Derek Roddy here!

[Lambo]

This guy is one of best and most versatile drummers in metal... here is a couple of videos of him tracking the drums on the latest Hate Eternal album...

http://www.bosticman.com/bostic/behold.wmv
http://www.bosticman.com/bostic/will.wmv

[Elemental Nausea]

oh my god, so insane, he is a real monster, now I want to hear some people say joey jordison is the best metal drummer hehe

[WARFACE]

I think Roddy is amazing........nuff said.

[Lambo]

I found that fast doubles really opened up my grip with my left hand, got it up to 260 after a few months.... I can get through Behold Judas now : )

[Blue]

This guy is absolutely sick, and I"m not even into this type of music. How does one get their feet so fast. His feet are faster than my hands!

What are blast beats, or blasts as you called them? I am not familiar with this term. I'm guessing short periods of intense speed.

[Lambo]

It's a roll between your snare and your bass pedal. With your cymbal hand fill in on the bass notes.

[Elemental Nausea]

yes the "blast beat" or simply "blast" is something typical for fast death-or black metal.
there are many variations of it but it is mainly like lambo said, the bass drum is played half speed of your hands, your left hand is playing on the snare and your right hand usually on the ride cymbal.(usually hand to hand)
but what do you exactly mean by doubles? i am training my left hand at the moment mainly with multiple bounce rolls with metronome ,of course, by slowly increasing the speed.

[Lambo]

Doubles = RRLLRRLLRRLLRRLL.... not bouncing and making each a full stroke.

[JohnMunsey]

Roddy is pretty incredible, I saw the video clips!

FFFFFassssstttt!!!!

[MaxRoach]

is this guy doing RRLL with his feet or RLRL?

[JohnMunsey]

Roddy looks like he's fast forward for crying out loud lol

Did he work out of Stick Control? Who did he study with? Using Futz?

[Lambo]

is this guy doing RRLL withi his feet or RLRL?
RLRL.

Roddy looks like he's fast forward for crying out loud lol

Did he work out of Stick Control? Who did he study with? Using Futz?

As far as I know, He's pretty much self-taught. He's not using Futz, just straight forward single stroke rolls on Axis A pedals.

Here is an interview with him > http://www.metal-observer.com/articles.php?lid=1&sid=4&id=4519

[Henry II]

I met Derrick Roddy working in a local drum shop about 6 months ago. I think he just happened to be in town and was helping out the owner, a friend of his. He's from South Carolina, originally. We talked a while. I played some for him. (Yawn!). He played some of his stuff for me. OMG! HOLY FREAKIN' COW. This guy is so much better than that crap music/band he plays with. In addition to MONSTER chops, he's got the most incredible independence I've EVER seen. Multiple polyrythms between hands and feet. I never understood why any drummer needed 5 pedals on each side of the snare . . . until I saw him show me what to do with them.

In addition to that, he absolutely kills rock, funk, jazz, latin, anything. Put this guy in with an acoustic jazz trio, no problem. Latin/Funk, piece of cake. He does it all.

[toteman2]

Yeah Roddy is a total speed demon...What a humble guy too...He is always stopping by the donati message boards, answering any questions some may have...While I'm not so into the blast beat, 250 BPM 16ths, i can appreciate what they man is doing for the speed metal sceen...Hats off to Derek...

[Elemental Nausea]

While I'm not so into the blast beat, 250 BPM 16ths, i can appreciate what they man is doing for the speed metal sceen...Hats off to Derek...

BIG FAT QUESTIONMARK you are doing blasts at 250?? hand to hand? and for how long?
this speed is terribly sick man , it`s almost roddy speed. do you just want to show off by being so humble because I am almost sure you know how fast this is. and in addition to that you are even saying you are not so into the blast beat...ridiculous

[DogBreath]

BIG FAT QUESTIONMARK you are doing blasts at 250?? hand to hand? and for how long?
this speed is terribly sick man , it`s almost roddy speed. do you just want to show off by being so humble because I am almost sure you know how fast this is. and in addition to that you are even saying you are not so into the blast beat...ridiculous
Dude, calm down. He was paying a compliment even though he's not into that style of music. What more could you ask?

