Jimmy Chamberlin

[Drummer_Boy]

Does anybody like Jimmy Chamberlin of the Smashing Pumpkins like I do? What do you think of him? I think he's a good drummer, and he was actually one of the first to get me into drums. Has anyone seen him live with The Smashing Pumpkins? And this may be a really dumb question, but is he related to Matt Chamberlin in any way? It's kinda' weird, since the Smashing Pumpkins' peak was in like '97, and I was born in '93, so I don't remember any of that stuff. Well, whatcha' think?

[Stu_Strib]

I bought his solo CD and it has some great drum sounds. The thing about his playing is it doesn't sound that hard, but just try to play along!

Again, another GREAT sounding Yamaha kit. I want his signature snare! (Right after I buy the two Weckl ones and the Ferrone one, hehe)

[Drummer_Boy]

I'm yet to check out his solo cd...I have all the pumpkins stuff, and the lil' Zwan thing, but not that.

[finnhiggins]

Again, another GREAT sounding Yamaha kit. I want his signature snare! (Right after I buy the two Weckl ones and the Ferrone one, hehe)

So you've got all six of the Gadd ones already, eh? :)

[Pazu]

And this may be a really dumb question, but is he related to Matt Chamberlin in any way?

Actually Matt's name is spelled Chamberlain, that should answer your question ;)

Back to Jimmy - an amazing drummer indeed. When he got fired from the Smashing Pumpkins, they had to replace him with three drummers on stage - including Kenny Aronoff!

Jimmy Chamberlin & Mike Garson - 2000 (http://www.drumspeech.com/music/jimmy_chamberlin.mp3)

[Stu_Strib]

So you've got all six of the Gadd ones already, eh? :)

Interestingly enough, I don't like Steve Gadd's drum sound very much. Its very stuck in the 70s. The snare is, I dunno, just ok?

His cymbal sound has always been excellent ( I have the 18 session ride, and want the larger of the crashes).

[Anchein Vouivra]

GREAT GREAT Drummer, probably the best musician of the smashing pumpkins. He makes Rock rythmes flow like a river, it's so fluide. He was one of my first inspiration and still remains as one of my favourite.
Songs like Geek USA, An ode to no one, B.W.B.W, Soma..........All of them are epic, and his Yamaha signature snare sounds awesome. I'm still thinking between this one or a Ludwig Supraphonic for myself..........difficult choice.
I've heard just once his JC Complex album, I was a bit disappointed but it was just the first listen, I tought it lacked of melodies or something to fill in, but sticking just to the drums it was excellent !!!!!!!

[nate]

GREAT GREAT Drummer, probably the best musician of the smashing pumpkins. .........All of them are epic, and his Yamaha signature snare sounds awesome. I'm still thinking between this one or a Ludwig Supraphonic for myself..........difficult choice.


tell me more about his signature snare - is a 'gish' type sound - with a big ring or something else - i loved that album, and the drumming....i'd love a snare that sounded like that...

[Drummer_Boy]

I bought his solo CD and it has some great drum sounds. The thing about his playing is it doesn't sound that hard, but just try to play along!

Again, another GREAT sounding Yamaha kit. I want his signature snare! (Right after I buy the two Weckl ones and the Ferrone one, hehe)

His signature snare is worth more than my drumset...

[finnhiggins]

Interestingly enough, I don't like Steve Gadd's drum sound very much. Its very stuck in the 70s. The snare is, I dunno, just ok?


That's true, but that's because he puts horrible thick heads on it. The 13" Maple from his signature series is nicest snare I've ever owned. If you want a comparison drum sound, it sounds more like the recorded sound on Tori Amos' live album (w/ Matt Chamberlain) than the Ayotte Keplinger woodhoop (the drum Chamberlain used) does. Go check out the snare drum sound on the live version of "Space Dog" and tell me you don't want that...

[Packard Goose]

Well, this is my first post and seeing their is a thread dedicated to my first drumming hero I felt compelled to post! Without doubt he's been my most important influence aside from the fact that when a friend of mine introduced me to his playing on Siamese Dream I was instantly repelled by those amazing singles (used to be a sign that a drummer will become an influence if I'm repelled at first) but also the most perfect drum sound. His jazz influences mean his dynamics and the tones he gets from cymbals and drums are spot on, especially when compared to the hard hitting ethos of a lot of the new bands in circulation (making him a refreshing change) and he has the power to turn what would otherwise be a fairly pedestrian tune into a work of art. If it wasn't for him, I never would have heard of Billy Cobham or Elvin Jones, would probably still be a hard-hitting rock kid and maybe never came across this wonderful site!!! Furthermore, he's a very nice guy to boot, as I had the chance to meet him at Drumfest last Sunday (check out my myspace page on my profile for the pic, starstruck ain't the word!!!).

