Most Under-rated Drummers

[doublebass]

george kollias and derek roddy....THE MOST underrated of our time.I keep seeing threads about freaking tommy lee or chris adler in this forum and noone mentions these guys.They are really similar to their approach and they are helluva hard working and humble not only playing kinda the fastes tempos in the world but also having great technique and having heavily studied and well handled other genres like latin or jazz.Personally kollias is my teacher and beloved friend and we are from the same town and i can see how hard he works and what he can play as he teaches me swing,jazz,latin and stuff and every day he has something new to show me so he is my idol and i respect him much.New nile album comin on march and also check out his other band,sickening horror in wich u can see how tastefully he incorporates pure latin patterns to his drumming at tempos of 250+

[fusssion]

He ! I did mention him ! (post 162)

You know what, I'll do exactly as you suggested and I'll play "Mystical Adventures" right away... his best one with JLP in my opinion.

Sorry I missed that shuffle.......but glad you agree!!

MA might be......but my personal fav JLP album is Fables!

[shuffle]

Don't be sorry - I was really glad to hear about another Griffin's amateur.... Yeah Fables is great also.

[junglelord]

Phil Rudd from AC/DC is the pocket champion.

[Daleacus]

I don't ever hear much about John Dolmayan. He's good.

Edit: Also, isn't he another leftie who plays a right handed kit?

[joey]

ermm:

brad wilk (audioslave and ratm)
larry mullen jr (U2)
mikkey dee (motorhead)

[bonzo49]

Patric Keeler from Greenhornes and Raconteurs. I saw the Raconteurs live, he is amazing.

[Skameron831]

Misha Mansoor.
Plays drums and guitar/bass.
He's the "string theorist/polymetricist".
What he uses for some of his songs with the drum programing, he can play also on a real kit.

I think he is going to be real big soon.

lots of songs
http://www.soundclick.com/pro/view/03/default.cfm?BandID=147108

myspace's
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=81831931

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=9918680

[Tama Player]

BILLY COBHAM!!! One of the greatest jazz drummers ever! Notice I say ONE OF the greatest. his playing is so loose and groovy, and he has speed that I cannot even imagine!!!!

peace
AGR

[nate]

Hugo Burnham from Gang Of Four (http://www.myspace.com/gangoffour). a wonderful post-punk band that help create a new sound, that so many bands are rippingoff today.

Hugo is a great drummer. i wanna sound like that.

saw them play about a month ago they are getting on (age wise) now but sound a.mazing. Hugo was so soild.

[LinearDrummer]

BILLY COBHAM!!! One of the greatest jazz drummers ever! Notice I say ONE OF the greatest. his playing is so loose and groovy, and he has speed that I cannot even imagine!!!!

peace
AGR

Hmmm...
Don't know if I ever thought of Billy Cobham as under-rated...

[LiveGoat]

The kid from Tokyo Police Club is pretty good. They're becoming one of my favorite new bands.

---LG

[Fur drummer]

Tico Torres - Here about the band but not much about him.
Tyler Stewart- Barenaked Ladies. you never hear much about him but he can play.

[osamasgoat5467]

I think that Chris Vrenna is an extremely under-rated musician. His work with Nine Inch Nails is just incredible. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm pretty sure he was still in NIN when they wrote The Perfect Drug which has some of the best drumming in all of their work. I just wish they would play that song at their concerts. That reminds me, does anyone know who's touring with them this year and who's doing the studio work for the new album? I know that for With Teeth Dave Grohl did a lot of it, and Jerome Dillon toured with them.

[rendezvous_drummer]

Hmmm...
Don't know if I ever thought of Billy Cobham as under-rated...

No man, Mr. Cobham is definitely not under-rated. He gets the respect he deserves.

[osamasgoat5467]

I don't ever hear much about John Dolmayan. He's good.

Edit: Also, isn't he another leftie who plays a right handed kit?

Yeah, same with Buddy Rich.

[matt986]

We all know MEG WHITE is the most under rated drummer ever...come on guys lets get serious here ;)

[Benjaminbois]

Does anyone else here think that the Bloc Party drummer Matt Tong deserves a little more recognition?

[rendezvous_drummer]

Does anyone else here think that the Bloc Party drummer Matt Tong deserves a little more recognition?

You know what, when I first heard him, I thought he was really good. Then he got pretty annoying. His fills are somewhat sloppy and repetitive. I love Bloc Party though, I'm just pissed that they opened up for Panic at the Disco....god I hate that band!

[wy yung]

Richie Morales.
Richard Bailey.
Anton Fier.
Narada Michael Waldon.
Joey Heredia.
Ndugu Chancler.
Marvin Smith.
Don Brewer.

[michael drums]

Here's three I can add:


1.) Cliff Davies - Ted Nugents' drummer from 1975 - 1981. Always kept up with the
Nuge with his steady pounding. Not to mention his knack for music production.


2.) Kenny Aronoff - Just an awesome studio drummer. Everybody wanted this guy to record with them in the '80s and '90s. And he's still busy today! He doesn't get enough recognition for his outstanding career and ability.

3.) Timm Biery - Frank Marinos' drummer from 1981 - 1991. A tremendously talented drummer who has incredible timing, speed, and intricate chops. I saw him in 1983 in a small club near Baltimore, and I was FLOORED by this guy. I was watching and listening to him as much, if not more, than I was Marino. I believe he's currently touring with Nils Lofgren, and I highly recommend to go see him live. You won't be dissapointed! Play On!! ;-)

[HardcoreLogo]

Ernie Adams.........check out anything he has done with Al Di Meola.
here is some info
http://www.thomasgunther.com/TgTrio-all_files/TgTrio_htm_files/TgTrio_Musicians_Info_sites/ErnieAdamsInfo.htm

[Dr.Hook]

Underated- Anton Fig.

His stuff with Frehley's Comet, and Ace's solo stuff was awesome.

[Madwatch]

Tim Alexander - Primus and Chris Layton - Stevie Ray Vaughn come to mind

[Tama Player]

Hmmm...
Don't know if I ever thought of Billy Cobham as under-rated...

Well why not? I never hear him on anything. The only reason I happened to fall upon him was because I was doing some random browsing, here when I was new and came across him. He is and amazing fusion drummer. you have to love Birds Of Fire, one ofmy favorites and fun to play along to.

Peace
AGR

[michael drums]

Well, I have to concur with LinearDrummer that Billy Cobham is NOT under-rated by any stretch of the imagination. He's a "Drum God" according to Modern Drummer and one of the most creative drummers ever. He's been in the industry for 40 years and has given us drumming that revolutionized the 70's and his ability is legendary. And is still marveled at today. He also broke the mold with his ambidextrous style of playing. To say he is under-rated couldn't be further from the truth. His "body of work" speaks for itself. Play On!

[murphinelli]

Well, I have to concur with LinearDrummer that Billy Cobham is NOT under-rated by any stretch of the imagination. He's a "Drum God" according to Modern Drummer and one of the most creative drummers ever. He's been in the industry for 40 years and has given us drumming that revolutionized the 70's and his ability is legendary. And is still marveled at today. He also broke the mold with his ambidextrous style of playing. To say he is under-rated couldn't be further from the truth. His "body of work" speaks for itself. Play On!

Agree with ya'll. Cobham is in no way under-rated. If you personally are not familiar with him, that does not equate to under-rated. A drummer from the same era, within the same early fusion genre, that IS under-rated would be (IMO) Lenny White. Under-rated in the sense that he does not get a lot of "press" here and that Cobham probably overshadowed him...perhaps, IMHO....

[wy yung]

I think Billy moving to Europe lowered his profile a bit in the US. The same thing seems to have happened to Kenny Clarke and a number of others.

I'm suprised people think guys like Aronoff and ?uestlove are underated seeing as though they keep winning MD readers polls.

[michael drums]

I think Billy moving to Europe lowered his profile a bit in the US. The same thing seems to have happened to Kenny Clarke and a number of others.

I'm suprised people think guys like Aronoff and ?uestlove are underated seeing as though they keep winning MD readers polls.

Hello wy yung. The reason I think Kenny Aronoff is under-rated is that no one outside of the music business seems to want to ever mention him and what he's accomplished. Yes, the people he works with and has contact with think the world of him. But everyone else acts like they don't know him and what he's contributed to so many different artists throughout his career. He's one of my favorite drummers that no one seems to mention. Thanks...Play On!

[Tama Player]

Modern drummer does do that, I understand, (especially with Neil Peart) But he really doesnt get any recognition anywhere else, as far as I know. I could be wrong, but I doubt I am.

Peace
AGR

[DWfan20005]

Has anyone ever thought of Brad Wilk as being under-rated. C'mon people,use some common sense! His work in Rage Against The Machine was amazing. If you do not believe me just check out RATM's album Evil Empire. He does what a drummer is supposed to do in a band which is serve the music and keep time. You can not find anything bad with his drumming style. He even started using cross sticking and cowbell more often. Besides it is not like he brags about his drumming like Metallica's Lars Ulrich,who is not that good a drummer. He also has great chemistry with bassist Tim Commeford ,plus his drum kit sounds great. Paiste cymbals and Gretsch drums,gotta love it. It might just be the Audioslave fan in me talking but not many people talk of Brad Wilk so I think he is under-rated.

[DiP]

Do you know Graham Broad ? He is a great drummer, solid playing, nice fils nice groove and technique. He is the drummer who plays on Roger Waters' live shows. I saw him this summer. Incredible drummer. Get the dvd In the Flesh (Roger Waters) and see him. It makes Pink Floyd songs sound even better!

[DWfan20005]

Do you know Graham Broad ? He is a great drummer, solid playing, nice fils nice groove and technique. He is the drummer who plays on Roger Waters' live shows. I saw him this summer. Incredible drummer. Get the dvd In the Flesh (Roger Waters) and see him. It makes Pink Floyd songs sound even better!

I've never heard of him unfortunately. Does he have any drum solos or instructional videos on the internet?

