - Live At Ronnie Scott’s

Release Year - 1972

Key Track - "Time Being"

Drummer - Buddy Rich

Artist - Leo Sayer

Album - Endless Flight

Release Year - 1976

Key Track - "When I Need You"

Drummer - Jeff Porcaro, Steve Gadd, Rick Shlosser, Nigel Olsson, Ed Greene,

Artist - Dave Brubeck

Album - Time Out

Release Year - 1959

Key Track - "Take 5," "Blue Rondo á la Turk"

Drummer - Joe Morello

Artist - Iron Maiden

Album - Live After Death

Release Year - 1985

Key Track - "Aces High"

Drummer - Nicko McBrain

Artist - Steely Dan

Album - Aja

Release Year - 1977

Key Track - "Aja," "Home At Last"

Drummer - Steve Gadd, Bernard Purdie, Jim Keltner, Rich Moratta, Ed Greene

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Big Fat Five: Jason Gerken (Shiner, Hum, Molly McGuire) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Our guest today is Jason Gerken, a Kansas City-based drummer known for his work with Molly McGuire, Shiner, Open Hand, Project 86, and most recently, Hum. After our episode with Jared Shavelson a few weeks ago, I got a flood of DMs from people thanking me for introducing them to Jason’s drumming on The Egg by Shiner. I knew I had to get him on ASAP. Jason’s drumming carries so much weight—in every sense of the word. I know a lot of my friends were especially looking forward to this one, so here you go. I hope you all enjoy the five records that shaped Jason Gerken into the drummer he is today.

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JASON'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Artist - Chicago

Album - IX

Release Year - 1975

Key Track - Beginnings

Drummer - Danny Seraphine

Artist - Rush

Album - Moving Pictures

Release Year - 1981

Key Track - Red Barchetta

Drummer - Neil Peart

Artist - Jimi Hendrix Experience

Album - Essentials 1&2

Release Year - 1967

Key Track(s) - "If 6 Was 9" and other B-sides

Drummer - Mitch Mitchell

Artist - Yes

Album - Fragile

Release Year - 1971

Key Track - Heart of the Sunrise

Drummer - Bill Bruford

Artist - Government Issue

Album - You/Crash

Release Year - 1987

Key Track - Jaded Eyes

Drummer - Peter Moffett

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Artist - Bitch Magnet

Album - Umber

Release Year - 1989

Key Track - Navajo Ace

Drummer - Orestes Delatorre

Artist - Steely Dan

Album - The Royal Scam

Release Year - 1976

Key Track - Green Earrings

Drummer - Bernard Purdie

Artist - Bastro

Album - Diablo Guapo

Release Year - 1989

Key Track - Sing the Troubled Beast

Drummer - John McEntire

Artist - Helmet

Album - Strap It On

Release Year - 1992

Key Track - FBLA

Drummer - John Stanier

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The Drum Panel: Defining Success, Underrated Drummers, and the Gear We Love (That’s Not a Drum)

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Episode 10 of The Drum Panel

Welcome to The Drum Panel—a show where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions pertaining to all things DRUM.

For today's panel, we have my co-host Eric Urrea and special guest, Jessica Burdeaux (Covet, City Mouth, Host of Reverb.com's "What's That Sound?" series on YouTube).

Today we discuss:

How do we get into the mindset of authentically emulating grooves?
Thinking like a producer: Approaching drumming with overdubbing and auxiliary percussion in mind.
What’s a style of music you feel you should know more about?
How do you decide when to cut yourself off from outside influences?
What’s your favorite piece of music gear that isn’t a drum or cymbal?
If you could play one iconic groove perfectly, what would it be?
Who are some drummers you think are underrated right now?
How do you currently define success as a drummer?
Are koalas marsupials?

As promised...

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Big Fat Five: Jared Shavelson (Joyce Manor, Seal, Mariachi el Bronx, Ways Away, The Hope Conspiracy, Boysetsfire, Paint It Black, Chuck Ragan)

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Today, we’ve got another segment of the podcast called Big Fat Five. This is where I invite my favorite drummers on the show to break down the five records that helped shape their approach to the instrument. This format also inspired my book, Drummers on Drumming, which is available now as a paperback or ebook on Amazon.

Today’s guest is Jared Shavelson. I met Jared through a mutual buddy and Big Fat Five alum, Mike Robinson. Jared is the real deal. He studied jazz in college but left early to kickstart his career—and it’s safe to say that decision paid off. Over the years, he’s played with Seal, The Bronx, Mariachi El Bronx, Joyce Manor, The Hope Conspiracy, Paint It Black, The Aquabats, and so many others.

I just saw him perform with Mariachi El Bronx on New Year’s Eve, opening for Morrissey at The Palladium. He was playing a cocktail kit, and the Afro-Cuban rhythms he was laying down were absolutely insane—I was completely blown away.

Now, we were supposed to record this a few days ago, but life in LA had other plans. Between the fires and travel chaos, it was hard to pin down a time. Jared ended up flying out of Los Angeles Thursday night, only to get stuck in Atlanta during a snowstorm when his flight was canceled. After being stranded at the airport for 18 hours, he decided to help pass the time by hopping on the mic with me. That’s why the audio in this episode might be a little rough—picture Jared huddled in the corner of a busy terminal while we recorded.

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JARED'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Led Zeppelin 1

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Release Year - 1969

Key Track(s) - Good times bad times / How Many More Times

Drummer - John Bonham

Album - Time Out

Artist - Dave Brubeck

Release Year - 1959

Key Track(s) - Take Five / Kathy’s Waltz

Drummer - Joe Morello

Album - Alice In Chains Unplugged

Artist - Alive in Chains

Release Year - 1996

Key Track(s) - Nutshell / No Excuses / Down in a Hole

Drummer - Sean Kinney

Album - Out of Step

Artist - Minor threat

Release Year - 1984

Key Track(s) - Betray

Drummer - Jeff Nelson

Album - The Egg

Artist - Shiner

Release Year - 2001

Key Track(s) - The Egg / Surgery / Andalusia

Drummer - Jason Gerken

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The Drum Panel: 2024's Biggest Wins, Unexpected Lessons, and the Stack Debate

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Episode 9 of The Drum Panel

Welcome to The Drum Panel—a show where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions pertaining to all things DRUM.

For today's panel, we have my co-host Eric Urrea and special guest, Kris Mazzarisi (owner/founder of Big Fat Snare Drum & drummer for Winnetka Bowling League).

Today we discuss:

What was the most game-changing moment in your drumming or musical journey this year?
Which performance, session, or project from this year holds a special place in your heart—and what made it so meaningful?
What’s one surprising thing you discovered about yourself as a musician this year?
Did any piece of gear or tool unexpectedly transform your playing this year? Share your story!
Hot take: Is spending more than $100 on a stack just plain unnecessary?
Time to settle the debate—Is Buddy Rich a legend or just overhyped?
Let’s get it out there: What are some of your biggest drumming pet peeve?

Listen to 500 Anõs by La Armada HERE

Check out Kris' cute little digital recorder HERE

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Excerpts from My Book: Drummers on Drumming, Part 1

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Ok, I promise I won’t be promoting my book forever—but give me at least a few weeks to talk about it (I’m proud of it!). And hey, the sooner you grab a copy, the sooner you’ll stop feeling guilty... and, well, left out.

In this episode, I read a few excerpts from my new book, Drummers on Drumming. You’ll hear stories and song choices from incredible drummers like Jason McGerr, Madden Klass, Jojo Mayer, Noa Kahn, Andrew Marshall, Michael Benjamin Lerner, and Brendan Buckley. These highlights give you a taste of the insights and inspiration you’ll find in the book. I hope you enjoy these glimpses into the creative minds of today's top players.

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The Drum Panel: Our Guilty Pleasures, Drum Trolls, and the IG Cheating Debate

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Episode 8 of The Drum Panel

This week, Eric (@ericsurrea) is back!...alongside our newest bestie George Martinez (@skinnygeorge).

In this episode, we dive into:

Are ghost notes the modern-day equivalent of skinny jeans—cool now but overdone?
How do you strike the right balance between technical precision and feel in your playing?
Are dynamics the single most important factor in making a drummer sound great?
Why is it so challenging to produce a high-quality drum part on the spot?
Are tambourines and shakers actually more essential than toms?
What are the guilty-pleasure drum songs we secretly love to play but would never admit to?
Is a rubber practice pad less effective than a gel pad or pillow for improving your playing?
Are self-taught drummers at a disadvantage in the long run?
What’s the best way to handle trolls in the drumming community?
Is quantizing your Instagram drum videos considered cheating?

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The Drum Panel: Audition Advice, Anecdotes, and Staying Hired—Thriving in the Touring Industry with Elias Mallin & Stacy Jones

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Episode 7 of The Drum Panel

This week, we're joined by Stacy Jones (Miley Cyrus, Letters to Cleo, American Hi-Fi) and Elias Mallin (Kesha, Noah Cyrus, Filter)—two seasoned veterans of the touring music industry and influential figures in shaping the competitive LA music scene.

This episode steps away from our usual bullet-point list of hot takes and dives into a bigger-picture conversation about what it really takes to build and sustain a career in live music. We cover everything from technique tips and tuning tricks to staying mentally sharp during performances, audition dos and don’ts, and plenty of honest stories about the ups and downs of auditions and live shows.

Special thanks to Patches Sound for hosting us!

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Big Fat Five: Sterling Laws (NIKI, Natasha Bedingfield, Matt Berninger) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Big Fat Five—a segment of Drummers on Drumming brought to you by Big Fat Snare Drum, where I chat with my favorite drummers about the stories and records that shaped their sound. I’m your host, Ben Hilzinger, and this week’s guest is the incredible Sterling Laws.

Sterling is a fellow Pacific Northwest native now based in Los Angeles, but more importantly, he’s a Grammy-nominated drummer whose resume is as impressive as it gets. He’s worked with artists like Olivia Rodrigo, Kim Gordon, Chappell Roan, NIKI, Matt Berninger, Liz Phair, The War on Drugs, Linda Perry, Aly & AJ, Lo Moon, Dave Stewart, and many more.

Sterling is out there doing the thing and still manages to bring a unique perspective to the kit while working with such a diverse roster of artists—a quality that’s both rare and inspiring. It’s exactly why I was so excited to talk to him.

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STERLING'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Badmotorfinger

Artist - Soundgarden

Release Year - 1991

Key Track(s) - Rusty Cage, Searching With My Good Eye Closed, Jesus Christ Pose

Drummer - Matt Cameron

Album - In Rainbows

Artist - Radiohead

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - 15 Steps, Bodysnatchers, Weird Fishes, Reckoner

Drummer - Philip Selway

Album - Future Self

Artist - The Globes

Release Year - 2011

Key Track(s) Pigeon, Stay Awake, A Stitch Couldn't Save The World

Drummer - Marcus Ourada

Album - Boxer

Artist - The National

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - Mistaken For Strangers, Brainy, Apartment Story

Drummer - Bryan Devendorf

Album - Live From The Ryman And More

Artist - Sheryl Crow

Release Year - 2019

Key Track(s) - A Change Would Do You Good, Everything Is Broken, Maybe Angels, If It Makes You Happy

Drummer - Fred Eltringham

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Ilan Rubin (Nine Inch Nails, Danny Elfman, Angels & Airwaves): Start Somewhere To Go Somewhere

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Drummers on Drumming!

Today, I’m thrilled to share a conversation with a true force in modern drumming—Ilan Rubin. You’ve heard his incredible work behind the kit with artists like Nine Inch Nails, Danny Elfman, Angels & Airwaves, Paramore and so many more. But Ilan is not just an outstanding drummer; he’s also a passionate educator, and his latest project proves just that.

He’s recently released his instructional book, Start Somewhere to Go Somewhere, and trust me, it’s not just another drum method book.

In this episode, we certainly discuss the book, but we dive deep into Ilan’s philosophy on practice and technique in a way that I personally haven’t heard him talk about before … and why he felt compelled to share his unique perspective in an already crowded field of drum education. I have the book and ive been able to spend some more time with it since recording this episode and I can say first hand, it’s worth it. So without further ado…here is my chat with the youngest rock n roll hall of fame inductee, Ilan Rubin.

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The Drum Panel: The Ultimate Compliment, Jazz Study—Essential or Overrated?, and Is the Band Drummer Era Over?

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Episode 6 of The Drum Panel

This week's guests are two of my favorite drummers and people, Sarab Singh (MUNA) and Adam Christgau (Tegan and Sara).

In this episode, we dive into:

What’s the greatest compliment a drummer can get, and does it truly matter?
How do others really describe your playing style—are you sure you'd agree?
Should every drummer dive into jazz, or is it a skill only some truly need?
Has the golden era of iconic bands come to an end, or is it just evolving?
Are music schools churning out technical robots at the cost of creative souls?
Is practicing on pillows with heavy sticks a hidden secret or just a myth?
Are quintuplets and sextuplets essential or a complete waste of practice time?

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Big Fat Five: Lucy Ritter (Chappell Roan) Share Her Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

We’ve got another installment of Big Fat Five: a segment where I talk to drummers about the stories and records that shaped their sound.

Today’s guest is Lucy Ritter, a New York/New Jersey native who picked up the drums at just 9 years old and was already landing professional gigs by 14. After three years at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, she made the bold decision to leave and join her first major tour: the Broadway musical An Officer and a Gentleman. That gig opened doors, eventually leading to her being offered the drum chair for the Grammy Award-winning musical Jagged Little Pill.

These days, Lucy has stepped away from the Broadway scene and taken on an exciting new role as the drummer for one of today’s fastest-rising pop acts, Chappell Roan. We dig into how she landed that gig and explore the five records that have profoundly influenced her drumming style. This episode has been a long time coming, so let’s dive in. I hope you enjoy my conversation with the incredibly talented Lucy Ritter... cheers!

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LUCY'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - A Love Supreme

Artist - John Coltrane

Release Year - 1965

Key Track(s) - Pt. II - Resolution & Pt. III - Pursuance

Drummer - Elvin Jones

Album - Earfood

Artist - Roy Hargrove

Release Year - 2008

Key Track(s) - Strasbourg / St. Denis, The Stinger, Mr.Clean

Drummer - Motez Coleman

Album - Grow

Artist - Chon

Release Year - 2015

Key Track(s) - But / all of them

Drummer - Nathan Camarena, Brian Evans, Matt Garstka

Album - Live at Velfarre

Artist - Earth, Wind & Fire

Release Year - 1996

Key Track(s) - In The Stone, September, Let Your Feelings Show, Let’s Groove

Drummer - Sonny Emory

Album - Take Off Your Pants and Jacket

Artist - Blink-182

Release Year - 2001

Key Track(s) - 3

Drummer - Travis Barker

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The Drum Panel: Timeless Drum Tones, AI’s Impact, Advice We’d Give Our Younger Selves, and More...

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Episode 5 of The Drum Panel

This week's guests are my co-host Eric Urrea (Marina City / Sessions) and good buddy Kris Mazzarisi (owner/founder of Big Fat Snare Drum).

SUBMIT YOUR CONTROVERSIAL MUSIC OPINIONS HERE

In this episode, we dive into:

If you could reinvent one aspect of your drumming, what would it be, and why?
What's the one piece of advice you wish you'd known as a young drummer starting out?
How important is style to a drummer’s career—can visuals be as impactful as skill?
What ingredients create a drum tone that stands the test of time?
Have we lost the ability to have a hit song without the use of a click?
With AI's influence growing, what do you think drumming will look like in the near future?
Is the quest for 'perfect' recordings draining the soul out of live music?
Why do so many drummers gravitate toward intricate playing—are we losing the groove?

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Big Fat Five: Jesse Boyle (Chase Atlantic) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records...

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Today I’m joined by Jesse Boyle, my good buddy and the drummer for the boundary-pushing band Chase Atlantic. Known for blending genres like alternative, R&B, and electronic music, Jesse’s unique approach drives the pulse behind Chase’s immersive live soundscapes. We’ll dive into the top five influences that shaped his drumming and musical journey and we get into a newer career he’s started…all because he gave himself permission. I think it’s important for everyone to stay tuned through the end of the episode.

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JESSE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Reggatta De Blanc

Artist - The Police

Release Year - 1979

Key Track(s) - Message in a Bottle, Walking On the Moon

Drummer - Stewart Copeland

Album - By The Way

Artist - Red Hot Chili Peppers

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - By the Way, Don’t Forget Me

Drummer - Chad Smith

Album - Only by the Night

Artist - Kings of Leon

Release Year - 2008

Key Track(s) - Closer, I Want You

Drummer - Nathan Followill

Album - The Colour and The Shape

Artist - Foo Fighters

Release Year - 1997

Key Track(s) - My Hero, Everlong

Drummer - Dave Grohl / William Goldsmith

Album - TOTO IV

Artist - TOTO

Release Year - 1982

Key Track(s) - Rosanna

Drummer - Jeff Porcaro

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'Big Fat Five' Is Becoming 'Drummers on Drumming' + A Book Announcement

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Hey friends, Ben Hilzinger here. I wanted to take a few minutes to talk to you about a pretty exciting shift I’m making with this podcast. After much thought, I’ve decided to change the name of the podcast. Moving forward, it will be known as Drummers on Drumming.

Let me tell you a little about how I got here.

This whole thing started as The Big Fat Snare Drum Podcast, just a fun way to connect with drummers I admire—talking about stories, gear, grooves, and whatever else came up. It was a blast. But after a while, I wanted to dive deeper into the stories that shaped the way drummers think and play. That’s where the Big Fat Five concept came from: drummers sharing the five records or moments that influenced them the most.

The Big Fat Five format really connected with people, and I loved it. But over time, I realized the name was becoming a little limiting. I’ve got so many ideas for other segments—like The Drum Panel, where multiple drummers join me for roundtable discussions—and I didn’t want to feel stuck in one format. I needed a title that gave me space to try new things and keep the podcast fresh.

And honestly, if I want to keep doing this—and growing the show—I need to make sure it’s easy for new listeners to find. Big Fat Five isn’t exactly the most discoverable name if someone’s searching for “drumming podcasts.” So this rebrand to Drummers on Drumming not only reflects the direction I want to take, but it’ll also make the show more findable for people who haven’t discovered it yet.

Now, here’s how the change will happen. Right now, the podcast is still called Big Fat Five, but I wanted to give everyone a heads-up before the switch. One week from today, both the name and the podcast icon will officially change to Drummers on Drumming. So, if you see the new name and artwork in your podcast feed next week, don’t worry—it’s still the same show you know and love, just with a new name and more room to grow.

Oh! And speaking of exciting new things, I’ve been working on a book—also called Drummers on Drumming—and it’s almost ready! The book dives deep into the Big Fat Five concept, with insights from some truly amazing drummers. I’m currently wrapping up the book cover as I record this, and I plan to have it available by Black Friday. So keep an eye out for that—it’ll make a pretty sweet gift for the drummer in your life...or, you know, yourself.

So there you have it—a new chapter for the podcast. It’s the same vibe, the same passion, just with a new name and more freedom to explore new ideas. I can’t wait to bring you along for this next phase.

Thank you so much for listening, supporting, and being part of this journey. I’ll see you next time on Drummers on Drumming.

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The Drum Panel: Stealing Feel, Perfect Drum Takes, and Defining Pocket

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Episode 4 of The Drum Panel

This week's guests are my good buddies Kris Mazzarisi (owner/founder of Big Fat Snare Drum), and Mark Stepro (The Wallflowers, Butch Walker).

In this episode, we dive into:

If we could steal one drummers’s feel and add it to our own, who would it be?
What is an example of a perfect drum take on record?
What does “pocket” ACTUALLY mean?
What is the role of drummers in songwriting credits?
Does music theory really make one a better musician?
What’s the first thing we notice about a drummer that makes them come across as “amateur”?

Check out Steward Copeland on Drumeo HERE

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Big Fat Five: Julian Wieder (Independent) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Our guest today is one of Berlin’s rising stars in the drumming world, Julian Wieder. At just 25, he’s already making serious moves across the RnB, Hip-Hop, and Indie scene, both on stage and in the studio. I first discovered Julian thanks to the algorithm gods on Big Fat Snare Drum’s Explorer page—and once I saw his playing, I knew I had to get him on the show. His feel is unreal, blending pocket grooves with a sense of freedom that feels completely natural and effortless. Plus, he’s not just a drummer…he’s an educator, and a bit of a clinic master in the making.

In this episode, we’ll dive into the top records that shaped his sound, and he introduced me to a new favorite of mine that I can’t wait for you to hear. So I hope you enjoy the top records that helped shaped Julian Wieder into the drummer he is today.

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JULIAN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - The Joy Of Motion

Artist - Animals as Leaders

Release Year - 2014

Key Track(s) - The Woven Web, Tooth and Claw

Drummer - Matt Garstka

Album - Continuum

Artist - John Mayer

Release Year - 2006

Key Track(s) - Waiting On The World To Change, Gravity

Drummer - Steve Jordan

Album - Wallflower

Artist - Jordan Rakei

Release Year - 2017

Key Track(s) - Eye To Eye, Sorceress

Drummer - Jim Macrae

Album - Chris Dave and The Drumhedz

Artist - Chris Dave

Release Year - 2018

Key Track - Whatever

Drummer - Chris Dave

Album - Past Present and Futures

Artist - Chick Corea

Release Year - 2001

Key Track(s) - Fingerprints, Rhumba Flamenco

Drummer - Jeff Ballard

Honorable Mentions:

Nas - Illmatic

Ghost Note - Swagism

Yussef Kamaal - Black Focus

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Big Fat Five: Gabe Smith (Gracie Abrams) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Our guest today is Gabe Smith, the current CEO of Drums for Gracie Abrams Inc. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, now based in New York City, Gabe has also worked with incredible contemporary artists like Wet, Tei Shi, Eden, Frankie Cosmos, Kimbra and many more. Last summer, he opened for Taylor Swift and is about to rejoin that tour after some headline shows with Gracie Abrams. He’s a busy guy! It took some finessing since we’re both on tour, but we made it happen. I loved his picks, and I’m excited for you to hear this one. Please enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Gabe Smith into the sought-after, hardworking musician he is today. Cheers!

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GABE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Abbey Road

Artist - The Beatles

Release Year - 1969

Key Track - She Came In Through The Bathroom Window

Drummer - Ringo

Album - Songs In The Key of Life

Artist - Stevie Wonder

Release Year - 1976

Key Track - Knocks Me Off My Feet

Drummer - Stevie Wonder

Album - When The Pawn...

Artist - Fiona Apple

Release Year - 1999

Key Track - A Mistake

Drummer - Matt Chamberlain

Album - Friendly Travelers Live

Artist - Wolfgang Muthspiel, Brian Blade

Release Year - 2007

Key Track - Gnadenwald (Live)

Drummer - Brian Blade

Album - Donny Hathaway

Artist - Donny Hathaway

Release Year - 1971

Key Track - She Is My Lady

Drummer - Al Jackson Jr.

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The Drum Panel: The Worth of Gear: Are Drum Heroes Still Relevant?...and yes, we talk about Oasis

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Episode 3 of The Drum Panel

This week's guests are my good buddies Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Carina Round), Neal Daniels (Matchbox 20, Liz Phair), Mike Robinson (Blame My Youth, Food On Tour Podcast).

In this episode, we dive into:

The value of high-end gear: Is it really worth the investment?
The existence of drum heroes: Do they still inspire us today?
Yes...we talk about Oasis...
Insights from the guys on the current landscape of drum endorsements.

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Big Fat Five: Daniel Glass (Royal Crown Revue, Author/Historian) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Our guest today is Daniel Glass. Daniel is a renowned drummer, educator, and historian known for his deep expertise in the roots of American drumming, particularly in jazz, swing, and early rock 'n' roll. A member of the pioneering retro-swing band Royal Crown Revue, Glass has performed with a wide array of top artists, blending historical influence with modern flair. His passion for drumming history is reflected in his books, clinics, and instructional videos. The project that introduced Daniel to me was his three-hour documentary called “The Century Project” which explores the evolution of the drum set and drumming styles from 1865 to 1965. Glass is also celebrated for his dynamic, groove-focused playing and his ability to bridge the gap between past and present drumming traditions. Go check out all his happenings at danielglass.com, but for now, please enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Daniel Glass into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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DANIEL'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Made In Japan

Artist - Deep Purple

Release Year - 1972

Key Track(s) - Highway Star, Space Truckin', The Mule

Drummer - Ian Paice

Album - Three Quartets

Artist - Chick Corea

Release Year - 1981

Key Track(s) - Quartet No. 1, Quartet No. 2, Part 2

Drummer - Steve Gadd

Album - Buffalo

Artist - Frank Zappa

Release Year - 2007 (from a 1980 live concert)

Key Track(s) - The Torture Never Stops

Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

Album - Lyric

Artist - Billy Childs

Release Year - 2005

Key Track(s) - In Carson's Eyes, Into the Light, Scarborough Fair, American Landscape

Drummer - Brian Blade, Marvin "Smitty" Smith

Album - From Darkness

Artist - Avishai Cohen

Release Year - 2015

Key Track(s) - Beyond, Abie, C#-, From Darkness

Drummer - Daniel Dor

Honorable Mentions:

Album - Blue

Artist - Joni Mitchell

Release Year - 1971

Key Track(s) - All I Want, This Flight Tonight

Album - The Concert at Carnegie Hall

Artist - Benny Goodman

Release Year - 1938

Key Track(s) - Don't Be That Way, Honeysuckle Rose, Sing, Sing, Sing

Album - Drumsville

Artist - Earl Palmer

Release Year - 1961

Drummer - Earl Palmer

Album - Live at the Royal Festival Hall

Artist - John McLaughlin

Release Year - 1989

Key Track(s) - Mother Tongues

Drummer - Trilok Gurtu

Album - Tiny Resistors

Artist - Todd Sickafoose

Release Year - 2008

Key Track(s) - Allision Miller

Drummer - Everyone Is Going

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The Drum Panel: Gear Criticism, Flat Toms, and Endorsement Realities: Can You Play Without Knowing the Vocals?

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Episode 2 PART DEUX of The Drum Panel

Welcome to The Drum Panel—a segment where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions on polarizing and controversial drum topics submitted by our listeners.

Today's episode is the second half of a conversation between myself (Ben), my co-host Eric Urrea and special guest, Kris Mazzarisi (owner/founder of Big Fat Snare Drum & drummer for Winnetka Bowling League).

Today we discuss:

If you're overly critical of gear, are you showcasing your lack of skill?
Should snare drums and floor toms always between flat (Eric is surprisingly passionate about this subject)?
If you don't know what the singer is singing, can your take still suit the song?
We do it...we talk the world of endorsements.

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Big Fat Five: Taye Dever Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Our guest today is Taye Dever, a young drummer from North Carolina who recently came onto my radar and quickly grabbed my attention. Taye draws inspiration from a diverse range of genres, including R&B, Pop, Folk, Rap, Gospel, and more. While his musical style is eclectic, he seems to be a fresh face in the music scene. I’m honored if this is your first introduction to his work. We dive right in, so here are the records that have shaped Taye Dever into the musician he is today. Cheers!

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TAYE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Not Guilty

Artist - The New Life Community Choir featuring John P. Kee

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - Rain On Us

Drummer - Calvin Rodgers

Album - Thirsty

Artist - Marvin Sapp

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - Praise Him In Advance

Drummer - Calvin Rodgers

Album - Confessions

Artist - Usher

Release Year - 2004

Key Track(s) - "Caught Up" Aaron Spears' drum performance @ 2006 Modern Drummer Festival

Drummer - Aaron Spears

Album - Pure Energy DVD

Artist - Various drummers

Release Year - 2009

Key Track(s) - Rekindled featuring Tony Royster Jr

Drummer - Tony Royster Jr.