[toteman2]

yeah, I thought i was showing total respect to Derek...

[DrumNut]

I think Roddy has a video on training feet??

[Lambo]

Woohoo, he just put up his new website..... www.derekroddy.com

[Marilyn]

NEW 9-9-05 'Clave Demo':

http://www.derekroddy.com/free_video/clave_demo.wmv (9.16mb)

Enjoy!

[Jaymasta]

This guy....... Wow just Wow....... Dieser Kerl ist sein Band ist erstaunlich zu gut! Und mein Deutscher saugt He is really good so I speak in german :)

[Jalmar]

Roddy is one of the few death metal drummers that are fast and tight. A lot of drummer think that if I twitch fast enough, it will speeds things up, but Derek knows that if you want to become extremely fast, you need to practice long and hard.

[Smpte 11]

What do you think about him?

I think he's one hell of a great metal drummer...but it goes beyond that : he plays jazz, latin music, he have the independance, the coordination, the speed, the control and the creativity.

I listened to the song Faceless One and he shows some of the most creative and progressive part I heard in metal.
He's also very nice and pretty giving of his techniques.

Well...that's what I think...and you?

[hookedup]

He also just quit Hate Eternal. I wonder what he'll be up to now.

[tambian89]

Derek's Secret Weapon:

I saw this guy live. His secret to bass drum speed: Derek puts his foot down on the pedal heel up. He then lifts his ankle at the hip. Derek describes it as "The exact opposite of heel down", saying it can be practiced anywhere, even without a pedal, and that it will conserve energy. I'm sure we have all done this when we were sitting down one time. Try it now: keep your foot on the floor but lift and lower your ankle. Derek also has a practice routine on his site; he guarantees an improvement in endurance within 2 months. Plus, Derek plays at around 250 bpm.

- Marc

[hookedup]

He's not in Hate Eternal any more. Is this band that "isn't for you" another project he has going?

[tomgrosset]

check out htis video of him groovin'
very different from his other solos
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LGY3dLCI24

[infernal drummer]

pretty amazing speed ! awesome

[76RogersLondoner]

he gets my vote!Amazing how he is just as quick left or right handed.

[Melvin]

I like this guy when he plays jazz, latin and everything else except black or death metal. I don't like that style at all.

[dylon]

His humility is admirable, for somebody with his skills and creativity I'd almost expect him to be a bit cocky, but this isn't the case obviously. I'm not typically a fan of metal, but I respect everything he does, including his blast beats--it's easy to tell he just loves his instrument, it shows in his playing.

[hateplow]

If you like fast AND technical check out this guy and his website...

http://www.derekroddy.com/

tons of awesome speed metal video and clinic video.
check out the "2 over 3 Demo" It's amazing stuff...

[Sesh]

I think he may have alreay been mentioned here, but I must say that even as a non death-metal/etreme metal fan I'm a big derek roddy fan.

It's the one and only thing I find a little strange on this site - I noticed he's sometimes brought up by the non-metal fans as an example of 'just another fast-feet guy' but he's actually a truly amazing drummer, and a lot more than a pair of axis pedals.

I'd love to get a lesson with him if I'm ever anywhere near!

Martin

[doublebass]

people like roddy are an honour to technical death metal.Respect

[h3r3tic]

I personally have to say that he´s my favourite drummer in the metal community.
And I say 'best' not only because of his because but his technique applied on the drums is very unique. Most of people love him because of his speed but I find him Totally Creative and Totally Fast

You RULE DEREK! :)

Have you ever see him or heard him play jazz?
HE RULEZ TOO!

[II xMETALx II]

Absolute freak. This is exactly whatevery metal drummer should hope to be...

[Tama Player]

Awesome drummer, nice speed and blast beats.

Peace
AGR

[Axis27]

How is his movie? What does it talk about/explain? Is it worth buying? -Joe Peters

[Tim Waterson]

Yup...check out the first video at the start of this thread. At first he's doing at 230bpm, then there's the break at about 15 seconds, and he comes back in doing @ 265bpm....