[DiP]

I 've never seen stuff like videos and solos with him on the web, but you can hear him with Roger Waters at iTunesMusicStore
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=1164361&s=143441

If you don't use iTunes search anywhere for the Roger Waters CD: In the Flesh (Live)


From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Graham Broad (born 10 March 1957 in London, England) is an accomplished drummer who has been playing professionally since the age of fifteen, after attending the Royal College of Music in 1970.
His works have spanned decades with many artists such as Roger Waters, Tina Turner, The Beach Boys, Jeff Beck, Van Morrison, Bryan Adams, Bill Wyman, George Michael and many others. [1].
Broad has been mostly playing with ex-Pink Floyd frontman Roger Waters, since 1987, where he played the drums on Waters' Radio KAOS album and following tour. In 1990, Waters along with his "Bleeding Heart Band", which Broad was a member of, performed The Wall Concert in Berlin. In 1992, he played on Waters' third solo album, Amused To Death. In 1999, Waters' invited him to join him on his In the Flesh tour, which spanned three years from 1999 to 2001. Broad is also participating on The Dark Side of the Moon Live tour, which began in March 2006.
He is a band member of Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings, and was featured on their album, Double Bill.



I saw him on the The Dark Side of the Moon Live tour in 2006...

[cnw60]

Somebody else can correct me if I'm wrong, but I did a search of the entire site and found no mention of Bill Berry from REM.

He strikes me as one of those guys that never does anything flashy to make you really take notice of him, but at the same time, this is a band that is equivalent of U2 in some respects. They defined an entire era and generation of music and sustained their success over a long time (at least in pop music terms) and across a variety of stylistic changes. Bill's drumming is an integral part of the band's success, so seeing no prior mention of him leads me to nominate him for most under-rated.

[Tama Player]

Do you know Graham Broad ?

Oh yes! I have heard many good things about him! I second that he's underrated.

Peace
AGR

[_Ryan_]

Don't know if this has been mentioned or not but I think Shannon Leto from 30 Seconds to mars is a under rated drummer. His beats are solid and he is very creative. If you've heard the song "The Fantasy" of their "A Beautiful Lie" album then you will know what Im talking about.

[Skynman]

Frank Beard ZZ TOP He plays the drums with style and has a really cool sound that sets ZZ TOP apart from other bands!

[Afrolicious]

Nathan Followill, the drummer of "Kings of Leon". Listen to tracks like "Taper Jean Girl", his drumming is so simple sometimes, at one part he just plays the bell of the ride on the offbeat and NOTHING else and it suits the music perfectly.

[syoshii]

I think Japanese jazz drummer Takeo Moriyama is one of the most under-rated veterans.
I'm not sure if he matches this thread's theme because he has awesome hands & foot techniques, but his play is not like so-called technical drummer. His play is really emotional and strong with extremely high intensity.
He has never played in the United States, but he played in Europe (Moers, Berlin, Heidelberg, Ljubljana, etc) as the drummer of a bassless free-jazz band Yosuke Yamashita Trio in the 70's. Moriyama's play during this period is very unique and just outstanding & overwhelming - you can hear it in some of Yosuke Yamashita Trio's albums such as CLAY (Enja, recorded live at Moers in 1974) or CHIASMA (MPS, recorded live at Heidelberg in 1975). Maybe you will feel like it's more like "progressive rock with blast beat" than jazz. I guess Yamashita Trio w/ Moriyama in this period is one of the best free-jazz band in the world.
Moriyama changed his style to more traditional one after he quit Yamashita's band, but still his style is very unique. Recently he recorded two leader albums w/ George Garzone as a guest. Also he sometimes makes "reunion" with Yamashita and Akira Sakata (alto sax & clarinet, who was playing with Moriyama and Yamashita in CLAY and CHIASMA), and even now - all of them are over 60 y/o - they can play as they did in the 70's. I hope Moriyama with Yamashita and Sakata will have an opportunity to play in a big stage like Modern Drummer Festival before they become too old.

[jimmyq]

I think Alex from the spanish rock group MANA is totally underrated! His rythms are structurally magnificent and accents are perfect. I don't hear much about him or any other spanish rock drummers! Just my opinion!

[rendezvous_drummer]

The drummer of Atomship and Guano Apes are pretty wicked I must say.

[Mr. Pasquini]

I would say Brann Dailor, but I think anyone who has actually listened to him knows he's incredible.

Phil Collins is the most underrated in my eyes.

[bermuda]

It's hard to say who's under-rated, since it's often just a matter of familiarity (or sometimes lack of familiarity) with artists and their drummers. There are many names presented here who I rate very highly, and who I think enjoy the appropriate respect among drummers and in the music world. But I'd agree that there are a number of drummers who are overlooked and who seem to have fallen between the cracks.

One such drummer who remained in the shadows is Dennis St John, best known for playing with Neil Diamond from 1971-1981, an especially successful period for Diamond. Nowadays, a drummer at that level would be the cover story on MD, but as Dennis has been out of the spotlight for 25 years, nobody ever got around to talking about him.

Granted, until MD emerged around 1977, there really weren't any dedicated drum magazines, so a lot of players weren't featured during their heyday. But with DRUM! and MD going stronger than ever, and Not So Modern Drummer and Classic Drummer filling the obvious gaps left by those two, and newcomer Drumhead, there's almost no excuse for not giving a nod to some of the unsung heroes.

And I made it my mission to do just that.

I've just completed an interview with Dennis, which will appear in the April/May/June issue of Classic Drummer. I won't copy the article here, but hopefully the introduction to the article will whet your appettites:

"The name may not be instantly recognizable, but Dennis St John was a busy boy during the sixties and seventies, touring and recording with top artists and drumming on sixteen top-10 records and over fifty Gold and Platinum albums. If you’ve ever heard “Let Your Love Flow” or “Spooky” or “Spiders & Snakes” or Linda Ronstadt’s “Desperado” or Neil Diamond’s “Forever In Blue Jeans” or “America”, then you’ve heard just a small sampling of the hundreds of recordings featuring his playing. He has several production credits, has participated in Command Performances for the British Royal Family, and has had regional nominations for the NARAS Best Studio Drummer and Most Valuable Player awards."

This is his first interview ever for a drum magazine, and I'm very proud to have been involved!

Bermuda

[bahdumbump]

I definitely must add Joey Heredia and Kirk Covington.

I saw Heredia play with Tribal Tech when they opened for Miles in 91. AWESOME! People were milling about their seats chatting when the band started up and you could see everyone just stop in their tracks, jaws dropping. The guys was a monster that night and on their recordings.

I haven't had a chance to see Covington live (or even on video!) but have most of Tribal Tech's stuff and still listen in awe even after hearing the tunes zillions of times. Check out track 2 on Reality Check. The drum / guitar "duet" section of the song kills. 'nuff said.

[Tubs player]

I say Pat Torpey and Mike Johnston
they're solo

[bonzolead]

Joey Castillo is under-rated and he is a sick drummer he should defianantly be on this site
is that Randy's Castillo brother?the old drummer of OZZY

Bonzolead

[bonzolead]

Mark Zonder of fates warning I think is very under-rated.also Troy L. Tesla's drummer is under-rated also.


Bonzolead

[DWfan20005]

I forgot to mention Matt Sorum, amazing style and always gives the groove 110%.

[groovemaster_flex]

Matt Cameron!
I haven't really heard much about this guy.
But he's a SOLID groover.
Especially on Pearl Jam.
That guy, is just insane.
I have the Pearl Jam "Live at the Garden" DVD.
And that man keeps a solid groove.
Even through whatsisnames 3 hour long guitar solos.
Good drummer.
Wicked jobs.
Funny faces :)

[JRH7]

I wouldn't say he is the most under-rated drummer but, definitely under-rated. Matt Johnson who was the drummer with late Jeff Buckley. His playing on the album GRACE is soooo tasteful, He locks in to some great grooves but also has some great chops. If any of you have never listened to Jeff Buckley, I highly suggest picking up the album GRACE. As far a alternative rock goes it is a work of art. Jeff Buckley was probably one of the best male singer/song writers to exist in his time if not of all time. If you are into alternative rock, this album will be a influence on you as musician and a drummer.

Most under-rated drummer: Jeff Sipe of Hellberg, Sipe and Lane. This guy is incredible!

Jamie

[tomsmithkinross]

Sum 41 may not be a great band i don't even like punk but some of the stuff that this guy does is incredible. Also through his playing comes his attitude.
He is incredibly fast, he manages to sing while drumming at tempos higher than 200 beats per minute, atleast. Yeah so......mmmmm!!!!

[Emiltrommari]

Dominic howard, Muse nobody really seems to give him the credit he deserves...

Listen to songs like Butterflies and Hurricanes and Hyper music to see what i mean...

I so agree!
I've been listening too Muse much lately and I've been thinking alot about how under-rated he is! And also i'd like to say that Matt Bellamy's singing is really great, and not just some whining, like some people say.

[Budiesel]

Mark O'Connell from Taking Back Sunday is a pretty solid drummer. I don't know if people give him credit, but I don't see many people talking about him.

[crumbdrums]

John McEntire for The Sea And Cake. Just listen to The Kiss off of The Biz. Great stuff.

[jordison266]

Yeah.
Dave Grohl I reckon, in Nirvana, simple beats and perfect fills.
No 200bpm blasting, or flashy fills, just worked the song and made it right
without being too technical and over the top.
Bands like Dream Theater and Tool are great, but sometimes I think it's nice to have a little break from thinking.
Also, Taylor Hawkin's a pretty wicked drummer, much like Castillo from QOTSA.

[RyanVZ1]

Probably have to say Steve Gadd.... Carter Beaford doesn't get enough recognition either... here's proof (small clip of a song..),brace yourself... http://www.sendspace.com/file/dxr4nc

[Skacatz]

The drummer that currently plays with Earth, Wind & Fire. I believe his name is John Paris but I haven't been able to find anything about him. Tried a Google search, but not much help.