[Mario Vincent]

Great drummer, love is style. I second Geek U.S.A., check it out, great drumming (im sure u have if ur posting here). He reminds me alot of Bonham, any one agree?

[Drummer_Boy]

Great drummer, love is style. I second Geek U.S.A., check it out, great drumming (im sure u have if ur posting here). He reminds me alot of Bonham, any one agree?

I sure do. He's definately one of the greatest rock drummers around today. Also, there are rumors, but that's probably all they are, that the Smashing Pumpkins may reunite..

[Mario Vincent]

I think they're slightly more than rumors at this point, I know Billy Corgan wants to and where there’s money there’s... well, hopefully a reunion! I would love to see Jimmy live with the Pumpkins again.

[Drummer_Boy]

Yeah, I missed out on the whole "Jimmy Chamberlin Complex" unfortunately. :(

[A thunder of Coxy]

Hey friends, finally registered I love this forum :D. Im going to see Jimmy on Thursday in Warrington at a small club (WA1), he's doing a clinic and is jamming a few Pumpkings songs, cant wait. Anyone else heard about this show? Thats if anyone lives in the North west of England lol

[Drummer_Boy]

Hey friends, finally registered I love this forum :D. Im going to see Jimmy on Thursday in Warrington at a small club (WA1), he's doing a clinic and is jamming a few Pumpkings songs, cant wait. Anyone else heard about this show? Thats if anyone lives in the North west of England lol

Lucky. I wish I could go see Jimmy Chamberlin. He's still one of my favorites. I just don't know when he'll be doing stuff here again. Ask him for me please. :-p

[mikkeydee]

His snare busy style used in rock songs is what i like most

[Adam]

tell me more about his signature snare - is a 'gish' type sound - with a big ring or something else - i loved that album, and the drumming....i'd love a snare that sounded like that...

Wow, your picture is Ian Curtis of Joy Division am I right? It's unexpected to find a JD fan in a "drum" forum...Joy Division is one of my favorites though!

Anyway, yes: Jimmy Chamberlin is the reason I picked drums when I was 10. He's technically REALLY good (for a pop/rock drummer especially) but it's his totally JC drumming style that I still listen to him all the time for

[A thunder of Coxy]

Went to see Jim last night at a clinic, was really good about 50 ppl in there so had a great view and was really close to see what he was doing. At the begginging of the night I was confused, sat downstairs with a few beers and we recognise someone it looks similar to Jim but we thought no he wouldnt just walk around the bar. So anyway I go the toilet and the same person walks out I just give a usually nod to say hi. In the toilets im speaking to a guy from Dawsons who set up the clinic and says "Its not every day you walk past Jimmy Chamberlain in the toilets is it?" I was shocked that it was him just walking round with us folks. Stayed talking to this guy and he says that he heard from Jim himself there is gunna be a new Pumkins record out :D, THE PUMKINS ARE GETTING BACK TOGETHER. So anyway I ran out trying to speak to Jim but he had gone upstairs to get ready I was gutted. The clinic then was awesome he played along to a few songs from his own complex album and 1 Zwan song. He told us alot which I totally agreed with. Later I spoke to him and got a few things signed, the only bad thing was a guy I go the same college as won an A custom cymbal in the raffle :S

[nate]

Wow, your picture is Ian Curtis of Joy Division am I right? It's unexpected to find a JD fan in a "drum" forum...Joy Division is one of my favorites though!




yup. good spotting.....great band...