Album - Paramore

Artist - Paramore

Release Year - 2013

Key Track(s) - Ain’t It Fun?, Still Into You

Drummer - Ilan Rubin

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

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The Drum Panel: Click Tracks, Minimal Setups, and the Truth About Bass Drums

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Episode 2 of The Drum Panel

Welcome to The Drum Panel—a show where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions on polarizing and controversial drum topics submitted by our listeners.

For today's panel, we have my co-host Eric Urrea and special guest, Kris Mazzarisi (owner/founder of Big Fat Snare Drum & drummer for Winnetka Bowling League).

Today we discuss:

does practicing to a click make your playing sterile?
those who can't, teach. True or False?
does using less drums/cymbals make you more creative?
you should never put anything in your bass drum! True or False?
do drum shells tune themselves?
do you need to put a button at the end of every live song?
are the most musical drummers...non-drummers?

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Big Fat Five: Philo Tsoungui's (The Mars Volta) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Today's guest is Philo Tsoungui, an independent drummer based in Berlin, Germany. Philo has played with many incredible artists both in Germany and internationally, including a recent stint with The Mars Volta.

I can't praise Philo's playing enough; it just works. While it can be categorized as Hip Hop, it's so much more than any single genre, as you'll discover in this episode. Philo shares many incredibly valuable insights, and we actually kicked off our recorded conversation by discussing practice routines (in an ideal world).

So, without further ado, please enjoy the top 5 influences that shaped the incredible Philo Tsoungui. Cheers!

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PHILO'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Black Orpheus

Artist - Keziah Jones

Release Year - 2003

Key Track - Afrosurrealismfortheladies

Drummer - Joshua McKenzie / Jose Joyette

Album - The Bedlam in Goliath

Artist - The Mars Volta

Release Year - 2008

Key Track - Wax Simulacra

Drummer - Thomas Pridgen

Album - Black Radio

Artist - Robert Glasper

Release Year - 2012

Key Track - Afro Blue

Drummer - Chris "Daddy" Dave

Album - Omar Rodriguez Lopez Group: Live Los Angeles on Sept 14th, 2010 (video)

Artist - Omar Rodriguez Lopez Group

Release Year - 2010

Drummer - Deantoni Parks

Album - Zildjian K Custom Special Dry Performance

Artist - Lenny "The Ox" Reece & The Lesson GK

Release Year - 2018

Key Track - The Weekend

Drummer - Lenny "The Ox" Reece

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

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The Drum Panel: Rudiments, Triggers, and the Lars/Ringo Debate: What Really Matters in Modern Drumming?

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Today, my good friend and fellow professional drummer, Eric Urrea, and I are excited to launch the pilot episode of a new segment on our podcast, tentatively named “The Drum Panel.”

Drummers are known for having strong opinions, and we aim to delve into many of these in a roundtable format. For this first recording, it’s just the two of us, but our vision is to feature multiple drummers from diverse backgrounds in each episode to foster engaging, relatable, and thought-provoking discussions. We invite you to join us on this journey.

Today we discuss:

are there too many rudiments?
the hate towards Lars & Ringo
are triggers cheating?
virgin bass drums
do drum shells actually matter?
has social media ruined what it means to be a drummer?

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Big Fat Five: Adolfo Torres (M.I.J.O.) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Adolfo Torres. Adolfo's musical journey started in Cali, Colombia, and from a young age, his passion for music was evident, leading his parents to enroll him in drum lessons. This early start paved the way for his education at the Drummers Collective in NYC and later at Berklee College of Music on an American Tour Scholarship.

After his studies, Adolfo moved to Austin, TX, playing with artists like JT Coldfire and Jennifer B and the Groove Kings, where he learned about the life of a working musician. In 2013, he returned to Colombia, forming the band M.I.J.O, which blends Classic, Modern, and Progressive Rock. All that being said, I’ve been a big fan of his for a long time and go check out a few of his videos before you listen to our chat. It will set the stage for a lot of what we talk about. I hope you enjoy the five records that shaped Adolfo Torres into the musician he is today. Cheers!

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ADOLFO'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - The Inner Mounting Flame

Artist - The Mahavishnu Orchestra

Release Year f- 1971

Key Track(s) - The Noonward Race, Vital Transformation, You Know You Know

Drummer - Billy Cobham

Album - Paranoid

Artist - Black Sabbath

Release Year - 1970

Key Track(s) - War Pigs, Rat Salad, Fairies Wear Boots

Drummer - Bill Ward

Album - Red

Artist - King Crimson

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - One More Red Nightmare, Starless

Drummer - Bill Bruford

Album - Badmotorfinger

Artist - Soundgarden

Release Year - 1991

Key Track(s) - Rusty Cage, Slaves & Bulldozers

Drummer - Matt Cameron

Album - Amputechture

Artist - The Mars Volta

Release Year - 2006

Key Track(s) - Tetragrammaton, Meccamputechture, Viscera Eyes, Day of the Baphomets

Drummer - Jon Theodore

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Band of Gypsys - Hendrix

Presence - Led Zeppelin

Bridge of Sighs - Robin Trower

Tony Williams Lifetime: The Collection

Master of Reality - Black Sabbath

10,000 Days - Tool

Deloused in the Commatorium - The Mars Volta

Down on the Upside - Soundgarden

Gretchen Goes to Nebraska - King’s X

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Big Fat Five: Jost Nickel (Jan Delay & Disko No. 1) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Our guest today is none other than Jost Nickel, a renowned German drummer, composer, and educator. Jost is part of the golden generation of drummers from Germany, alongside his friends and fellow drumming legends Anika Nilles, Marco Minnemann, and Benny Greb.

Currently, Jost keeps busy with Jan Delay and Disko No. 1, but his talent has graced many hit records both in Germany and beyond. He's also had the privilege of playing with jazz greats like Randy Brecker, Jeff Lorber, Jimmy Haslip, Barry Finnerty, and many more.

In addition to his impressive performance career, Jost has authored four highly successful instructional books: Jost Nickel’s GROOVE BOOK, Jost Nickel’s FILL BOOK, Jost Nickel’s SNARE BOOK, and Jost Nickel’s BEGINNER BOOK.

I absolutely love Jost’s playing. It's always so crisp, clear, snappy, and incredibly creative, yet it always feels good. Today, we're diving into the five records that have helped shape Jost Nickel into the phenomenal drummer he is today. Cheers!"

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JOST'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - The Dream of the Blue Turtles

Artist - Sting

Release Year - 1985

Key Track - Shadows in the Rain

Drummer - Omar Hakim

Album - Master Plan

Artist - Dave Weckl

Release Year - 1990

Key Track - Tower of Inspiration

Drummer - Dave Weckl

Album - True Colors

Artist - Level 42

Release Year - 1984

Key Track - Kansas City Milkman

Drummer - Phil Gould

Album - This Time

Artist - Al Jarreau

Release Year - 1980

Key Track(s) - Spain (I Can Recall)

Drummer - Steve Gadd

Album - Synchronicity

Artist - The Police

Release Year - 1983

Key Track - King of Pain

Drummer - Stewart Copeland

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Big Fat Five: Nick Wilkerson (formerly of White Reaper) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Nick Wilkerson. For the past decade, Nick has been the drummer for the critically acclaimed Louisville, KY rock band, White Reaper. Recently, he decided to embark on a solo journey as an independent artist, and I’m eager to see what he creates next.

I always invite drummers on this show who truly move me with their playing. I discovered Nick’s videos on Instagram and was immediately impressed before I even realized he was the drummer for White Reaper, a band I really admire. Check out his videos, and you'll understand why.

I was stoked to have this conversation with Nick, and it’s moments like these that make me love what I do. Now, enjoy as we explore the five records that helped shape Nick Wilkerson into the musician he is today. Cheers!

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NICK'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Tony Hawks Pro Skater 3 Soundtrack

Artist - Various

Release Year - 2001

Key Track(s) - Boy Who Destroyed The World (AFI), If You Must (Del The Funkee Homosapien), Amoeba (Adolescents)

Drummer - Various

Album - American Idiot

Artist - Green Day

Release Year - 2004

Key Track(s) - Jesus of Suburbia, St Jimmy, Homecoming

Drummer - Tre Cool

Album - Bad Brains

Artist - Bad Brains

Release Year - 1982

Key Track(s) - Attitude, Banned in DC, Big Takeover

Drummer - Earl Hudson

Album - Live At Leeds

Artist - The Who

Release Year - 1970

Key Track(s) - Heaven And Hell, Can’t Explain, Happy Jack

Drummer - Keith Moon

Album - Wonderful Rainbow

Artist - Lightning Bolt

Release Year - 2003

Key Track(s) - Assassins, Two Towers, Crown of Storms

Drummer - Brian Chippendale

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Big Fat Five: Isaiah Weatherspoon's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Isaiah Weatherspoon, a Philadelphia-based drummer who started playing at the age of four. He went on to graduate from Berklee College of Music in 2019 with a Bachelor's degree in Music Production and Engineering. Over the years, Isaiah has performed with an impressive roster of artists, including Lizz Wright, Greg Phillinganes, Lauren Talese, Leehom Wang, Justin Timberlake, Sister Sledge, and many more.

I first noticed Isaiah when I saw a video on Instagram of him using one of our Big Fat Snare Drum Steve's Donuts on his floor tom during an outdoor concert. He was going crazy on the drums, and I was truly impressed. His positive energy and outlook made this conversation a real pleasure. Plus, we dive into a fascinating topic: synesthesia, a perceptual phenomenon that Isaiah proudly embraces.

So, without further ado, here are the five records that have shaped Isaiah Weatherspoon into the musician he is today. Cheers!

Check out his book: MUSIC IS COOL! Music Coloring Book for Kids

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ISAIAH'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Not Guilty

Artist - John P Kee

Release Year - 2000

Key Track - Rain On Us

Drummer - Calvin Rodgers

Album - Purpose By Design

Artist - Fred Hammond and Radical For Christ

Release Year - 2000

Key Track - Jesus Be a Fence Around Me

Drummer - Marvin McQuitty

Album - In A Dream

Artist - Gretchen Parlato

Release Year - 2009

Key Track - Butterfly

Drummer - "No drums on this record. But I believe Kendrick Scott plays on album"

Album - Ten Summoner's Tale

Artist - Sting

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - Seven Days

Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

Album - Choose Your Weapon

Artist - Hiatus Kaiyote

Release Year - 2015

Key Track - By Fire

Drummer - Perrin Moss

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Big Fat Five: Eric Somers-Urrea's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This is a edited and re-airing of my conversation with Eric from a few years ago so some references are a little dated, but I'm pushing this to the top of the feed because I might be switching things up a bit and, to keep things cryptic, let's just say I want you to get to know Eric a little bit more. Stay tuned. Please enjoy our chat about the 5 main influences that shaped Eric into the drummer he is today, but first…we play a little game. Cheers!

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ERIC'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Performance - Drum Corps International 2004 Finals

Release Year - 2004

Artist - The Cavaliers

Song Choice - https://youtu.be/KpUuMM1y2_o?t=140 (anywhere between 2:20-4:20ish)

Drummer - The Cavaliers Drumline

Album - Quadrophenia

Release Year - 1973

Artist - The Who

Song Choice - The Real Me (1:30ish)

Drummer - Keith Moon

Album - Deadwing

Release Year - 2005

Artist - Porcupine Tree

Song Choice - Glass Arm Shattering (3:30ish)

Drummer - Gavin Harrison

Album - Mer De Noms

Release Year - 2000

Artist - A Perfect Circle

Song Choice - Judith (2:40)

Drummer - Josh Freese

Album - With Teeth

Release Year - 2005

Artist - Nine Inch Nails

Song Choice - All the Love in the World

Drummer - Dave Grohl/ Trent Reznor

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

"Glass Prison" by Dream Theater

"Heart Don't Stand a Chance" by Anderson .Paak (Tiny Desk Concert version 3:45)

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Big Fat Five: Megan Spencer's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Megan Spencer, a talented young drummer and educator from just outside Los Angeles. Megan recently caught my attention with her amazing cover of Marques Murrey's Million Dollar Baby remix, and I was instantly drawn to her unique tones and vibe. So, I’m excited to have her on the show! I'm always grateful for the opportunity to connect with new drummers who inspire ME and learn about the drummers who inspired THEM, in hopes of inspiring YOU. Thanks for hanging around. Today, Megan will share the five records that have significantly shaped her journey as a drummer. Enjoy the episode! Cheers!

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MEGAN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Innervisions

Artist - Stevie Wonder

Release Year - 1973

Key Track - Higher Ground

Drummer - Stevie Wonder

Album - Bad

Artist - Michael Jackson

Release Year - 1987

Key Track - Smooth Criminal, Bad, Dirty Diana, Man in the Mirror

Drummer - John (JR) Robinson

Album - Ten Summoner’s Tales

Artist - Sting

Release Year - 1993

Key Track - Seven Days

Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

Album - Alive in South Africa

Artist - Israel Houghton & New Breed

Release Year - 2005

Key Track - Turn it Around, Still Standing

Drummer - Mike Clemmons

Album - Loopified

Artist - Dirty Loops

Release Year - 2014

Key Track - Hit Me, Rolling in the Deep

Drummer - Aron Mellergard

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Big Fat Five: Chris Fryar's (Zac Brown Band) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Chris Fryar, primarily known for his work with the Zac Brown Band. He has also worked with Oteil and the Peacemakers, led by bassist Oteil Burbridge of the Allman Brothers Band, as well as with Victor Wooten, John Popper, Steve Bailey, and many more.

Chris is powerful, creative, and consistent, yet very reactive and conversational with his playing. I was so happy to chat with him. I'll be honest—I haven't really said this in an intro before, but this conversation is what I envisioned when I started this podcast. Chris is incredible at sharing his story through his choices and offers invaluable advice along the way.

This is hands down one of my favorite episodes. Please enjoy my chat with Chris Fryar about the five records that shaped him into the musician he is today. And make sure you check out his honorable mentions. He's got plenty, and they'll all make you a better player. I promise.

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CHRIS' BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Zenyatta Mondatta

Artist - The Police

Release Year - 1980

Key Track(s) - Shadows In The Rain, Driven To Tears, When The World Is Running Down

Drummer - Stewart Copeland

Album - Ten Summoner's Tales

Artist - Sting

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - Seven Days, St. Augustine in Hell, She's Too Good For Me, Shape of My Heart

Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

Album - Kind of Blue

Artist - Miles Davis

Release Year - 1959

Key Track(s) - So What, All Blues, Freddie Freeloader

Drummer - Jimmy Cobb

Album - Live and In Living Color

Artist - Tower Of Power

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - Knock Yourself Out (live), What Is Hip (live)

Drummer - David Garibaldi

Album - Robben Ford & The Blue Line

Artist - Robben Ford

Release Year - 1992

Key Track(s) - You Cut Me To The Bone, Real Man, Prison Of Love

Drummer - Tom Brechtlein

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Aja - Steely Dan

Big Swing Face - Buddy Rich Big Band

TOTO IV - TOTO

Led Zeppelin IV - Led Zeppelin

Moving Pictures - Rush

Saturday Night Fever Soundtrack - various artists

Life On Planet Groove - Maceo Parker

At Fillmore East - Allman Brothers Band

HELP! - The Beatles

Rubber Soul - the Beatles

Revolver - the Beatles

John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman

Apple Juice - Tom Scott

Col. Bruce Hampton & the Aquarium Rescue Unit

Heavy Weather - Weather Report

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Big Fat Five: Mark Guiliana's Biggest Influences

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 07:01:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Mark Guiliana, a visionary drummer and solo artist known for his eclectic style that blends jazz, electronic, and experimental music. He’s worked with artists like David Bowie, Brad Mehldau, St. Vincent, and has his own projects such as the Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet and Beat Music.

Mark continuously pushes the boundaries of rhythm and sound, earning him a reputation as a trailblazer in contemporary music. This is a condensed version of my conversation with Mark from early 2021. With his new album, Mark, coming out in July 2024, I wanted to highlight his insights and present an episode that fits better with our current format.

Instead of a top 5 list of records, I gave Mark a set of prompts to choose from, and we went from there. There’s so much wisdom in this chat, so even if you heard it before, give it another listen. I definitely learned new things the second time around.

Concierto de Osain del Monte VIDEO

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Big Fat Five: Porter Bliquez' (@415porter) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Porter Bliquez, a young American drum prodigy from San Francisco. Despite his age, Porter has already recorded and performed with award-winning producers and musicians associated with Kevin Gates, Olivia Rodrigo, Haan, Andy Prado Jr., and more.

While still attending USC, Porter manages to carve out time to make a significant impact in both the LA and online drum communities. At my ripe old age of 37, it's refreshing to connect with the younger generation of drummers and see what’s happening in their world. Porter is destined for the biggest stages globally, so I'm thrilled if this is the episode that introduces you to him. Please enjoy the records that helped shape Porter into the exceptional drummer he is today. Cheers!

Eric Harland - Zildjian Performance Video HERE

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PORTER'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Homey

Artist - Chon

Release Year - 2017

Key Track(s) - Sleepy Tea / Water slide

Drummer - Brian Evans

Album - Black Focus

Artist - Yussef Kammal

Release Year - 2016

Key Track(s) - Strings of Light / Wingtai Drums / Joint 17

Drummer - Yussef Dayes

Album - Chon

Artist - Chon

Release Year - 2019

Key Track(s) - Peace / Pitch Dark

Drummer - Brian Evans

Album - Two Star & The Dream Police

Artist - Mk.gee

Release Year - 2024

Key Track(s) - Rylee & I / Dream Police / DNM / How Many Miles

Drummer - Micheal Gordon

Album - Misadventures

Artist - Peirce the Veil

Release Year - 2016

Key Track(s) - Song For Isabel / Texas is Forever / Phantom Power / Ludicrous Speed

Drummer - Mike Fuentes

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Big Fat Five: Wiktoria Bialic's (@wiktoria_drums / Allison Russell / Ralph Kaminski) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 29 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Wiktoria Bialic. Wiktoria has been nominated for four Grammy awards for her recordings on Allison Russell's album, "The Returner." She has also recorded drums for Grammy-winning musicians like Ondre J. Pavic, Alex Marley, Maati Baani, Ralph Kaminski, SARSA, and various other artists and producers from Britain, India, Scotland, Poland, America, and Puerto Rico.

Wiktoria collaborated with Zildjian Artist Ash Soan on the single "Dark Dark Days" by Black Dog All Starsand often fills in for other well-known drummers in Poland. She won the Hit Like A Girl contest in 2021 and has performed at prestigious drum festivals such as PASIC, Bag Show, The UK Drum Show, and Silesia Drum Festival.

You can find her Instagram HERE and listen to a Spotify playlist featuring many of her recordings HERE. Wiktoria offers a great perspective on excelling as a studio musician, so get ready to improve your drumming skills. I hope you enjoy the recordings that shaped Wiktoria Bialic into the musician she is today.

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WIKTORIA'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Exodus

Artist - Bob Marley

Release Year - 1977

Key Track(s) 0 Three Little Birds / One Love / Whole Record :)

Drummer - Carlton Barrett

Album - The Returner

Artist - Allison Russell

Release Year - 2023

Key Track(s) - Stay Right Here / Springtime

Drummer - Wiktoria Bialic

Album VoodoO

Artist - D'Angelo

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s)

The Root

Drummer - Questlove

Album - Feats Don't Fail Me Now

Artist - Little Feat

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - Skin It Back

Drummer - Richie Hayward

Album - 7

Artist - Seal

Release Year - 2015

Key Track(s) - Redzone Killer

Drummer - Ash Soan

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Big Fat Five: Brandon Combs' (Leon Bridges / Joy Oladakun / John Legend) Top 5-ish Influential Records

Wed, 22 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Brandon Combs. Brandon is a drummer, programmer, and producer hailing from Lansing, Michigan. Brandon obtained his Bachelor of Music degree in Popular Music Studies from the University of Southern California in 2015 and is currently based in Nashville, Tennessee. He’s worked with so many amazing artists, including Grammy Award-winning artist Leon Bridges, Joy Oladakun, John Legend, Raphael Saadiq, Moses Sumney, Tori Kelly, Greyson Chance, Chris Bullock of Snarky Puppy, and many more. He’s got a lot of energy and his choices center around very hirable theme. I hope you enjoy the records that helped shaped Brandon Combs into the artist he is today. Cheers!

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BRANDON'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Perpetual motion

Artist - Dave Weckl Band

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - Child's play

Drummer - Dave Weckl

Album - Heavier Things

Artist - John Mayer

Release Year - 2003

Key Track(s) - New Deep / Something's Missing,

Drummer - Steve Jordan

Album - Somethin' Bout Love

Artist - Brian Culbertson

Release Year - 1999

Key Track(s) - Do you Really Love Me?

Drummer - Chris Miskel

Album - Mixtape - Volume One

Key Track(s) - Movin / Nine

Drummer - Ben Jones

Album - Opal / Brunei

Artist - Vinyl Williams

Release Year - 2018 / 2016

Key Track(s) - Lansing / Feedback Delicates

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Big Fat Five: Myles Sargent's (The Japanese House) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 15 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Myles Sargent. Myles is a drummer, musical director and playback engineer based in Brighton, UK. Throughout his career, he's collaborated with an array of artists and bands, including The Japanese House, Justin Jesso, Calum Scott, Thomas Headon, Gabriels, Cavetown, Mae Stephens, Gang of Youths and MANY more. He’s quickly become one of my favorite online-converted-to-real-life buddies and I was excited to force him to answer my questions for an hour. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shaped Myles Sargent into the player he is today. Cheers!

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MYLE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - American Idiot

Artist - Green Day

Release Year - 2004

Key Track(s) - Holiday / American Idiot

Drummer - Tre Cool

Album - Rumours

Artist - Fleetwood Mac

Release Year - 1977

Key Track(s) - You Make Loving Fun / The Chain

Drummer - Mick Fleetwood

Album - Nm Brass 2015 - 1. Division

Artist - Oslofiord Brass

Release Year - 2015

Key Track(s) - St. Magnus (5:45 it gets cooking)

Composer - Peter Maxwell Davies

Album - Little Voice

Artist - Sara Bareilles

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - Vegas

Drummer - Matt Chamberlain

Album - Rickie Lee Jones

Artist - Rickie Lee Jones

Release Year - 1979

Key Track(s) - Chuck E's in Love (and that fill at 1:55)

Drummer - Steve Gadd

Any Honorable Mentions?

Album - Face Value

Artist - Phil Collins

Release Year - 1981

Key Track(s) - In the Air Tonight

Drummer - Phil Collins

Album - Regatta De Blanc

Artist - The Police

Release Year - 1979

Key Track(s) - Walking on the Moon

Drummer - Stewart Copeland

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Big Fat Five: Steve Durham's (Louis Tomlinson / Drummer / Musical Director) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 08 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Steve Durham. Steve is a Drummer, Musical Director and Producer from London, UK. He began playing drums at 8 years old and was out on the road by the time he was 14. Since then he's worked with Louis Tomlinson (One Direction), Dermot Kennedy, Wolf Alice, Foals, Holly Humberstone, Aurora, Declan Mckenna, Marina and the Diamonds and more. I hope you enjoy the 5 records plus a few honorable mentions that helped shape Steve Durham into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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STEVE'S BIG FAT FIVE

Album - VHS! Invisible Touch Tour

Artist - Genesis

Release Year - 1987

Key Track(s) - Drum Duet / Los Endos

Drummer - Phil Collins & Chester Thompson

WATCH HERE

Album - Who’s Next

Artist - The Who

Release Year - 1971

Key Track(s) - Won’t Get Fooled Again

Drummer - Keith Moon

Album - Colour Of Spring

Artist - Talk Talk

Release Year - 1986

Key Track(s) - Give It Up

Drummer - Lee Harris

Album - The Bends

Artist - Radiohead

Release Year - 1995

Key Track(s) - High and Dry

Drummer - Phil Selway

Album - Puzzle

Artist - Biffy Clyro

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - Saturday Superhouse

Drummer - Ben Johnston

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Key Tracks(s) - Good Times Bad Times / Whole Lotta Love

Drummer - John Bonham

Album - The Trees Are Dead & Dried Out, Wait for Something Wild

Artist - Sikth

Key Track - Skies of the Millennium Night

Release Year - 2003

Drummer - Dan ‘The Lord’ Foord

Performance - Live at Woodstock '69

Artist - Santana

Key Track - Soul Sacrifice

Drummer - Michael Shrieve (age 20)

WATCH HERE

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Big Fat Five: Gunnar Olsen's (Puscifer / Bruce Springsteen / Mother Feather) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 01 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Gunnar Olsen. Gunnar's been on the show a lot recently with "save it for the pod" segments. But I noticed his Big Fat Five episode is almost 4 years old, which is a shame. Recently, I went to the Hollywood Bowl with my friends Mike Robinson and Neal Daniels, both show alumni, to see Gunnar play with Puscifer on the Sessanta tour, celebrating Maynard James Keenan's 60th birthday. It was mind-blowing. Gunnar is an incredible drummer, one of the best out there. At this show, Josh Freese was playing with A Perfect Circle, but now that Josh is busy with Foo Fighters gigs, Gunnar is playing with both Puscifer and A Perfect Circle for the rest of the tour. It's unbelievable and well-deserved. Puscifer is a perfect fit for Gunnar. Apart from this tour, Gunnar has also recorded or toured with Big Data, Bruce Springsteen, Miley Cyrus, HOKO, Mother Feather, Fischerspooner, Goo Goo Dolls, and many others. He's possibly my favorite drummer, and I admire him a lot. He's a close friend, and I always try to catch his shows when we're in the same town. Although this conversation is from 4 years ago, I wanted to bring it back up because the information is still relevant. It's fascinating to hear Gunnar talk about Tim Alexander of Primus, who has been a big influence on him, and now see them hanging out on tour together, seeming like best buds. Anyway, Gunnar, I'm really proud of you, and I admire your career more than you know, even though I tell you all the time. I hope you enjoy the records that helped shape Gunnar Olsen into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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GUNNAR'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - ...And Justice For All

Artist - Metallica

Release Year - 1988

Key Track(s) - Harvester of Sorrow

Drummer - Lars Urich

Album - Reggatta De Blanc

Artist - The Police

Release Year - 1979

Key Track(s) - The Bed's Too Big Without You

Drummer - Stewart Copeland

Album - Songs for the Deaf

Artist - Queens of the Stone Age

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - Song for the Dead

Drummer - Dave Grohl

Album - Dust

Artist - Ben Monder

Release Year - 2006

Key Track(s) - Dust

Drummer - Jim Black

Album - Largo

Artist - Brad Mehldau

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - When It Rains

Drummer - Matt Chamberlain

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Big Fat Five: Earl Talbot's (Drummer, Composer, Producer, and Educator) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 07:22:00 -0000

This week's guest is Earl Talbot. Earl is a renowned Drummer, Composer, Producer, and Music Instructor. He wrote and produced over 90 songs broadcast regularly on the Oprah Winfrey Show. His career includes performances with house music legends Derick Carter and Mark Farina, as well as touring and recording with Master Griots Dialy Mady Cissoko, Christian Bourdon, Poi Dog Pondering, The Chicago Sinfonietta, as well as scores of other artists and clients.

As a multi platinum recording artist, Earl has worked on songs from Maya Angelou's "Human Family Remix" with Tamarra Love, to Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy's production of "The Hush Sound" with Shawn O'Keefe. Earl wrote and produced 3 songs for Katt William’s ‘American Hustle’. His hit song "Yakalelo" with French sensation "Nomads" earned a Diamond Record for it's success throughout Central Europe and North Africa.