[drum.lad]

joey castillo is pretty under rated evrybody thinks quuens of the stone age oh dave grohl(I LOVE HIM) no one even knows him at all and he is amazing saw the queens last weekend and his stage presance is amazing just as good as josh's and he plays a mean drums.Also kenny arnoff is amazing and no one even fully sees what he has done for modern music.most over rated drummer joey jordinson i know it aint the topic but his only fans are 13 year old who want to go fast and that aint what drumming is about

[bonzolead]

Don Brewer from Grand Funk is totally under-rated also Steve Miller's drummer forgot his name see how under-rated he is LOL Sully from Godsmack believe it or not is a good drummer also.

Keep Swatting,
Bonzolead

[Gene Smasher]

Dave McClain of Machine head is also really under-rated... He's really good. Really consistent and talented. I really don't know why so few people know about him.

Sully Erna also... He doesn't play drums in any band I know of though... But that drum-off impressed me.

[Gene Smasher]

I think Wuv of P.O.D. and Chad Butler of Switchfoot are horribly underrated. They're really good drummers just that they don't get recognition because they're drummers in Christian bands. Wuv especially. He's one of my favourite drummers.

[RyanVZ1]

Let's see someone nail that minute and half solo i put up here... I think it's safe to say 85% of drummers won't be able to do that solo...

[aydee]

Gregg Bissonnette , the single most underrated drummer.....ever.period.

[nebula821]

Dino Campanella....DREDG

[Erik Lund]

I think Japanese jazz drummer Takeo Moriyama is one of the most under-rated veterans.
I'm not sure if he matches this thread's theme because he has awesome hands & foot techniques, but his play is not like so-called technical drummer. His play is really emotional and strong with extremely high intensity.
He has never played in the United States, but he played in Europe (Moers, Berlin, Heidelberg, Ljubljana, etc) as the drummer of a bassless free-jazz band Yosuke Yamashita Trio in the 70's. Moriyama's play during this period is very unique and just outstanding & overwhelming - you can hear it in some of Yosuke Yamashita Trio's albums such as CLAY (Enja, recorded live at Moers in 1974) or CHIASMA (MPS, recorded live at Heidelberg in 1975). Maybe you will feel like it's more like "progressive rock with blast beat" than jazz. I guess Yamashita Trio w/ Moriyama in this period is one of the best free-jazz band in the world.
Moriyama changed his style to more traditional one after he quit Yamashita's band, but still his style is very unique. Recently he recorded two leader albums w/ George Garzone as a guest. Also he sometimes makes "reunion" with Yamashita and Akira Sakata (alto sax & clarinet, who was playing with Moriyama and Yamashita in CLAY and CHIASMA), and even now - all of them are over 60 y/o - they can play as they did in the 70's. I hope Moriyama with Yamashita and Sakata will have an opportunity to play in a big stage like Modern Drummer Festival before they become too old.




Hello. Curious: What do you think of Otomo Yoshihide's ONJQ? I think that's one of the best bands working today. The album "LIVE" is amazing - well..."Flutter" and "Eureka" are and that's enough to make me talk about it. Those pieces are so amazing...




Anyway - it seems that people just like throwing out names that don't get recommended that much. You want an underrated drummer? Jesus, how about Joe Chambers. I won't even break into my obscure list of drummers I think are absolutely more important than 99% of the dregs most people worship. But man, Joe Chambers was a direct extension of Elvin and Tony and a bunch of other great drummers, and he absolutely KILLED it on some of those late 60's Wayne Shorter Blue Note records....Great drummer. No one seemes to know him...Jump off a cliff.

[jonescrusher]

Gary Novak. How does this guy never get mentioned?

[DWfan20005]

imo the most underated drum is Ryan Vikedal, Nickelback's old drummer.

[aydee]

yeah.....Gary Novak!

[criz p. critter]

Terry Chambers of XTC. I started a thread on him in the Drummers forum a coupla weeks ago and no one has posted a reply yet! In a website by, for, and about drummers, no one knows/cares who Terry Chambers is? I think that definitely classifies him as under-rated.

I've always thought he was very original and had a great, huge ambient sound. I used to be the biggest Police/Stuart Copeland fan, but when I saw both bands share a bill at UC Santa Barbara many years ago, I was more impressed with Chambers than Copeland. (Probably gonna catch a flame or two for saying that!!)

C'mon people, check out some of XTC's tracks on iTunes or elsewhere and see if he deserves a little better.

[rhythmjunkie]

In regards to the Gary Novak comment: I think Gary novak is "world-class" as a musician. He plays with, really, some of the most artistic and musically gifted artists in the world. The people he plays with, only people that, really, seek after top-level musicianship are exposed to. Like many of the top-rate musicians whom most people have never heard of, that play on all the major records and in the most renowned auditoriums. I think that, in that scene, these guys (that play at the level of Novak) are hidden treasures that are found only by those that seek after, in a sense, the pinnacle of artistry. ...seek, and you will find... (Mt. 7:7)

[jonescrusher]

I think that, in that scene, these guys (that play at the level of Novak) are hidden treasures that are found only by those that seek after, in a sense, the pinnacle of artistry. ...seek, and you will find... (Mt. 7:7)

Well, I do rather like to think of myself as a seeker of the pinnacle of artistry;)

[NIMBY]

brooks wackerman from Bad Religion doesnt get the recognition he deserves, that guy is a freakin' genius!

just have a listen to the outro of "Submission Complete" and see how much he rules.

also his stuff with Suicidal Tendencies is insane

he definetly deserves a page on the proper site

[tak22thegoat]

Tre Cool plays perfect beats and fills. listen to a green day song and tell me if anything is messy, or played wrong.

[DaveyBoy]

Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders. Not many people give him a mention.

[cnw60]

Terry Chambers of XTC. I started a thread on him in the Drummers forum a coupla weeks ago and no one has posted a reply yet! In a website by, for, and about drummers, no one knows/cares who Terry Chambers is? I think that definitely classifies him as under-rated.

I've always thought he was very original and had a great, huge ambient sound. I used to be the biggest Police/Stuart Copeland fan, but when I saw both bands share a bill at UC Santa Barbara many years ago, I was more impressed with Chambers than Copeland. (Probably gonna catch a flame or two for saying that!!)

C'mon people, check out some of XTC's tracks on iTunes or elsewhere and see if he deserves a little better.

Wow - seeing XTC in concert, I envy you. Never even knew about them until well after they stopped touring. They are one of my favorite bands of all time - they exemplify what pop music could be when approached with incredible intelligence and musicality.

[rendezvous_drummer]

Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders. Not many people give him a mention.

He is a really good drummer. I love his grooves and his playing feels as if.....i can;t really describe it.....BAH!

[JWM]

Every other drummer in Nashville.

[LinearDrummer]

Gregg Bissonnette , the single most underrated drummer.....ever.period.

Gregg is highy respected player in the drum community.....
He's been featured on DVDs such as Buddy Rich Memorial Concert, Zildjian Days, AUDW, Burning for Buddy and much more....

Don't get me wrong cause think he's an incredible player...I just don't see how he's under-rated....


Gary Novak. How does this guy never get mentioned?

AGREE!

[aydee]

Don't get me wrong cause think he's an incredible player...I just don't see how he's under-rated....


....because he's so much better than incredible ; )..

no seriously, he does'nt get the respect he deserves from the music industry. He is called for a session if Vinnie is not available. He is also not associated with any famous songs ( e.g. Steve Gadd with 50 ways.. ). Being known mainly as a clinican isnt fulfilling his musical potential IMO.

.....AND Neil Peart takes lessons from him occasionally.

Life isnt fair.

[fourstringdrums]

....because he's so much better than incredible ; )..

no seriously, he does'nt get the respect he deserves from the music industry. He is called for a session if Vinnie is not available. He is also not associated with any famous songs ( e.g. Steve Gadd with 50 ways.. ). Being known mainly as a clinican isnt fulfilling his musical potential IMO.

.....AND Neil Peart takes lessons from him occasionally.

Life isnt fair.

But he played with David Lee Roth. How could you not garner fame from that? :) I actually recognized him from all the videos I saw of him with Roth in the 80's.

[GW Drums]

Deen Castronovo-Journey, Myron Grombacher-Pat Benatar, Denny Carmassi-Heart & Montrose, Aynsly Dunbar, Clem Burke-Blondie, Simon Kirke-Bad Co.

[michael drums]

Well...


Guy Gelso deserves mentioning. FOR SURE! ;-)


The drummer for Zebra, if you didn't know that...


Play On! :-)

[Taylor]

Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders. Not many people give him a mention.

because he's not very good

[gloryrun]

Alex Van Halen, doesn't get his props for obvious reasons with all the drama and amazing guitar work, but he's always been there as the real solid foundation of that band always gave the song what it needed, no less and no more.

[spartacus1989]

Justin Foley - Killswitch Engage
I'm not a big fan of black metal drummers, but after hearing some of the technical grooves that he plays, I have changed my mind!

Don't believe me?
-arms of sorrow - killswitch engage


No more said

[nickg]

i'll bet nobody ever mentions Thom Mooney. he played drums with Nazz (Todd Rundgren's first successful band). great stuff, especially his work on "Nazz Nazz".

later on he become musical director for Melissa Manchester, if i'm not mistaken.

[Diaz]

Has anyone ever heard of Mike Johnston? He is a beast behind the skins, getting pretty big on youtube... I would definitely take lessons with him if I was out in CA. Check him online www.mikeslessons.com, or on youtube, he's very very talented.

My vote is he should get put up on the watchlist

[michael drums]

And...


I saw Scott Phillips of Alter Bridge, formerly of Creed, last week and...


OMG! He's certaintly gotta be considered as "under-rated". What a drummer! WOW! ;-)


Check him out.


Peace...

[hedge]

I'm probably ganna get shot down in my first post but....
Andy Hurley of Fall Out Boy (Hides)
Listen to anything off From Under The Cork Tree...Seriously!