Also check out Tony Laureano and George Kollias.
DEREK is a great drummer and practice is paying off BIG time...

but you are confused George Kollias is the one who plays double bass at 265 in extreme Music.
DEREK said he did not believe anyone could hold anytthing past 255 till George and a few others proved him wrong....
Tim

[Derek Roddy]

DEREK is a great drummer and practice is paying off BIG time...

but you are confused George Kollias is the one who plays double bass at 265 in extreme Music.
DEREK said he did not believe anyone could hold anytthing past 255 till George and a few others proved him wrong....
Tim

I know George and have seen him play many times (over 10) I have NEVER seen him play single stroke DB over 255 in a playing situation.... To this day. Yes there are some NILE tunes that are in the 265 range but like all of us...his feet float just a little. Besides, this is another case of putting words in my mouth. I said, on my forum... that at the TIME, nobody was playing over 255 or 260. Are drummers such as George getting closer? Yes they are but... I STILL haven't seen a drummer play 16th note singles over 255 in a PLAYING situation.
Please read more carefully.
Cheers.
D.

[Derek Roddy]

Just wanted to take a minute and thank all of you for the possitive responces to my playing.
I'm just like all of you when it comes to this. I love to play and get no better feeling than creating music with fellow musicians.
I'm thankful that some of you feel I have something to offer the drumming community. I work very hard to steer the younger generations of drummers to follow their own personal path and to be excited about playing the drums NOT discouraged.
We drummers are very lucky to have such a wonderful community of human beings to ask and offer advise. I can't thank all of you drummers enough for giving me the spirt to continue on with my efforts. Again, thank you ALL very much.
I don't really get alot of time to cruise the net. If any of you ever want to talk or have ANY questions...feel free to contact me at my forum as it's the only one I make it to with any consistancy.
Hope you all are doing well and talk soon.
Cheers.
Derek.

[wy yung]

I recently read a wonderfully incicive interview you did in MD a while ago. It was a lovely read.

This internet thingamejig is a bit funny. I think the best thing is to take it all with a grain of salt. What you are doing is tremendous. You're a very musical and expressive player. I think in the big scheme of things, that's really what matters.

Thanks for stopping by.

[Tim Waterson]

I know George and have seen him play many times (over 10) I have NEVER seen him play single stroke DB over 255 in a playing situation.... To this day. Yes there are some NILE tunes that are in the 265 range but like all of us...his feet float just a little. Besides, this is another case of putting words in my mouth. I said, on my forum... that at the TIME, nobody was playing over 255 or 260. Are drummers such as George getting closer? Yes they are but... I STILL haven't seen a drummer play 16th note singles over 255 in a PLAYING situation.
Please read more carefully.
Cheers.
D.

GREAT Quote DEREK and welcome to drummerworld its a Great forum...
Glad you agree that MOST drummers are floating.
The reason I posted that response was to let drummers know how rediculous 265 is to lock in...
You,George,Tony, Romaine are the few extreme drummers that can lock in past 240
I LOVE the Quote you had 240 A lot faster than we think...lol
...
I have always said I would rather hear a drumer floating and keeping the song together rather than someone killing themselves trying to lock in the feet and sounding like an epiletic fit....
Its great to see the way you have expanded your playing
Keep it up..
Tim

[Derek Roddy]

Thought you guys would get a kick out of these.
Not many drummers know I play in a blues band named the "Blues Hounds."
Just average blues here...nothin' fancy.
Gotta love the lounge gigs. LOL.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLRnltoKSZI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMyrJgQymLA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxekYLjaGe4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwWvxrCUsmg

Here's some ramdom solo ideas.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdZwx-xE-GQ

[Derek Roddy]

Also, I have a book coming out in 2 months. It's called "The Evolution of Blast Beats".
Teaches everything you need to know about blast beats and extreme metal playing.
It will have world wide distro and will be available everywhere (hopefully)
Here is a cover shot.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/Evolution.jpg
Cheers.
D.