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EARL'S BIG FAT FIVE

Album - Back In Black

Artist - ACDC

Release Year - 1980

Key Track(s) - Back In Black

Drummer - Phill Rudd

Album - Time Out

Artist - Dave Brubeck

Release Year - 1952

Key Track(s) - Pick Up Sticks

Drummer - Joe Morello

Album - Moving Pictures

Artist - Rush

Release Year - 1981

Key Track(s) - YYZ

Drummer - Neil Peart

Album - Glass Menagerie

Artist - Billy Cobham

Release Year - 1982

Key Track(s) - Observations and Reflections

Drummer - Billy Cobham

Album - My Favorite Things

Artist - John Coltrane

Release Year - 1961

Key Track(s) - My Favorite Things

Drummer - Elvin Jones

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Album - Regatta de Blanc

Artist - The Police

Release Year - 1979

Key Track(s) - Walking on the Moon

Drummer - Stuart Copeland

Album - Romantic Warrior

Artist - Return to Forever

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - Medieval Overture

Drummer - Lenny White

Album - Van Halen

Artist - Van Halen

Release Year - 1978

Key Track(s) - Runnin with the Devil

Drummer - Alex Van Halen

Album - By All Means Necessary

Artist - KRS One and Boogie Down Productions

Release Year - 1988

Key Track(s) - I’m Still #1

Drummer - (Sample, All the People- Cramp Your Style)

Album - Let’s Dance

Artist - David Bowie

Release Year - 1983

Key Track(s) - Modern Love

Drummer - Omar Hakim

Album - The Game

Artist - Queen

Release Year - 1980

Key Track(s) - Another One Bites the Dust

Drummer - Roger Taylor

Album - Nightclubbing

Artist - Grace Jones

Release Year - 1981

Key Track(s) - Pull Up to the Bumper

Drummer - Sly Dunbar

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Big Fat Five: Maxwell Flanders' (Lukas Nelson / Luke Hemmings / Lizzy McAlpine) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week, our guest is Maxwell Flanders, a close friend of mine and pseudo-neighbor based in Los Angeles, California. He's a highly sought-after touring and session drummer who recently wrapped up touring with Lizzie McAlpine and is now preparing for a world tour with Luke Hemmings. I've admired Max's drumming for a long time; he plays with such creativity, and his selections today reflect why. I hope you enjoy learning about the five records that have influenced Maxwell Flanders into becoming the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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MAX'S BIG FAT FIVE

Album - 1

Artist - The Beatles

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - Ticket to Ride, Paperback Writer, The Ballad of John and Yoko

Drummer - Ringo Star

Album - The Nightfly

Artist - Donald Fagen

Release Year - 1982

Key Track(s) - Ruby Baby, The Goodbye Look

Drummer - Jeff Porcaro

Album - Stuff

Artist - Stuff

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - Foots, (Do You) Want Some of This, Happy Farms

Drummer - Steve Gadd

Album - Tom Scott and the L.A. Express

Artist - Tom Scott

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - Bless My Soul, Sneakin' In the Back, Nunya

Drummer - John Guerin

Album - Wrecking Ball

Artist - Emmylou Harris

Release Year - 1995

Key Track(s) - Where Will I Be

Drummer - Brian Blade

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Big Fat Five: Steve Jocz's (Sum 41, The Vandals) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Steve Jocz, also known as Stevo 32. Steve is a Canadian musician best known as the original drummer of the punk rock band Sum 41. Steve co-founded Sum 41 in 1996 with Deryck Whibley and played a significant role in the band's early success, contributing to their distinctive punk rock sound. He remained with Sum 41 until 2013, showcasing his drumming skills on albums like "All Killer No Filler”, “Does This Look Infected?” and Chuck." After leaving Sum 41, Steve left music behind all-but-completely...only to rekindle his relationship with the drums around 2019. We get into a lot of fun Sum 41 history and insider stories via very welcomed tangents and I was smiling the whole time. Steve was a big part of my drumming when I was younger and I was giddy as all hell to have him on the show. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Steve Jocz into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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STEVE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Nevermind

Artist - Nirvana

Release Year - 1991

Key Track(s) - In Bloom

Drummer - Dave Grohl

Album - Dookie

Artist - Green Day

Release Year - 1994

Key Track(s) - Burnout (1:12 - 1:38)

Drummer - Tre Cool

Album - Master Of Puppets

Artist - Metallica

Release Year - 1985

Key Track(s) - Master Of Puppets

Drummer - Lars Ulrich

Album - Live Fast, Diarhea

Artist - The Vandals

Release Year - 1995

Key Track(s) - And Now We Dance (00:40 - 01:15)

Drummer - Josh Freese

Album - Milestones

Artist - Miles Davis

Release Year - 1958

Key Track(s) - Two Bass Hit (00:00 - 01:00)

Drummer - Philly Joe Jones

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

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Big Fat Five: JohnnyBgood's Top 5 Influential Records

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is JohnnyBgood. I've been following his Instagram account for a while now and I'm really impressed by his nostalgic, retro-futuristic synth sounds and vintage video game vibe. Paired with a clean, opaque colored-infused aesthetic, it's beautiful in its minimalist approach. He's committed to his branding so strongly that he chooses to remain anonymous, creating a character and a whole world to convey his art. It's great – he's a great guy. I love his choices. While he may not consider himself a drummer's drummer, he sees himself more as a producer, which I think is fabulous and a perspective we should all tap into more often. I hope you enjoy learning about the 5 records that shaped JohnnyBgood into the musician he is today.

Get JohnnyBgood's FREE SAMPLE PACK
Marble Soda by "Shawn Wasabi" - VIDEO

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JOHNNYBGOOD'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Where the Light is: John Mayer Live in Los Angeles

Artist - John Mayer

Release Year - 2008

Key Track(s) - I Don't Trust Myself (With Loving You)

Drummer - J.J. Johnson

Album - Songs About Jane

Artist - Maroon 5

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - The Sun

Drummer - Ryan Dusick

Album - Come to Daddy

Artist - Aphex Twin

Release Year - 1997

Key Track(s) - Flim

Drummer - Aphex Twin

Album - Single Release on YouTube

Artist - Shawn Wasabi

Release Year - 2015

Key Track(s) - Marble Soda

Drummer - Shawn Wasabi

Album - Small Plates

Artist - J3PO

Release Year - 2019

Key Track(s) - Intensor (Feat. Ateller)

Drummer - Ateller

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

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Big Fat Five: Nick Adams' (Aly & Aj / Take That) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Nick Adams … a Los Angeles-based touring and recording drummer whose passion for music and live performance has led him to work with an array of well-known artists such as Rivers Cuomo,Noah Cyrus, Fifth Harmony, Aly & Aj, Liz Phair, and Take That among others. I am obsessed with his Instagram; he gets such amazing sounds and is a nerd when it comes to engineering himself out of his own studio. If you want to watch a drummer who plays deceivingly hard parts with absolute conviction….please go check him out. I'm stoked to introduce a bunch of you to Nick! So please enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Nick Adams into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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NICK'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Steve Miller Band: Greatest Hits 1974-78

Artist - Steve Miller Band

Release Year - 1974-78

Key Track(s) - Take The Money And Run, Swingtown

Drummer - Gary Mallaber

Album - Take Off Your Pants And Jacket

Artist - Blink 182

Release Year - 2001

Key Track(s) - Story of a Lonely Guy

Drummer - Travis Barker

Album - Lateralus

Artist - Tool

Release Year - 2001

Key Track(s) - The Grudge, Ticks & Leeches

Drummer - Danny Carey

Album - Sawdust

Artist - The Killers

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - Sam's Town

Drummer - Ronnie Vannucci Jr.

Album - Hotel California

Artist - The Eagles

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - Life in the Fast Lane

Drummer - Don Henley

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

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Dissecting the Drumming of Phil Selway (Radiohead)

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 00:37:00 -0000

This week’s topic on our "Save It For the Pod" segment with Mr. Gunnar Olsen is the timeless and seemingly underrated drummer of Radiohead, Phil Selway. Gunnar and I each choose our top 5 Phil beats and go a dissectin’!

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GUNNAR'S CHOICES:

Track - Morning Bell (Live in Oxford)

Album - I Might Be Wrong

Release Year - 2001

Track - There, There

Album - Hail To the Thief

Release Year - 2003

Track - Pyramid Song

Album - Amnesiac

Release Year - 2001

Track - Where I End and You Begin

Album - In Rainbows From the Basement

Release Year - 2008

Track - Bodysnatchers

Album - In Rainbows

Release Year - 2007

BEN'S CHOICES:

Track - All I Need

Album - In Rainbows

Release Year - 2007

Track - Dollars and Cents

Album - Amnesiac

Release Year - 2001

Track - 15 Step

Album - In Rainbows

Release Year - 2007

Track - Myxomatosis

Album - Hail To the Thief

Release Year - 2003

Track - Rekoner

Album - In Rainbows

Release Year - 2007

Track - I Might Be Wrong

Album - Amnesiac

Release Year - 2007

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Big Fat Five: Russell Holzman's (Caroline Polachek, @starpowerdrummer) Top 5 Influential Recordings

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is drummer and producer Russel Holzman (@starpowerdrummer). Russell received his education in Jazz and Classical music at the New England Conservatory. Currently, he tours with artists such as Caroline Polachek and, known for his captivating drumming videos, Russell has garnered a substantial following on social media. Based in NYC, he adeptly juggles in-studio recording sessions with global live performances. I hope you enjoy the top 5 recordings that helped shape Russell Holzman into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

Be sure to scope Russell's finely crafted DnB style drum loops & sample pack HERE. These unique and original drum loops were played-live by Russell, not programmed, and are 100% royalty-free.

There are 3 different mix styles for each loop: Clean (highly usable, standard studio mix), Comp (over compressed, modern breakcore style mix) and Vintage (old school, classic Amen Break style mix).

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RUSSELL’S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Zeppelin 1

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Release Year - 1969

Key Track(s) - Dazed and Confused

Drummer - John Bonham

Album - Nil Recurring

Artist - Porcupine Tree

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - Cheating The Polygraph

Drummer - Gavin Harrison

Performance - Live At Cafe Bohemia

Artist - Miles Davis

Release Year - 1957

Key Track(s) - Walkin

Drummer - Philly Joe Jones

Album - Break Stuff

Artist - Vijay Iyer Trio

Release Year - 2015

Key Track(s) - Taking Flight

Drummer - Marcus Gilmore

Album - Secret Liaison

Artist - Source Direct

Release Year - 1996

Key Track(s) - Secret Liaison

Drummer - Source Direct

Any Honorable Mentions?

Performance - Coltrane Live @ Half Note, NYC

Artist - John Coltrane

Release Year - 1965

Track - I Want To Talk About You

Drummer - Elvin Jones

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Where's The Beat?! (can you find the ONE in these 10 songs?)

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Back in the day, Gunnar Olsen and I launched a segment for this show named 'Save It For the Pod!' without much of a plan beyond discussing random topics in a back-and-forth, list-style format. We managed to produce just three episodes before life got in the way. However, I'm considering bringing it back as an enjoyable addition to this podcast feed. As a way to reconnect with the show's essence, I'm re-airing episode 3, where we each share five songs that initially left us completely puzzled about where the downbeat is

I hope you enjoy !

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Dave Elitch - Top 5 Things You're NOT Doing That Are Hurting You & Your Drumming

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:50:00 -0000

Today, we have a very special guest, Dave Elitch, here to talk about his new online course titled "Staying Out of Your Own Way." Dave believes that musicians should approach their craft with the mindset of athletes, and he's created this new course because he sees a significant need for it in the community. Until now, such a resource simply didn't exist.

As of this recording, the course is available for pre-order, with the official launch set for March 4th, 2024. For those listening in the future, head over to daveelitch.com or sooyow.com (which stands for Staying Out Of Your Own Way) to grab your copy.

To keep things engaging, I've asked Dave to put together a top 5 list, and he's chosen "Top 5 Things You're Not Doing That Are Hurting You and Your Drumming." So, grab your notepads, folks, because it's time to learn. And a big thank you to Dave for joining us today! Always a pleasure to have you. Cheers!

*note from show - Dave suggests finding a “Myofascial Sports Massage Therapist who does Deep Tissue Sports Massage who works on Athletes”

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Big Fat Five: Allison Miller's (Drummer / Composer / Teacher) Top 5 Influential Records

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Allison Miller. Allison, based in New York City, is an American drummer, composer, and educator known for her versatile style. Fusing jazz with rock, funk, and global music elements, she has collaborated with notable artists including Dr. Lonnie Smith, Ani DiFranco, Natalie Merchant, Brandi Carlile, and others. A prolific solo artist, her latest album "Rivers in Our Veins" was released in 2023. Miller's dynamic drumming and dedication to musical innovation resonate with audiences across the globe. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Allison Miller into the musician she is today. Cheers!

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ALLISON’S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Around the World in a Day

Artist - Prince

Release Year - 1985

Key Track(s) - Tamborine, Condition of the Heart, Temptation

Drummer - Prince, Sheila E

Album - Miles Smiles

Artist - Miles Davis

Release Year - 1967

Key Track(s) - Freedom Jazz Dance, Gingerbread Boy, Footprints, Dolores

Drummer - Tony Williams

Album - The Avant-Garde

Artist - John Coltrane and Don Cherry

Release Year - 1966

Key Track(s) - The Invisible, The Blessing, Focus on Sanity

Drummer - Ed Blackwell

Album - Plantation Lullabies

Artist - Meshell Ndegeocello

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - I’m Diggin’ You, Step into the Projects, Call Me, Sit Outside Your Door

Drummer - David Gamson

Album - Zoning

Artist - Mary Lou Williams

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - Praise The Lord, Intermission, Rosa Mae

Drummer - Mickey Roker

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Speak No Evil - Wayne Shorter

Black and Red - Live in Willisau

The Cure - Keith Jarrett Trio

Empyrean Isles - Herbie Hancock

Sounds of Joy - Joe Lovano

Unity - Larry Young

Special Edition - Jack Dejohnette

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Big Fat Five: Bill Bruford's (Yes / King Crimson / Earthworks / Genesis) 5 Influential Records

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is THE Bill Bruford. Bill is a legendary drummer whose illustrious career spans over five decades, marked by pioneering contributions to progressive rock, jazz fusion, and beyond. Emerging onto the music scene in the late 1960s, Bruford gained prominence as the drummer for progressive rock icons Yes, where his intricate rhythms and dynamic playing style helped define the band's sound. His tenure with Yes produced several critically acclaimed albums, including "Close to the Edge" and "Fragile," solidifying his reputation as one of the foremost drummers of his generation.

In addition to his work with Yes, Bruford became a member of the seminal progressive rock band King Crimson, where his innovative drumming continued to captivate audiences and influence generations of musicians. Over the years, Bruford's musical journey evolved, leading him to explore jazz fusion with his own band, Earthworks, and delve into experimental projects that pushed the boundaries of musical expression. A prolific recording artist, respected educator, and insightful author, Bill Bruford's multifaceted career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to pushing the limits of creativity and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

Check out "Bill Bruford: Inspirations" playlist HERE

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BILL'S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Drums Unlimited

Artist - Max Roach

Release Year - 1966

Key Track(s) - For Big Sid

Drummer - Max Roach

Album - Live Sesh and Extra Songs

Artist - Louis Cole

Release Year - 2019

Key Track(s) - F it Up - Live Sesh

Drummer - Louis Cole

Album - Caravan

Artist - Art Blakey & Jazz Messenger

Release Year - 1963

Key Track(s) - Caravan

Drummer - Art Blakey

Album - Blackstar

Artist - David Bowie

Release Year - 2016

Key Track(s) - Blackstar

Drummer - Mark Guiliana

Album - Fresh Cream

Artist - Cream

Release Year - 1966

Key Track(s) - I Feel Free

Drummer - Ginger Baker

HONORABLE MENTION:

Artist: John Taverner

Track: The Lamb

Release Year: 1982

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Big Fat Five: Brian Dunne's (Hall & Oates / Live at Daryl's House) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Brian Dunne. Brian is the current drummer for Hall & Oates as well as the house drummer for Live From Daryl's House. Everything Brian plays sounds like a pre-produced groove and it's no wonder that he’s held the throne behind so many incredible musicians…including but certainly not limited to Joe Walsh, Ben Folds, Allen Stone, Average White Band, Cee Lo Green, Sting, Michael Brecker, Chaka Khan, Hesekiah Walker and many more. His pocket is insane and all of the information in today's episode is coming from someone who KNOWS about studio drumming. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Brian Dunne into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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BRIAN’S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - What We Do

Artist - John Scofield

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - Camp Out

Drummer - Bill Stewart

Album - Upfront

Artist - David Sanborn

Release Year - 1992

Key Track(s) - Snakes

Drummer - Steve Jordan

Album - Plantation Lullabies

Artist - Meshell Ndegeocello

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - I'm Diggin' You - Like an Old Soul Record

Drummer - Programmed David Gamson

Album - The Best of Earth Wind and Fire

Artist - Earth Wind and Fire

Release Year - 1978

Key Track(s) - Fantasy

Drummer

Maurice White, Fred White, Ralph Johnson

Album - Stomping at the Savoy

Artist - Rufus and Chaka Khan

Release Year - 1983

Key Track(s) - Tell Me Something Good

Drummer - JR Robinson

HONORABLE MENTION:

Album - Closer To The Light

Artist - Leni Stern

Release Year - 1990

Key Track(s) - Sandbox

Drummer - Zack Danziger / Dennis Chambers

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Big Fat Five: Sarah Jones' (Harry Styles / New Young Pony Club / Hot Chip) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Sarah Jones…an English musician best known for being a session and touring drummer. She has recorded and/or toured with New Young Pony Club, Aynsley Lister, Bat for Lashes, Puscifer, Hot Chip, Bloc Party, Pillow Person and many more. Since 2017, she has been in one of the most high-profile drum thrones in the world as the drummer for Harry Styles band. She’s a veteran and such a great player. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Sarah Jones into the drummer she is today. Cheers!

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SARAH’S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - From The Beginning

Artist - Small Faces

Release Year - 1967

Key Track(s) - All or Nothing

Drummer - Kenney Jones

Album - Metropolis pt 2 Scenes From a Memory

Artist - Dream Theatre

Release Year - 1999

Key Track(s) - Scene 2 Overture 1928

Drummer - Mike Portnoy

Album - Around The Fur

Artist - Deftones

Release Year - 1997

Key Track(s) - My Own Summer / Around The Fur

Drummer - Abe Cunningham

Album - Still Bill

Artist - Bill Withers

Release Year - 1972

Key Track(s) - Kissing My Love

Drummer - James Gadson

Album - Survivor

Artist - Destiny's Child

Release Year - 2001

Key Track(s) - Survivor

Drummer - Electronic

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Big Fat Five: Arbak Dal's (T Cymbals / Independent) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Arbak Dal––a phenomenal turkish drummer and founder of T Cymbals. He’s toured and/or recorded with countless European artists over the years in addition to his own solo projects. He also worked for decades as the everyman at Istanbul Agop Cymbals before taking a crack at doing it all himself with T Cymbals. I met him a few years ago at NAMM and he's just a hoot :) If you’re heading to NAMM this weekend in Anaheim, be sure to stop by the T Cymbals booth and say hi to Arbak yourself. I’ll also be there on Sunday so shoot me a DM and maybe we can link up. I hope you enjoy this chat about the 5 (actually 6) records that helped shape Arbak Dal into the drummer and cymbalsmith he is today. Cheers!

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ARBAK’S BIG FAT FIVE:

Album - Led Zeppelin IV

Release Year - 1971

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Key Track(s) - Stairway to Heaven / Black Dog

Drummer - John Bonham

Album - Come and Taste the Band

Release Year - 1975

Artist - Deep Purple

Key Track(s) - Getting Tighter / You keep on Moving

Drummer - Ian Paice

Album - Crash

Release Year - 1996

Artist - Dave Matthews

Key Track(s) - Too much - #41

Drummer - Carter Beauford

Album - Behind Closed Doors

Release Year - 1991

Artist - Peter Erskine

Key Track(s) - Bulgana

Drummer - Peter Erskine

Album - Kingdom of Desire

Release Year - 1992

Artist - TOTO

Key Track - Jake to the Bone

Drummer - Jeff Porcaro

Album - Take Me Back To Eden

Release Year - 2023

Artist - Sleep Token

Key Track(s) - The Summoning

Drummer - II

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Big Fat Five: JP Bouvet's (Childish Japes / Educator) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is JP Bouvet. JP is a fabulous drummer, educator and winner of the 2011 Guitar Center Drum Off. He has his own band called Childish Japes and has toured with artists like Steve Tai and Zack Wylde as part of guitar supergroup Generation Axe…AND he runs his educational drum website where he specializes in teaching improvisation. I am a happily-subscribed student and I suggest you all do the same. If you wanted to try out his website for free (www.jpbouvetmethod.com), use the code: bigfatfive

JP Bouvet is clearly a great deliverer of information and his insight into approaching this instrument is invaluable. I know you’ll enjoy this chat about the 5 records that helped shaped JP Bouvet into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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JP'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - The Chick Corea Elektric Band

Artist - Chick Corea

Release Year - 1986

Key Track(s) - Got a Match? / King Cockroach

Drummer - Dave Weckl

Album - Perceptual

Artist - Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - Crooked Creek

Drummer - Brian Blade

Album - Flood

Artist - Herbie Hancock

Release Year - 1975

Key Track(s) - Actual Proof

Drummer - Mike Clark

Album - Prog

Artist - The Bad Plus

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - Thriftstore / Jewelry / Physical Cities

Drummer - Dave King

Album - I Have the Room Above Her

Artist - Bill Frisell / Joe Lovano / Paul Motian

Release Year- 2004

Key Track(s) - Osmosis Part 1

Drummer - Paul Motian

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Big Fat Five: Ray Brown's (Snail Mail) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ray Brown...drummer for the band Snail Mail. I’ve been a big fan of Ray's drumming since I first heard him on Snail Mail’s debut album, Lush, in 2017. His upbringing in the DC area music scene gives him authority on a lot of music I've never heard before...and I'm assuming maybe some of you as well? He’s got a lot of energy and it was so enjoyable getting to sit back, relax, and learn a lot from a guitarist / bassist turned fabulous drummer. If you’re unfamiliar with Snail Mail, I’m excited for you to find one of your new favorite bands! Also, we play a lot more than 5 tracks today, so buckle up. Here are some of the records that helped shape Ray Brown into the musician he is today. Cheers!

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RAY’S BIG FAT FIVE👇🏻

Album - The Smiths

Artist - The Smiths

Release Year - 1984

Key Track(s) - Still Ill (Live on the Tube version 1:28 verse/chorus transition)

Drummer - Mike Joyce

Album - Red Medicine

Artist - Fugazi

Release Year - 1995

Key Track(s) - Birthday Pony (fill at 1:01)

Drummer - Brendan Canty

Album - Floral Green

Artist - Title Fight

Release Year - 2012

Key Track(s) - Like A Ritual (chorus fill 1:02)

Drummer - Ben Russin

Album - S/T

Artist - Clique

Release Year - 2014

Key Track(s) - Lil T

Drummer - Tom Anthony

Album - Tesseract

Artist - Warehouse

Release Year - 2015

Key Track(s) - Promethean Gaze

Drummer - Doug Bleichner

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Album - Am

Artist - Ovlov

Release Year - 2013

Key Track(s) - The Well

Drummer - Theo Hartlett

Album - Hoodwink'd

Artist - LVL Up

Release Year - 2014

Key Track(s) - Angel from Space

Drummer - Greg Rutkin

Album - In Utero

Artist - Nirvana

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - Serve the Servants

Drummer - Dave Grohl

Album - Drop

Artist - Turnstile

Release Year - 2016

Key Track(s) - Nonstop Feeling

Drummer - Daniel Fang

Album - Lonesome Crowded West

Artist - Modest Mouse

Release Year - 1997

Key Track(s) - Truckers Atlas

Drummer - Jeremiah Green

Album - DSU

Artist - Alex G

Release Year - 2014

Key Track(s) - Harvey

Drummer - Alex G

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Big Fat Five: Rhys Hastings' (Yves Tumor / Educator) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Rhys Hastings. This episode has been a long time coming as both Rhys and myself have been two ships in the night trying to schedule this thing. We’ve both had an insanely busy year of touring, but we finally did it! Rhys is an incredible person and drummer based in Los Angeles and has played with the likes of Yves Tumor, Melanie Martinez, Angel Olsen, Kim Gordon, Mark Ronson, Tobias Jesso Jr and many more. His mind/body approcah to the instrument is very inspring and I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Rhys Hastings inot the drummer he is today. Cheers!

Check out Rhys' website HERE
Find out more about The Hastings Method HERE

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RHYS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Ege Bamyasi

Artist - CAN

Release Year - 1972

Key Track(s) - Pinch / Vitamin C / Soup / I'm So Green

Drummer - Jaki Liebezeit

Album - Speak No Evil

Artist - Wayne Shorter

Release Year - 1966

Key Track(s) - Witch Hunt / Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum / Dance Cadaverous

Drummer - Elvin Jones

Album - Miles Smiles

Artist - Miles Davis

Release Year - 1967

Key Track(s) - Footprints, Dolores, Freedom Jazz Dance, Gingerbread Boy

Drummer - Tony Williams

Album - I Want You

Artist - Marvin Gaye

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - I Want You / Come Live With Me Angel / Soon I'll Be Loving You Again

Drummer - James Gadson

Album - Siamese Dream

Artist - Smashing Pumpkins

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - Cherub Rock / Quiet / Geek USA

Drummer - Jimmy Chamberlain

Honorable Mentions:

Jimi Hendrix "Are You Experienced"

Led Zeppelin "Houses of the Holy"

David Axelrod "Song of Innocence"

Yes "Yes"

Minnie Ripperton "Adventures in Paradise"

D'Angelo "Voodoo"

J Dilla "The Shining"

Also mentioned during the show:

Minnie Riperton - Adventures in Paradise

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

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My End of Year REQUEST!!!!

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

I need your help to make this show the best it can be going into the new year. Even after 170+ episodes...I'm ALL EARS on how I can improve. Below is a link to an anonymous survey for you to give me ANY AND ALL feedback. Seriously...dont mince words 😬

YOU CAN FILL OUT THE SURVEY HERE

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Big Fat Five: Zach Jones' (Sting) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Zach Jones. Zach is a is a drummer, singer, songwriter, and producer from Brooklyn, NY. Zach has performed and recorded with artists such as Sting, Ingrid Michaelson, A Great Big World, Elle King, and many more. He also writes and records music with his own group, Zach Jones & the Tricky Bits. He’s the kindest dude ever; I was smiling the whole time. We could all benefit from being a little more like Zach on and off the kit so I know you’ll enjoy my chat with Zach Jones about the 5 records that helped shape into the player he is today. Cheers!

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ZACH’S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - With The Beatles

Artist - The Beatles

Release Year - 1963

Key Track(s) - It Won’t Be Long, All I’ve Got to Do, All My Loving, I Wanna Be Your Man

Drummer - Ringo Starr

Album - ‘60s Soul: When A Man Loves A Woman

Artist - Various

Release Year - 1997

Key Track(s) - Soul Man, Knock On Wood, Chain Of Fools

Drummer - Al Jackson, Jr., Roger Hawkins

Album - Live

Artist - James Taylor

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - Your Smiling Face, Mexico, Country Road

Drummer - Carlos Vega

Album - Every Breath You Take: The Classics

Artist - The Police

Release Year - 1995

Key Track(s) - Can’t Stand Losing You, Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic

Drummer - Stewart Copeland

Album - The Royal Scam

Artist - Steely Dan

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - Kid Charlemagne, The Caves of Altamira, Green Earrings

Drummer - Bernard Purdie, Rick Marotta (Everything You Did)

Any Honorable Mentions?