[zazzypuddinginatube]

Chad Smith (RHCP) has really licious groove sometimes and he has a curtain funk that is very fun.

[zazzypuddinginatube]

Terry Bozzio mis also amazing but not very published.

[Paul Quin]

I totally agree with those folks who mentioned Gary Novak, Terry Chambers, Scott Underwood. Some other folks mentioned get a lot of recognition from the drum community and so I don't really see them as being underrated.

One name missing from this list is Leroy Clouden. Leroy has played with Herbie Mann, Joan Osborne, Marc Anthony, the B-52's, plays three songs on Steely Dan's Two Against Nature (Janie Runaway, Almost Gothic, Cousin Dupree) and is on Donald Fagen's solo album Kamakiriad. he has also played Broadway shows and he teaches at the Drummer's Collective. I saw him once long ago playing with Hiram Bullock in the village - he was awesome!

He is a great player - great technique, great pocket - and I bet most of the folks on this forum have never heard of him. The very definition of Underrated.

Paul

[balboa]

ALL OF US!.....................

[syoshii]

Hello. Curious: What do you think of Otomo Yoshihide's ONJQ? I think that's one of the best bands working today. The album "LIVE" is amazing - well..."Flutter" and "Eureka" are and that's enough to make me talk about it. Those pieces are so amazing...

Yes, I agree that ONJQ (and ONJO) is one of the best working Jazz band today. Very unique and avant-garde, but at the same time their music is strongly based on the past tradition of Jazz.
Also I would recommend another unique band called Shibusa Shirazu, an avant-garde big band w/ 2 drummers. This band's expression is a mixture of music (Free-Jazz, Rock, Funk, R&B, Japanese & Asian music, Roma music, etc), dance, art, and play.

[tajtonic]

the dude from ACDC, whoever he was...

the fact that I can't remember his name illustrates my point. He may not have been the most technical drummer, but he could hold down the groove like an m'f'er.. I think what made everyone love ACDC was that guy's time and pocket.

[drumbandit]

Nathan Followill from Kings of Leon, definitely under-rated. He was amazing live when I saw them and he sounds great on all of their albums. The track Mcfearless is great for reference, and he doesn't tend to overplay which is important.

[#choke#]

Justin Foley - Killswitch Engage
I'm not a big fan of black metal drummers, but after hearing some of the technical grooves that he plays, I have changed my mind!

Don't believe me?
-arms of sorrow - killswitch engage


No more said

kse is definately not black metal but true on everything else

[tomk]

Brian Blade (Joshua Redman, Brian Blade Fellowship...), Martin Valihora(sp?)(Hiromi Uehara (sp?) lol), Dave DiSenso, Scott Amendola ( I highly suggest the album Believe by the Scott Amendola Band). There are two songs on his drummerworld page that are off that album. Great drummers. And thats all I can think of right now...O Jeff Ballard, Keith Carlock, Harvey Mason...

[drummerchick435]

Lester Estelle is a good drummer.(He's from the band Pillar)

I totally agree, man!

[StriveForMelody]

My two favorite underrated jazz drummers: Connie Kay and Vernel Fournier. Listen to these guys! They epitomize good taste. Some of Vernel's grooves make the hair on my arms stick up. And Connie's use of cymbals is so deliberate, it's almost cute at times. The exact opposite of Elvin (not that Elvin is bad, just different).

I love Al Jackson, Jr., but most cats appreciate him. James Gadson, the cat who played with Bill Withers, is ridiculous, but I've hardly ever heard a drummer mention him.

[thiscocks]

James Gadson is a v good drummer who is v rarley mentioned.

P.S. I dont see how tre cool is under-rated. For the v monotone stuff he does play I thing hes hugely over rated.

[Paul Quin]

[quote=thiscocks;389377]James Gadson is a v good drummer who is v rarley mentioned.

James Gadson - great call!! Folks seem to foget about Gadson. Go listen to "Use Me" by Bill Withers and deny the man's soul, pocket, groove and funk. Go on - I dare you!

Paul

[rockinrider]

...James Gadson - great call!! Folks seem to foget about Gadson. Go listen to "Use Me" by Bill Withers and deny the man's soul, pocket, groove and funk. Go on - I dare you!

Paul

Yes! James Gadson is definitely worth a listen.

I also feel that Joe Vitale is under-rated. Listen to him on just about any Joe Walsh tune, but especially "At the Station" from But Seriously Folks.

[schist]

i definitely agree that The unknown drummer of Pearl Jam album Ten is really underrated .......... can someone please give me some details about this person ??

The drummer on "Ten" was a guy by the name of Dave Krusen.

[ds1provisioner]

Scott "Flip" Phillips / Creed - Alter Bridge. Incredible self taught drummer.

[gringo998]

george rebello of hot water music. best drummer, soo talented

[yammiefan]

Under-rated in the sense that drum mags don't seem to mention them much (and in no particular order):

Joey Heredia

Paco Sery

Richie Morales

Gary Husband

Billy Hart

Andy Newmark

Ralph Peterson, Jr.

Graham Broad

[Tomtom123]

I feel two of the most under rated guys are New York City drummers:

Pat Petrillo, By FAR and

Shawn Pelton, GREAT Feel and groove, and on lots of records

Many others have already been mentioned, but these two guys are killin' it!

[ludwig_rx]

uhm.. here is my list.


mike johnston - the drum teacher! awesome speed, nice footwork and he breaks down his licks.

dana hawkins - really fast chops.

eric moore - really like the style. he's groovy

i really don't know if these drummers are under-rated, its just i ain't see their names on the drummers list :)

[OldStampK]

Christian Vander, who is virtually unknown in this country, has been in the forefront of progressive drumming since the late 60's. I'd characterize his style as a cross between the best of Billy Cobham and Elvin Jones. Not only is he a fantastic drummer and an intense singer, but he wrote (and still writes) all the music for his band, Magma, AND made up an alien language which is used for all his lyrics. He's truly one-of-a-kind. There are a bunch of clips of him with Magma on YouTube if you're curious

[schist]

There are so many, but since I'm on a Symphony X kick at the moment, I'ma have to name Jason Rullo as one of the most under-rated drummers.

[BringoDingo]

I always thought her music was easy to grasp/enjoy. What's holding you back?

[volume_3]

John Stanier of Battles

[CaptainWaits]

Don't know if he's been mentioned, but Dave King is pretty outstanding and unreal. He plays for The Bad Plus, Happy Happle, Halloween Alaska....just to name a few. Here's a clip/ solo of a "The Bad Plus" song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4auW8F8mQE

[Dr. Neaux]

Oscar Seaton, who's played with Lee Ritenour. This guy is one of my favorites. The dude can flat groove! Check out Lee Ritenour on youtube doing Papa Was A Rolling Stone. They lay down a FAT groove!

[bojangleman]

are you serious?..haha well, he might be decent..but the band overall sucks...

I'm probably ganna get shot down in my first post but....
Andy Hurley of Fall Out Boy (Hides)
Listen to anything off From Under The Cork Tree...Seriously!

haha...chad smith is pretty famous...and awesome!

Chad Smith (RHCP) has really licious groove sometimes and he has a curtain funk that is very fun.

i totally agree!

ALL OF US!.....................


Alex

[joeybeats]

They both have pages here, and have both played in BR memorial gatherings, so how underrated can they really be. Bernhard gets it anyway. But still, these are two guys who rarely get the accolades they seem to deserve around here ... Omar Hakim plays as relaxed and melodically as anyone I've seen. And Marvin Smitty Smith, another guy who makes drumming look effortless with the usual Berklee alum chops and tasty playing.

If you haven't seen them play, here are two youtubes for you. Joey

Hakim
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCJeQaDvZEg


Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQFnMN6Tqnc&feature=related

[nick_bailey]

Matt Helders from Arctic Monkeys

His 16ths are badass

[zzdrummer]

Michael Barker- John Butler Trio
Underrated band, underrated drummer, dudes got chops, rythym, a good sense of time, and can lay down a nice beat.
Solo- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lm5wnAEv1Jo
Song w/ the trio- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DL6VeE0Iyho
Guy just gives off energy live...insane

[aydee]

Dave DiCenso ( TWO TON SHOE ).. thank god for MD 2006, which gave a glimpse of him to the drummer fraternity at large
.

[zzdrummer]

Oscar Seaton, who's played with Lee Ritenour. This guy is one of my favorites. The dude can flat groove! Check out Lee Ritenour on youtube doing Papa Was A Rolling Stone. They lay down a FAT groove!

Just checked him out on youtube...dude can flat out lay down a groove...I love the feel of guys like Oscar, Jeff Ballard and Brian Blade who don't have to play the jazz ride cymbal pattern to swing a jazz song.

[Random User Name]

Nathan Richarson (The Casket Lottery)
Gavin McCarthy (Karate)
Gil Sharone (The Dillinger Escape Plan).

[TheDharmaBum]

Mike kinsella - owls and plays on his solo albums as he's not mainly a drummer. Very unique style

Cale Parks - Aloha

Cornbread Compton- engine down

Scott Tiemann - Avec

Ryan Rapsys - euphone/ambulette

damon atkinson - braid/hey mercedes

zach hill - hella

damon che- don caballero

theres others but I need to get back to work.

[Skitch]

Under-rated in the sense that drum mags don't seem to mention them much (and in no particular order):

Joey Heredia

Paco Sery

Richie Morales

Gary Husband

Billy Hart

Andy Newmark

Ralph Peterson, Jr.

Graham Broad

All of these are great drummers! Phil Gould from Level 42 comes to mind, as well as Rinog Star, but he has probably already been mentioned several time over!

Mike

http://www.mikemccraw.com
http://www.dominoretroplate.com

http://www.youtube.com/drummermikemccraw
http://www.myspace.com/drummermikemccraw

[rhythmjunkie]

Dave Dicenso. The guys a "monster" and you hear about his work at Berklee, he was even called "The future of drumming" by Steve Smith, but there are guys in drum circles who have never heard of him. We need to get the word out. Dave dicenso is a "monster."