[Drummer_Boy]

Went to see Jim last night at a clinic, was really good about 50 ppl in there so had a great view and was really close to see what he was doing. At the begginging of the night I was confused, sat downstairs with a few beers and we recognise someone it looks similar to Jim but we thought no he wouldnt just walk around the bar. So anyway I go the toilet and the same person walks out I just give a usually nod to say hi. In the toilets im speaking to a guy from Dawsons who set up the clinic and says "Its not every day you walk past Jimmy Chamberlain in the toilets is it?" I was shocked that it was him just walking round with us folks. Stayed talking to this guy and he says that he heard from Jim himself there is gunna be a new Pumkins record out :D, THE PUMKINS ARE GETTING BACK TOGETHER. So anyway I ran out trying to speak to Jim but he had gone upstairs to get ready I was gutted. The clinic then was awesome he played along to a few songs from his own complex album and 1 Zwan song. He told us alot which I totally agreed with. Later I spoke to him and got a few things signed, the only bad thing was a guy I go the same college as won an A custom cymbal in the raffle :S

Wow. That's really cool. I just can't wait for the Smashing Pumpkins to get back. I'm gonna' go buy their new album RIGHT when it comes out. It'll be so friggin' awesome. I have all their other albums already..I can't wait. Maybe there'll be a tour, which I will make SURE I go see. I've seen live video bootlegs of theirs, and I've always wanted to go see them. I just couldn't, because they were no longer a band, haha. Anyways, Smashing Pumpkins..tour..album..it's a dream come true.

[DottedQuarters]

"Life Begins Again" is becoming one of my favorite albums. It's real interesting how they play with song structures...some songs not even having a chorus but more like a climax, others more like compositions, others sound improv driven. Really a unique and intricate cd...

[burnthehero]

The thing I like most about Jimmy is the sound of his drums--so organic and musical. His playing speaks for itself.

[Lingenfelter Twin Turbo]

Great all around drummer. He has great chops AND knows how to play for the song. He has great technique and drum knowledge. Very rare for his type of music. Very disciplined player!

[DottedQuarters]

The thing I like most about Jimmy is the sound of his drums--so organic and musical. His playing speaks for itself.
His rimshots sound fantastic! As do his toms, especially on "Loki Cat" off his new album; his phrasing is so melodic but groovy. Ahh crap, I said groovy now I sound like a hippie...

[LiveGoat]

I first saw Jimmy on the Pumkins' "Gish" tour. The album had just come out and they were playing little venues. Me and my friends got to the club, (which was a hole in wall below street level) 3 hours early cause the bar was open and they had this awsome bowling machine. Anyway, The pumpkins arrive and set up and soundcheck, then the opening act who's name I can't even remember now. Jimmy goes straight to the bar after soundcheck and starts knocking 'em back one after another. We "bowled" for 2 hours and he's there the whole time getting plowed. Opening act starts, they suck so we bowl some more. Jimmy's still at the bar. Finally it's time for the Pumpkins to start and he gets up, slowly walks to the tiny stage, sits down and blows my freaking mind away! I don't know how he did it but it was one of the 5 best concerts I've ever seen. A phenomenal drummer.

LG

[ewanlaing]

i think he is tasteful in a true sense. he obviously doesn't underplay, which is usually a crude way of saying tasteful.

[INXSDRUMTECH]

I bought his solo CD and it has some great drum sounds. The thing about his playing is it doesn't sound that hard, but just try to play along!

Again, another GREAT sounding Yamaha kit. I want his signature snare! (Right after I buy the two Weckl ones and the Ferrone one, hehe)

i actually was the drumtech on that session. a jimmy c. signature snare was my bonus. it rules.

[INXSDRUMTECH]

sorry, i forgot to post a pic. here's my vintage 80's "hot red" recording custom with the jimmy snare.....

[ewanlaing]

his mellon-collie playing is inspiring. i expecially like "through the eyes of a ruby", "porcelina" and "zero" is simple but very effective.

[ewanlaing]

found some fantastic smashing pumpkins clips. only problem is, they take a while to load.
http://rspaa.niluje.net/data/Video/Musique%20Plus%202000-03-10/
enjoy

[Gish06]

I know nothing about drumming from a true musician's standpoint, as I technically know nothing about drums other than how much I like what I hear. But let me say that first of all, this thread made me just register here because it is nice to finally see Jimmy Chamberlin get the recognition he deserves. Billy Corgan himself said that Chamberlin is the most talented member in the Pumpkins. And yes, the band is getting back together, in fact they are recording a new album this summer. Go to www.smashingpumpkins.com if you want to sign up for the mailing list. Billy and Jimmy are in it for sure, maybe Melissa auf der Maur, and I haven't heard anything about James Iha yet.

I have a two clips that really show off his drumming. I would post another song, "Rock On," from their b-sides disc "Judas O," but I cannot because it is featured on a commerical disc. However, his drumming in that song is amazing. The band recorded it in one take, so there was no messing around, especially on Jimmy's part. Anyone that wants to hear one mindblowing performance by JC should definitely check that out.