“When The Pawn…”, Fiona Apple, Matt Chamberlain on drums

“Transatlanticism” & “Plans”, Death Cab For Cutie, Jason McGerr on drums

“Riot!” & “After Laughter”, Paramore, Zac Farro on drums

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Big Fat Five: Griffin Goldsmith's (Dawes) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Griffin Goldsmith, drummer for the band Dawes. I’ve been lucky enough to see Griffin perform a few times in person the last month and he is quickly becoming one of my favorite drummers. Also…Dawes just released a 10TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION of their album “Stories Dont End” on limited edition storm cloud vinyl with Remixed & Remastered songs + 6 Bonus Tracks. You can check out that and all their other offerings at dawestheband.com

In addition to Dawes, Griff has also worked with countless artists such as Jackson Browne, John Fogerty, Robbie Robertson, Jim Keltner, Elvis Costello, Sharon Von Etten, Angel Olson, Jenny Lewis, Bahamas and the list goes on and on. He’s recently added film scoring to his list of accomplishments. His delicate and deliberate touch is timeless and honors the gold standard of what it means to be a studio musician. Conversations like this are why I get so excited every week to talk to the best drummers of the day. Griffin’s choices are sourced from the apex of human artistry behind the kit and I know you will all be better drummers after hearing what he has to say. Please enjoy my conversation with Griffin Goldsmith…also please go down a rabbit hole of his playing, not only throughout the entire Dawes catalogue, but all the artists I just mentioned. I can't stress enough how underrated he is. Cheers!

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GRIFF'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Think!

Release Year - 1960

Artist - James Brown & The Famous Flames

Album - Stax Profiles: Little Milton

Release Year - 2006

Artist - Little Milton

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - Let Me Down Easy (the fill at 2:36)

Drummer - Calep Emphrey Jr.

Album - Good News

Release Year - 1977

Artist - Attitudes

Song Choice - Drink My Water

Drummer - Jim Keltner

Album - Desire

Release Year - 1976

Artist - Bob Dylan

Key Track(s) - Oh, Sister

Drummer - Howard Wyeth

Album - The Royal Scam

Release Year - 1976

Artist - Steely Dan

Key Track(s) - Kid Charlemagne

Drummer - Bernard "Pretty" Purdie

Album - No Secrets

Release Year - 1972

Artist - Carly Simon

Key Track(s) - You're So Vain

Drummer - Jim Gordon

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Big Fat Five: Evan Woodle's (Heatwarmer, Karl Blau, Racer Sessions) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Evan Woodle. I was turned onto Evan’s playing through a previous guest of the podcast, Sheridan Riley of the band Alvvays. Evan got his start in the internationally acclaimed Roosevelt High School jazz program in Seattle before going on to earn a Jazz Studies degree from the University of Washington. Go huskies. Evan has toured the world with countless acts, but remains an ambassador for the Seattle Jazz Scene. He maintains a private drum studio, works with local jazz institution Origin Arts, and is one of the co-founders and current organizers of the Racer Sessions, a bimonthly free-improvisation series and a forum for cutting-edge composers and performers. I am a huge fan of his playing, knowledge, and perspective on music so I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Evan Woodle into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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YONI'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Kind of Blue

Artist - Miles Davis

Release Year - 1959

Key Track(s) - So What, Freddie Freeloader, All Blues

Drummer - Jimmy Cobb

Album - Yaya3

Artist - Yaya3

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - Slow Orbit

Drummer - Brian Blade

Album - Speak

Artist - Speak

Release Year - 2010

Key Track(s) - Amalgam in the Middle, Mustard Knuckles

Drummer - Chris Icasiano

Album - Offend Maggie

Artist - Deerhoof

Release Year - 2008

Key Track(s) - Jagged Fruit

Drummer - Greg Saunier

Album - Heigh Ho

Artist - Blake Mills

Release Year - 2014

Key Track(s) - Just Out of View

Drummer - Jim Keltner

HONORABLE MENTION

Album - I Have the Room Above Her

Artist - Paul Motian / Bill Frisell / Joe Lovano

Release - 2005

Drummer - Paul Motian

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Big Fat Five: Yoni Madar's (Independent / Multi-Instrumentalist) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Yoni Madar. Yoni is an Israeli multi-instrumentalist with an incredible facility on the kit; it’s a mad scientist level of technical ability. He has released multiple books on his unique approach to technique that I urge everyone go check them out on his website www.madardrum.com. Once there, you can also contact him about private lessons 😊 Yoni truly is a drummer to the core. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Yoni Madar into the multi-instrumentalist he is today. Cheers!

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YONI'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Selling England by the Pound

Artist - Genesis

Release Year - 1973

Key Track(s) - Dancing With the Moonlit Knight

Drummer - Phil Collins

Album - Wind & Wuthering

Artist - Genesis

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - Wot Gorilla?

Drummer - Phil Collins

Album - The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway

Artist - Genesis

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - Anyway

Drummer - Phil Collins

Album - The Gist of the Gemini

Artist - Gino Vannelli

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - The Battle Cry

Drummer - Graham Lear

Album - The Court of the Crimson King

Artist - King Crimson

Release Year - 1969

Key Track(s) - Moonchild

Drummer - Michael Giles

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Big Fat Five: Branden Steineckert's (Rancid, The Used) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 08:55:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Branden Steineckert. Brandon will always be a massive part of my childhood as a founding member of The Used (specifically the first two records for which he played drums and had a major role in the songwriting). But for the last decade, Branden has also been the drummer for Rancid; he’s a legend playing with legends. I was uniquely excited about this one so I hope you enjoy my chat with Branden Steineckert about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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BRANDEN'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Nevermind

Artist - Nirvana

Release Year - 1991

Key Track(s) - Territorial Pissings

Drummer - Dave Grohl

Album - Rage Against The Machine

Artist - Rage Against The Machine

Release Year - 1992

Key Track(s) - Killing In The Name

Drummer - Brad Wilk

Album - Dookie

Artist - Green Day

Release Year - 1994

Key Track(s) - Longview

Drummer - Tre Cool

Album - Get Some

Artist - Snot

Release Year - 1997

Key Track(s) - I Jus’ Lie

Drummer - Jamie Miller

Album - The Shape of Punk To Come

Artist - Refused

Release Year - 1998

Key Track(s) - New Noise

Drummer - David Sandström

Honorable Mentions:

Nine Inch Nails - Trent Reznor

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Chad Smith

Korn - Self Titled - David Silveri

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Big Fat Five: Travis Orbin's (Darkest Hour, Independent) Top 5 influential Records

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Travis Orbin…Travis is a progressive / metal-leaning drummer who has recorded and/or performed with Darkest Hour, Of Legends, Sky Eats Airplane, Periphery and many more heavy hitters. He’s probably the most technically proficient drummer we’ve had on the show, but he’s also one of the most creative and prolific. His setup is also very unique…often being described as a “minimalist, quasi-open-stance kit”. He’s very well-studied in his craft as both a drummer and composer, and I hope you enjoy the 5-ish records that helped shape Travis Orbin into the musician he is today. Cheers!

Dennis Chambers – Serious Moves (ft. J. Scofield, G. Grainger, J. Beard) - WATCH HERE

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TRAVIS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - ...And Justice for All

Artist - Metallica

Release Year - 1988

Key Track(s) - One, The Frayed Ends of Sanity

Drummer - Lars Ulrich

Album - Serious Moves (VHS)

Artist - Dennis Chambers (John Scofield)

Release Year - 1992

Key Track(s) - Trim

Drummer - Dennis Chambers

Album - Soul Vaccination: Tower of Power Live

Artist - Tower Of Power

Release Year - 1999

Key Track(s) - Soul Vaccination, So Very Hard to Go

Drummer - David Garibaldi

Album - Serious Young Insects

Artist - On The Virg

Release Year - 1999

Key Track(s) - Native Metal, Alien Hip-Hop

Drummer - Virgil Donati

Album - Universe

Artist - Planet X

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - Clonus

Drummer - Virgil Donati

Album - Joe's Garage

Artist - Frank Zappa

Release Year - 1979

Key Track(s) - Catholic Girls

Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

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Big Fat Five: Chris Icasiano's (Fleet Foxes, Bad Luck, Pure Bathing Culture) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:08:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Chris Icasiano - Chris is a Filipino-American percussionist and composer from Redmond, WA. His specialization in free-improvisation and experimental music combined with his vast experience with pop and rock have made him a highly sought after collaborator in all genres of music. His debut solo work Provinces explores the complexity of cultural identity and community as a second generation immigrant in Seattle.

You can find Chris on the road with Fleet Foxes and Pure Bathing Culture or at home in Seattle playing weirdo experimental shows as a soloist or with longtime drum and sax duo Bad Luck. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Chris Icasiano into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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CHRIS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Koln Concert

Artist - Keith Jarrett

Release Year - 1975

Key Track(s) - Part I

Album - Perceptual

Artist - Brian Blade Fellowship

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - Reconciliation

Drummer - Brian Blade

Album - The Trials of Van Occupanther

Artist - Midlake

Release Year - 2006

Key Track(s) - Roscoe; Van Occupanther

Drummer - McKenzie Smith

Album - Catch Thirty-Three

Artist - Meshuggah

Release Year - 2005

Key Track(s) - In Death - Is Death; Autonomy Lost; The Paradoxical Spiral

Drummer - Tomas Haake

Album - Time (the revelator)

Artist - Gillian Welch

Release Year - 2001

Key Track(s) - I Dream a Highway; Dear Someone; Revelator

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Big Fat Five: Brody Simpson's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Brody Simpson. I’ve been wanting to re-work this episode and shoot it to the top of the feed because this conversation, which originally aired in August of 2020, is an episode that I quote all the time when chatting to current guests–whether it makes it into the shows or not. My motto has been “just repeat Brody’s opinions and people will think you’re insightful and creative”. But anyways, if you don’t know Brody, he’s a New Zealand-based drummer and studio owner who has been blowing people’s minds on social media for years. His unique, broken-while-being-perfectly-unbroken grooves are at the forefront of the dilla / Neo soul movement and, to be honest, his breakdown of that style of drumming is worth its weight in gold. His choices are great, but a lot different than one might expect. Before listening to this episode, I encourage you to go down the rabbit hole of his playing, because I ask him a lot of specific questions about his videos. Regardless, I hope you enjoy this new and improved chat about the 5 records that shaped Brody Simpson into the player her is today. Cheers!

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BRODY'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Grace

Release Year - 1994

Artist - Jeff Buckley

Key Track(s) - Lover, You Should Have Come Over

Drummer - Matt Johnson

Album - Nevermind

Release Year - 1991

Artist - Nirvana

Key Track(s) - Drain You

Drummer - David Grohl

Album - 21

Release Year - 2011

Artist - Adele

Key Track(s) - He Won't Go

Drummer - Chris "Daddy" Dave

Album - Thirteenth Step

Release Year - 2003

Artist - A Perfect Circle

Key Tracks - The Package

Drummer - Josh Freese

Album - To Pimp A Butterfly

Release Year - 2015

Artist - Kendrick Lamar

Key Track(s) - Hood Politics

Drummer (if known) - Robert ‘Sput’ Searight?

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Big Fat Five: Rob Humphreys (Kacey Musgraves, Nikki Costa) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Rob Humphreys. Originally from New Mexico, Rob currently lives in Los Angeles and has quite the impressive list of professional credits having played and/or recorded with Billy Ray Cyrus, Celine Dion, Karon O, Kacey Musgraves, Leonard Cohen, Theo Katzman, Elle King, Scary Pockets and MANY MORE. I absolutely love his playing. He’s just a cool damn dude. Maybe someday I can be rad like him. Anyway…I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Rob Humphreys into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

Check out Rob’s videos HERE

Check The Meters 1974 HERE

Check out Theo Katsman’s YouTube Channel HERE

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ROB'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album That Thing You Do - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Artist - The Oneders

Release Year - 1996

Key Track(s) - That Thing You Do

Drummer - Guy Patterson (Kenny Arnoff, Adam Schlesinger)

Album - Elastic

Artist - Joshua Redman

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - Molten Soul, Still Pushin’ That Rock

Drummer - Brian Blade

Album - Rejuvenation

Artist - The Meters

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - People Say, Just Kissed My Baby, Jungle Man

Drummer - Zigaboo Modeliste

Album - The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do

Artist - Fiona Apple

Release Year - 2012

Key Track(s) - Left Alone

Drummer - Charlie Drayton

Album - Be The Wheel

Artist - Theo Katzman

Release Year - 2023

Key Track(s) - She’s In My Shoe

Drummer - Jordan Rose

HONORABLE MENTION:

Album - Fire Eater

Artist - Rusty Bryant

Release Year - 1971

Key Track(s) - Fire Eater

Drummer - Idris Muhammad

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Rest in Peace Dom Famularo

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This past week, we lost a very important member of the drumming community, Dom Famularo. Known as "Drumming's Global Ambassador" spent the last 30 years traveling the globe preaching the gospel of drumming. An intense performer, Dom remains one of the most respected solo drum artists in the world, with a career built solely upon his unique skills as a drummer, educator, author and motivational speaker.

Dom was a guest on this show in 2021 and it was, of course, a great chat chalk-full of life lessons. It was back before I asked the guests to pick 5 records that shaped them into the players they are today…instead I provided prompts (which I read aloud) and they answered them accordingly. Dom answers went far beyond drumming…of course 😊

I learned that Dom’s cancer had retuned back in June when I reached out regarding a little secret project I’m working on. After hearing about his health, the Big Fat Snare Drum team offered to organize a fundraiser to offset some of the costs of his cancer treatment, but in typical selfless fashion, Dom kindly insisted we raise awareness for his non-profit Can-Do Musos … an organization for disabled musicians. You can find out more about this non-profit at candomusos.com; you can donate directly on the website.

I’ve learned a lot from Dom, far beyond the parameters of this conversation you’re about to hear, and so if you enjoy this podcast, Dom has indirectly impacted your life too. I have donated myself, and, if you have the ability, I encourage you to check it out.

I have updated this chat a bit and, of course wanted to shoot it to the top of my feed not only to celebrate Dom’s life, but to promote his non-profit work and re-air an episode that will certainly leave you smiling and a better person. Rest in Peace Dom. I can’t wait to chat with you again on the other side.

Also please visit WhyHunger.org

https://youtu.be/4zio72R2Nmw?si=CAiCNoBbQSt8ZMiR

Thank you for everything Dom and I hope you rest in peace. Cheers.

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Big Fat Five: Jimmy Chamberlin's (The Smashing Pumpkins, Jimmy Chamberlin Complex) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is THE Jimmy Chamberlin. He is a singular player that blends jazz/rock/prog and I was SO curious as to what his top 5 would be; and he did not disappoint. He is, of course, most known for his time with Smashing Pumpkins, but he's also formed his own group, Jimmy Chamberlin Complex, in addition to a supergroup with Pumpkins lead singer Billy Corgan called Zwan. He's performed and recorded with Skysaw, Frank Catalano, and many more…and so…without further ado, I hope you enjoy the five records that helped shape Jimmy Chamberlin into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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JIMMY'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Tony Williams Lifetime - Believe it

Artist - Tony Williams

Release Year - 1975

Key Track(s) - Fred / Proto-Cosmos

Drummer - Tony Williams

Album - Blow by Blow

Artist - Jeff Beck

Release Year - 1975

Key Track(s) - Air Blower / Scatterbrain

Drummer - Richard Bailey

Album - Captain Beyond

Artist - Captain Beyond

Release Year - 1972

Key Track(s) - Dancing Madly Backwards

Drummer - Bobby Caldwell

Album - Unorthodox Behaviour

Artist - Brand X

Release Year - 1976

Key Track(s) - Euthanasia Waltz / Smacks / Euphoric Hysteria

Drummer - Phil Collins

Album - Low Spark of High Heeled Boys

Artist - Traffic

Release Year - 1971

Key Track(s) - Low Spark of High Heeled Boys

Drummer - Jim Gordon

Honorable Mentions:

Real McCoy/McCoy Tyner

Empyrean Isles/Herbie Hancock

Wired/Jeff Beck

Gist of the Gemini/Gino Vanelli

Now he sings, Now he sobs/Chick Corea

Bill Evans/Any

Roxy and Elsewhere/Zappa

Pat Metheny Trio/99-00

Story of Neptune/Tony Williams

Dave Holland/Big Band

Blue Train/ John Coltrane

Any Lee Morgan

Any Art Blakey

Monk

Any Roy Haynes

Hank Jones

Any Elvin

Mose Allison

Weather Report

Jazz Crusaders

Terry Bozzio

Bill Bruford

Ian Paice

Nate Smith

Nate Wood

...so many drummers - I'm inspired by anyone doing their own thing!

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Big Fat Five: Tommy Igoe's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Tommy Igoe. Tommy is a world-class musician / producer / author / creator based in San Francisco, CA. He is the top-selling author in his field with four #1 titles on Amazon.com. He began drumming before the age of 2, started classical piano at 10, won every music competition available to him in High School, simultaneously winning two High Percussion awards with the legendary Bridgemen Drumlines.

In 1997, Tommy wrote the drum set book for Disney’s epic Broadway production of the “The Lion King” where he served as principal drummer and conductor. He has played drums on three Grammy award winning recordings and was voted the World’s #1 Jazz Drummer in the 2014 Modern Drummer Reader’s Poll. He has created two ongoing weekly musical residency at iconic Jazz clubs in New York and San Francisco. His New York band, The Birdland Big Band, is the most popular weekly music event in the city for the last 9 years. His most recent and exciting project is the Tommy Igoe Groove Conspiracy, a 15-piece supergroup from the San Francisco that has quickly become an integral part of the San Francisco cultural landscape.

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TOMMY'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Apple Juice

Artist - Tom Scott

Release Year - 1981

Key Track(s) - Instant Relief

Drummer - Steve Gadd

Album - Buddy Rich Swinging New Band Band

Artist - Buddy Rich

Release Year - 1996

Key Track(s) - West Side Story Medley

Drummer - Buddy Rich

Album - Blue Matter

Artist - John Scofield

Release Year - 1987

Key Track(s) - Blue Matter

Drummer - Dennis Chambers

Album - Manhattan Burn

Artist - Paquito D'Rivera

Release Year - 1987

Key Track(s) - All The Things You Are

Drummer - Ignacio Berra

Album - Live in Concert (in London)

Artist - Stan Kenton

Release Year - Recorded in 1972

Drummer - John Von Ohlen

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Big Fat Five: Brandon Scott's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Brandon Scott –– a fabulous drummer, YouTuber and cinematographer. I’ve been following his channel for YEARS and was really excited to finally get him on the show. Brandon’s YouTube channel is an exceptional blend of great playing, education, humor and VFX. In this episode we, of course, discuss the 5 records that helped shape Brandon into the drummer he is today, but we also touch on taking self-inventory of happiness and allowing all your passions to become one big “good life stew”…and where Brandon is at with all of that. Go check out his channel link in the show notes…and enjoy that chat! Alright cheers.

Check out Brandon’s YouTube Channel HERE

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BRANDON'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Self Titled

Artist - Blink-182

Release Year - 2003

Key Track(s) - I Miss You

Drummer - Travis Barker

Album - Moving Pictures

Artist - Rush

Release Year - 1981

Key Track(s) - Tom Sawyer / YYZ

Drummer - Neil Peart

Album - Systematic Chaos

Artist - Dream Theater

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - In The Presence of Enemies / Constant Motion

Drummer - Mike Portnoy

Album - Colors

Artist - Between the Buried and Me

Release Year - 2007

Key Track(s) - Prequel to the Sequel / White Walls

Drummer - Blake Richardson

Album - We Like It Here

Artist - Snarky Puppy

Release Year - 2014

Key Track(s) - What About Me?

Drummer - Larnell Lewis

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Big Fat Five: Joe Lana Jr's (The Cowboy Drummer, Dropout Kings) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Joe Lana Jr. AKA The Cowboy Drummer. Based Rochester, NY, Joe has created quite the following with his hilarious drum videos coupled with amazing playing. If you don’t know about The Cowboy Drummer, go give him a follow right now. He has been a consistent positive force in my life, and I’m sure he will be for you too. But he’s not just an influencer, he’s a very active touring drummer with his band Dropout Kings, based in Phoenix, Arizona. He’s great. He’s a kind soul and I’m really grateful to have chatted with him. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Joe Lana into the drummer he is today!

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JOE'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - The Sickness

Artist - Disturbed

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - Stupify / Droppin Plates / Down With The Sickness

Drummer - Mike Wengren

Album - Hybrid theory

Artist - Linkin Park

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - One Step Closer / Crawling / Papercut

Drummer - Rob Bourdon

Album - Chocolate Star Fish and The Hotdog Flavored Water

Artist - Limp Bizkit

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - Rollin / My Way / My Generation

Drummer - John Otto

Album - Follow the Leader

Artist - Korn

Release Year - 1998

Key Track(s) - Freak on a Leash

Drummer - David Silveria

Album - Dookie

Artist - Green Day

Release Year - 1994

Key Track(s) - When I Come Around / Basket Case / Welcome to Paradise

Drummer - Tre cool

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Big Fat Five: Elias Mallin's (Filter, Kesha, Noah Cyrus) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Elias Mallin. Elias is one of my newest favorite people and this chat was fun. He warned me that he’d have a lot of controversial takes and I certainly was not disappointed. Elias is one of THE go-to drummers in LA with a resume that includes Kesha, Filter, Noah Cyrus, Kill Hannah, Hollywood Undead, Julia Michaels, Fear and the Nervous System, and so many more. This chat felt like I was just shooting the sh$t with an old friend and I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shaped Elias Mallin into the drummer he is today.

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ELIAS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - …And Justice For All

Artist - Metallica

Release Year - 1988

Key Track(s) - All of them

Drummer - Lars Ulrich

Album - aenema

Artist - Tool

Release Year - 1996

Key Track(s) - All of them

Drummer - Danny Carey

Album - White Pony

Artist - The Deftones

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - Digital Bath, Passenger

Drummer - Abe Cunningham

Album - Live And Loud

Artist - Ozzy Osbourne

Release Year - 1993

Key Track(s) - Shot in the Dark, Crazy Train, Bark at the Moon

Drummer - Randy Castillo

Album - Under the Table and Dreaming

Artist - Dave Mathews Band

Release Year - 1994

Key Track(s) - Ants Marching, Satellite

Drummer - Carter Beauford

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Big Fat Five: Tim Carman's (GA-20) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Tim Carman. Tim international touring musician, session drummer, educator, and published author with both Alfred Music and Hudson Music. He’s released 5 books and we talk about all of them at the end of our chat. Tim currently records and tours extensively with GA-20, a three-time Billboard #1 blues trio as well as leading two of his own projects: Tim Carman & The Street 45s—a world-groove inspired funk band—and the Tim Carman Trio—a vintage organ jazz trio. He loves to shuffle and I loved this chat. Big shoutout to Zack from the podcast Working Drummer for connecting Tim and me. This was a fun one with excellent choices and one of my favorite honorable mentions in this shows history. So I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Tim Carmen into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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TIM'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - The Colour and the Shape

Artist - Foo Fighters

Release Year - 1997

Key Track(s) - All ("Hey, Johnny Park!")

Drummer - Dave Grohl

Album - Cracklin'

Artist - Roy Haynes with Booker Ervin

Release Year - 1963

Key Track(s) - Scoochie

Drummer - Roy Haynes

Album - Funkify Your Life: The Meters Anthology

Artist - The Meters

Release Year - 1995

Key Track(s) - Live Wire, Yea You're Right, Pungee, Cissy Strut

Drummer - Zigaboo Modeliste

Album - The Capitol Vaults Jazz Series: Big John Patton

Artist - Big John Patton

Release Year - 2011

Key Track(s) - The Silver Meter, Spiffy Diffy, String Bean

Drummer - Ben Dixon (First two tracks), Clifford Jarvis (String Bean)

Album - Natural Boogie

Artist - Hound Dog Taylor

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - See Me In the Evening

Drummer - Ted Harvey

For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

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Big Fat Five: Johnny Kelly's (Type O Negative, Quiet Riot, Danzig) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 08:07:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Johnny Kelly. Johnny is mostly known for his tenure as the drummer for Type O Negative, but his full resume includes Quiet Riot, Danzig, Silvertomb, A Pale Horse Named Death, Kill Devil Kill, and his latest endeavor, Eye Am. Johnny is a hell of a hard-hitting player, but his awareness of dynamics and the development of a theme while crafting parts is the reason he’s in the third decade of a very fruitful career. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Johnny Kelly into the drummer he is today. Cheers

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JOHNNY'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Physical Graffiti

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Release Year - 1975

Key Track(s) - In My Time of Dying, Kashmir, Ten Years Gone

Drummer - John Bonham

Album - Sabotage

Artist - Black Sabbath

Release Year - 1975

Key Track(s) - The Writ, Megalomania

Drummer - Bill Ward

Album - BBC Sessions

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Release Year - 1997

Key Track(s) - Since I’ve Been Loving You, Thank You

Drummer - John Bonham

Album - Motley Crue

Artist - Motley Crue

Release Year - 1994

Key Track(s) - Power To The Music, Till Death Do Us Part

Drummer - Tommy Lee

Album - Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

Artist - Beatles

Release Year - 1967

Key Track(s) - Lovely Rita, A Day In The Life

Drummer - Ringo Star

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Big Fat Five: Tina Raymond's (Drummer, Composer, Educator) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Tina Raymond. Tina is an accomplished drummer, composer, bandleader, and educator based in Los Angeles, CA and is the director of Jazz Studies at California State University Northridge. She presented globally and her teaching credits include Los Angeles City College, The Herbie Hancock Institute, University of Michigan, Bard College and Idyllwild Arts. She’s toured all over the world as a both a leader and sideman. Her upcoming releases include “Divinations” featuring 6 of her own compositions and Rachel Eckroth’s Live at Sam First. She’s incredibly talented and an expert at relaying information in a fun way. I really hope you learn something from this one; she goes over A LOT. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Tina Raymond into the drummer she is today. Cheers!

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TINA'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Everybody Digs Bill Evans

Artist - Bill Evans

Release Year - 1959

Key Track(s) - Minority

Drummer - Philly Joe Jones

Album - Live at The Pershing

Artist - Ahmad Jamal

Release Year - 1959

Key Track(s) Surrey With The Fringe On Top, Poinciana

Drummer

Vernel Fournier

Album - When the Pawn…

Artist - Fiona Apple

Release Year - 1999

Key Track(s) - Limp, Fast As You Can

Drummer - Matt Chamberlain, Butch Norton, Jim Keltner

Album - Art Pepper + Eleven

Artist - Art Pepper

Release Year - 1960

Key Track(s) - Move, Groovin’ High

Drummer - Mel Lewis

Album - Soul Station

Artist - Hank Mobley

Release Year - 1960

Key Track(s) - This I Dig of You

Drummer - Art Blakey

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Big Fat Five: Bosh Rothman's (Kills Birds, Living Things, Blondshell) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Bosh Rothman. Bosh is an LA based drummer who’s played with Kills Birds, Living Things, Blondshell, Kim Gordon, Courtney Love, Marissa Nadler, Alison Mosshart and many more. I was first turned on to Bosh when I subbed for the main live drummer of the band, Blondshell this past January / February. And, while Bosh doesn’t normally tour with Blondshell, he recorded the drums on her debut record and it was really fun to learn his parts. The record kicks ass btw. Ever since that tour, I’ve wanted to get Bosh on the show so we finally made it happen…and I’m grateful we did! I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Bosh Rothman into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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BOSH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Lōc-ed After Dark

Artist - Tone Loc

Release Year - 1989

Key Track(s) - Wild thing

Album - Appetite For Destruction

Artist - Guns N’ Roses

Release Year - 1987

Key Track(s)

Welcome to the jungle

Drummer - Steven Adler

Album - White Album

Artist - The Beatles

Release Year - 1968

Key Track(s) - All!