[rhythmjunkie]

Dave DiCenso ( TWO TON SHOE ).. thank god for MD 2006, which gave a glimpse of him to the drummer fraternity at large
.

After I put up this post I scrolled down, to see none other than Aydee on the same page. Rock on.

However, Dicenso's probably been mentioned like thirty times on this thread.

[rhythmjunkie]

*Official*

*Most Under-Rated Drummer*

Gary Novak


HaHa

[aydee]

*Official*

*Most Under-Rated Drummer*

Gary Novak


HaHa

Totally absolutely agree. What an incredible bad ass, and no one knows him. Everyone knows Vinnie and Weckl..

[rhythmjunkie]

He's like, really artistic though. It's not like he plays with Hillary Duff, like Vinnie. You can see him in 30 passenger clubs across the country with some of the most artistic musicians, and know he's sick. But, I'm positive he makes enough dough to pay his mortgage.

[fourstringdrums]

I don't know if he has been mentioned but Doug Clifford from Creedence Clearwater Revival

[GW Drums]

I don't know if he has been mentioned but Doug Clifford from Creedence Clearwater Revival


YES!!! GREAT BAND AND DRUMMER!! CLASSIC!

[Skitch]

*Official*

*Most Under-Rated Drummer*

Gary Novak


HaHa


I very much agree! Gary is one of those guys who can really play it all and is extremely nice to boot!


Mike

http://www.mikemccraw.com
http://www.dominoretroplate.com

http://www.youtube.com/drummermikemccraw
http://www.myspace.com/drummermikemccraw

[TenPastTen]

Even though he is mainstream and has a bio here on DW, I think Joey Kramer of Aerosmith is one of the most under-rated groove monsters. He has done the iconic (Walk This Way) and the understated (Dream On), but if get your hands on Mother Popcorn from Live Bootleg, you will find one of the funkiest grooves laid down on vinyl. Clyde himself would be proud.

Also Jean-Paul Gaster of Clutch is power not seen since Bonzo himself - yeah, I said it. All his work shows his power but Immortal and the title track from Pure Rock Fury album are true highlights. Just hands of stone; but he is the master of them rather than the other way around. If Bonzo was around he would definitely be nodding to the beat.

[GW Drums]

I think Mickey Curry is a great drummer.

[OldStampK]

I've also gotta go with some of the names mentioned up earlier in the thread.

Papa Joe Jones
Joe Chambers
Terry Chambers (I saw The Police and XTC during that same tour and would have to say that XTC gave The Police a very hard act to follow.)

Here's another name to throw out into the void.
Pete La Roca

[oikroitnik]

don rathbone of the hollies...while listen to 60s compilations to drum along and learn by.I would find my self confronted beats/fills that were clearly a class apart...Don Rathbone I take my hat off to ya...

[Citizen Insane]

I think Alen Wren (The Stone Roses) Topper Headon (The Clash) are hugely under-rated despite being in extremely influential bands. It is shame, I think that both of them are innovators. With Topper Headon being able to convincingly mix reggea and funk styles into his drumming (Something I find a lot rock guys can't do.) And with Alen Wen being one of the first drummers to utilize a three piece set.




Not to mention is their fantastic playing.

[brittc89]

Tom Rainey gets like zero exposure, which is a shame because hes a brilliant musician.

[Skinsman38]

Didn't see anyone list George Hurley of The Minutemen and fIREHOSE. That guy deserves some props. Had a kind of speed jazz punk rock style. It was slightly erratic but the guy had fast fast hands. I liked that he would come up with unconventional rhythm patterns for the songs. Skilled guy and of course he'd have to be to play with Mike Watt.

Also, like another guy posted, Alan Wren from the Stone Roses was a really big influence on me back in the early 90's. Just a solid, dynamic and tasty groovy drummer. Even used brushes...how many rock drummers do that? Even back in the late 80's it was unusual. I remember reading something that Pete Townsend said about Wren. He said something to the effect of, he hadn't heard such a unique and skilled rock drum voice since Keith Moon.

I've always enjoyed Mel Gaynor's playing with Simple Minds in the 80's. What I liked about Mel was that he wouldn't overplay, his beats were strong and polished and as a result I almost took his playing for granted. The more I listened to Simple Minds the more I realized that it's very skillful to play for the song that way.

[Skinsman38]

Didn't see anyone list George Hurley of The Minutemen and fIREHOSE. That guy deserves some props. Had a kind of speed jazz punk rock style. It was slightly erratic but the guy had fast fast hands. I liked that he would come up with unconventional rhythm patterns for the songs. Skilled guy and of course he'd have to be to play with Mike Watt.

Also, like another guy posted, Alan Wren from the Stone Roses was a really big influence on me back in the early 90's. Just a solid, dynamic and tasty groovy drummer. Even used brushes...how many rock drummers do that? Even back in the late 80's it was unusual. I remember reading something that Pete Townsend said about Wren. He said something to the effect of, he hadn't heard such a unique and skilled rock drum voice since Keith Moon.

I've always enjoyed Mel Gaynor's playing with Simple Minds in the 80's. What I liked about Mel was that he wouldn't overplay, his beats were strong and polished and as a result I almost took his playing for granted. The more I listened to Simple Minds the more I realized that it's very skillful to play for the song that way.

[DaveyBoy]

Phill Selway from Radiohead

[Citizen Insane]

Phill Selway from Radiohead

Him aswell, I forgot to mention him.

[Ian Ballard]

I don't know about "most", but I think Dale Crover is pretty underrated.

He's been in the Melvins for 23 years, put out like 20+ records with them, played in Nirvana and really invented a style of drumming, as the Melvins invented "Stoner Rock"... or nowadays, "Beard Rock".

He can play S U P E R S L O W tempos very well and accurately, is very creative, sometimes falls off his chair from his power (I know, I generally chastise super hard-hitters, but I have to make an exception with Dale and Dave Grohl because they do it well) and it a super cool guy in person...

Story: I saw the Melvins in '04. At that time, my band (Kinda Melvins-y sorta) had a demo. I nervously gave him one and he kindly accepted it. I figured he'd wipe his ass with it and throw it out the bus window. But he actually came back out of the "green room" sometime later and said, "Damn, you're a badass drummer". THIS WAS DALE CROVER TALKING TO ME!! He didn't say much about the music, but we hung out, had a shot and beer and that was that.

;)

[bcarson27]

One drummer who I think doesn't get enough credit is Benny Greb.

He can lay down a groove like a beast.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhiY--Flcas

[dc2]

Stan Lynch!!!...former drummer for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers!!

His grooves, style, and simplicity are just great. He plays for the song...nothing more and nothing less. He's also a great guy and one of the most humble people in the business.

[Mystic]

Ginger Fish (Marilyn Manson)

[TheIronCobr4]

I didn't read every page to see if he was mentioned but Jean-Paul Gaster of Clutch is underrated. He can lay down a groove like its nobody's business.

[jay norem]

I don't know if he's been mentioned yet, but I'm listening to him now. Ben Riley. No flash, no fireworks, just solid tasteful jazz drumming, the perfect drummer for Monk.

[peach_tx]

Didn't see anyone list George Hurley of The Minutemen and fIREHOSE. That guy deserves some props. Had a kind of speed jazz punk rock style. It was slightly erratic but the guy had fast fast hands. I liked that he would come up with unconventional rhythm patterns for the songs. Skilled guy and of course he'd have to be to play with Mike Watt.


Totally agree with this one. I never saw the Minutemen live but saw fIREHOSE many times and Hurley just killed it every time. Big influence on me as far as the funk/punk thing goes...
Also Jerry Gaskill from King's X. Very influential, but not many people know about him...

[jdzzz]

Martin Lopez..
Ex-drummer of opeth...
One drummer i feel isn't that popular among the people....
His style of drumming...playin some insane stuff with his hands while his feet are goin 200bpm...the work on windowpane,drapery falls...ahh i love that....
its a pity he is suffering from a rare disease causing him panic attacks and all....
hope he gets well soon and is soon back...


PS:sorry if this has been discussed earlier...

[Ced91071]

I have searched for Tony Thompson (R.I.P.) & I am unable to find him ANYWHERE here so I included his name in this thread!

[Random User Name]

Check out Heath Metzger of Mock Orange. Excellent feel.

[crdirtRider856]

I like totally forget the name of the band, but like I know the singer's name is like Led? or somethin like that..I cant remember. But like, the drummer is pretty good. They call him like, Gonzo or something . Has any body like, heard of them? I think the drummer was like soooo good! OMG!!!





OK that was just not as funny as I thought it would be....Seriously though, Stephen Perkins should be known as an innovator. And although Gavin Harrison is known by most of us here, the average Joey Jordisan fan would probably look at you as if you were explaining quantum physics.

[kwolf68]

One of the most under-rated drummers in my view was

John Stanier, he was the original drummer for the band Helmet.

[FunkyJazzer]

Karl Brazil of James Blunt's group.

[Jsk36]

Eric Kretz from stone temple pilots.

Matt cameron, I know a lot may know him, but he will always deserve wayyyyy more appreciation.

Sean Kinney from Alice in Chains.

and Glenn Kotche.

[jonescrusher]

One of the most under-rated drummers in my view was

John Stanier, he was the original drummer for the band Helmet.


He's still on the scene with Battles, but his work with Helmet was definitely underrated. Great player.

[king fail]

The dude from Rage Against the Machine.
Seriously, he could give Chad S. a run for his money.

[Rotgutt]

Kenny Jones doesn't get much credit. He did have the unenviable job of filling in for Keith Moon, but I think the stuff he did for the Small Faces was great.

[metal overlord]

SCOTT TRAVIS - Holy crap this guy is like not heard of even to Judas Priest fans!