Clip 1 - Drum solo: http://s37.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=057EJCVHXI18R0F4NOB0NFKRUI

Clip 2 - Heavy Metal Machine: http://s37.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3W2DETQTW5IZI3NEF7KTA1YIV5 - Gets really interesting at about 3:50 - 5:02, then kind of straightforward from 5:35 to 6:09, and then right after that Jimmy is just all over the place, I can't even explain it, but it's amazing. The whole thing is.

I've never heard a drummer cycle through what seems like so many different approaches and styles to music yet keeping his own signature sound at the same time. He truly is one of a kind. Everyone likes to give Dave Grohl all the praise for being the best 90's drummer, but I disagree.

[Gish06]

Also, this is a video of Jimmy playing alone in what seems like a very dark room.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=v3jFkcAxSws&search=jimmy%20chamberlin

Just amazing... I don't even know what he's doing but it sounds like perfection.

[Pocketman]

Interestingly enough, I don't like Steve Gadd's drum sound very much. Its very stuck in the 70s. The snare is, I dunno, just ok?

I think the drum stinks. A lot of money for something really dry and dead.

[finnhiggins]

I think the drum stinks. A lot of money for something really dry and dead.

Ironically, I actually got mine (the previous generation when Yamaha had the six different Gadd drums on the market - 13" with metal hoops, maple shell) very cheap. And it's a great drum, you just don't want to muffle the life out of it like Gadd does. For a point of musical reference it sounds more like Matt Chamberlain's snare on the Tori Amos live disc than the actual snare Matt was using (an Ayotte Keplinger Woodhoop) does.

[Gish06]

Here is an interview with Jimmy a couple months ago, from a French magazine called "Batterie" -- this is a translation. Lots of great info about himself and his bands. He also talks about his sound and there's a picture of his current drumkit.

The rumor has been going around for quite some time: The Smashing Pumpkins could be coming back on stage with a brand new record. Jimmy Chamberlin confirms this, and much more.

Jimmy Chamberlin is probably one of best and most inspiring drummers of his time. As being comfortable in not only the universe of both Smashing Pumpkins and Zwan, but also the jazz/fusion and prog rock world of his very own band, Jimmy Chamberlin Complex, he may be the only drummer capabile of joining the strength of John Bonham and grace of Gene Krupa. Coming to California, our team decided to contact Jimmy. He agreed to meet us, under the condition that he does not reveal anything promotional pertaining to the band. Although, he did reveal the essential: The spirit is great in the band of Billy Corgan, and the record is in the works. Let's rock!

Q: We know that you don't want to talk about The Smashing Pumpkins. But can you at least tell us how far you are into everything?

A: We began last year in a discreet manor. We got back on track very well, and have had a lot of fun writing new songs and simply playing together. It's cool.


Q: Have you written a lot of songs?

A: We already have something like fifty songs written. We're very creative and will give some official news soon.


Q: Just one last thing (about the Pumpkins): Are D'Arcy and James Iha in the band?

A: To be honest, I don't want to talk about this subject. We have the songs, and we're preparing a new record. Please, let's leave it as this and talk about something else. (Note: Jimmy is a bit annoyed).


Q: Okay. Sorry to bug you about that. (Next question): Besides your bands, do you do a lot of sessions?

A: No, I only do a few, and only for my friends. Going into the studio is a lot of pressure for me, so I'm not like that. Also, I'm a sensitive guy, and the idea of selling my drumming to everyone is unbearable to me. I have friends, like Josh Freese, who do that job perfectly. That's their thing. But on the other hand, I do like to participate in learning events. I find them enjoyable.


Q: ...for what reasons?

A: To me, the clinics represent a rare opportunity for me to explain to people who I am, where I'm from artistically, and why I play the way I do. For my fans, it's the only way they can approach me personally and learn from what I have to share for inspiration. It's impossible to do something like that during a big rock concert.


Q: You know a lot about technique. That must be interesting.

A: I don't talk about technique. I must be the only one in clinics to talk about songwriting, and the role of the drums in songwriting. I also demonstrate my interpretation of funky rhythms. But I insist on writing music, even lyrics.


Q: You mean the lyrics of a song make you play in a different way?