[Derek Roddy]

Finally got around to getting some clips of the new Sonors.
I couldn't tell while the phones are on (drums to loud)
But, there is a mic out of phase on the 14 to the left of the main hats and the left BD. Sounds a bit unbalanced but you get the idea.
Please disregard my "hacking"
D.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxsxsU4DnKI

[Backwards Marathon]

derek. i cant wait until your book comes out. the covers looking pretty tight.


wes

[Tim Waterson]

Finally got around to getting some clips of the new Sonors.
I couldn't tell while the phones are on (drums to loud)
But, there is a mic out of phase on the 14 to the left of the main hats and the left BD. Sounds a bit unbalanced but you get the idea.
Please disregard my "hacking"
D.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxsxsU4DnKI

DEREK
The drumming and drums sound great..
Good Mics and miking does make all the difference.....
Should dispell the Myth about DEREK only PRACTICING speed cause it sure has made your drumming a lot more musical...
Keep it up
Tim

[Tama Player]

Huh, I was just reading some of the You Tube comments (trust me im really bored) for that "drum solo" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KJS-RTyVqs&mode=related&search=) that has been posted on there a billion times. Sometimes it just makes me wonder how people can comment like that. Comparing Joey and Derek. Then fighting about it saying so and so is way better than so and so. So stupid...

Peace
AGR

[Gene Smasher]

Yeah I think it's stupid, too. Derek Roddy and Joey Jordison cannot be compared as they belong to two different kinds of music. I haven't seen Joey Jordison do anything remotely as good as Derek Roddy though. But I won't compare.

But I don't see why those particular Youtubers can't get it into their skull that the two drummers are completely different.

[dwlover]

I couldn't believe that feet could go that fast ;D

[dw D]

HUGE fan Derek!!!!!!!!!!!

Do you play doubles(RRLLRRLL) with your feet?

I Play dw, whats your set up like?

[sonor master]

im not a death metal fan i like black and power thing like that but this guy is just SICK!

[TheSteve]

Derek works at Rez Drums, a really great drum shop in South Florida. He helped me decide on a ride cymbal and tuned up my snare drum real nicely. He's a great musician with great style and a really nice guy besides.

[Derek Roddy]

Thanks for the kind words guys.
Just a heads up for you.......
My book "The Evolution Of Blast Beats" is now ready.
It will still be 3 weeks before it starts shipping but...
if ANYBODY is interested in getting this book.....
PLEASE go to your local music store and request that they order it.
Even if you want to buy it directly from me. ( at my website)
I won't have any available until a few weeks anyway and you'll likely get it faster through a store.
Here is the ordering info for DEALERS. Take this website and phone number to your local store.
Most major stores will have it but just in case.

www.worldmusic4all.com
866-89-68742
OR IN CANADA
www.canadianprintmusic.com
800 668 5767
Everywhere else contact the us info.
Cheers.
D.

[dw D]

WOW

Truly a big fan! I cant wait for your book. I was at a Mike Mangini clinic last night and i asked him a question on how to incorporate doubles into a speed exersise and he said "I aint no Derek Roddy" it was great.

Any chance YOU would come to Newfoundland for a clinic?
-Dale

[Derek Roddy]

WOW

Truly a big fan! I cant wait for your book. I was at a Mike Mangini clinic last night and i asked him a question on how to incorporate doubles into a speed exersise and he said "I aint no Derek Roddy" it was great.

Any chance YOU would come to Newfoundland for a clinic?
-Dale

That's too much!! LOL Mike is great isn't he? Awesome player.
Yes, We can try to arrange a clinic in Newfoundland. Might happen sooner than you think!
Cheers.
D.

[dw D]

Yeah Mike was awesome! As for the cilnic, you just let me know when you have the time and ill arrange the rest.


-Dale

[Derek Roddy]

I'll keep you posted.
Oh yea, What DW's?
D.

[dw D]

I just ordered a second bass drum 18x22 and a 7x8 tom.
Did you ever use a dw pedal with a long footboard?

[Derek Roddy]

I'm a Sonor guy....Have been for many years.
Although, I do have a DW hihat stand.LOL!
Cheers.
D.