Igor Cavalera
Matt Bryne (Hatebreeds drummer, I don't remember his last name so I think I got close)
Vinnie Paul
Dave McClain
Paul Bostaph
Tom Hunting
Charlie Benante
Nick Menza
Ben Carter (Evile, for poeple who don't know)
Phil Rudd

[Baddstuff]

jeff sipe- his work on the 'Personae' album alone kills me
robbie gonzalez- just hear his work with Al DiMeola
don brewer- no chops-meister but solid and I love his playing with Grand Funk
richard bailey of Incognito fame & Beck's Blow By Blow album, this man can groove!
joe franco of Good Rats, Vinnie Moore fame
munetaka higuchi of Japanese metal masters Loudness
stefan kaufmann of German metal band Accept
atma anur of Tony MacAlpine fame
possibly matt abts of Gov't Mule (hopefully not!)
gary novak
brian downey of thin lizzy
possibly the late great carlos vega, what a touch!
mike ianieri (mike who?)
dennis bardford of jeff lorber fame, love his smokin' grooves! His work on Je'ff's 'Wizard Island' album shows what can be done with basically a snare, hi-hat and bass drum.
possibly richie morales of Spyro Gyra fame
tony morales of Rippingtons fame
possibly underappreciated is john guerin of Tom Scott's L.A. Express and others, 34 years later his solo on 'Mondo' still knocks my socks off!

[mikeg]

I didn't see Steve DiStanislao's name mentioned, so I will have to say he is probably under-rated. His playing is very tasteful and some of the more technical things I've heard him play on live recordings were flawless. His recordings with David Gilmour, and David Crosby are some of my favs'.

[Billy Brown]

Steven Drozd (http://www.flaminglips.com/content/band/people/steven01.php?sid=6fabcd83ff8465d5ebbc8451a2ed0447)



12345678901234567890

[DionT]

[QUOTE=Myron Grombacher-Pat Benatar, Denny Carmassi-Heart & Montrose, Aynsly Dunbar, Clem Burke-Blondie, Simon Kirke-Bad Co.[/QUOTE]

Agree 100%..................

[aydee]

Roger Biwandu





....................

[schist]

David Haley (Psycroptic)
Conny Pettersson (Anata)
Rodney Holder (Alchemist)
Mario Duplantier (Gojira)

[rockinrider]

Roger Biwandu

...


Yes! Yes! Yes!




.

[rockinrider]

Joe Vitale....

Has been with Joe Walsh since the '70s. Listen to Walsh's But Seriously Folks album; especially "At the Station".

Or better yet, get the entire Joe Walsh catelog. Vitale plays on most.


.

[Cast]

I think Alen Wren (The Stone Roses) Topper Headon (The Clash) are hugely under-rated despite being in extremely influential bands. It is shame, I think that both of them are innovators. With Topper Headon being able to convincingly mix reggea and funk styles into his drumming (Something I find a lot rock guys can't do.) And with Alen Wen being one of the first drummers to utilize a three piece set.




Not to mention is their fantastic playing.

Major props for citing Alan Wren (aka Reni). That guy was in my opinion one of the most creative guys ever and he could make that tiny set up sound like a huge one. Listen to any Stone Roses song and Reni's tasteful licks make the song.
Alan White (Oasis)-The guy never really got to show his chops and is often put down for playing similar beats but the guy was a very talented drummer. Wonderwall has great fills and Hello just as a great bounce.
Ronnie Vannucci(The Killers)-One of the best drummer out there today. So fun to watch too you can tell he loves his job. He also helped to Inspire me to play the drums.
Larry Mullen Jr (u2)-He plays what his bands needs for the marching Sunday Bloody Sunday to the building With Or Without You.
Ringo Star (Beatles)-I constantly hear people bash him but the guy was a genius day in the life.
Fabrizio Moretti (The Strokes)-He is nice and tight but can swing a bit. He isn't my favorite drummer ever but i like his style and how his drums sound.
Darren Jessee (Ben Folds Five)-Holy Cow this dude can play. Sure Ben Folds Five got off sometimes live and Jessee wasn't the most precise drummer ever but the dude had passion for the drums. Imagine the sound of an early Keith Moon kinda jazzy but still the can rock. Selfless, Cold and Composed is just brilliant love it plus the guy is a great songwriter.

[Nickkk]

J.R Conners (Cave-In + Doomriders)

and Guy Davies (Reuben *r.i.p*)

and Brian Downey (Thin Lizzy)

in the pantheon of great rock bands of the 70's, they're always sidestepped by the general public. despite endorsments from alot of major contemporary rock/metal bands out there. tis a crime! Downeys body of work with them stands up to any of his peers at the time in my humble opinion.

however i did hear 'Sarah' from the Black Rose album played on radio2 this morning..which if you dont know the song is a shockingly grim piece of fluff! even for a tongue in cheek send-up experiment by the band, its inexcuseable lol

[drummydude]

Totally agree with this one. I never saw the Minutemen live but saw fIREHOSE many times and Hurley just killed it every time. Big influence on me as far as the funk/punk thing goes...
Also Jerry Gaskill from King's X. Very influential, but not many people know about him...

I'll second that one. Kings X is a great band and Jerry's drumming a big reason why. Now I need to go and dig out some of my Kings X music and play along.

[diffledoy]

Albert Bouchard-Blue Oyster Cult (Listen to their 1st 3 albums)
Mick Tucker-Sweet (Maybe the most under rated rock drummer ever)
Chad Gracey-Live
Phil Ehart-Kansas

And I know there are tons more. This is my second post on Drummerworld...Cool Site!

[supermac]

Billy Cobham never seems to get the credit he deserves.

He was/is a monster and massive inspiration

[Baddstuff]

Billy Cobham never seems to get the credit he deserves.

He was/is a monster and massive inspiration

Really? As far as I know Billy gets lots of credit, even among rock drummers. The way he burst onto the scene one couldn't help but notice him and be in awe.
Two drummers I know for sure NEVER get any respect are the late Munetaka Higuchi of Loudness and Stefan Kaufmann of the German metal band Accept.

[jasonrhcp]

My list of 5 deserving more accolades would include:

Paul Johns
Pat Petrillo
Chris Dave
Chris Coleman
Jeff Hamilton

[nfiora]

I didn't read every page to see if he was mentioned but Jean-Paul Gaster of Clutch is underrated. He can lay down a groove like its nobody's business.

You are sooo right man I recently went to see Clutch. Gaster is just solid and realy different. He has a styal u cant describ unless u see him play. Deffinatly needs more credit.

[Construct]

Dave Haley
Darren Cesca
Lord Marco

[davidr]

Matt Johnson (Jeff Buckley). Listen to Grace carefully. He's doing so much just under the radar to make the songs feel that good. Watch him live at chicago. He's one of the best ever

[davidr]

I wouldn't say he is the most under-rated drummer but, definitely under-rated. Matt Johnson who was the drummer with late Jeff Buckley. His playing on the album GRACE is soooo tasteful, He locks in to some great grooves but also has some great chops. If any of you have never listened to Jeff Buckley, I highly suggest picking up the album GRACE. As far a alternative rock goes it is a work of art. Jeff Buckley was probably one of the best male singer/song writers to exist in his time if not of all time. If you are into alternative rock, this album will be a influence on you as musician and a drummer.

Jamie
Yes! Should have searched this post. Couldn't agree more.

[michael drums]

Billy Cobham never seems to get the credit he deserves.

He was/is a monster and massive inspiration

I am another that agrees with this. I just listened to "Dream" from MOs' The Lost Trident Sessions, after not hearing it in years, and got a whole new appreciation of BC.

Actually, a "re-newed" appreciation. Billy has certainly attained "Drum-God" status with me, but I don't hear/see enough praise given him that he most definitely has earned, IMO

"Birds of Fire" is another Mahavishnu Orchestra album masterpiece.

Not sure Billy Cobham is the MOST under-rated drummer, but certainly doesn't seem to be on a lot of peoples' top ten list. And as a matter of fact, he wasn't on mine before, but I'm adding him on there now.

;-)

[Baddstuff]

you know, as great as Cobham is I wouldn't be the least bit surprised to come across top ten lists that have drummers like Dave Grohl, Steven Adler, Travis Barker, Peter Criss, etc, but no Cobham.

[michael drums]

you know, as great as Cobham is I wouldn't be the least bit surprised to come across top ten lists that have drummers like Dave Grohl, Steven Adler, Travis Barker, Peter Criss, etc, but no Cobham.

Zactly what I mean, Badd!


A lot of "newbies" are hooked on guys you mentioned, but that's really not a bad thing. But to not go back a few years, even before they were born, and research the greats of the past, and the history of the drum, they may not get to learn about some of the innovators that came before. And Billy Cobham, was/is certainly one of them.

Just throw on ANY MO track from the early seventies, kick back and prepare to be just blown away by BCs' creative genius. He was hugely instrumental in revolutionizing the drums in the 1970's.

[PQleyR]

Ah, this is a good opportunity to introduce you to one of my favourite drummers of the moment, who I know you will never ever have heard of.

He plays for a band called Alternative Carpark (http://www.myspace.com/alternativecarpark).

The recordings on their myspace do not do them any justice at all. They are one of the best live bands I have seen, if not the best. They need to be heard by more people!

[supermac]

I was recently listening to two of Billy Cobham's mid-70s solo albums, Stratus and Crosswinds.

I fist came across them as a kid learning in the early 80s.

Even by today's standards, the playing is phenomonal.

Great grooves and massively exciting round-house fills.

One of the stracks on Crosswinds, maybe the title track, has a great 15/16 groove, which I still jam to to this today.

As I said, I don't think he gets the credit he deserves...

[michael drums]

I was recently listening to two of Billy Cobham's mid-70s solo albums, Stratus and Crosswinds.

I first came across them as a kid learning in the early 80s.

Even by today's standards, the playing is phenomonal.

Great grooves and massively exciting round-house fills.