A: Of course. I understood this while playing with The Smashing Pumpkins. The lyrics play a very important part in the mood of the band. I've realized while listening to the radio that a lot of drummers are completely off track. The singer tells a sweet and touching story, and the drummer is making noise over it. Here, I tell myself "this guy has a problem. He must be either deaf or disturbed." (Laughter). I believe that too many drummers play for themselves, and that's bad. I often use "Disarm" from the Pumpkins as an example. When I listened to Billy Corgan sing that song, I was touched by its simplicity. I told him, "you know, I don't hear drums on this song. I will put a bit of a mood with the timbales and cymbals on some parts, and nothing more." To me, that much was obvious. The part that I played on "Tonight, Tonight" is also very special for a rock tune. It's once again the lyrics that inspired me. I write lyrics for my own band as well.


Q: Are you satisfied with the success that you received for your first record with Jimmy Chamberlin Complex, "Life Begins Again"?

A: I'm very satisfied. For a record with a progressive mood, it has received some success. A few big radio stations have played some songs. I didn't expect that. The sales were good, and the record label is asking me to record another one, so they liked the music and they also must have made some money.


Q: "Loki Cat" (with Billy Corgan on vocals) is beautiful.

A: That makes me happy, because this song means a lot to me. I'm proud that Billy came to participate, after all we've been through together. There was no money to make, no commerical moves -- he just naturally decided to contribute. A great musician and friend.


Q: So, this next Complex record... when do you plan on recording it?

A: I need to wait to have the inspiration to do it. I think, if everything goes as planned, it might be released at the beginning of next year. It's not easy to write for this band. There's a balance between the feeling of Jazz Rock, Progressive, and Rock, and it's very easy to break that and be off track. When we were recording for the first time, the songs were written and recorded very fast. I think that may have helped us.


Q: Do you have a lot of drummers among your friends?

A: You know, we all know each other. In the USA, the drummers' community is so small. Terry Bozzio, Peter Erskine, Gregg Bisonette, Thomas Lang, Steve Smith, Mike Portnoy, Dave Grohl, Josh Freese, Taylor Hawkins. They're all my friends, and we like to see each other and spend good times together.


Q: By the way, Steve Hewitt asked me to salute you.

A: If you catch him, tell him I can't wait to see him again, and that I love Placebo's music. I'm proud that he likes what I do, and that he says good things about me, because he's a good drummer.


Q: In your opinion, why is there so much love among drummers?

A: You have to believe that ego is not proportional to the size of the instrument, if you know what I mean. (Laughter). It's hard to tell. Being a drummer is a hard job. Often it can be ungrateful, when you think about the cost of the gear when you start. And, mainly because of the responsibilities you're facing. We must help each other to survive, I think that's why.


Q: When will you come back to France?

A: With The Smashing Pumpkins, I'll be back during the year, that's for sure. But I'd like to do some clinics in France and spend some time there, just like I did in Britian. I like France a lot.


Q: Really? Aren't you trying to be demagogic on this one?

A: Absolutely not. I was on vacation in France in 1997 I think, and I liked everything. The food, the people, and the culture. I can't wait to come back.


Extra info:

The secret of his sound (by Jimmy Chamberlin):

I'm a big fan of ambient mics and rooms. They are, to me, very important, because they are responsible for providing the natural sound of the drums. They are a little bit like the ears of the audience that would be 10 meters away from me when I'm playing. The proximity mics in front of each element and the panoramics don't tell the truth. They mislead the sound and how we feel the drums. I know that when Led Zeppelin would record, there would be no proximity mics, except for just on the snare and kick. The room did all the work. In general, during the mix, I ask the engineer to under-mix the direct takes, and to push the ambience. That's how I head rock.

http://i3.tinypic.com/244za4n.jpg

[PremierDrummer]

that clip above mentioned by gish06 is jimmy in the studio playing the drum part to the first track on his cd. I saw the jimmy chamberlin complex live and they were sick.

[Gish06]

Lucky you. He never came to my city. Glad you got to see him, I do hear the live show is amazing.

[emmerson]

hes a great drummer and has alot of creative ideas i love the tune streetcrawler by the jimmy chamberlin complex so much in there

[Audun_D]

Well I love both The Smashing Pumpkins and his later bands, such as the Jimmy Chamberlin Complex. I love the song Life Begins Again and Streetcrawler. Jimmy Chamberlin was such a big influence in my playing so I got his signature snare. if someone want pics just PM me and I'll give you some! Jimmy ROCK!!!!

[Stitch Kaboodle]

http://youtube.com/profile?user=squashingpumpkins

[Auger]

JC is one of my favorite rock drummers ever.