Drummer - Ringo Starr/Paul McCartney

Album - The Doors

Artist - The Doors

Release Year - 1967

Key Track(s) - Break On Through

Drummer - John Densmore

Album - Plastic Ono band

Artist - John Lennon

Release Year - 1971

Key Track(s) - Well Well Well

Drummer - Ringo Starr

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Big Fat Five: Stanton Moore's (Galactic, Corrosion of Conformity, Krasno / Moore Project) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is the one…the only Stanton Moore. Stanton is a GRAMMY award-winning drummer, educator and performer born and raised in New Orleans. His pride for his hometown is pretty unmatched. In the early ‘90s, Moore helped found the New Orleans-based essential funk band Galactic who continue to amass a worldwide audience via recording and touring globally. The band has averaged 100 shows a year for the last 25 years. Moore launched his solo career in 1998. He has 8 records under his own name. In 2022 Moore started a new project with Grammy award winning guitarist and producer Eric Krasno. The Krasno / Moore Project’s current record is “Book of Queens”.

Throughout his 25 year career, Moore has played and or recorded with a diverse group of artists including Maceo Parker, Joss Stone, Irma Thomas, Leo Nocentelli and George Porter (of the Meters),Tom Morello (of Rage Against the Machine), Corrosion of Conformity, Donald Harrison Jr., Nicholas Payton, Trombone Shorty, Skerik, Charlie Hunter, Robert Walter, Will Bernard, Ivan Neville, Anders Osborne and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Les Claypool (Primus) to name a few.

With a bachelor’s degree in music and business from Loyola University, Moore stays involved in education by constantly presenting clinics and teaching master classes and private lessons all over the world. He has released two books and three video projects. His book Groove Alchemy was picked by Modern Drummer as one of the top 25 instructional drum books of all time. To continue with his passion for teaching and to become more closely connected with his students, he recently launched his own online drum academy, StantonMooreDrumAcademy.com. He’s the man and this is one for the books. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Stanton Moore into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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STANTON'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Live at Birdland

Artist - John Coltrane

Key Track(s) - Afro Blue

Drummer - Elvin Jones

Album - 20 Greatest hits

Artist - James Brown

Key Track(s) - All

Drummer - Melvin Parker, Jabo Starks, Clyde Stubblefield

Album - Look a Py Py

Artist - The Meters

Key Track(s) - All

Drummer - Zigaboo Modeliste

Album - Physical Graffiti

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Key Track(s) - All

Drummer - John Bonham

Album - Crawfish Fiesta

Artist - Professor Longhair

Key Track(s) - All

Drummer - Johnny Vidacovich

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Big Fat Five: Rich Redmond's (Jason Aldean) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Rich Redmond. Rich has been the touring and recording drummer with multi platinum country rocker Jason Aldean for nearly two decades. He has recorded 31 #1 radio hits and plays to millions of fans per year in iconic venues across the globe. Rich has also worked with artists such as Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Ludacris, Bryan Adams, Bob Seger, Chris Cornell, Miranda Lambert, Eric Church, Keith Urban, Luke Bryan and many more. Rich is also a busy educator, speaker, author and actor. www.richredmond.com. But before that, I hope you enjoy the 5 (actually six) records that helped shape Rich Redmond into the player he is today. Cheers !

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RICH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Winelight

Artist - Grover Washington Jr. (Featuring Bill Withers)

Release Year - 1980

Key Track(s) - "Just The Two Of Us"

Drummer - Steve Gadd, Ralph MacDonald (also writer)

Album - Foreigner

Artist - Foreigner

Release Year - 1977

Key Track(s) - "Feels Like The First Time" and "Double Vision"

Drummer - Dennis Elliott

Album - Outlandos D'Amour

Artist - The Police

Release Year - 1978

Key Track(s) - "So Lonely", "Born in the 50's", "Can't Stand Losing You"

Drummer - Stewart Copeland

Album - The Power Station

Artist - The Power Station

Release Year - 1985

Key Track(s) - "Bang A Gong" and "Some Like It Hot"

Drummer - Tony Thompson

Album - "Scarecrow" 1985 and "The Lonesome Jubilee" 1987

Artist - John Mellencamp

Release Year - 1985 and 1987

Key Track(s) - "Small Town" and "Lonely Ol' Night" 1985 and "Check it Out" and "Hard Times For An Honest Man" 1987

Drummer -Kenny Aronoff

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Big Fat Five: Curt Bisquera AKA Kirkee B's (Mick Jagger, Johnny Cash, Elton John, Seal) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Curt Bisquera, AKA Kirkee B. He’s played with so many great artists, such as Elton John, Mick Jagger, Tom Petty, Sarah Mclaughlin, Lana Del Ray, and Johnny Cash, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. His pocket is deeeeeep, and his stories are endless. This episode is Kirkee B’s SECOND appearance on the show; I had him on a few years back to discuss five defining moments in his recording career, but this time he discusses the five records that helped shape him to be one of the GO-TO sessions players in LA. I love him. He’s so fun. I hope you enjoy my chat with the one and only Curt Bisquera.

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KIRKEE B'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Yellowjackets

Artist - Yellowjackets

Release Year - 1981

Key Track(s) - Matinee Idol

Drummer - Ricky Lawson

Performance - Live at Disneyland

Artist - Buddy Rich

Release Year - 1976

Drummer - Buddy Rich

Album - What Time Is It?

Artist - The Time

Release Year - 1982

Key Track(s) - The Walk

Drummer - Morris Day

Album - TOTO IV

Artist - TOTO

Release Year - 1982

Key Track(s) - Waiting For Your Love

Drummer - Jeff Porcaro

Album - Group Sex

Artist - Circle Jerks

Release Year - 1981

Key Track(s) - Red Tape

Drummer - Lucky Leher

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Big Fat Five: Noah Hecht's (Cassandra Jenkins, Purr, Dan English) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Noah Hecht - a Brooklyn-based drummer / instructor who proudly studied under Billy Hart at Oberlin Conservatory of Music and College. He’s worked with Purr, Yeasayer, Eleanor Friedberger, Man Forever, Porches, Cassandra Jenkins and many more. If I were to state a through line for this chat, it’s that Noah is obsessed with placement and its relationship with time. You’ll see what I mean 😊 BYEEE!

Noah’s Teacher - Marivaldo Lima

https://www.instagram.com/marivaldolima/

2 Part Documentary - Maracatu Nação Estrela Brilhante (it’s in Portuguese, but used those CC’s)

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bU0L6HHSpc8

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UIMORU9ao1o

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NOAH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - On The Beach

Artist - Neil Young

Release Year - 1974

Key Track(s) - Revolution Blues

Drummer - Levon Helm

Album - A Love Supreme

Artist - John Coltrane

Release Year - 1965

Key Track(s) - Acknowledgement

Drummer - Elvin Jones

Album - Billy Hart Quartet

Artist - Billy Hart

Release Year - 2006

Key Track(s) - Neon

Drummer - Billy Hart

Album - Maracatu Nação Estrela Brilhante

Artist - Maracatu Nação Estrela Brilhante

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - Cheguei Meu Povo

Album - Voodoo

Artist - D'Angelo

Release Year - 2000

Key Track(s) - The Root

Drummer - Questlove

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Big Fat Five: Chris Dadge's (Chad VanGaalen, Alvvays, Samantha Savage Smith) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Chris Dadge, a Canadian drummer producer based out of Calgary, Alberta. He’s worked with so many great artists and he tells you all about a month in the life of him …so I’ll let the master do the talking. Just push play; it’s worth it. Thanks again to Sheridan Riley, drummer for the band Alvvays for recommending Chris. He did not dissappoint. All right, please enjoy my chat with Chris Dodge about the 5 records that shaped him into the player…and person he is today. Cheers!

Check out Chris' Discography HERE

Phil Minto and Roger Turner Performance HERE

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CHRIS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Gone, Just Like A Train

Artist - Bill Frisell

Release Year - 1998

Key Track(s) - Verona; Egg Radio; Girl Asks Boy (Pt. 1)

Drummer - Jim Keltner

Album - Outlaster

Artist - Nina Nastasia

Release Year - 2010

Key Track(s) - You're A Holy Man; You Can Take Your Time

Drummer - Jay Bellerose

Album - Largo

Artist - Brad Mehldau

Release Year - 2002

Key Track(s) - Dusty McNugget; When It Rains

Drummer - Matt Chamberlain

Album - Drainage

Artist - Phil Minton and Roger Turner

Release Year - 2003

Key Track(s) - All of it!

Drummer - Roger Turner

Album - Nefertiti

Artist - Miles Davis

Release Year - 1968

Key Track(s) - Nefertiti; Fall; Hand Jive

Drummer - Tony Williams

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Big Fat Five: Jojo Mayer: Clarity > Perfection

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Jojo Mayer. I am in the midst of a project that has me going through a bunch of our past episodes (I will be announcing this project shortly and I’m super excited about it), but when I went back through the Jojo’s episode, I was reminded of its importance. Jojo is mind-blowing player who helped pioneer the drum n bass movement in New York City by “reverse engineering” programmed drum loops and applying them to the drum set. He is also revered for his exceptional technique, which he dissects in the wildly-popular instructional series titled “Secret Weapons For The Modern Drummer Parts 1 & 2”. He is the leader of his own band, Nerve, which he founded back in 1997. We don’t necessarily stick to the normal format in this one; Jojo is a great storyteller. We start off with a few anecdotes about a cymbal once-owned by Billy Higgins that Jojo picked up by happenstance and Jojo’s time spent “studying” with Freddy Gruber, but we certainly touch on a lot of Jojo’s opinions / perspectives regarding accepting influences, but knowing when they’re actually a detriment to your personal growth on the instrument. He’s a very philosophical man and shares quite a few nuggets of slap-you-in-the-face style wisdom. Even though this is probably one of our most-downloaded episodes over the life of the show, we’ve been getting a lot of new listeners and I wanted to push this towards the top because, well…it’s important. I’ve cleaned it up a bit and put a cute lil bow in it. Stay tuned for my fun little project announcement, but in the meantime…please enjoy my chat with my esteemed guest, Jojo Mayer. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Kris Myers' (Umphrey's McGee) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Kris Myers - a Nashville-based drummer whose main project is the progressive-rock band Umphrey’s McGee, but he’s also played with a variety of jazz artists including Nicholas Payton, Randy Brecker, Dennis DiBlasio and many more. With Umphrey’s, Kris has shared the stage with Les Claypool, Huey Lewis, Stephen Perkins, Victor Wooten, Bill Evans, Jason Bonham and many more…as always. He truly is an INSANE drummer and I will say he’s probably the best guest at breaking down his choices. Even though we’ve heard a few of his picks before, I learned a lot from his explanations. AND a Big Fat thanks to Neal Daniels for the recommendation :) Go check out Neal’s episode from a few weeks back. OKKKKKK…here are Kris Myers’ 5 records that shaped him into the drummer he is today :)))

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KRIS' BIG FAT FIVE👇🏻

Album - Zenyatta Mondatta

Release Year - 1980

Artist - The Police

Key Track(s) - Driven To Tears

Drummer - Stewart Copeland

Album - Are You Experienced?

Release Year - 1967

Artist - Jimi Hendrix

Key Track(s) - Fire

Drummer - Mitch Mitchell

Album - Led Zeppelin

Release Year - 1969

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Key Track(s) - Good Times Bad Times

Drummer - John Bonham

Album - Speak No Evil

Release Year - 1966

Artist - Wayne Shorter

Key Track(s) - Witch Hunt

Drummer - Elvin Jones

Album - Vinnie Calaiuta

Release Year - 1993

Artist - Vinnie Calaiuta

Key Track(s) - I’m Tweeked! Attack of the 20 LB Pizza

Drummer - Vinnie Calaiuta

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Big Fat Five: Ian Froman's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ian Froman - an incredible jazz drummer based in New York City. Ian has taught at Berklee College of Music, Drummers Collective, New School University, City College of New York in addition to private lessons. He has toured the world with so many of the greatest players in the genre including (but CERTAINLY not limited to) John Abercrombie, Dave Holland, Michael Brecker, Gary Burton, and Matthew Garrison. This is easily one of my favorite conversations I’ve ever had…and not just on the podcast. Ian is such a fun story teller and he’s got A LOT of stories. Also, a big shoutout to Mike Powers from Boston who suggested I reach out to Ian! Alright, here is Ian Froman’s Big Fat Five. Cheers!

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IAN'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - A Love Supreme

Release Year - 1965

Artist - John Coltrane

Song Choice - Resolution

Drummer - Elvin Jones

Album - Now He Sings, Now He Sobs

Release Year - 1968

Artist - Chick Corea

Song Choice - Steps

Drummer - Roy Haynes

Album - Still Live

Release Year - 1986

Artist - Keith Jarrett

Drummer - Jack DeJohnette

Album - Michael Brecker

Release Year - 1987

Artist - Michael Brecker

Song Choice - Syzygy

Drummer - Jack Dejohnette

Album - Paths Prints

Release Year - 1982

Artist - Jan Garbarek

Drummer - Jon Christensen

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Big Fat Five: Neal Daniels' (LP, Liz Phair, Matt Nathanson) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 31 May 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Neal Daniels…an LA-based drummer with credits that include LP, Liz Phair, Matt Nathanson, Booker T. Jones, Post Malone, Due Lipa, Camila Cabello and many more. As is common with this podcast, we’ve known each other from afar for quite some time, but this podcast keeps bringing people together! Neal is a pro drummer through and through and this is certainly a masterclass in the journey towards enlightenment. We talk about the music that sparked his initial interest in drums / his inevitable stoner rock stage / his previous tendency to overplay / his moving to LA & feeling lost with his playing. Don't worry, it all has a happy ending. Please enjoy my conversation with Neal Daniels about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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NEALS BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - TEN

Release Year - 1991

Artist - Pearl Jam

Song Choice (to be played during the show) - Alive

Drummer (if known) - Dave Krusen

Album - Master Of Puppets

Release Year - 1986

Artist - Metallica

Song Choice (to be played during the show) - Battery

Drummer (if known) - Lars Ulrich

Album - Anchor Drops

Release Year - 2004

Artist - Umphrey's Mcgee

Song Choice (to be played during the show) - Ja Junk Part 1

Drummer (if known) - Kris Myers

Album - Over-Nite Sensation

Release Year - 1973

Artist - Frank Zappa

Song Choice (to be played during the show) - I'm The Slime

Drummer (if known) - Ralph Humphrey

Album - Clones Of Dr. Funkenstein

Release Year - 1976

Artist - Parliament

Song Choice (to be played during the show) - Everything Is On The One

Drummer (if known) - Jerome “Bigfoot” Brailey

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Big Fat Five: Kellii Scott's (Failure) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 24 May 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Kellii Scott - drummer for the band Failure. He’s also worked with Liquid Jesus, A Perfect Circle, Queens of the Stoneage, Veruca Salt, Pink, James Blunt, Christina Aguilera, Linda Perry, Faith Hill, etc.…it’s all over the place. He’s a monster-of-a-player and, while we’ve known OF each other from afar for a bit, we finally got to meet backstage at a Sunny Day Real Estate concert recently in LA (thanks to William Goldsmith!). I hope you enjoy my interview with Kellii Scott about the 5 records that shaped him into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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KELLII'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Highway to Hell

Release Year - 1979

Artist - ACDC

Song Choice - Walk All Over You

Drummer - Phil Rudd

Album - All The World's A Stage

Release Year - 1976

Artist - Rush

Song Choice - 2112 Overture

Drummer - Neil Peart

Album - Destroyer

Release Year - 1976

Artist - Kiss

Song Choice - Flaming Youth

Drummer - Peter Criss

Album - Number of the Beast

Release Year - 1982

Artist - Iron Maiden

Song Choice - Prisoner

Drummer - Clive Burr

Album - In Through The Out Door

Release Year - 1979

Artist - Led Zeppelin

Song Choice - Fool In The Rain

Drummer - John Henry Bonham

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Big Fat Five: Noa Kahn's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 17 May 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Noa Kahn…a Grammy-nominated drummer who, while only moving to the US from Israel in 2019, has already taken the industry by storm and getting hired by some of the best names in the game…including Jax and Big Wild. I had the pleasure of sharing a bill with her last month and wow - she’s incredibly humble, but SUCH a monster player. Her name will be heard a lot for some time to come. I was so excited to chat and I hope you enjoy this conversation with one of my new favorite drummers, Noa Kahn, on the 5 records that shaped her into the musician she is today. Cheers!

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NOAH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Tower of Power

Release Year - 1973

Artist - Tower of Power

Song Choice - Soul Vaccination

Drummer - David Garibaldi

Album - Master Plan

Release Year - 1990

Artist - Dave Weckl

Song Choice - Festival De Ritmo

Drummer - Dave Weckl

Album - Live In Concert

Release Year - 2001

Artist - Kim Burrell

Song Choice - I’ll Keep Holding On

Drummer - Robert “Sput” Searight

Album - Elastic

Release Year - 2002

Artist - Joshua Redman

Song Choice - Jazz Crimes

Drummer - Brian Blade

Album - Fuzzy

Release Year - 2007

Artist - Oz Noy

Song Choice - Fuzzy

Drummer - Keith Carlock

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Big Fat Five: Andrew Marshall's (Billie Eilish, FINNEAS) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 10 May 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Andrew Marshall – the incredible drummer for both Billie Eilish and FINNEAS. He was one of the first drummers I met when moving to LA and we’ve been friends ever since. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Andrew Marshall into the drummer he is today.

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ANDREW'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - The Birthday Concert

Release Year - 1995 (recorded in 1981)

Artist - Jaco Pastorius

Song Choice - Soul Intro/The Chicken

Drummer - Peter Erskine

Album - Soul Vaccination: Tower of Power Live

Release Year - 1999

Artist - Tower of Power

Song Choice - Soul Vaccination

Drummer - David Garibaldi

Album - To The Stars

Release Year - 2004

Artist - Chick Corea Elektric Band

Song Choice - Mistress Luck--The Party

Drummer - Dave Weckl

Album - ...Is A Real Boy

Release Year - 2004

Artist - Say Anything

Song Choice - Belt

Drummer - Coby Linder

Album - The Bells Sketch

Release Year - 2010

Artist - James Blake

Song Choice - Buzzard & Kestrel

Drummer - James Blake (programming)

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Big Fat Five: Jordan Rose' (Theo Katzman, Cory Wong, Caleb Hawley) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 03 May 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Jordan Rose - a Brooklyn-based session drummer who’s worked with Theo Katzman, Cory Wong, SZA, Caleb Hawley, Charlie Puth, Pomplamoose, Charlie Hunter and so many other legends. I know I’m a broken record, but I LOVE his feel on the kit and I couldn’t wait to get him on the show. He’s overcome a lot in his life, including a period of 2 years where he lost hearing in his right ear, but it only made him into a better musician. We also talk about music helped him overcoming his social anxiety (something that I personally struggle with to this day). All in all, Jordan is a gem. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shaped Jordan Rose into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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JORDAN'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - The Best of Yellowjackets

Release Year - 1999

Artist - Yellowjackets

Song Choice - New Rochelle

Drummer - Will Kennedy

Album - Texas Flood

Release Year - 1983

Artist - Stevie Ray Vaughn

Song Choice - Lenny

Drummer - Chris Layton

Album - Continuum

Release Year - 2006

Artist - John Mayer

Song Choice - Vultures

Drummer - Steve Jordan

Album - Donny Hathaway Live

Release Year - 1972

Artist - Donny Hathaway

Song Choice - You've Got a Friend

Drummer - Fred White

Album - Band of Gypsys (50th Anniversary / Live At Fillmore East, 1970)

Artist - Jimi Hendrix

Song Choice - Power To Love - Live

Drummer - Buddy Miles

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Life on Planet Groove by Maceo Parker - Kenwood Dennard on drums

Bill Withers Live at Carnegie Hall - James Gadson on drums

King Curtis Live At The Fillmore West - Bernard Purdie on drums

Without A Net by Wayne Shorter - Brian Blade on drums

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Big Fat Five: Jonathan Pinson's (Boom Clap, Mark Turner, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Jonathan Pinson - an award-winning drummer and band leader. He’s played with Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Mark Turner and so many others…he has a Masters in music from UCLA via the very prestigious Thelonius Munk Institute of Jazz Performance. He is currently a professor at California Institute of the Arts and the leader of his own band, Boom Clap. He’s an incredible musician and it was an honor to have him on the show. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that’s helped shape Jonathon Pinson into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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JONATHAN'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Perceptual

Release Year - 2000

Artist - Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band

Song Choice - Perceptual

Drummer - Brian Blade

Album - Citizen Tain

Release Year - 1999

Artist - Jeff Tain Watts

Song Choice - The Impaler

Drummer - Jeff Tain Watts

Album - Live on Tour in Europe

Release Year - 1976

Artist - The Billy Cobham George Duke Band

Song Choice - Almustafa The Beloved

Drummer - Billy Cobham

Album - Continuum

Release Year - 2006

Artist - John Mayer

Song Choice - Gravity

Drummer - Steve Jordan

Album - Live at The Village Vanguard

Release Year - 1999

Artist - Wynton Marsalis

Song Choice - Jig’s Jig

Drummer - Herlin Riley

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Our Top 5 Movies About Music (w/ Mike Schulte)

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week, Mike Schulte (drummer for The Pork Tornadoes / Dope Walker and co-host of the podcast ‘Confused Breakfast’) and I discuss each of our 5 favorite movies involving music in SOME capacity 😊. This was a lot of fun.

Listen to Confused Breakfast HERE
Find out more about The Pork Tornadoes: YouTube / Instagram
Listen to Dope Walker: HERE

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Big Fat Five: Butch Vig's Top 5 Influential Records (that shaped him into the producer/engineer/songwriter/drummer he is today)

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Butch Vig. He needs no introduction, but HERE WE GO. He is one of the most successful producers in rock history - having produced a handful of critically and commercially acclaimed albums such as Nirvana’s ‘Nevermind’, both ‘Gish’ and ‘Siamese Dream’ from Smashing Pumpkins, Sonic Youth’s ‘Dirty’, Soul Asylum’s ‘Let Your Big Light Shine’, Foo Fighters’ ‘Wasting Light’, Jimmy Eat World’s ‘Chase This Light’ and the two latest Silversun Pickups records ‘Widow’s Weeds’ and ‘Physical Thrills’. In addition to producing, Butch is one helluva drummer - having played with Spooner, Fire Town, 5 Billion in Diamonds and, of course, Garbage. This was a milestone for both myself and the podcast; I love how it turned out. Butch is a sweetheart of a man and it made me love him and his career even more. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Butch Vig into the producer and drummer he is today.

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BUTCH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

Album - Who's Next

Release Year - 1971

Artist - The Who

Song Choice - Behind Blue Eyes

Drummer - Keith Moon

Album - Country Life

Release Year - 1974

Artist - Roxy Music

Song Choice - Out Of The Blue

Drummer - Paul Thompson

Album - Ramones

Release Year - 1976

Artist - Ramones

Song Choice - Beat On The Brat

Drummer - Tommy Ramone

Album - Marquee Moon

Release Year - 1977

Artist - Televison

Song Choice - See No Evil

Drummer - Billy Ficca

Album - London Calling

Release Year - 1979

Artist - The Clash

Song Choice - Train In Vain

Drummer - Topper Headon

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Big Fat Five: Nate Wood's (fOUR, Kneebody, Wayne Krantz) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Nate Wood. Nate can do it all…and he can do it all at once. In his solo project fOUR, he sings / plays bass/keys/drums all at the same time. Wow. But throughout his career, he’s been involving in so many projects including Kneebody, Wayne Krantz, George Harrison, Tigran Hamasyan, Louis Cole, Taylor Hawkins and the Coattail Riders, Sting…incredible. It was truly and honor talking to him and I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Nate Wood in the musician he is today. Cheers!

As promised...check out the video of Marcus Gilmore HERE.

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Big Fat Five: Chris Marshak's (Steve Winwood, Amy Helm, Ben Wisch, Sessions) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Chris Marshak - a drummer and percussionist whose worked with a boat load of great artists throughout the years including Steve Winwood, Amy Helm, James Maddock, Jeffrey Gaines, Willy Porter and many more. We also touch on some pretty vulnerable (yet universal) topics in this one and it felt amazing; he’s a great guy. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Chris Marshak into the drummer he is today, but get your notes out for this one as he gives some stellar advice than can be applied both on and off the kit. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Forrest Rice's (WØLFY) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is THE Forrest Rice. He is an incredible drummer with a seemingly endless amount of creativity flowing through as shown by the amount of projects with which he’s involved. His own project, WØLFY, has a lot of exciting things come up, but he’s also drummed for Covet, Standards and The Illustrative Violet over the last few years. Before listening to the episode, I suggest you check out his drumming. Regardless, I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Forrest Rice into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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I get interviewed...

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is…me! I’ve been getting a lot of questions from new listeners regarding my time in LA and asking for any advice on how to make strides in their drumming career. While I certainly don’t think I’m an authority on that matter, I still welcome these conversations. That being said, I wanted to upload this episode for a good reference as to what I tend to say time and time again. I also acknowledge that my favorite podcasts ARE my favorite podcasts because I feel like I know the host and, while I try to keep these conversations as causal as possible, I don’t really talk about myself and my history too much. Sooo a few months back, I interviewed Ryan Seaman for Big Fat Five, but Ryan has his own show as well on Idobi Radio called ‘Ryan Seaman and Friends’. After our chat for this podcast, I hopped on his show to talk about MY story as a drummer and offer some advice of varying credibility. I hope you enjoy getting to know me a little bit better and we’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming soon! Also, please email me at ben@bigfatsnaredrum.com at any time to offer suggestions for the show e.g. comments, concerns, guest recommendations, congratulations on being such a great host - whatever you want! I’ve had some really kind people reach out as of late and it truly means the world. I don’t take any of it for granted. Anyways, enough about me. Here’s an episode all about me! Cheers.

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Big Fat Five: E-MAN's (Andy Grammer) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is my good buddy, E-MAN - drummer and recording extraordinaire. His main project these days is Andy Grammer, but he’s always busy recording out of his home studio near. Over the years, he’s worked with many amazing artists and producers including Gwen Stefani, Cody Simpson, Steve Lukather, Tommy Page, Tyler Johnson, Rabbit and it goes on and on and ON. He’s performed on SNL, David Letterman, The Tonight Show – basically all the shows 😊 But, at the end of the day, I consider him a dear friend and he’s just got a genuinely good and playful soul. I hope you enjoy the five records that shaped E-MAN into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

Check out his loops pack HERE

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Big Fat Five: Brendan Buckley (Morrissey, Shakira, Perry Farrell): 5 Records That Inspired Him Growing Up

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Brendan Buckley…a drummer with an incredible resume that includes Shakira, Perry Farrell, Morrissey, Tegan and Sara, Damian Rice, JJ Lin and many more. I gush all about his playing to his face in the chat so I’ll leave that there, but I will say that he is one of the most articulate guests we’ve had on the show in regards to setting up each of his choices; and because of that, this is one of my favorites. He had a little bit of a different take on his choices, so buckle and enjoy this chat with Brendan Buckley. Cheers!

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Brendan's Honorable Mentions (as promised)...