One of the tracks on Crosswinds, maybe the title track, has a great 15/16 groove, which I still jam to to this today.

As I said, I don't think he gets the credit he deserves...

Absolutely, super.

Great examples! ;-)

[Baddstuff]

I was around when Cobham burst onto the scene and it was like "who the f**k is that?!?"
I had never heard such explosive playing at that point and he turned drummer's heads around. I guess I can understand how the younger drummers may not be all that hip to Cobham's great skills. I'm baffled by it but I can understand.

hey supermac- also check out his Spectrum album if you haven't already. It's still a classic. Listen to the late guitarist Tommy Bolin and Jan Hammer trade licks. Pretty fierce stuff!

[supermac]

Hi Badstuff,

Yeah, when I wrote Stratus, I meant Spectrum!

Stratus is a track on Spectrum - and a fine one at that...

[Disco Stu]

I have searched for Tony Thompson (R.I.P.) & I am unable to find him ANYWHERE here so I included his name in this thread!
Ditto that. He seemed a strange omission from the main Drummerworld page. I sent an email a couple years ago requesting to add him, but it never happened. Here's his wikipedia entry. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Thompson)

Brian Downey (Thin Lizzy)
True that. Whenever I play along to Thin Lizzy songs, I think, "Damn, this guy's good." He lays down some great shuffles.

[kwolf68]

He's still on the scene with Battles, but his work with Helmet was definitely underrated. Great player.


Thanks. I'll have to check out the Battles. Stanier is immediately who I thought of when I saw this thread.

[Guz2]

Lawrence Patterson of Blaze Bayley

[Disco Stu]

Major props for citing Alan Wren (aka Reni). That guy was in my opinion one of the most creative guys ever and he could make that tiny set up sound like a huge one. Listen to any Stone Roses song and Reni's tasteful licks make the song.
Definitely. There's a pretty good write up of him on wikipedia. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Wren) And a good look at him playing his 3-piece here. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-snR3ZY4Qjk)

[Mr. Dyck]

Anton Fig (David Letterman), check out all the stuff he did with KISS and Ace Frehley's solo stuff.
Max Weinberg(Conan O'Brien, Bruce Springsteen)
Mick Tucker (Sweet)

[genericdrummingusername]

Vinnie Amico, of moe. Underrated even within his own band. I GEEKED OUT when I saw him play a totally Bohnam solo live, while everyone else went to go get more beer.

[Baddstuff]

nice to see someone mention Mick Tucker of The Sweet. I was a huge Sweet fan back in the day and actually got to meet the band and have a photo of Mick and me somewhere. Another guy that might not have been mentioned is Richard Bailey, the guy who played on Jeff Beck's classic Blow by Blow album and also with the band Incognito. Very tasty player.

[Avendesoran]

If any of you ever get a chance to see the band Bell Orchestre check out the drummer... Stef Schneider. This is an all instrumental band consisting of a trumpet, french horn (and other various horns), violin, stand up bass, slide guitar and percussion. I believe the bassist and the violinist are members of Arcade Fire.

The drummer uses so many cool techniques to get the sounds he wants... In my opinion he is the most musical drummer I have ever had the pleasure to watch play.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7Ifyky7er0 <- a song from their old album

I've seen him use a china in the middle of his hats with a heavy duty chain draped over the top hat and it created the most intresting sound and it fit the song perfectly!

[stasz]

Kris Myers (Umphrey's McGee) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LyenwByWNI&feature=related

Killin on the rhythm traveler http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Cvgf6S0Xm8

Don't really like this song but it's a nice groove http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWSbSU-pdJY&feature=related

[The Parasprinter]

Me.

In my totally objective opinion, it's long overdue that I be discovered (drumming in my bedroom) by a major label, signed to multi-billion dollar record deals, and given mansions, fancy cars, private jets, state-of-the art studios, a supermodel wife, and legions of naive college-girl groupies. I don't think that's too much to ask.

[michael drums]

Me.

In my totally objective opinion, it's long overdue that I be discovered (drumming in my bedroom) by a major label, signed to multi-billion dollar record deals, and given mansions, fancy cars, private jets, state-of-the art studios, a supermodel wife, and legions of naive college-girl groupies. I don't think that's too much to ask.

Great...


but you're in line BEHIND me!



;-)

[michael drums]

Oh...


while I'm on the subject from the "favorite drummer/bass combo" thread, I have to mention Cliff Davies from Ted Nugent fame.

I always enjoyed his steady pounding rock beat and bass-foot work.

Saw him 'bout 4 times with "The Nuge", and always impressed me.


;-)

[hweddle]

Deantoni Parks----not under-rated, but not as well known as he should be!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fnpkj-4pEXY&feature=channel_page

[Marcodrumsrock]

The drummer of YELLOWCARD! HE IS AMAZING!
Some other under rated drummers are:
Buckethead's, Sum 41's, U2'S, The Offspring's, and The Clash's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Ian Williams]

Roberto 'Robo' Valverde - The Misfits

Matt Sorum - Velvet Revolver, The Cult, Guns N' Roses

Steve Riley - L.A. Guns, WASP.

[Christ-Hammer]

Morgan Agren doesn't get enough credibility

[Meat the beat]

Phil Collins...

Harry (Thunder)
Pete Jupp (FM)

[bcjkdem]

Allen Blickle - Baroness
Spun - Mudvayne (not really under-rated)
Tim Dow - Shiner
Loel Campbell - Wintersleep

If you have never heard these guys, check them out. These are all indie label bands (minus Mudvayne).

[SGT_Drummer]

Me.

In my totally objective opinion, it's long overdue that I be discovered (drumming in my bedroom) by a major label, signed to multi-billion dollar record deals, and given mansions, fancy cars, private jets, state-of-the art studios, a supermodel wife, and legions of naive college-girl groupies. I don't think that's too much to ask.

so you want a supermodel wife, AND college-girl groupies? wow! thats the kind of headache i don't want money to buy for me. i'll just take the groupies please.

[con struct]

This is a long thread so I haven't read it all. But are there really that many under-rated drummers?
See, to be under-rated you have to be known, right, but your abilities aren't considered to be on the same level as the "truly great" drummers, no?
A lot of famous drummers aren't very good but they're perfect for the band they play with. I mean, Larry Mullen isn't all that great a drummer but he's got the gig and he does his job. Is he under-rated? I don't think so, and I doubt that he himself would ever claim to being anything more than the lucky guy who ended up being the drummer for U2.
A drummer that very few people have ever heard of, now, he can't be under-rated because in fact he's not being "rated" at all. How could he be? Nobody's ever heard him play.
Undiscovered or unheard, that's a completely different thing from being under-rated.
But I'll say that a classic example of an under-rated drummer has to be Keith Moon. People dismiss him as being sloppy and crazy and all that, but the guy could definitely play the drums, and there are plenty of recordings to back that up. I'd challenge anyone to pull off what he did the way he did it.

[Pass.of.E.r.a.]

Hmm... I'd have to say Lester Estelle Jr. Incredible drummer. I've seen him live with his former band Pillar
several times and was completely blown away each and every time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-h2Z1Nv73M&feature=PlayList&p=41FB71793671CBC9&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=9


(sorry if he was already mentioned, I don;t feel up to the task of reading 500 posts......)

-Jonathan

[Ainulindale]

Cristoph Schneider of Rammstein...

[Ian Williams]

Cristoph Schneider of Rammstein...

What a great band, and a solid drummer.

Cheers,

[infomercialscams]

I guess ill take a shot at it...

-Roy Burns- Great big band drummer, he pretty much been as invoved as anyone can be in the drumming world

-Paul Elliott- Played alot with Terry Elliott. Very tasetfull drummer, not flashy even thoght he has the potecial to be. He is probly best known for his drumming with the Shaun Baxter Band.

-Jeff Hamelton- Wonderful jazz drummer, very good with the brushes. Has a way of playing that you can almost feel how relaxed and into the music he is. I could listen to him all day. Played with Lionel Hamelton. Very good.

[LinearDrummer]

Another guy that might not have been mentioned is Richard Bailey, the guy who played on Jeff Beck's classic Blow by Blow album and also with the band Incognito. Very tasty player.

Oh yes Bailey is a very tastey drummer and Incognito is a very unique band....real eclectic with their choices of sounds/grooves....can't pigeon-hole them into any specific genre except they just make music....

Did you know Gavin Harrison played with them?

[Ian Williams]

Cozy Powell
John Tempesta
Vinnie Appice

[Pollyanna]

I don't know if they are under-rated but a couple of drummers who blew my mind live are rarely mentioned in "top drummer" talks.

One was Tony Smith from John McLaughlin's One Truth Band. Fantastic feel, awesome technique and his kit sounded as good as any I've heard. (And you shoulda heard L Shankar make a simple tambourine sound like a herd of stampeding elephants!).

Another was Robbie Hirst from Midnight Oil, who I first saw at a Save The Whales concert in the mid-seventies. We walked in durng the middle of Dust when Robbie was going berserk. His speedy fills, tightness, big sound, sense of time, mega energy, huge sweaty biceps ... well, I was in love at first sight! This clip probably doesn't show the way he drove the band live but it will give you an idea of what a kicka*** rock drummer he was - and is. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9gIIgI8oz4

Also in Australia was a guy named John Annas of the Kevin Borich Express. And let's not forget David Jones, who is a freakish virtuoso - madness! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBcgY53Yufo). We've got a few live ones here is Oz ;)

Agree re: Richard Bailey. Loved his playing on Blow by Blow.

A few more tasty players who rarely get mentioned:
Airto (Santana and Weather Report)
Michael Shrieve (Santana)
Aynsley Dunbar (Zappa, Bowie, Ian Hunter, Journey et al)
Cindy Blackman (Lenny Kravitz and various jazz acts)
Jim Hodder (Steely Dan)
Joe Vitale (Joe Walsh)
Bobby Berge (Tommy Bolin)
Kevin Godley (10CC and Godley & Creme)
Michael Giles (King Crimson)

[Strangelove]

I think one of the most underrated drummers of all time is Danny Seraphine of Chicago:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzViV6PUOSM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4i840LCBXd8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOvGa-8-Lns&feature=related

[Eric]

Phil Sewel (sp?) of Radiohead.