I haven't heard anything more recent than the melon-collie album, but that, siamese dream, and gish are quite an impressive body of work alone, IMO.

It's funny, but he's one of those guys that, to my ear, has had such a huuuuge influence on a lot of popular music even though he's not talked about that much. I love how he phrases and applies fills, they always seem to affect the song, not just take up space. I love his snare playing and use of rimshots. He really knows how to kick a song in the butt when need be.

[Stitch Kaboodle]

Yes. Everyone here should hear Tristessa by the pumpkins. Chocolate drumming.

[Disco Stu]

One of my favorite drummers, definitely in my top 5. Listening to him really opened me up to new ideas. I haven't seen him live yet, but I will do so the first chance I get. Thanks to Gish06 for attaching that interview.

[TomasHakkesBrain]

Yes. Everyone here should hear Tristessa by the pumpkins. Chocolate drumming.


Ive been trying to get hold of a life in 95 bootleg dvd. That was a drumming masterclass on the Melancollie tour. Check out Sloth on youtube-really cool.

[Stitch Kaboodle]

Ive been trying to get hold of a life in 95 bootleg dvd. That was a drumming masterclass on the Melancollie tour. Check out Sloth on youtube-really cool.

Have you seen the gig from the Rockpalast in Germany '96? Worth a look.

[finnhiggins]

I saw Jimmy with the SPs a couple of weeks before the incident that got him booted. He's a great drummer. Also worthy of mention: the Tricky song "Pumpkin" which samples Jimmy...

[Auger]

...yeah, finn, I also saw him (in philadelphia) just a few weeks before that all went down. I think they had some technical problems during that show, but they were really good none the less.

Anyway, another thing I always thought was cool was the unconventional tom setup he used.

I messed with that and similar stuff before I moved on to primarily a 4pc drumset and you can do some neat things -especially in terms of splitting the hands on fills.

One cool, very JC gish-esque fill that utilizes this setup is a quick, 16th note descending, one-hit-per-drum fill. His setup of (going from left to right) largest rack tom, smallest rack tom, medium rack tom, floor tom ...etc makes this type of fill all alternating strokes and more easy to play smoothly at fast tempos with a sticking of: flam (-snare) L(Small tom -middle position) R(medium tom -far right) L(Largest mounted tom -far left) R(Crash cymbal/bass drum).

He did a lot of variations of this too -it's fun suff!

[Stu_Strib]

i actually was the drumtech on that session. a jimmy c. signature snare was my bonus. it rules.

Sounds like a great gig! Can you let us in on any head choices, tuning tricks used? I'd really LOVE to replicate that sound, and buying the snare would be a good start.

[Tetley]

Jimmy rules, he's number 2 in my favourite drummers list. The singer in my band told me i reminded him of jimmy when we first started, and i couldn't have asked for a better compliment, of course i suck bad compared to jimmy but i guess his influence shines through....

[ewanlaing]

jimmy chamberlin has become my main influence as a drummer. although i can certainly appreciate studio greats like gadd, weckl, colauita, freese, etc. it is his playing that has made the biggest difference. it is sometimes hard to split a pumpkins drum chart into verse, chorus, verse etc. he plays organically, dynamically and musically.
basically, jimmy rocks where it matters.

[bfrancese]

Saw the Pumpkins tuesday night in Asheville, and Jimmy was spot on. Incredible chops and incredibly precise.

I was absolutely blown. Tonight, Tonight - oh lawd - chills down my spine

The cat is amazing.

You can see the setlist on my BLOG (http://www.indiansunset.blogspot.com) and at Smasheville.com (http://www.smasheville.com)

[Eye of the Beholder]

i just got their new album, zeitgeist and i think he plays pretty well there

[sio_13]

I've been a big jimmy fan since siamese dream- he's one of the few guys out there who you can tell his drumming even if you've never heard the song before. Also one of the few guys to release a solo album that I can listen to front to back and not get bored. I was one of the lucky few who saw the Complex at the Mercy Lounge in Nashville- great show.

[Anchein Vouivra]

I've seen the Pumpkins one month ago! Even if I don't like being a crazy fan, i was pretty moved to finally see jimmy chamberlin on stage as the whole band. He has an intense presence in the band, his drumset sounds perfect, warm and deep, and the man has such a tasteful playing, I felt like he was leading a lot!
Incubus were playing before and honestly Jose Pasillas is a good drummer but sounded so small, not to say rediculous compared to Jimmy (maybe it was the PDP's).
He is one drummer that pushed me to learn more about what I could really get out of my drums when I was younger. I used to listen ritually Geek USA before each one of drumming lessons.