- Kenny Werner: "Meditation 1-4 "Effortless Mastery" 1996

- Carlos Vega: "Country Road" on James Taylor's "Live" 1993

- Omar Hakim: “Fortress Around Your Heart” on Sting’s “The Dream of the Blue Turtles” 1985

- Steve Jordan: "Ramblin" on David Sanborn's "Upfront" 1992

- John Bonham: “Good Times Bad Times” on Led Zeppelin 1 1969

- Stephen Perkins: “Mountain Song” on Jane’s Addiction’s “Nothing’s Shocking” 1988

- Matt Cameron: “Ugly Truth” on Soundgarden’s “Louder Than Love” 1989

- Dennis Chambers: "Blue Matter" on John Scofield's "Blue Matter" 1986

- Matt Chamberlain: "A Sort Of Fairytale" on Tori Amos's "Scarlet's Walk" 2002

- Tony Williams: "So What" on Miles Davis's "Four And More" 1966

- Bill Stewart: “She’s So Lucky” on John Scofield’s “Hand Jive” 1994

- Boris Williams: “Icing Sugar” on The Cure’s “Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me” 1987

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Big Fat Five: Josh Grigsby's (Houston Calls, Mae, Just Surrender) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Josh Grigsby - a drummer I’ve looked up to and apparently ripped off for a quite some time. He was/is the drummer for Houston Calls (a now-defunct pop punk band from New Jersey who actually just announced a batch of reunion shows in June), but he’s also the current drummer for Mae and Just Surrender. I hope you enjoy this chat with Josh Grigsby about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Sheridan Riley's (Alvvays, Peg) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest Sheridan Riley - a drummer and overall fabulous musician based out of Washington State. Sheridan is the drummer for the band Alvvays (which I love) in addition to their own projects Peg and releases under their own name, Sheridan Riley. They’ve also worked with Avi Buffalo, Hand Habits, Cassandra Jenkins, John Mitchell Quartet, Time of Wolves, Fort Wife among many others. Sheridan is a such a kind, caring person and it shows in their conversational drumming. Please enjoy my chat with Sheridan Riley about the 5 records that shaped them into the player they are today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Jeremy Taggart's (ex-Our Lady Peace, Taggart & Torrens) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Jeremy Taggart. Jeremy has been mentioned on the pod of few times in other drummer’s top 5 in regards to his previous work with the band Our Lady Peace…which Jeremy joined when he was 17 and remained their drummer until 2014. He’s also a fellow podcaster with his show “Tarrant & Torrens”…which we talk about at the end of the show (it's also a musical duo)…plus he's the co-auther of the book "Canadianity ".

Jeremy and my mutual friend (and yet another friend of the pod) Mike Robinson of Blame My Youth, K Flay, Oliver Tree sums up Jeremy’s playing in a great way. Quote “Jeremy’s drumming just seems so conversational and almost stream of conscious. But at the same time so deliberate”. I mean...that’s the gaol right? We also get into his friendship…it’ll make you love Elvin even more. All in all, Jeremy has an Infectious laugh and youthful playfulness thoughout this whole conversation. I loved it. Please enjoy this chat with Jeremey Taggart about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today.

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Big Fat Five: Dave Scalia's (Elle King) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Dave Scalia. Dave is a Brooklyn-based professional drummer, producer, and songwriter. For the last 7 years, he’s been playing with Elle King, but throughout his career he’s also worked with White Rabbits, Dawn Richard, Theo Katzman, Miranda Lambert, A Great Big World, Darren Criss, Dierks Bentley and many more. He’s incredible, nuanced and purposeful, yet very elastic with his playing. I just love his style and I was extremely excited to chat with him. Please enjoy the 5ish records that shaped Dave Scalia into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Adam Christgau's (Tegan and Sara, Troye Sivan, Miley Cyrus, movies like Pixar’s Luca and HBO’s Station 11) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest Adam Christgau. Adam is one of THE go-to drummers in the live music scene. He’s worked with Tegan & Sara, Troye Sivan, Sia, Weezer, John Scofield, Kacey Musgraves, Brandon Flowers, Ingrid Michaelson, Chaka Kahn, LP, Dan Romer and, of course, many more. He’s also worked on music scores including Pixar’s Luca and HBO’s Station 11. In addition to musical endeavors, Adam owns and operates Christgau Design: a high-end custom furniture company. I’ve wanted to get Adam on the show for awhile and it seemed like a great time to do it after Stacy Jones spoke so highly of him during last week’s episode. So here we go, I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Adam Christgau into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Stacy Jones' (Miley Cyrus, American Hi-Fi, Matchbox Twenty) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Stacy Jones … a hell of a drummer, front man, guitarist, singer, producer and musical director. He is currently the musical director AND drummer for Miley Cyrus, the primary songwriter / singer / rhythm guitarist for American Hi-Fi and the drummer for Matchbox Twenty and Letters to Cleo. As a Musical Director, he’s also worked with Olivia Rodrigo, Demi Lovato, The Chainsmokers, Logic and Ryan Tedder, Noah Cyrus, Troye Sivan, 5 Seconds of Summer, Broods and many more. And to list off a few more names he’s worked with - Veruca Salt, Madonna, Everclear, Avril Lavigne, Ariana Grande, Joan Jett, The Flaming Lips, Sheryl Crow, Butch Walker…I mean…yeah. Get out your notepads for this one ya'll. This dude not only HOLDS the drum seat, but he HIRES drummers so he knows what works and what WILL GET YOU PAID. SORRY FOR THE CAPS! I can’t say enough good things about him. Please enjoy the 5 records that shaped Stacy Jones into the drummer he is today.

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Big Fat Five: Zach Lind (Jimmy Eat World) Tells The Stories Behind His Favorite Jimmy Eat World Recordings

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s show has Zach Lind of Jimmy Eat World breaking down his favorite Jimmy Eat World grooves and tells the story of why they each hold a special place in his drumming heart. There are a lot of great perspectives in this episode including how the element of surprise is an artist’s greatest weapon, acknowledging when you’re not needed and how he’s always thinking about what he can take AWAY from a part to make it unique as opposed to adding more.

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Big Fat Five: Daniel Fang's (Turnstile, Angel Dust) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Daniel Fang…drummer for the hardcore band Turnstile.

Turnstile was nominated for three Grammys this year which includes:

Best rock performance (Holiday)

Best rock song (Blackout)

Best metal performance (Blackout)

Daniel’s Tour Kit Rundown

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Big Fat Five: Nick Ruffini's (Drummer's Resource Podcast) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Nick Ruffini…host of the longest-running drumming podcast out there today…Drummer’s Resource. With over 650 episodes, Nick has talked to almost every drummer one could think imagine. I love his interviews; I’ve learned a lot from him and his show is one I look up to quite a bit. We’ve chatted a few times off the air over the years, but it was great to finally get him on the show. If you’re a fan of drumming podcasts, I’m sure you’re aware of Nick, but you might not know a lot about him as a player so let’s get to know Nick through the records that shaped him into the drummer he is today. And go check out Drummer’s Resource…but then be sure to come back to this feed! 😊

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Check out this episode's playlist HERE

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Big Fat Five: Sarab Singh's (MUNA, Joji, KLVR GRL) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Sarab Singh. I’ve admired Sarah from afar for a long time and it’s funny that we’ve never met face to face prior to this chat as we’ve randomly shared lockouts in LA essentially across the hall from each other twice at this point. Sarab has worked with Ingrid Michaelson, Charlie XCX, Joji, his solo project called KLVR GRL, and most recently he’s kept busy with the band MUNA. Please enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Sarah Singh into the amazingly-unique drummer he is today. Cheers!

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THE James Gadson Breaks Down the Songs That Define His Recording Career

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

**This is the new and improved interview with James Gadson that happened 2 years ago now in November of 2020.**

‘Gadson on Gadson’. Today was a milestone for me. I’ve been such a huge fan of this man for years and I hope I hide my nervousness well enough in this conversation. This week’s guest is James Gadson…one of the funkiest drummers out there. He gave life to the 16th note groove and used it on countless records with Bill Withers, The Jackson Five, Beck, Cheryl Lynn, Charles Wright and the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band and many more. For a time, it was rare to go a whole day without hearing James’ drumming on the radio, and probably still true to this day on some stations. We discuss the top records on which he played that best represent his career in the studio. I had a blast talking with James and he is a gentleman through and through. And if you’re a drummer, his DVD ‘Funk / R&B Drumming’ is a must watch. Honestly…must OWN. It will get you paid. I guarantee it.

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Big Fat Five: Sam Merrick's (Broadway's '& Juliet') Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is THE Sam Merrick, drummer for ‘& Juliet’ on Broadway at the Sondheim Theater in New York City. We’ll learn more about that show later on in the episode, but Sam just got done with a 1200+ long run as the drummer for the national tour of Hamilton: An American Musical. In addition to live theatre, Sam has played with Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Charlie Wilson, Charles Bradley and his Extraordinaires…and many more. He’s also got an amazing sample pack series called Break Habits (available exclusively at The Drum Broker). He’s a stud; people want to hire him and he can teach all of us a whole hell of a lot. I wanted to find out what he focuses on from a drumming perspective that’s formed him into such a professional, consistent player. Please enjoy my chat with Sam Merrick about the 5 records that shaped him into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Willy Rodriguez' (The Mars Volta, Mon Laferte) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Willy Rodriguez. Willy is a Latin-Grammy award winning drummer and percussionist based in New York City. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Willy has been playing drums since he was thirteen and his list of associated acts is endless…including Omar Rodriguez-Lopez, Mon Laferte, Domino Saints and more. After leaving Puerto Rico, he attended Berklee College of Music and began making a name for himself in the Boston music scene rather quickly, but he ultimately set up shop in New York City. His work with Omar eventually led to him being called to drum on the newest The Mars Volta record (which is an insane honor for any drummer), but Willy is a singular player. He extremely knowledgeable and well-plugged in to so many scenes and genres that you can’t really describe him in any particular way; He’s just Willy. Also, hit him up on his Instagram the next time you’re in New York City and he’ll point to the right places to go. Please enjoy my chat with THE willy Rodriguez about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Rod Elkins' (Tyler Childers) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Rod “Hot Rod” Elkins…drummer for Tyler Childers and The Food Stamps…among many others. Rod was born and raised in Huntington, West Virginia and has spent his life keeping time and sharing his infectious love for music…but more importantly…his devotion to the song. Rod is fairly new to my radar. As you know, I’ve been on tour the last six weeks and I was recently in Lexington, Kentucky playing The Burl. My good buddy (and friend of the podcast, Steve from Junkdrummer.tv) came out to hang and we, of course, started chatting about Levon Helm. He mentioned that his buddy, Rod, was the closest living thing to Levon’s legendary style AND his drumming his currently on a top 10 country album by an artist called Tyler Childers. I immediately checked him out and damnnnn…Steve was right. Sooooo I got him on the show right away; I LOVED all his picks and loved his reasoning even more. This was a really relaxing chat and Rod has a great perspective on all things music. I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Rod Elkins into the drummer he is today!

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Big Fat Five: Greg Hersey's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This weeks guest is Greg Hersey…a percussionist and educational artist based out of Jackonville, Florida. He is currently the Director of Instrumental Music at Episcopal School of Jacksonville. I first found him on Instagram when he started tagging Big Fat Snare Drum. His creativity has seemingly grown exponentially and it’s super inspiring and his use of multi-percussion is insane. Before you listen to the episode, I encourage you to check out some of Greg’s videos to understand the context of both my questions and his approach to music as a whole. But anyways…enough of my yacking…please enjoy the top 5 records that helped shape greg Hersey into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Dimitri Fantini's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Dimitri Fantini. I’m actually not sure how I first found out about Dimitri, but he was my online instructor for quite some time and I’m just a huge fan of his drumming. He’s garnered quite the collection of followers on Instagram due to his consistent posting of…well super rad awesome videos. They look great, sound great…and are very inspiring. Also check out his growing YouTube. His book “The Total Drummer: a guide to developing your style, feel, touch, groove and more” was published by Hal Leonard in 2022 and continues to receive high accolades. I’ve also included a link to his free course, 'Technique Fundamentals' HERE.

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Big Fat Five: Ryan Seaman's (Mercy Music) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is everybody’s favorite drummer, Ryan Seaman. Ryan has been on my wishlist of guests for a while now and surprisingly enough, we were finally able to work it out on the road when it’s the hardest time to schedule people! Anyways, Ryan has played with so many amazing artists throughout his career, especially in the punk rock scene, but his current project is called Mercy Music. Ryan is a one of the most likable guys out there and I look up to him AND how he’s navigated his career in so many ways. I know I say this about every guest, but I really enjoyed this chat. Ryan and I have a lot in common when it comes to our background as drummers and it was just an easy chat. He’s the kind of person you want to see succeed. Alright, please enjoy my chat with Ryan about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Q. Robinson (Broadway's 'Hamilton', 'Ain't Too Proud')

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Q. Robinson…the newly-announced touring drummer for Broadway's ‘Hamilton’ (which is huge as it's a highly-coveted chair!). But before he starts that, he currently finishing up his tenure with the “Ain’t Too Proud”…a musical about the band The Temptations. Besides Broadway, Q has played with Avery Sunshine, Bobby Brown, Anthony David and a host of others. He’s a mentor to a few of my peers and is just a bundle of positivity. On top of that, he’s a great drummer with finesse and pocket for DAYZZZ. It was great catching up with him and I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Quinton “Q” Robinson into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Ralph Alexander's (Poppy, CRX) Top 5 Influential Records

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 01:03:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ralph Alexander…an incredibly talented drummer currently out with the artist Poppy. Ralph is one of those “rarely makes a mistake” kind of drummers, but his incredible independence was the first thing that turned me onto his skills…referring to this video. I mean…wow. He’s also worked with other legendary artists including CRX (featuring Nick Valensi of The Strokes). Anyways, just trust me, he’s great. Please enjoy this chat about the 5 records that shaped him into the bombastic yet incredibly precise drummer he is today.

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Big Fat Five: Mike Robinson's (k.flay, Oliver Tree, Blame My Youth) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

My guest this week is my good buddy and even gooder drummer, Mike Robinson. Mike is the quintessential working LA drummer who’s played with so many rad artists and bands…most recently with the two powerhouses Oliver Tree and k.flay, but let’s add Joseph, Blame My Youth, Cannons (he subbed for me and KILLED it), Del Water Gap, MORGXN, Chain Gang of 1974, Geographer and many more. He also runs the Instagram account @food.ontour, which we talk about right off the bat. He’s a first-call drummer and I loved loved LOVED this conversation. Please enjoy my chat with Mike Robinson about the 5 records that shaped who he is as a drummer today. Cheers!

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Can You Guess the Drum Machine?!

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Let’s play a game…

Can you guess the drum machine in these 30 songs?

Check out the playlist HERE

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5 Things To Avoid When You’re Engineering Drums

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This episode is Part 2 of my conversation with Dan Bailey.

Dan is a Drummer / Music Director / Engineer / Multi-Instrumentalist who’s played with Father John Misty, First Aid Kit, Reignwolf and many more..

He also has a handful of very useful online courses known as ‘The Bailey Method”. He covers everything from tuning, to recording, to engineering with a very boots-on-the-ground approach. I’ve learned a lot from them myself and they're great. I promise.

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5 Things to Avoid on a Session When You're Playing Drums For an Artist

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s episode is part one of my conversation with Dan Bailey on the topic of 5 Things To Avoid When Working on a Session For An Artist".

Dan is a Drummer / Music Director / Engineer / Multi-Instrumentalist who’s played with Father John Misty, First Aid Kit, Reignwolf and many more.

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Big Fat Five: Ilan Rubin's (Nine Inch Nails, Angels and Airwaves) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ilan Rubin. He is currently the drummer for Nine Inch Nails and Angels and Airwaves, but has collaborated with Paramore, M83, Beck, Phantogram and many, many more throughout the years. He’s also the co-owner of Q Drum Co and a prolific solo artist with releases under his own name (Ilan Rubin) and 'The New Regime' where he writes and records everything himself. He’s...incredible. We discuss A LOT of different topics, but I hope you enjoy a conversation built around the 5 records that shaped Ilan into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

Paiste Roto Sound:

https://youtu.be/eoqBlMVyn6A

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Big Fat Five: Rob "Beatdown" Brown's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Rob “Beatdown” Brown. If you haven’t heard of Rob, it means you’re the perfect drummer and don’t need to work on anything. You’ve won drums. But if that’s not you (also ME!), and you’ve ever searched YouTube for literally anything drum education related…you’ve seen Mr. Beatdown. He is, hands down, my favorite YouTube instructor and one of the reasons I am lucky enough to still be a full-time drummer today. Here are the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today.

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Big Fat Five: Eddie Burns' (Clairo) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Eddie Burns…a Chicago-based producer / drummer who is currently out with the artist ‘Clairo’. He’s an incredible drummer with an old soul and a VAST knowledge of the Chicago music scene. I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Eddie into the drummer he is today.

WATCH - 'Questlove talks Drums, Dilla, and D'Angelo | Red Bull Music Academy' HERE

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Thom Sonny Green's (alt-J) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Thom from the band Alt-J. He’s one of the most creative drummers out there today and the band, as a whole, are young legends. It was truly an honor talking with him and, if you don’t know Alt-J, they’re crafted a unique blend of folk, indie, electronica, and rock; it's their own genre, really. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shaped Thom into the drummer he is today. He truly is a singular player and it's conversations like this that made me want to switch to this format. Cheers!

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: J-rod Sullivan's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Mr. Jerrod “J-rod” Sullivan…a bada$$ drummer, programmer, arranger, producer and educator. He’s incredibly clean with both his beard trimming skills and his playing, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg of the things I love about him. He’s incredibly prolific…posting all the time on his socials, which currently sit at almost 90,000 on YouTube and nearly 230,000 on Instagram. I’m sure it’s laughably beyond that if you’re listening to this a few years from now. He’s currently the drummer for Jeffrey Osborne / Avery Sunshine and The 4 Corners. Please enjoy the 5 records that shaped J-rod into the playe he is today. Cheers!

Follow J-Rod on Instagram HERE

Follow J-Rod on YouTube HERE

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Rajeev Maddela's (Currency Audio) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Rajeev Maddela. He’s a drum set artist, electronic music composer, DJ, computer programmer, and rudimental percussion instructor based in Brooklyn, NY.

Under the name Maddela, he has released a host of singles and EP’s. His production work spans the genres of experimental drum and bass, future bass, and UK garage, with a focus on live performance elements and wide sonic palettes. The project I heard from him was CURRENCY AUDIO, which is an improvisational performance project exploring jungle, IDM, UK garage, dubstep and their various offshoots.

Rajeev holds a degree in Computer Science from New York University. His career as a software engineer spans nearly two decades. Let’s just say he is a go-getter and it was truly an honor to talk to him. Big shoutout to Ian Maciak for introducing Rajeev to me, and yeah…let’s learn about the top 5 records that shaped Raj into the musician he is today. Cheers!

Star of Indiana Drumline ‘93

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZF3tFhUPT4

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Jessica Burdeaux's (@jburdsbeats) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Jessica “The Hoot” Burdeaux. She’s a former guest of the show before we switched to the current format so I knew I had to get her back on. I’m confident you’ve seen her on either social media, Drumeo, YouTube or Reverb.com (for whom she’s sorta become the face of drumming). She’s extremely powerful and plays with a conviction that is undeniably fun to both watch and listen to. Her creative, syncopated rhythms have caught the attention of the entire drumming community and I’m very happy to call her a dear friend. You know her. You love her. I hope you enjoy my chat with Jessica Burdeaux on the 5 records that shaped her into the now-full-time drummer she is today. Cheers!

Follow Jessica on Instagram HERE

Jessica’s (now-archived) first time on the podcast - LISTEN HERE

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Logan Baudean's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest Logan Baudean…a New Orleans-raised, now LA-based musician. He can do it all. I don’t even remember how I first heard about Logan, but I’ve been following him for awhile now I was really excited to have him on. He certainly identifies as a drummer, but he’s also a sought-after guitarist, bassist and keyboardist and I’m sure the list goes on and on. Recently, he’s toured the world as the drummer for Barns Courtney and bassist for Palaye Royale. He’s just a cool guy. His perspectives are cool. His hair is cool. You won’t be able to see it, but his SHIRT was cool. Anyways, there’s a lot of great insight in this one. Truly. I hope you enjoy the 5 influential happenings that shaped Logan into the consistency-working hired guy he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Petar Janjic's (Cory Wong) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Petar Janjic…a Serbian-born, Nashville-based drummer by way of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He’s one of the funkiest groovers out there today and is THE drummer for one of today’s funkiest guitarists / bandleaders, Cory Wong.

Before passing away, Prince himself even asked Petar to play on his record and…well…that’s that! He’s involved in a bunch of happenings, including his own project called ‘Heavy Chevy’. Please enjoy the trip 5 influential records that shaped Petar into the drummer he is today…CHEERS!

Petar Janjic – Wanna Be Starting Something (Michael Jackson)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3FfziDlztU

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Matthew Pretty's (@thebucketboy) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Matthew Pretty a.k.a. @thebucketboy on social media. He’s an incredible, world-renowned street percussionist based out of Las Vegas. We get into everything from his setup, to why he chose street performing and eventually stagger into the 5 biggest influences that made him into the extremely-unique player he is today. Cheers!

A few of Matthew’s street performances:

https://youtu.be/B1-3G-O4pik

https://youtu.be/Yn-hDqFgNAQ

https://youtu.be/Gu0zI19dT30

Blue Devils 2004 Drum Line:

https://youtu.be/N4wujNNhpWg

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Eric Somers-Urrea's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Eric Somers-Urrea…a Chicago-based drummer, educator and producer who I very-much admire both on and off the kit. His main project is a band called Marina City and his sincerity / kindness as a person matches his incredible prowess on the drums. I just can’t say enough good things about him. I love his drumming and this is episode is LONG overdue. Please enjoy our chat about the 5 main influences that shaped Eric into the drummer he is today, but first…we play a little game. Cheers!

Drum Corps International 2004 Finals: https://youtu.be/KpUuMM1y2_o?t=140

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Aaron Haggerty's (Willow, Al McKay, Kool & The Gang) Top Influential Records

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Aaron Haggerty…a California-based drummer who played for Al McKay (Earth, Wind and Fire) and his ‘Al McKay All-Stars’ for 11 years. Aarons also recorded and/or toured with Kool & The Gang, Eric Gales, Gary Clark Jr, Wicked Wisdom and many more with his current gig being Willow (Smith). He’s just a badass drummer and I think you should know about him. His pocket is deep and his wisdom is wicked *wink wink*. Please enjoy the top 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

Follow Aaron on Instagram HERE

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Nick Baglio's (aka @nickybagzz) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Nick Baglio (aka @nickybagzz). I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to get him on the damn podcast. If you follow Big Fat Snare Drum on Instagram (@bigfatsnaredrum), he’s literally our most-reposted account because A) he’s an amazing drummer / insanely creative and B) he captures a very powerful recorded sound and it’s super inspiring.

We get into his backstory right off the bat, but in high school Nick was continuously selected for All State and All Region Jazz Bands, which helped him earn a full music performance scholarship to study drums at the University of Miami. After graduating, he hit the ground running with the alt/rock band morissonpoe and the rest is history. He’s done all the travels and currently splits his time teaching / recording and performing from his homebase of Raleigh, NC. I love him and I hope you enjoy getting to know him a little bit and learning about the 5 records that shaped him into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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Big Fat Five: Big Fat Five: Rory O'Connor's (Tycho, Nitemoves) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 25 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This weeks guest is a Rory O’Connor…the New York-based drummer for the Gramny-nomninated band Tycho. He also finds time for his own electronic music under the name Nitemoves. Before joining Tycho, Rory played with Com Truise (another legend in that world of music). Rory brings the world of Tycho to life both in the studio AND figuring out how to re-create his own (often-chopped up) grooves for a live setting in the most interesting ways. With what I do for one of my projects, Cannons, I look up to Rory a whole hell of a lot. Cheers!

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Artwork by Trevin Frame

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50 Simple Yet Effective Drum Grooves (you voted!)

Wed, 18 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Alright so…if you listened to the ‘70’s Drum Sounds’ episode, you know that we sometimes do a little questionnaire/poll thing about a certain topic on the Big Fat Snare Drum Instagram. Recently, I asked “What are the simplest, yet most effective drum parts”. Of course, drummers are a bunch of smartasses so many of you answered with “tension rod, nylon washers, the snare strainer…” to which I chuckled. Well done…

But for this episode, I made a playlist of all the songs ya’ll responded with and I thought we’d go through them together. Many of them I haven’t heard before, so I’m gonna hear them in real time. AFTER that, we are going to do a little giveaway. I’m making the playlist live on Spotify HERE so I need ya’ll to choose YOUR top 5 and email me at ben@bigfatsnaredrum.com I’m going to choose a participant at random to win a very special package from Big Fat Snare Drum. Again, choose your 5 from this list…or hey….choose your own top 5 and email me at ben@bigfatsnaredrum.com. Have fun!

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Big Fat Five: Greyson Nekrutman's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 11 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This weeks guest is the Greyson Nekrutman. He exploded on Instagram and YouTube over the last few years by picking a lane that he saw was lacking representation on the platforms…jazz drumming. If you can, go check out his pages below before listening to this episode so you really grasp how truly amazing Greyson is. That being said, he certainly doesn’t want to be pigeonholed as just a jazz drummer…and THAT'S why I was stoked to see his 5 drastically different choices. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Kyle Crane's (Daniel Lanois, Neko Case, Maddison Cunningham) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 04 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Kyle Crane…a drummer I’ve been following and looking up to for years. He’s a highly-sought after independent drummer based in LA who’s worked with Daniel Lanois (look him up), Neko Case, Kurt Vile, Brad Mehldau, Bill Frisell, and Conor Oberst (plus many more), but is currently out with Maddison Cunningham. He was also a drum double for the movie ‘Whiplash’ and is the principal everything for his project, Crane Like The Bird. We talk about all this and more before hopping into the 5 records that made him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Josh Dion's (Paris Monster, John Scofield) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is the incomparable Josh Dion (of Paris Monster and a million other rad things). He’s a busy New York cat and I’ve wanted to get him on for a long time. If you don’t know of Josh, he’s an independent drummer for than one reason (and yes there’s a dad joke coming); he’s played with sooo many including John Scofield, Jim Campilongo, Wayne Krantz, Bill Evans, Chuck Loeb, Ulu, and Esperanza Spalding, but, in Paris monster, he plays drums with his left hand, synth with his right hand, and sings lead vocals…now THAT’S independence. Ok. We start off by breaking down a bunch of the songs from his career and then hop into the 5 records that shaped him into the extremely-unique drummer his is today. This was so fun and Josh’s drumming superb to say the least. Cheers!

Full Moon – The Heavy Scuffles On

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQP5Waj_jdQ

The Richard Smallwood Singers – Testimony

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u99pKb7iMZ0

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Big Fat Five: Aksel Coe's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0000

We are back to our regularly-scheduled programing with this week’s guest, Aksel Coe. I first learned of Aksel via Instagram thanks to a shoutout by our good buddies at Nelson Drum Shop (Nashville). I was hooked right away. Seriously, check him out before listening to this episode.

Aksel is the epitome of a modern drummer and has collaborated with Homes at Night, The Sisterhood Band, Cody Jinks, K.Flay, Temecula Road, Brittany Spencer, Pam Tillis, Larkin Poe, Jars of Clay, The Donelson Broncos, Okey Dokey, Savannah Conley, SONTALK, Elenowen, The Saint Johns and many, MANY more…

If you’re looking to start OR further your career as a session player, Aksel’s insight comes from a very boots-on-the-ground approach. I hope you enjoy the five records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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5 Records That Will FINALLY Get You Into Jazz

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Anthony Fung…an incredible talent drummer based in Los Angeles. I brought him on to discuss the 5 records (and subsequent drummers) to FINALLY get you into jazz. He definitely did not disappoint. Cheers!