[RogerLudwig]

Bill Kreutzmann: Grateful Dead Listen to the stuff he played between '72 and '75 when Mickey Hart was on hiatus. Great stuff.

[joseisfreshhh]

Mike Johnston, he's nasty, i have no idea why he isn't featured as a drummer on this website...

[JPendo]

Matt Cameron his stuff with soundgarden is so sick

[the whale]

Bill Kreutzmann: Grateful Dead Listen to the stuff he played between '72 and '75 when Mickey Hart was on hiatus. Great stuff.

Billy and Mickey are both awsome... not under rated in my book.

I think Alan White of Yes is by far the most under rated drummer ever.

[NewBeatsGroove]

The Mars Volta's first drummer Jon Theadore

[NewBeatsGroove]

also North Mississippi Allstars drummer. he is superb

[Funkussionist]

Maybe he is a "rated" player but I don't hear much about him.
Rodney Holmes is a player that I love listening to or watching because he adds so much to the music and makes it look easy.

[beatboy21212]

Rodeny Holmes takes the title for most under-rated drummer on the scene. He got fired from Santana and could probably smoke out every other drummer that has ever played in Santanas band. Maybe this is a bold statement, but I feel his hand speed is quicker than Buddy Rich or Jim Chapin.

R.I.P Jim Chapin....God Bless his soul!

[beatboy21212]

Another very under-rated drummer is Zach Vilmer from Sound Tribe Sector Nine!.....riduculous.....check it out....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rH40g9IajHs

[beatboy21212]

Another very under-rated drummer is Zach Vilmer from Sound Tribe Sector Nine!.....riduculous.....check it out....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rH40g9IajHs

The youtube live clips don't do Zach Vilmer any justice but here is what I mean.....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWbmIebxqYE

[schist]

Dan Foord (sikTh). He kicked my ass.

I've tried playing along to some of his stuff, and failed miserably. Way beyond my current ability level.

[Dynamo]

My vote goes to Mick Tucker of Sweet. He's even listed as having done the 9th best drum beat of all time according to Rhythm Magazine.

http://www.musicradar.com/news/drums/100-greatest-drum-beats-of-all-time-204008/10

He's in some pretty good company on that poll methinks.

[bonzolead]

My vote is for Tesla's Troy Lucketta,

He's just as good live as in the studio and also Frank Beard from ZZ Top & Charlie from Anthrax .

Bonzolead

[Owen.T]

Mike Johnston, he's nasty, i have no idea why he isn't featured as a drummer on this website...

this is soo true, i think he should be bigger than he is

[Thaard]

Damien Schmitt. Check him out!

[Strangelove]

Rodeny Holmes takes the title for most under-rated drummer on the scene. He got fired from Santana and could probably smoke out every other drummer that has ever played in Santanas band. Maybe this is a bold statement, but I feel his hand speed is quicker than Buddy Rich or Jim Chapin.



Didn't know he got fired from Santana. What were the issues?

[Skinsman38]

Most of the drummers I admire are guys that are good enough not to be underrated, my current favorite, Jojo Mayer who is an alien freak when it comes to the drum set but as some people have pointed out, there's some amazing drummers out there that don't get their due.

Here's a couple in my opinion:

Jon Fishman- The drummer for Phish gets no love or rarely. This guy was self taught but he's tight, has very fast hands and comes up with some very unique polyrhythms for songs. He also isn't so big on drum solos which, even as a drummer, I agree with. The guy can rip but he also plays strong and solid for the song. Intuitive, fun and incredibly tasteful. When he's on, the band tears it up. Maybe it's because Phish is so big and there are alot of haters out there for the music that he doesn't get respect. To me his playing is a product of his personality in the same way as Keith Moon and Stewart Copeland. He's been my biggest drumming influence. Listening to how he plays taught me to play freely and have the courage to take chances.

George Hurley- The Minutemen and fIREHOSE made such odd music but I liked them both even though I listened to fIREHOSE more. They weren't exactly prototypical punk and they weren't conventional rock. It was a unique sound and George's playing was a big part of that. He wouldn't necessarily play the easy 4/4. He loved to bang away and he moved fast pounding out unexpected rhythms. You could tell he liked jazz by some of his flourishes. His style really helped identify both bands and he drove them hard. He was not a wall flower drummer. He pushed his bandmates. Great stuff that needs to be heard to be appreciated.

[y0avz]

Nir Z - amazing drummer, very under-rated.

[robertcarpenter23]

Under-rated in the sense that drum mags don't seem to mention them much (and in no particular order):

Joey Heredia

Paco Sery

Richie Morales

Gary Husband

Billy Hart

Andy Newmark

Ralph Peterson, Jr.

Graham Broad

Gary Husband was on the cover of the last Drumhead Mag.....kudos to him....what a monster drummer he is....

[willieboy_sf]

The late Frank Butler. If you are interested in jazz, check him out. Fantastic player, almost unknown today, with a very individual style. Played on Art Pepper's "Smack Up" and "Intensity" albums. Plus, he's featured on Curtis Counce's "Landslide" album. You really need to check him out, trust me.

[SpaceAgeMarsupial]

Patrick Keeler, of The Greenhornes and The Raconteurs. One of a few drummers on the contemporary rock scene that is a direct influence, mainly because he has such an old-school style and sound, kind of Bonham, Watts, with a bit of Mitch. Never intrusive, but comes up with interesting grooves, and quite rudimentally orientated compared to most contemporary drummers. Check out the Raconteurs' latest album Consolers Of The Lonely.

Ringo Starr, I feel, is fairly under-rated by many drummers, but what he lacked it technicality he more than made up for in musicality and 'catchy' drum parts. Like Charlie Watts, he is often seen as 'the lucky one', who got big by playing in a successful mainsteam band.

I also find that John Bonham, whilst well respected through out the drumming community, is never really mentioned by non- drummers.

I understand that there are players who are far more innovative and gifted than those mentioned above, and that my opinion is undoubtedly naive and humble.

[Deltadrummer]

Vinnie Appice

On VH1's That Metal Show they had a throw down between the brothers with Ronnie James Dio and Geezer Butler and they both said Carmine. Some guys just get no respect. It was all in good fun. :)

[Ian Williams]

On VH1's That Metal Show they had a throw down between the brothers with Ronnie James Dio and Geezer Butler and they both said Carmine. Some guys just get no respect. It was all in good fun. :)

Thanks, Ken. I watched that programme too and I thought the same...They were just having fun.

[danduffy1964]

Steve Gorman-Black Crowes .

[BebopRob]

I don't know if anyone has mentioned Charles Mingus drummer, Dannie Richmond. Some of his left hand playing (like on Boogie Stop Shuffle) is really sensitive.

[RogerLudwig]

Billy and Mickey are both awsome... not under rated in my book.

I think Alan White of Yes is by far the most under rated drummer ever.

Unfortunately if you try to find a thread or article about Kreutzmann on this or any other forum, you probably won't find one. Outside of deadheads, I don't think he's that well known. but I agree, he's a great drummer.

[TraxxFactor]

I gotta say Matt Cameron.

[Drums&Beer]

I listen to a boat load of jazz music. Here are my picks for underrated jazz drummers. Sorry if any of these are repeats -

Donald Bailey
Ed Blackwell
John Riley
Paul Motian
Jerry Granelli
Shadow Wilson
Jimmy Cobb
Jeff Ballard
Earl Carter
Joey Baron
Gene Lake
Colin Bailey
Albert Tootie Heath
Matt Wilson
Shelly Manne
Kenny Clarke
Joe Dukes

Man I could go on and on. Another drummer who I think is so underrated is Raymond Pounds. His stick work with Stevie Wonder on "Songs in the Key of Life" and with the band Afrique was supremely funky.

[Stoney]

I gotta say Matt Cameron.

No way is Matt Cameron under rated!! Not where I come from anyway. A fair few of my friends are heavily influenced by him. Including myself to some degree.

Haven't read through all the 450+ posts and this is probably a repeat but the people who spring to mind for me is - Charlie Watts and Ringo. I say this not only because I think they are under rated but also when you speak about the most under rated, obviously the 2 most famous drummers in the world are going to come top of the list (few are going to be under rated if few people have heard of them) if you catch my drift.

[Stoney]

[U]

I also find that John Bonham, whilst well respected through out the drumming community, is never really mentioned by non- drummers. .

In my experience with musicians who are non drummers Bonhams name always comes up the most!! Under rated he is certainly not!

[jonescrusher]

No way is Matt Cameron under rated!! Not where I come from anyway. A fair few of my friends are heavily influenced by him. Including myself to some degree.

Haven't read through all the 450+ posts and this is probably a repeat but the people who spring to mind for me is - Charlie Watts and Ringo. I say this not only because I think they are under rated but also when you speak about the most under rated, obviously the 2 most famous drummers in the world are going to come top of the list (few are going to be under rated if few people have heard of them) if you catch my drift.


It's a strange day when Matt Cameron isn't underrated and Ringo and Watts are! I don't see how either of those two could be considered overrated; sure, there's a good number of people who don't rate them highly, but there's a good number of people that do. Given their fame we'd be talking millions of them.

[Stoney]

It's a strange day when Matt Cameron isn't underrated and Ringo and Watts are! I don't see how either of those two could be considered overrated; sure, there's a good number of people who don't rate them highly, but there's a good number of people that do. Given their fame we'd be talking millions of them.


Strange world isn't it. By statistics Charlie and Ringo are rated more highly than Vinnie Colaiuta. ..Over rated by millions and statistically they're also under rated by millions. Sorry to take things literally here but it's a fact.

[Pachikara-Tharakan]

To me, every person who picks up those sticks to bang on that snare with passion is unique.