[BrynnerAgassi]

Jimmys a great drummer. He has a sound & feel unlike many other rock drummers out there. He has a sensitive hard touch. What I mean by that is he can bash the hell out of the skins, but really sensitive... Dont know what other way to explain it, listen to Today, and you will see what I mean....
He definitly plays to the song though....... thats for sure, and thats what I respect about a drummer like him.

[DWfan20005]

Jimmy and Jeremy Taggart ( Our Lady Peace) really educated me on how to mix jazz style drumming with rock. Anyways, enough about Jeremy, this is a Jimmy topic. Jimmy's Yamaha kit sounds amazing (especially his signature snare drum) sounds great. I was really impressed with the drumming on Doomsday Clock off of the new album. Long live Jimmy's influence and btw the Smashing Pumkins rule.

[Twineball]

Jimmy is my number one influence. I learned to play drums listening to Siamese Dream. And his work on Zeitgeist was just beautiful. I've seen him play four times with the Pumpkins and I'm seeing him again on Tuesday. I'm quite excited.

[zambizzi]

I was never a huge SP fan in high school, when they first hit the mainstream, but I have learned to like a lot of their music. Zeitgeist is, in my opinion, their finest work by far. Jimmy described his playing on that album as "overplaying" but I disagree...I think he nailed it just right.

I really respect him as a drummer and musician after both listening to Zeitgeist and reading his article in last month's Modern Drummer...his attitude is nearly the same as mine, as far as tuning the drums and recording them "wide open". I respect that organic approach...I think he said something to the effect that their fans "were ready with something with some balls on it..." Indeed!

United States is probably my favorite track on the new album.

[Ozzy Biz]

I was never a huge SP fan in high school, when they first hit the mainstream, but I have learned to like a lot of their music. Zeitgeist is, in my opinion, their finest work by far. Jimmy described his playing on that album as "overplaying" but I disagree...I think he nailed it just right.

I really respect him as a drummer and musician after both listening to Zeitgeist and reading his article in last month's Modern Drummer...his attitude is nearly the same as mine, as far as tuning the drums and recording them "wide open". I respect that organic approach...I think he said something to the effect that their fans "were ready with something with some balls on it..." Indeed!

United States is probably my favorite track on the new album.

Zeitgeist has been getting some frequent playtime for me too. I'm a big fan and I agree about the 'overplaying', although "For God and Country" is great and about as basic as a drum track gets.
'United States' is a good song, but I mostly like it because of the tribal drums feel.
Probably my favourite Pumpkins record at the moment, certainly a rival for Mellon Collie at least.

[zambizzi]

'United States' is a good song, but I mostly like it because of the tribal drums feel.
Probably my favourite Pumpkins record at the moment, certainly a rival for Mellon Collie at least.

I love the tom ostinato he's got going through most of the song. My favorite part, more so than the tom beat, is the slow breakdown toward the end of the tune...man that's kickass.

The opening track is great too, Doomsday Clock....just good rock n' roll.

His signature snare on this album just sounds incredible. It's given me a whole new appreciate for metal snares, which I don't own or play.

[MSPaintClock]

Jimmy described his playing on that album as "overplaying" but I disagree...I think he nailed it just right.


I'd agree, Billy Corgan did too much singing too.

[nhzoso]

I like the SP and have heard of Jimmy Chamberlain but never bought a CD or anything just stuff I heard on the radio but after reading the MD interview I am very intrigued. I will definetly be buying the new SP album this week.

I thought I was the only drummer (newbie) who found solo's to be boring after about 2 minutes no matter who was playing them. I actually thought to myself, if I feel like that about solo's how can I ever be a decent drummer and that maybe my heart was not in it enough to be good. Then Jimmy mentions how he hates them and finds them boring..Wow to admit that and be a respected pro is something..That was about the most honest interview I have ever read.

If you have not read it yet I highly recommend it. I love the fact that he refuses to use a click track, insists on the whole band being there when recording and not playing over other members recorded parts.

[ihatesticktricks]

I love the tom ostinato he's got going through most of the song. My favorite part, more so than the tom beat, is the slow breakdown toward the end of the tune...man that's kickass.

The opening track is great too, Doomsday Clock....just good rock n' roll.