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Song: Fred

Album: Lifetime - The Collections

Artist: Tony Williams

Release Year: 1975

Drummer: Tony Williams

Song: Stella By Starlight

Album(s): My Funny Valentine + Four and More

Artist: Miles Davis

Release Year: 1965 & 1966

Drummer: Tony Williams

Song: Matrix

Album : Now He Sings and Now He Sobs

Artist: Chick Corea

Release Year: 1968

Drummer: Roy Haynes

Song: Acknowledgement

Album: A Love Supreme

Artist: John Coltrane

Release Year: 1965

Drummer: Elvin Jones

Song: Blues For Ball

Album: Supertrios

Artist: McCoy Tyner

Release Year: 1977

Drummers: Jack Dejohnette & Tony Williams

Song: Cornbread

Album: Cornbread

Artist”: Lee Morgan

Release Year: 1965

Drummer: Billy Higgins

Honorable Mention!

Song: Freedom Day

Album: We Insist! (Subtitled Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite)

Artist: Abbey Lincoln and Max Roach

Release Year: 1960

Drummer: Max Roach

Artwork by Trevin Frame. For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

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Records That Define the 70's Drum Sound

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0000

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Big Fat Five: Blair Sinta's (Alanis Morrisette, Chris Cornell, Annie Lennox) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Blair Sinta. Blair’s drumming resume includes touring and/or recording with Alanis Morrisette, Ringo Starr, Annie Lennox, Gwen Stefani, Stevie Nicks, Chris Cornell, John Fogerty, Dave Stewart, Glen Ballard, Lisa Loeb, Better Than Ezra, Josh Groban, Damien Rice…I mean that’s basically everyone right? He’s based out of Los Angeles and runs his own studio where he records himself for artists, records other drummers, runs live lessons, records online courses and talks to meandering podcasts hosts. Also…please go check out his own podcast titled, Recording Drums with Blair Sinta. He’s chatted with some monster players, but make sure you still like my show more betterly and whatnot. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Donnie Marple's (Guitar Center Drum-Off Champion, Lee Brice) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s amazing guest is Mr. Donnie Marple. Donnie was (still is) the 2007 Guitar Center Drum Off Champion and has been the new guy in Lee Brice’s band for over 10 years. He is a monster soloist who can really hold it down. Donnie is the exact drummer you want in your band and his career is gonna keep going and going. He’s played on numerous #1 hits and is a gentlemen through and through. I kind of just want him to be my best friend. Alright bye !!!!

Donnie Marple playing “Rumor” with Lee Brice

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IT0aFDfRyRg

Donnie Marple - Guitar Center's 19th Annual Drum-Off Winner (2007)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpsMz57p8N4

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Big Fat Five: David Raouf's (aka rdavidr) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Mr. David Raouf aka rdavidr. I’ve been a fan of his YouTube Channel for years and, with his seemingly-endless offering of videos featuring drum tips, tricks, hacks and DIY projects, David has combined a love of craftsmanship and drums into a beautifully-hilarious melting pot of education and entertainment. The dude knows his way around a garage and his beard gives mine a run for its money. Please enjoy the 5-ish records that shaped David’s style behind the kit and beyond.

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Big Fat Five: William Goldsmith (Sunny Day Real Estate, Foo Fighters, Assertion) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is THE William Goldsmith. William has been a member of two incredibly influential bands with Sunny Day Real Estate and Foo Fighters in addition to The Fire Theft, his current project Assertion, and many others. William’s emotional and bombastic-yet-dynamic grooves have been in many previous guests top 5. If you listen to the show, especially recently…you’ve heard his name quite a bit. I could go on and on about this drumming, but I sorta do it to his face at the top of this conversation. I hope you enjoy learning about the records the shaped William into the drummer he is today….with a whole bunch of tangents that I loved exploring.

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Big Fat Five: Stella Mozgawa's (Warpaint, Kurt Vile, Courtney Barnett) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Stella Mozgawa…drummer for the band Warpaint. In addition to her band, she’s also collaborated with Courtney Barnett, Kurt Vile, Flea, Adam Green, Regina Spektor, The xx, Sharon Von Eaten and many, many more. It’s basically a list of all the cool kids…but like that actual cool kids. I’m truly a fan of Stella, so having watched and read many of her interviews before this chat, I knew she has incredible taste in music and I was so stoked to hear what she had to say. Her style was most-recently dissected in my episode with Martina Barakoska (being that Stella was on her big fat five list) so go check that out pleeaseee. Basically, Stella’s the shit. She’s rad on and off the drums and this was a really joyful conversation. I hope you enjoy my chat with Stella about the 5 records thats made her into the drummer she is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Martina Barakoska's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Martina Barakoska….a Macedonian drummer / educator / composer and clinician. I heard about Martina via Instagram and was hooked immediately. She’s just starting her career and I’m really excited to see how it unfolds. All in all, she’s a badass drummer and I wanted to chat. Go give her a follow at @iamthe_m on Instagram and Tik Tok and go to school. Today, we discuss the 5(ish) records that helped shape Martina into the drummer she is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Erin Tate's (Minus The Bear, Kill Sadie) Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Erin Tate, founding member of the Seattle-based indie-rock, Minus the Bear, but he’s played with many great bands throughout his career including Kill Sadie (from Minneapolis), Ghost Work, Time Pieces (etc.) in addition to running Indie Drummer Collective…which we get to right off the bat. Erin has an incredible ability to weave his way through odd time and syncopated phrases with seaming-ease and confidence. He’s a legend and a big inspiration to a lot of my peers (especially having grown up in the northwest). I’ve know Erin for a few years now, but this was the first time we’ve had the chance to chat like this and I was grateful to say the least. Please please PLEASE go check out Erin’s discography. He truly is a drummer with a uniquely unique creative voice. You’re amazing Erin. So here are the top 5 records that shaped Erin’s approach to the drumset. Alright cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Joe Bagale AKA Otis McDonald's Top 5 Influential Records

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Joe Bagale, a San Francisco-based producer, artist, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and educator. Now, I know that might seem like he’s a jack of all trades and a master of none, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. As Joe’s bio states on his website, his sound is “fresh, but tangibly rooted in nostalgia” and I think that’s the perfect way to describe it. Joe is also a self-proclaimed “Groover Not A Prover” and this conversation perfectly showcases that vibe. Originally from Rochester, NY, Joe has produced and released a number of albums under his name, followed by a project he calls Otis McDonald, writing audio library music for YouTube. As I said, he basically does everything and on top of produced / recording … he’s shared the stage with (and I might add not always on drums) with Stevie Wonder, Mickey Hart of Grateful Dead, Fred Wesley and PeeWee Ellis (members of James Brown’s band) Dave Schools (of Widespread Panic), Mike Gordon (of Phish), Martin Luther (of The Roots), Gift2Gab, Lyrics Born and many more. At the end of the day, Joe just wants you to dance. Enjoy the top 5 records the built Joe Bagale into the musician he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Connor Denis' (Beartooth) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Connor Denis…drummer for the rock band Beartooth. Connor has been touring since he was 15…making sure that live rock n roll music still rocks. Seriously, he’s a basher, but has all the technical prowess in the world to back it up. He’s got an insanely long career ahead of him and has already accomplished so much at such a relatively young age. I rarely get young, hard hitting rock n rollers on this show, so this was a fun one. Please enjoy the top 5 records (in order) that shaped Connor’s playing.

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Big Fat Five: Dave Elitch's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Dave Elitch and this chat is long overdue because he’s one of the most-mentioned drummers on this podcast…behind Levon Helm, of course. Dave has played with The Mars Volta, The 1975, Miley Cyrus, Justin Timberlake…and countless others, but a lot of drummers know him as a “teacher’s teacher”. He’s helped many of the best drummers (and instructors) fine tune their own playing such as Jason McGerr, Benny Greb, Tomas Haake, Chris McHugh and even Bill Burr...who I would love to get on this podcast. His zen-like approach to viewing drummers as athletes and listening to the body and how it relates to one’s goals makes him one of the most sough-after teachers today. His online instructional course, aptly named “Getting Out Of Your Own Way” was just updated (and we do talk about all of that in this episode), but I wanted to get to know the drummer behind the instructor. I hope you enjoy my chat with Dave about the 5 records that helped shaped the way he approaches the instrument. Cheers!

As promised: https://drinklmnt.com🤘🏻🥁🔥

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Big Fat Five: Matt Johnson's (Jeff Buckley's album 'Grace', St. Vincent) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Matt Johnson...one of the most-respected drummers to a handful of the guests I’ve had on this podcast. He is probably most-known in the drumming community for playing on ‘Grace’ by Jeff Buckley. He was also the touring drummer with St. Vincent for a handful of years and played with many, many other artists (you can look them all up), but the two I just mentioned are enough to make him a legend. He’s an incredible teacher and a very philosophical thinker. This episode is chalk full of fun tangents that showcase his deep thinking and very passionate approach to music. We actually recorded this episode earlier in 2021, so I apologize for the wait, but it’s finally here!

So…the audio isn’t the best in this one, which is partly why I hadn’t released it, but I think the content is all worth it. The first words you’ll hear from Matt is him responding to a story that I’ve told a few times on this podcast about when we shared practice spaces across the hall from each other at a facility in Los Angeles. I took a lesson with him (it was obviously great) and at the end he wanted to see what kit I was working with him my room. At the time, it was a shared kit; it wasn’t even mine. I wanna say it was an old beat up Ludwig standard? with pitted heads and it was just falling apart. It did not sound good when I played it at all. But when he sat behind the kit, it transformed into the most vibey, musical kit I’d heard in-person in a long time. He proved it really is all in the hands and mind of the player. I think about that moment all time…anyways…enjoy my lighthearted, but simulatanously heavy conversation with one of my favorite drummers matt Johnson.

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What Made Bonham...Bonham?!

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

**GET YOUR NOTEPAD OUT FOR THIS ONE!**

This week’s guest is Terry Keating of the Bonzoleum YouTube Page. Soooo when I first started this podcast, I had no idea what I was doing (and sometimes I feel like I still don’t) so it was just called ‘The Big Fat Snare Drum Podcast’. There wasn’t really any sort of format besides it somehow focusing on drums. In the summer of 2020, however, I started to hone in on a format that excited me, which is what you’re used to now, but I wanted to separate the original episodes from the current state of the show to avoid confusion. The good news is you can still hear all of the conversations at bigfatsnaredrum.com under the Archived Episodes tab, but they no longer exist on this feed. That being said, one of my favorite episodes EVER features Terry Keating, a massive John Bonham historian and enthusiast. While it was one of the most-listened-to episodes, it was released under the ‘Big Fat Snare Drum Podcast’ era so TO THE ARCHIVE IT WENT! For many reasons, I wanted to bring this episode back to life, therefore, I am re-airing it so people can enjoy the energy that is Terry Keating. I initially wanted to get him on the show to discuss 5 hidden gems in John Bonham's catalogue that drummers might not necessarily know unless he or she is a huge Led Zeppelin fan. I’m not NOT a fan, but I’d fall in the category that a lot of my peers fall into of, “yeah, I know Fool in the Rain, Good Times Bad Times, Rock 'n Roll and When the Levee Breaks, but I know I SHOULD know more.” I don’t think we’re a small group, so that's why I wanted to have Terry on. Anyways, we immediately started talking like old friends so I put all my notes away and just pushed record. It ended being an almost-2 hr conversation about what makes Bonzo Bonzo, why people are obsessed with his gear as much as his playing (sometimes more), and just tons of anecdotes/fun pieces of trivia that only a Bonzo aficionado would know. I was gonna try to edit it down, but Terry is super fun to listen to so I basically kept the whole thing running. This might take a few listens, but this ended up being one of my favorite drumming conversations in the past few years. Thank you Terry for being so generous with your time and enthusiasm for all that is Bonzo. Alright, shutting up….cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Joe Plummer's (Cold War Kids, Modest Mouse, The Shins) Top Influences

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Mr. Joe Plummer. Joe has played drums for Modest Mouse, Cold War Kids, The Shins, The Black Heart Procession and so many more in addition to releasing his own album, Hew Time, with Dale Crover and Coady Willis. Basically, he’s a really cool dude. He’s the epitome of a working drummer and I love the personality he brings to any band he signs on with. He’s also the host of his own podcast called Tour Stories, which we discuss towards the end of the episode. Please enjoy my conversation with Joe about the main influences that shaped him into the very-sought-after drummer he is today. Cheers! And Happy Holidays! Relax for a damn second.

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How Riz Ahmed Learned To Play Drums For 'Sound of Metal'

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This is part 2 of my conversation with Guy Licata. While we kept to the traditional format in the first half of our chat, I think the topic of today’s episode deserved its own place in the sun. Guy prepared Emmy Award-winning actor Riz Ahmed for his role as a drummer in Amazon Studios’ film ‘Sound of Metal’. He was tasked with all aspects of the drum set instruction and preparation for the role over a seven-month period. To crudely sum it up, the movie tells the story of Reuben, a touring metal drummer who experiences sudden and permanent hearing loss and how he has to deal with the life-altering consequences that diagnosis entails. I wanted to hear all about that process and how it most-certainly differs from normal instruction.

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Big Fat Five: Guy Licata's (Museum of Love, Reflexx Practice Pads) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Guy Licata. Guy is most recently known as the founder of Reflexx Practice Pads (now the Zildjian Reflexx Conditioning Pad), but Guy is more than just a business owner; he’s a master player himself. While he’s a very-sought after teacher himself, Guy has studied with the greats including Jim Chapin and Jojo Mayer, which we get into during the episode. He’s played with countless artists over the years including Museum of Love (fronted by LCD Soundsystem’s Pat Mahoney), Santigold, Head Automatica, Shakira, RAC, Fischerspooner and many, many more. He’s a fountain of energy with a passion for talking drums that makes my job as a host very easy. He also prepared Emmy Award-winning actor Riz Ahmed for his role as a drummer in Amazon Studios film ‘Sound of Metal’ where he was tasked with all aspects of the drum set instruction and preparation for the role over an intensive seven-month period, with Riz having no formal experience as a drummer. We discussed that experience for a ‘Part 2’ of our conversation coming out at a later date, but for the time being, please enjoy my conversation with Guy Licata as he dissects the top 5 influences that shaped the way he approaches the instrument. We talked for a while prior to pushing record, so you’re jumping into a moving train right off the bat. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Jason McGerr's (Death Cab For Cutie) Top 5 Influences and much, much more...

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This weeks guest is Mr. Jason McGerr. What can you say about Jason?...wellllllll, he’s the drummer for Death Cab For Cutie and one hell of a drum educator. It seems like everything he says is carefully thought out and this conversation is no exception. Yes, we get into the top 5 influences that shaped the player he is today, but it’s the little pockets of wisdom throughout that made this one of the most fruitful conversations we’ve had on this podcast. I look up to Jason a whole hell of a lot and his perspectives on technique, finding your own voice and ultimately protecting that voice with a vengeance are something we should all subscribe to. I hope you enjoy this chat as much as I did, and if you haven’t already, please rate and review. Unless you hate it…just have a great day! Cheers.

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Big Fat Five: Darshan Doshi's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Darshan Doshi. Darshan is a prolific Indian drummer and composer based in Mumbai. He’s recorded a million Bollywood movie soundtracks and is one of the busiest drummers in India for the studio / tv / live stage...basically anywhere you’d need a drummer, Darshan is your guy. I’ve known him for a few years now and his passion for both bringing Indian rhythms to the international stage AND bringing more Western style drumming / drummers to India is very inspiring to say the least. He’s the epitome of a drumming ambassador and I had a blast learning about the influences that made Darshan Darshan. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Jonny Scott's (CHVRCHES, The Kills) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Jonny Scott. Jonny is a badass session drummer for both the studio and stage who’s played with two of my favorite artists The Kills and CHVRCHES (among many others). He’s one of the go-to drummers when a band is looking to start adding the live drummer element after years without. You can trust him to do the job and bring the song to life in the most musical way. I look up to him in a lot of ways and it was an honor to chat with him. Please enjoy learning about what made Jonny Jonny. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Michael Benjamin Lerner (Telekinesis): His Top Influences, The State of the Music Industry, and How To Be A Successful Band Member

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Michael Benjamin Lerner…drummer, singer, and primary songwriter for the band Telekinesis. I love having songwriters on the show because, as we discuss in this episode, they usually have more of a birds-eye-view-approach to writing drum parts. I was made aware of Michael’s drumming in a really fun way (which we discuss) and, while I never got to meet him when we were both living up in Seattle, this chat is long overdue…at least for me. Michael’s drumming is powerful, deliberate and just fun. We chatted for a long time and a lot our conversation didn’t make the episode, but I made sure to keep in Michael’s perspective on the current state of the music industry and his spot-advice for how to be a successful band member. We, of course, sprinkle in some influences throughout. It got a little rushed at the end, which I do regret, but we’re both busy guys and sometimes it do be like that. He is such a sweetheart and I hope you enjoy this episode. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Ira Elliot (Nada Surf): Top 5 Influences

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ira Elliot, drummer for the alternative rock band Nada Surf. Formed in the 90’s, Nada Surf has been going strong for multiple decades with no signs of stopping and Ira has been the backbone behind it all. Ira could be on a Mount Rushmore of drummers who know how to instill their own vibe while not taking anything away from a songwriter’s (in this case, Matthew Caws’) impactful words and melodies. While he definitely has fun behind the kit throughout the records, listening to Nada Surf takes you to school on how to just drum…cool. You know what mean? There’s a quiet confidence about his drum writing and you’ll see what I meannnnn in this episode. Please enjoy my conversation with Ira while we dissect a few songs from his career the top 5 shtuffs that made him into the drummer I wish I was. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Patrick Hallahan's (My Morning Jacket) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Patrick Hallahan, drummer for the rock band My Morning Jacket. Formed in 1998, My Morning Jacket leans heavily into rock and country, but they pride themselves in have no limitations. Patrick, while certainly not tame on MMJ’s records by any means, is a monster drummer live and provides the perfect foundation for a lot of the band’s experimentation. I loved this conversation and was grateful geek out about Levon Helm yet again! Patrick has a great story about meeting Levon so listen for that and be sure to check out My Morning Jacket’s new album which came out Oct 22nd of 2021…and have a great damn day. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Adam Deitch's (Lettuce, Break Science, John Scofield) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Adam Deitch. Adam is the Grammy-nominated drummer for the bands Lettuce and Break Science. He’s also played and / or collaborated with legends such as John Scofield, 50 Cent, Average White Band, DJ Quik, Matisyahu and many, many more. His power and intention behind the kit is one of the most inspiring things to watch and he seems to reinvent his career every few years by just choosing what project to focus on in that moment…because he trusts his instincts. The thru line, however, has always been his collaboration with Lettuce. Anyways, Adam has been on a few previous guest’s top and I hope you enjoy my conversation with Mr. Adam Deitch.

Earth, Wind & Fire Concert (Oakland Coliseum 1981)

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Big Fat Five: Dom Famularo's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is the Global Drumming Ambassador himself, Mr. Dom Famularo. I gush over Dom’s impact on my playing at the top of this episode because Dom is an incredible drummer / educator / author / motivational speaker / and lifter-upper-of-vibes based on Long Island. He’s an authority (to say the least!) and it was an honor to have him on the show. In this episode, Dom breaks down the top 5 influences that shaped his playing style. I could also just rename this the Steve Gadd appreciation episode, but Dom has a very thoughtful and unique reason for each of his choices. Please enjoy…Mr. Dom Famularo. Cheers!

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The 5 Essential Charlie Watts Recordings

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Today, we have Mike Edison (author of the book “Sympathy for the Drummer: Why Charlie Watts Matters”) on the show to discuss the quintessential recordings that showcase Charlie Watts’ progression as a player. Obviously, this is subjective, but thanks to Mike’s EXTENSIVE knowledge of both Charlie’s career and style, I knew he would nail it. Many people, including myself, take The Rolling Stones for granted and have yet to truly dive deep into the humble greatness that was Charlie Watts.

I also must give a BIG FAT shoutout to our mutual friend Bart van der Zee of Drum Historypodcast for introducing me to Mike. And please go check out their interviews on the Drum History feed as those conversations tackle the treasure trove of Charlie’s career from a different angle.

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Big Fat Five: Carson Gant's (@oneupdrumvids) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s episode is nothing but good vibes. We’ve got Carson Gant aka @oneupdrumvids on the show. Carson’s ability to recreate classic loops and drum breaks on the acoustic kit is unmatched, but not so much in the vein of Jojo Mayer, Adam Betts, or Richard Spaven (which I know I’ve described in a similar way), Carson focused more on the slower, hip-hop style grooves that might SEEM a little more approachable in comparison to the drummers I just mentioned, but ohhhhh no. Believe me, there are a lot of nuances within a groove that are only exposed at a slower tempo…at least in comparison to drum n bass. This has been a long time coming because Carson has been a busy little Canadian bee launching a website providing different take on the classic loop library system called oneupdrumvids.com which we also talk about during the show. Please enjoy my conversation with Carson Gant on all things groove and the top 5 influences that made him into the drummer he is today.

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Big Fat Five: Jake Reed's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Jake Reed. Jake is a Los Angeles-based session player / educator and the host of an incredible YouTube Channel breaking down recording techniques….(also, I must give a big shoutout to Blair Sinta for inspiring me to reach out to Jake after hearing him as a guest on the “Recording Drums with Blair Sinta” podcast). On top of knowing how to explain things in an extremely approachable way, Jake is simply an amazing drummer. He’s performed / recorded with trioKAIT, Bill Holman, Johnny Mandel, Bill Cunliffe, Bruce Forman, Cow Bop, Seth MacFarlane, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Matt Forbes, Larry Goldings, Anthony Wilson, Adam Levy, Bob Mintzer, Les McCann, Freda Payne, the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Synowiec, Mako, Ellis Hall, Tommy Torres, and Frenship.

He’s even been asked to sub for Peter Erskine soooooo there’s that. I love his overall energy and perspective on this often-too-serious world of drumming and I knew his choices would expand my own palate and (since I’m recording this after our conversion) I can confidently say I was rightt…just like always! Anyways….I have a feeling Jake will be a recurring guest on this podcast in many facets…so I hope you like this one. If you don’t. Just push PLAY while your phone is on mute because it’s all about those numbers baby. Cheers.

Check out Jake’s online store HERE

Check out trioKAIT’s online store HERE

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Big Fat Five: Justin Scott's (@jscottdrummer) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

We’ve got Justin Scott aka @jscottdrummer on the show today dropping a whoooooole ton of knowledge. I’ve been obsessed with Justin’s drumming for years and I’m sure you have too. If not, you WILL BE after this episode. He is a monster player that can fit more notes in a 15-second clip than I can in a lifetime, but he always puts music first. He’s a great teacher and you can find all of his extremely affordable lesson plans on his website jscottdrummer.net. I have personally bought and used every single one and can’t recommend them enough. If you watch one video of his on Instagram, it might make you want to hang up your boots, but his lessons break down drumming in a really approachable way that will inspire you all over again and make even the fastest and most creative players seem a whole lot less intimidating. Please enjoy the top 5 happenings that made Justin Scott into the player he is today. Cheeeeeerrrssss.

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Big Fat Five: Bart van der Zee's (Drum History Podcast) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is one of my good friends and host of the Drum History podcast, Bart van der Zee. Drum History was actually one of the first shows I reached out to when creating The Drum Click Podcast Network. I am a huge fan of the work that Bart does with Drum History, but I feel like people might not know the man behind the microphone as much as they should. While he DID do a special Drum History 100th episode where he was interviewed by his brother to tell a little bit about his backstory as a drummer and engineer, I was eager to get him on MY show to dissect the influences that shaped his playing style, because besides being an incredible host, Bart is an incredible drummer. Be sure to check out his podcast for all the geeky, drum nerdery stuff pertaining to the history of the best instrument ever AND check out all the other podcasts on The Drum Click. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Philo Tsoungui's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Philo Tsoungui…an independent drummer based in Berlin, Germany. If you don’t already know, one of my duties at Big Fat Snare Drum is Artist Relations. On one of my first days witht he company, Philo received my first endorsement offer. It was so immediately obvious to me that Philo was going to be a tastemaker for years to come and it’s still an honor to see our gear behind that kit. Philo has played with so many acts including Chefket, Mine, Fatoni, Mal Eleve, Elif, and Lxandra. I honestly can’t say enough about Philo’s playing; it just works. You can lump it into the Hip Hop category, but it’s so much more than any one genre…as you’ll find out in this episode. I have been looking forward to chatting Philo for a long time so this was definitely special. Please enjoy the top 5 influences that shaped the amazing, Philo Tsougnui. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Lina Anderberg's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

My name is Ben Hilzinger and this week’s guest is Lina Anderberg. I found out about Lina through her Instagram (@linaanderberg) and I was immediately blown away. She’s originally from Sweden, but moved to LA to attend Musicians Institute right before all of the world shut down. It was quite the frustrating story dealing with all that and she is currently in Stockholm waiting for her opportunity to get back to the states. In the meantime, I was really excited to pick her brain because she has an incredible pocket and, at the top of the show, I oogle over her hand technique. I actually had to cut some of it out because I just wouldn’t move on, but I guarantee Lina is going to be playing with some amazing artists in the future and I can’t wait to see her career continue to flourish. Please enjoy my conversation with Lina Anderberg on the top influences that made her into the drummer she is today. Cheeerrrssss.

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Big Fat Five: Scott Mcpherson's (Sense Field, Elliot Smith, M. Ward) Top 5(+) Influences

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is one of my favorite people, Scott McPherson. Scott founded Tackle Instrument Supply Company and was one of our first guests EVER on the podcast back when we had a different name and a different / no format. Back then, I did a series of episodes called “Behind The Company” and brought Scott on the show to tell the story of Tackle…soooo go check that out; it’s episode #12. In that conversation, we merely scratched the surface of Scott’s amazing drummer career (focusing mainly on his business), but Scott’s also written / performed with Sense Field, M. Ward, She and Him, Beck, Elliot Smith and many, many more. Please enjoy my conversation with Scott McPherson as we discuss the top 5 influences that made him into the drummer he is today.

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Jojo Mayer: Clarity > Perfection

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

My guest this week is Mr. Jojo Mayer…a mind-blowing player who helped pioneer the drum n bass movement in New York City by “reverse engineering” programmed drum loops and applying them to the drum set. He is also revered for his exceptional technique, which he dissects in the wildly-popular instructional series titled “Secret Weapons For The Modern Drummer Parts 1 & 2”. He is also the leader of his own band, Nerve, which he founded back in 1997. We don’t necessarily stick to the normal format in this one; Jojo is a great storyteller. We start off with a few anecdotes about a cymbal once-owned by Billy Higgins that Jojo picked up by happenstance AND Jojo’s time spent “studying” with Freddy Gruber, but we certainly touch on a lot of Jojo’s opinions / perspectives regarding accepting influences, but knowing when they’re actually a detriment to your personal growth on the instrument. He’s a very philosophical man and he shares quite a few nuggets of slap-you-in-the-face style wisdom. Please go check out all of his projects and, if you’re interested, check out Nerve’s Patreon HERE. I hope you enjoy my talk with Jojo Mayer.

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Big Fat Five: Dan Bailey's (Father John Misty) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is returning champ..Dan Bailey! Dan is certainly a friend of the podcast and ever since we switched over to the new format, I’ve really wanted to have him back on the show. He’s a well-oiled engineer, studio owner and drummer…not necessarily in that order…currently the drumming and MD’ing for Father John Misty, but Dan’s also worked with Reignwolf, Pacific Air, First Aid Kit, Onerepublic, Christina Aguilera and yada yada yada. Be sure to check out his previous episodes on the podcast from 5000 years ago. But I hope you enjoy todays conversation about the top 6 (he’s an overachiever) influences that shaped his very-sought-after playing styled cheers!.

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Big Fat Five: Tosh Peterson's (@tosh_thedrummer) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Tosh Peterson aka @tosh_thedrummer. I’ve been following his playing for quite some time now and, while his professional career is relatively new, he’s accomplished a TON and seen more of the world than most players do in their entire lifetime. His showmanship is what grabbed my attention right away, but his finesse coupled with a deceptively controlled bombast is the reason he’s played and IS playing with some of the top players in the game right now including Machine Gun Kelly, Jaden Hossler, Nik Best, Carlie Hanson and many, many more. His is a name you’re gonna being hear a lot of in the coming years and he’s earned every damn bit of it. He’s incredible and approaches his craft with equal parts levity and intensity. Please enjoy the top 5 inspirations that help mold Mr. Tosh Peterson. Cheers!

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What Makes Ringo...Ringo?

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is producer, studio owner and drummer, Frankie Siragusa. We are switching up formats a little bit for this episode; I had initially planned for this conversation to be a BONUS episode, but I think it still falls into the traditional format in its own unique ways. We’ve all heard a producer or bandmate say “Hey…give me a Ringo vibe!” when suggesting drum parts for a new song, but what the hell does that ACTUALLY mean? Having recently released the album "Goodbye My Love (Lost Songs of The Beatles Covered and Rediscovered)", Frankie is THE guy to explain what that DOES and DOES NOT mean. This conversation is just two Beatle maniacs talking about one of the greatest to ever do it so please enjoy our chat on the 5 key elements that make Ringo Starr Ringo Starr. This is guaranteed to improve your drumming or you get your money back. Enjoy!

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Big Fat Five: Ian Chang's (Son Lux, Landlady, Solo) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ian Chang. I love love love Ian’s playing. I first saw him live back in 2017 in Los Angeles following NAMM where he was performing and promoting his first solo effort, Spiritual Leader, utilizing his Sensory Percussion gear (which we do get into during this episode). In addition to being a MONSTER solo act, Ian mans the skins for Son Lux and Landlady (both have released new music recently btw) among many other projects. His timing within a groove is extremely fluid, but he never loses the essential pocket that makes it all work…and oh boy does it work!

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Big Fat Five: Mark Stepro's (The Wallflowers, Butch Walker) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Mark Stepro. Mark is the epitome of an LA-based working drummer with a resume that includes recording and/or performing with The Wallflowers, Ben Kweller, Courtney Love, Jackson Browne, Brett Dennen, Keith Urban, Dwight Yoakam, John Prine, Butch Walker, Leon Bridges…the list certainly goes on. Mark has an infectious energy and we actually shared lockouts across from each other in LA for about a year without ever realizing it. I always just heard this great drummer across the hall that reminded me how much I needed to work on my feel. So thanks Mark. We start the show with walk down memory lane before hopping into Mark’s top 5 influences that made him into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Richard Spaven's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Richard “Crave The Spave” Spaven. He’s been one of the most requested names as of late and ohhhhhh what a treat it was! Having played with Jose James, Flying Lotus, Gang Star, Cinematic Orchestra, Jameszoo (which I was hipped to via Ian Maciak on HIS episode) and many more, Richard’s career as a sideman alone is enough to put him in the legend category, but it’s his solo ventures that really showcase his unique ability to be a drummer’s drummer without being too drummy. These are, of course, all technical terms, but he respects both the craft and the audience at all times. His ability to finagle through complex patterns while maintaining a conscious level of listenability is second to none. He’s a proper English gentlemen and, in this episode, he dissects the 5 biggest influences that made him into the drummer he is today.

Big Fat Five Podcast – Richard Spaven Playlist

Source Direct - Secret Liaisons

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=480Q_aZUcxw

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Big Fat Five: Adam Betts' (Colossal Squid, Squarepusher, TTT, MYD, Jarvis Cocker, Squarepusher) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Adam Betts. My brain does not move as fast as his hands can drum (which might not mean a lot these days), but Adam is a beast of a player with a list of collaborators including Squarepusher, Three Trapped Tigers, Heritage Orchestra, Goldie, Jarvis Cocker, Pete Tongand many more in addition to his solo project titled Colossal Squid which has new music coming out this year. Adam’s energy does not stop at the kit and this conversation about his top 5 influences is filled with a ton of insight from one of today’s most creative drummers.

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Big Fat Five: Griffin Goldsmith's (Dawes) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 26 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Griffin Goldsmith, drummer for the band Dawes. He has also worked with countless artists such as Jackson Browne, John Fogerty, Robbie Robertson, Jim Keltner, Elvis Costello, Sharon Von Etten, Angel Olson, Jenny Lewis, Bahamas and the list goes on and on. He’s recently added film scoring to his list of accomplishments. His delicate and deliberate touch is timeless and honors the gold standard of what it means to be a studio musician. Conversations like this are why I get so excited every week to talk to the best drummers of the day. Griffin’s choices are sourced from the apex of human artistry behind the kit and I know you will all be better drummers after hearing what he has to say. That being said, the audio on this one wasn’t the best. As a sign of the times, we had to resort to zoom audio for most of this. I pride myself in trying to get the best audio for you guys, but heyyyy…as Dawes says, “Things happen; that’s all they ever do”. Please enjoy my conversation with Griffin Goldsmith…also please go down a rabbit hole of his playing, not only throughout the entire Dawes catalogue, but all the artists I just mentioned. I can't stress enough how underrated he is.

Griff Using an Arbiter Auto-Tune (as promised):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhJYm1VDqMM

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Big Fat Five: Mark Guiliana's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 19 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Mark Guiliana. So so much to say. If you’re listening to this show, I’ll assume you are aware of the man but still, he’s a bandleader for his groups Beat Music, the Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet, and Heernt in addition to being a key collaborator with artists such as Brad Mehldau, Avishai Cohen, Dave Douglas, Matisyahu, Chris Morrissey, and the late, legendary David Bowie. Of course the list goes on and on. Mark’s blend of jazz with electronic music continues to set him apart and in this episode, we, as always, dive into the top 5 influences that shaped his playing style. I started off the show by picking a few songs from marks career and asked him to tell a little backstory surrounding each. This one meant a lot to me and I hope you enjoy listening as much as I did. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Jesse Kongos' (KONGOS) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 12 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Jesse Kongos of the band...Kongos. I had the pleasure of opening up for and sharing a bus with Kongos for two tours in 2019 and those memories are some of my favorite ever from being on the road. In this episode, Jesse (the drummer and one of the vocalists / singers for the band) breaks down the top 5 influences that shaped the player and writer he is today.

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Big Fat Five: Ian Maciak’s (@ianhitsdrums) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 05 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ian Maciak…or as many of you might know him…@ianhitsdrums on instagram. His machine-like playing incorporates the proper pinch of humanity to pull you in and build a soundscape that only he can create. I’ve loved the finesse of his playing from afar for quite some time now and it’s certainly a direction I want my OWN playing to go. You can check him out on the track ‘Sleepy Pietro’ from the new Machinedrum album or relax to his drumming in the “Focus” and Lo-Fii Beats” playlists on the Headspace app…among many other projects that he’ll be announcing soonish. Also, go check out his Patreon where you can download his original drum grooves, loops, and one shots. And as always, you can check out all the songs referenced or played during this episode in a Spotify playlist. Just search for 'Big Fat Five Podcast - Ian Maciak'. Alright…enjoy my chat with Ian Maciak and the top 5 influences that shaped his amazing style. Cheers!

As promised: Naji

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BONUS Aaron Steele Breaks Down A Few Tracks From His Career

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This is short little bonus clip that was cut from the main episode featuring Aaron Steele for the sake of time. In it, Aaron breaks down a few songs chosen by me from his prolific career that represent a few different periods of his life. Be sure to check out the main episode where Aaron breaks down the top influences that shaped his playing and writing style. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Aaron Steele's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Aaron Steele. Aaron is a melting pot of creativity who has a Rolodex of influences including everything from hardcore to jazz to singer-songwriter to r&b to electronica to funk to pop and back again. Don’t you dare put him in a box! Aaron’s resume includes Portugal. The Man. Hayley Williams of Paramore, Peter Bradley Adams, Chrome Sparks, Jose James and, of course, many more. Our chat went well over two hours, so I consolidated it just a bit. We’ll be jumping in right as we get into the topic of comparing yourself to other players (something that Aaron never does)…before eventually dissecting the top 5 influences that shaped Aaron’s style. As to be expected, Aarons’s choices are NOT expected, but they are very impactful and I’m really excited to dive deeper into all these artists.

You can find all the songs referenced or played in this episode in a Spotify playlist. Just search ‘Big Fat Five Podcast - Aaron Steele’. Please enjoy my conversation with the ever-unique and talented Aaron Steele.

Jameszoo: Against The Clock

Hayley Willaims: Tiny Desk Concert

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BONUS Dan Mayo's Top 5 Influences: Part 2

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This is Part 2 and essentially a bonus episode for my conversation with Dan Mayo. Today, Dan talks about the 5 specific records that shaped the way he tunes his drums (something that he is quite known for) and approaches writing in general. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Dan Mayo's Top 5 Influences: Part 1

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Dan Mayo. Dan is an Israeli drummer with one of the most distinct sounds of any player today…partly thanks to his A&F drum set, but mostly do to his personality behind the kit and background in a wide range of musical genres. His main project is the power trio, TATRAN, but Dan is also a prolific solo artist in addition to working with many other legends such as Ester Rada & Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park. We chatted for quite awhile and so I split our conversation into two parts. Part 1 starts off with me playing a bunch of song from Dan’s career followed by a discussion on each. We then get into some listener questions and eventually dive into a more general list of the top 5 influences that shaped him into the drummer he is today. Part 2 is the 5 specific records that shaped the way he tunes his drums and approaches writing in general. Not only is Dan a very generous human being, he’s funny and humble and I really hope these episodes turn you into a dan fan. Enjoy part 1 Cheers :)

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Big Fat Five: Matt & Zack from Working Drummer Podcast's Top 5 Drumming Influences

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s episode is payback for the boys from the podcast Working Drummer forcing me to take time out of MY damn day a few weeks ago to bump up THEIR podcast numbers. Now I’m totally using them.

All kidding aside, I absolutely love Matt and Zack. Their podcast (Working Drummer) highlights real stories of the every day “working drummer” and features guests, sometimes with a less recognizable name, but always with an impressive and distinct body of work. These conversations can help us all feel a little better about our own “path”. Please check it out. In this joint episode, I chatted with the boys about the top 5 influences that shaped their playing style. Aside from being amazing podcast hosts, Zack and Matt are incredibly accomplished drummers and VERY different players than me. I learned a s*$t ton in this episode and I know you will too.

Also...I created a Spotify playlist for all the songs played and/or mentioned in this episode. Just search for 'Big Fat Five Podcast - Working Drummer'

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Big Fat Five: Ash Soan's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ash Soan.

I don’t even know where to begin; he’s a complete badass and unless you’ve gone OUT OF YOUR WAY to avoid him, you certainly know who he is. Ash has been one of the most in-demand session and live drummers in the UK for decades, but with his growing popularity on social media and the finishing of his Windmill Studio behind his home in Norfolk, England, he’s gone global with remote sessions. His resume includes live performances and/or recordings with Adele, Seal, James Morrison, Cee Lo Green, Robbie Williams, Stewart Copeland, Ronan Keating, The Trevon Horn Band, Cher, Billy Idol, Del Amitri and soooo many more. In this episode, we start of by dissecting a few clips from his career…curated by yours truly and unbeknownst to Ash beforehand…..then answer some listener questions and eventually jump into the top 5 influences that shaped Mr. Ash Soan. Getting to chat with him was such a pleasure and I hope you guys enjoy as I try to hold back my excitement and not interrupt him TOO much. I’ve created a Spotify playlist containing all the songs discussed and played in this show, just search for 'Big Fat Five Podcast - Ash Soan'. Also, go check out his new EP, titled 66991. Cheers.

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Takeover Episode Premiere of Sarah Hagan Backstage w/ Gavin Harrison

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s episode is a premiere / takeover of a new podcast by our very good friend...Sarah Hagan. Sarah worked for many years as the Head of Zildjian Artist Relations Worldwide, but now runs her own media and consulting business for the music industry as a whole. Through the years, Sarah has mastered the art of creating, developing and maintaining genuine relationships with the world's greatest drummers. With her new podcast, titled Sarah Hagen Backstage, Sarah is able to pull something a little different from her guests because they aren’t talking to any old podcast host, they’re talking to their friend. This obviously gives her an advantage and I’m extremely jealous! That being said, we have some really exciting yet-to-be-announced...um...announcements involving Sarah, myself and a few people you just may know...but more on that later :) I hope you enjoy this week’s takeover episode of Sarah Hagan Backstage with her first guest Gavin Harrison. We’ll be back next week with our regularly scheduled programming. Be sure to subscribe to her feed wherever you listen to podcasts. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Atom Willard's (Against Me!, Angels and Airwaves, Rocket From The Crypt) Top 5 Influences

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000

This week's guest is Atom Willard. Atom played with some of my favorite bands growing up including Rocket From the Crypt, The Offspring, Social Distortion, and Angels and Airwaves, but he is the current drummer for Against Me! and Laura Jane Grace and The Devouring Mothers. As I often do in the days leading up to these chats, I went down a rabbit hole of Atom's drumming and I was blown away by how much of my OWN playing can be attributed to Mr. Willard...like...it's actually embarrassing. This one meant a lot to me and I hope you enjoy my conversation with Atom Willard as he dissects his biggest musical influences that made him into the drummer he is today. Cheers ya’ll.

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Big Fat Five: Nate Morton (NBC's The Voice): Top 5 Influences

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is the ever-energetic Nate Morton, drummer for NBC’s The Voice. His career spans multiple decades and performances with some pretty damn good artists such as Paul Stanley, Madonna, Chaka Kan, Natalie Cole, Vanessa Carlton, Miley Cyrus, Poe and many, many more. Nate is a monster player who knows exactly how to match the playing-for-the-song element with his own unique and powerful creative voice...no pun intended. This was such a fun conversation and we talked for HOURS so this is a very condensed version for the sake of focus, but I guarantee you will be hearing more of our chats in future episodes. Enjoy my hang with the one of my favorite humans…Nate Morton.

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Big Fat Five: Liberty DeVitto (Billy Joel): Top 5 Influences

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Liberty DeVitto…the rhythmic powerhouse behind 22 of Billy Joel's 23 top 40 hits and all six of his Grammy Award-winning recordings. His ability to seamlessly switch between mature session musician and bombastic live showman should be a guiding light for a lot of players you and old (me) alike. I had a blast talking with Liberty as we broke down the top five influences that shaped his drumming style. Also…go buy his damn book…which we talk about throughout. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Curt Bisquera—The 5 Career-Defining Moments

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Curt Bisquera…or as most people know him “Kirkee B”. He’s played with so many great artists such as Elton John, Mick Jagger, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Sarah Mclaughlin, Lana Del Ray, Johnny Cash and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. His pocket is deep and his stories are endless. I brought him on the show to break down the top 5 moments in his career that best represent his legacy as a player. From moving to LA to pursue a career in drumming at MI as a young kid who couldn’t read music to eventually playing the biggest stages in the world…Kirkee B is a man who takes opportunities and smashes them out of the park. His mixture of being at the right place at the right time (WITH the right information to stand out) is a common theme. Do your homework, play to the song, know the technology of the day and be more like Kirkee B. There…now you don’t even have to listen. But please do.

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The 5 Essential Levon Helm Recordings

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

This could be the most important episode I’ve had the pleasure to record. Levon Helm of The Band was one of the greatest to ever do it. Thusly, everything I’ve typed / erased / retyped / and so on for this intro feels utterly contrived or underwhelming when trying to describe a musician of this magnitude. As Rolling Stone Magazine once wrote, “Levon Helm is the only drummer that can make you cry.”. He changed the game in so many ways and, to be honest, DOESN’T GET THE DAMN CREDIT HE DESERVES.

I invited one of my new favorite people (and fellow Levon enthusiast), Steve from Junkdrummer TV, on the show to dissect the top 5 recordings that best represent Levon’s legacy as a player. I couldn’t have been happier with how this came out and I hope this episode introduces a bunch of people to their new favorite drummer.

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Big Fat Five: Tim Baltes' Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Playing Style

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Our guest this week is Tim Baltes or, to many, @timbofromkeno on Instagram. He’s known as a funny man, but a big reason why his schtick works is because he’s a monster player as well. We break down the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his style and, in true form, Tim was authentic and blazed his own trail with his picks…which aren’t the traditional choices. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Tim Baltes.

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Myths Our Drum Teachers Told Us w/ Dimitri Fantini

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Dimitri Fantini…a great drummer and instructor based in Maryland. I personally subscribe to his Patreon and I suggest you do the same thing. Since Dimitri is technically one of my online instructors, I thought I’d invite him on to discuss some myths that we hear being taught that are just wrong. We had a great time, but tended to agree on almost everything…BORING! Anyways, we dissect the following myths:

1) Only practice what you're bad at/If you sound good, you're not practicing.

2) There is one correct way to hold a stick.

3) Learning more "stuff" or patterns will make me a better drummer

4) Drums sound best when hit in the center (rimshots or toms).

Dimitri & Tim Baltes mock drum lesson video HERE

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'Save it for the Pod!" Ep. 3 - Where's The Beat?!

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Big Data, Bruce Springsteen) and I were ODDLY excited about recording this one. We each brought on 5 songs that best represent that feeling of, “um…I can’t find the one....guys?!....I CANT FIND THE ONE!!”. It’s happened to all of us and it’s a feeling we both LOVE. Many songs are easily heard (and perhaps meant to be easily heard) with multiple different pulses, while some just go out of their way to have a “gotcha!” moment. Either way, this was the most fun I’ve had with the podcast so far and both Gunnar & myself are really excited for you to have a listen.

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Big Fat Progress

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

I invited Kris back on the show to discuss how difficult this last year has been for us (Big Fat Snare Drum) as a small business and what we’ve done to keep the doors open. I’m calling it, “Big Fat Progress”, because I really don’t see this year as much of a setback for us as it was an uncomfortably-forced pivot. After that, I asked Kris some of my favorite questions about his ethos on business in general. Kris is almost always right when it comes to what will resonate with people on a large scale. I guarantee you will take something away from this.

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Best of 2020: Part 2

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 05:00:00 -0000

LAST EPISODE OF 2020! This is Part 2 of the “Best of 2020” where I put together a show of my favorite clips from the past year. Enjoy! See you (or hear me) in the new year!

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Best of 2020: Part 1

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 05:00:00 -0000

The next few episodes are gonna be a very self indulgent “Best of 2020”. I’ve put together some of my favorite clips of the podcast so far with a little backstory for each. If any of my previous guests are listening and you don’t hear your clips, it's cause I thought you were really boring and I don’t like you at all. Cheers!

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'Save it for the Pod!' Ep. 2 - Ben and Gunnar’s Top 5 Dance Drummers

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 07:27:00 -0000

I’m back with Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Big Data, Bruce Springsteen) for another segment of ‘Save It For The Pod’ where we pause our private conversations about various musical topics until we can record it for the MASSES (that’s you). This week’s episode has us dissecting each of our ‘Top 5 Dance Music Bands That Feature Live Drummers’.

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Big Fat Five: Tucker Rule (Thursday): Top 5 Influences

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

We’ve got Tucker Rule, drummer for Thursday, on this week’s episode of the ‘Big Fat Five’ pod breaking down the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his playing style…and it’s a damn fun playing style. Not only is Tucker a rhythmic powerhouse, he’s quite possibly the nicest guy in the world (sorry to ‘out’ you Tucker). We had a really fun conversation that went well beyond his influences including lessons learned from working with Dave Elitch, perspectives on practicing, and how each of us deal with the frustrations, yet needed patience, of always wanted to become better players.

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Big Fat Five: Yuri Ruley's (MxPx): Top 5 Influences

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is, Yuri Ruley…drummer for the iconic punk band, MxPx. His speed, creativity and disciple were a huge influence on me growing up, and if ever need a good a$# whippin', I’ll put on 'Life In General' and sweat my way through a barrage of beats at tempos that make me question Yuri’s sanity. We discuss the top 5 songs that best represent his influences when he first started playing drums. Please enjoy my podcast with The Legend, Yuri Ruley.

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"Save it for the Pod!" Ep. 1 - Dissecting the Playing of Phil Selway (Radiohead)

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 18:42:00 -0000

Continuing with the theme of keeping things fresh, Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Big Data, Bruce Springsteen) and I have started a new segment of the show called “Save it for the Pod” or "S.I.F.T.P" where we pause our private conversations about a particular musical topic until we can record it for the MASSES.

This week’s topic is the timeless and seemingly underrated drummer of Radiohead, Phil Selway. Gunnar and I each choose our top 5 Phil beats and go a dissectin’!

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Big Fat Five: Sarah Thawer's Top 5 Influences

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 07:49:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Sarah Thawer…a Toronto-based, freelance drummer, percussionist, pianist and overall badass with a style consisting of a unique blend of jazz, Indian, world and funk style drumming. She is one of my favorite drummers to watch, literally, because you can’t help but notice the enjoyment on her face and her love of improvisation is a true testament to her capabilities behind the kit. Her playing blows my mind and I was really excited to have her on the show to dissect the top 5 drumming moments that shaped her style. Her positivity and approach to navigating a career in the music industry is something I’ve admired for quite a long time. Please enjoy my conversation with the incredibly talented, Sarah Thawer.

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Big Fat Five: Eric Slick (Dr. Dog): 5 Songs That Shaped His Playing Style

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Eric Slick, drummer for Dr. Dog. Eric is a great player with a modern-day Ringo-esque approach to serving the song…which is an obvious focus when you hear his drum parts...parts that are deceivingly hard to execute well. His effortless technique is something I’ve admired from afar and I was really anxious to hear about the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his style. In addition to his tenure in Dr. Dog and working as a drummer for many other artists, Eric is a prolific songwriter himself. His most recent album, “Wiseacre”, came out this year…and it rulezz. Please enjoy my conversation with Eric Slick. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Daru Jones' 5 Songs That Shaped His Playing Style

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Daru Jones. My God I love Daru. While he definitely puts focus on appearances, as you can see if you’ve ever seen his drum set, Daru has certain sway to his feel that makes it impossible to sit or stand still when you hear his groove. He’s two-time Grammy Award winning player who’s worked with Jack White, Gloria Gaynor, Pete Rock, Slum Village, Jamie Lidell, Talib Kweli, Dwight Yoakam and many many more. I’m sure you picked up on the diversity of that list. Cheers.

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Big Fat Five: Steve Goold's (Matt Kearney, Ben Rector, Sara Bareilles) Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Playing Style

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Steve Goold…a.k.a the “Steve” of Steve’s Donut. Steve tells the story of working with Kris (BFSD owner) and how the donut came to be before breaking down the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his playing. Steve has recorded and/or toured with countless big hitters such as Sara Bareilles, Matt Kearney, Owl City, Ben Rector, Cory Wong and many more. His respect for the "song" and crafting the perfect drum part is very evident in the choices he made for this episode. I gained a lot and I hope you will too.

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Big Fat Five: Raghav Mehrotra's (Broadway's School of Rock) Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Playing Style

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 06:03:00 -0000

The guest this week is Raghav Mehrotra. This young man started playing drums when he was three and by 5 years old (IMO) was already better than most lifelong players. He starred in Broadway's "School of Rock" while still physically going to school full-time. He just an insane player and I know he's gonna be on some killer records in the future. He's also an old soul. You think you're talking to a veteran of the craft, but honestly with how much he's already accomplished...he kinda is. Raghav breaks down the top 8 moments that made him the drummer he is today.

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Big Fat Five: Randy Cooke's (Ringo Starr, Mick Jagger, Alanis Morissette, Dave Stewart, Kelly Clarkson) 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Style

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 06:54:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Randy Cooke. I certainly fluff him up at the beginning of our interview, but Rand just has everything you’d want in a drummer playing behind you. He is SO song focused and, as he states, “…It’s not about playing more things; it’s about playing the right thing”. His resume includes playing for Ringo Starr, Mick Jagger, Alanis Morissette, Dave Stewart, Kelly Clarkson…and believe me…many many more. Keeping with the theme of this season, Randy breaks down the top drumming moments that shaped his style. Cheeeeers.

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Big Fat Five: Mike Dawson's Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Style

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Mike Dawson, managing editor of Modern Drummer Magazine and co-host of the Modern Drummer Podcast w/ Mike and Mike (the other Mike being Mike Johnston). They have exactly 250 archived episodes so go check that out…after you binge all of our episodes. Mike is an insanely artful player who exemplifies the idea of building creativity out of giving yourself limitations. He posts a lot of his weirdisms on his Instagram at @mikedawsondrums. You can also check out his website here. This episode is a reminder of how little I know when it comes to great drumming and it only reinforced my decision to continue with this format. Mike breaks down the drumming moments that shaped his playing. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Ben Barter's (Lorde) Top Drumming Moments That Formed His Drumming Style

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

This week’s guest is Ben Barter…an Auckland-born, Los Angeles-based drummer/producer/storyteller and ex-dishwasher to the STARS. Ben has one of my favorite pockets and tastes in 'groove' so I was SUPER pumped to get him on the show. He’s played every major festival you can think of and has done all the talk shows. He’s the nicest bloke in the world and I know you’ll be smiling the whole time you listen to this one. Cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Bryan De Leon's (Albert Hammond Jr, The Drums, The Shaking Hands) Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Style

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Bryan De Leon and we break down the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his playing styles. Bryan’s powerful, rigid, and syncopated drum parts are infectious, to say the least, and it's the reason he drums for power-hitters like Albert Hammond Jr of The Strokes, The Drums (a band...a very good band), The Shaking Hands and many more. I’m currently on a road trip right now, so I’m recording from an Airbnb…a tiny closet inside my Airbnb actually, but this episode finally introduced me to New Order and it’s basically all I’ve been listening to. So, thank you, Bryan. Also, I need to mention...I almost edited out my initial question of how asking Bryan how his pandemic is going. It's a lazy question, and I hated it the second it came out, but it ended up pulling a great response from Bryan and touched on points I really wanted to keep it…so I kept it in. I just want you to know that I know and alright....shutting up...cheers!

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Big Fat Five: Brody Simpson's Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Style

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 07:24:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Brody Simpson and we talk about the top 5 drumming moments that played a huge part in the development of his sound. Brody’s feel and sense of pocket within a pocket are unmatched in my opinion and I don’t think I’m comfortable making it public how much time I’ve spent looping Brody’s videos. Needless to say, if you don’t know him, I’m so excited that you stumbled across this episode. His perspectives on groove and creating parts is a masterclass in many ways. Please enjoy.

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Kris Mazzarisi and Ben Hilzinger (me!) Share The Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped Our Style

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Hello hello...today's show features the Big Fat Man himself, Kris Mazzarisi and myself, Ben Hilzinger, discussing the top 5 specific moments in either a recording or a performance that helped form us into the drummers we are today. We are all sponges for inspiration until the day we die, but some sponge-worthy moments are more remarkable than others. All of the little flourishes in our playing combine to give us a unique voice, but many of these derive from something we've heard or seen outside of our beautiful little creative minds. This is the first installment of a series we're dubbing "The Big Fat 5" where I talk with my favorite players about the 5 instances that changed and/or formed their playing.

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