His signature snare on this album just sounds incredible. It's given me a whole new appreciate for metal snares, which I don't own or play.

wasn't lars ulrich's a shocker, horrible

[ihatesticktricks]

definatly one of the best alternative rock drummers, maybe second to matt cameron.

I HATE THE DOUBLE KICK. definatly the worst invention for a drum kit, chamberlin, gadd, weckl, colauita (sorry i mentioned jimmy with those gods) dont use them and they are kick ass drummers, with pure skill.

jimmy changed the way i play the drums.

[Paul_Klein]

definatly one of the best alternative rock drummers, maybe second to matt cameron.

I HATE THE DOUBLE KICK. definatly the worst invention for a drum kit, chamberlin, gadd, weckl, colauita (sorry i mentioned jimmy with those gods) dont use them and they are kick ass drummers, with pure skill.

jimmy changed the way i play the drums.

I also loath the double kick. But I think it's safe to add Jimmy Chamberlin to any list of "Drum Gods".

[2Three]

I was so sad when Jimmy got booted out of the Smashing Pumpkins. The band's dynamic was destroyed as far as I was concerned and I knew their days were numbered.

[Pocketman]

I've been a big fan of his for years. 'Gish' is one of my favorite albums of all time. Just the opening part of 'I Am One' just yells out to you that this guy is going to be good. Great sound and single stroke rolls.

[siva]

RIP Jimmy Chamberlin


on the positive side, you can now audition for the Smashing Pumpkins!

http://www.smashingpumpkins.com/pages/news/smashing-pumpkins-drummer-audition-information

[Pavlos]

RIP? Whoa! You just freaked me out with that.

He's not dead, just left the pumpkins. Don't throw those RIPs around so quick!

[Disco Stu]

Yeah, ditto on that. Sheesh.

From his website:

March 24, 2009 at 07:54 - Posted by jcc

By now you have heard the news of my departure from the Smashing Pumpkins. I will say, without going into any unnecessary details that this represents a positive move forward for me. I can no longer commit all of my energy into something that I don’t fully possess. I won’t pretend I’m into something I’m not. I won’t do it to myself, you the fan, or my former partner. I can’t just, “Cash the check” so to speak. Music is my life. It is sacred. It deserves the highest commitment at every level and the Pumpkins are certainly no different. I’m sorry but it really IS that simple. There is no drama, bad blood, or anything else but a full commitment to music. My best goes out to Billy and I’m glad he has chosen to continue under the name. It is his right. I will continue to make music with the Jimmy Chamberlin Complex as well as pursuing other musical interests. I feel that I have a long way to go and a lot to give. Thanks to everyone for your kind words and support through all of this. I am constantly humbled by all of you! It is an honor and a privilege to play music for a living and I don’t take it for granted not even for a second.

Stay tuned……. JC

[jer]

JC was a huge influence on my drumming in the early days. I remember listening (and playing along) with Silver**** for hours on end.

Only saw them once in '94 @ Lolla.

[drummingman]

jimmy was a big influence on my playing as well. the left foot stuff that he does on the hats really got into my playing in a big way and is still there.

[drumac]

Righteous drummer. I love this guys playing. He has always been inspiring to me on the kit. I have always been a pumpkins fan, but when Jimmy left the band, I decided that Billy Corgan must be as much of an egomaniac as people have always said. There is no Pumpkins w/o Jimmy. Don't believe me? Go listen to Siamese Dream. Then listen to Adore. That should explain everything.

[JesusMySavior]

Jimmy's jazz flavor is bar-none, imo. Listening to and practicing to the pumpkins has pushed me as a drummer to really focus on my accents, my fills, and keeping the hi-hat moving constantly as a time-keeper and as extra percussion. Any of those songs aren't just songs to jam to; you can study those songs and really learn from them. There's rarely an uninteresting moment in any of Jimmy's catalogue, and I can remember even as a teenager being able to pick out my favorite fills from "Bodies" and "I Am One", not even knowing the first thing about drums.

Still can't figure Jellybelly out, keeping that hi-hat in perfect time while keeping that beat full-force. And yet he can make the drums sound so powerful, yet keeping the utmost finesse and snare rolls that are so polite and authoritative.

My second influence is Matt Cameron but even Matt doesn't come close to the finesse and powerhouse drumming that JC brings forth. And don't even get me started on the Complex ^ _ ^

[Ian Williams]

Another great example of Jimmy Chamberlin performance is "The Everlasting Gaze", powerful groove - snare rolls - dynamic hi-hat and ride.