[dw D]

Any word on that trip to Newfoundland?LOL

[Tutin]

Hey Derek, come to scotland, there's been a lack of good drum clinics for a while and I'm getting sick of it, a visit from you would be great.

Also, you are sick. Respect.

Tutin.

[dw D]

Newfoundland is on the way to Scotland. LOL

[Tutin]

Yeah man, Scotland's just around the corner, I could make it to both clinics!

OMFG LAWL x 10000 !!!!!11

[drummingman]

i have a little bit of an issue with derek roddy.let me say why.i e mailed him some time ago (about 2 years ago) and asked him about his bass drum technique.i wanted to know how he played so fast and what his technique is.i was asking because i really wanted to learn.well,he was cool enough to get back to me real quick but all he really had to say was stuff like "just play your drums,and "everybody is different, what works for one person might not work for another").well this info he gave me is all well and good but i really wanted to find out HIS bass drum technique because it MIGHT just work for me.so i e mail him back and ask again if he can just tell me his technique and he does not respond.i figured it was not to much to ask just asking what his technique was (i say this as a drum teacher myself).
so now i see quotes of him saying things like he wants to get into education and helping other drummers out.but if hes not even willing to tell me,a fellow drummer,something as simple as what his bass drum technique is how is he going to get into educating other drummers about drumming?
don't get me wrong,i hold no ill will towards derek at all.as a matter of fact i would still love to take some lessons with him and think that he is an awesome drummer, but i just see somewhat of a contradiction in terms of what he is telling magazines in interviews and what he is actually doing when it comes to helping out other drummers technique and playing wise.

[Tim Waterson]

i have a little bit of an issue with derek roddy.let me say why.i e mailed him some time ago (about 2 years ago) and asked him about his bass drum technique.i wanted to know how he played so fast and what his technique is.i was asking because i really wanted to learn.well,he was cool enough to get back to me real quick but all he really had to say was stuff like "just play your drums,and "everybody is different, what works for one person might not work for another").well this info he gave me is all well and good but i really wanted to find out HIS bass drum technique because it MIGHT just work for me.so i e mail him back and ask again if he can just tell me his technique and he does not respond.i figured it was not to much to ask just asking what his technique was (i say this as a drum teacher myself).
so now i see quotes of him saying things like he wants to get into education and helping other drummers out.but if hes not even willing to tell me,a fellow drummer,something as simple as what his bass drum technique is how is he going to get into educating other drummers about drumming?
don't get me wrong,i hold no ill will towards derek at all.as a matter of fact i would still love to take some lessons with him and think that he is an awesome drummer, but i just see somewhat of a contradiction in terms of what he is telling magazines in interviews and what he is actually doing when it comes to helping out other drummers technique and playing wise.

Derek is a great player and has changed his technique over the years..
The old videos of derek do not show his foot technique BUT
I have OLD video of his playing and his ankles are really high and this is the way I use to play too .......
but NOW he has developed very good control out of just running on the pedals some call it flatfoot and his ankles are lower to the footboard the hip flexors control the speed.
DEREK was an extreme drummer before and NOW he wants to focus on teaching I am sure he would help you now.............

Tim
www.twothreeonetwomusic.com

[z0mbie]

Derek was kindof right mate, drummings an individual thing, find out your own style and develop it. Sure he wasnt being specific with you but its because he simply worked on what was natural to him, you should do the same and then teach people about your technique :) I use the flat foot technique because I broke my left ankle playing sports once but i now use my ankle more to get up to speeds around 205-210bpm because its what feels natural to me. Just go with what your body is telling you to do when playing double bass and just go with the flow man lol

[Derek Roddy]

i have a little bit of an issue with derek roddy.let me say why.i e mailed him some time ago (about 2 years ago) and asked him about his bass drum technique.i wanted to know how he played so fast and what his technique is.i was asking because i really wanted to learn.well,he was cool enough to get back to me real quick but all he really had to say was stuff like "just play your drums,and "everybody is different, what works for one person might not work for another").well this info he gave me is all well and good but i really wanted to find out HIS bass drum technique because it MIGHT just work for me.so i e mail him back and ask again if he can just tell me his technique and he does not respond.i figured it was not to much to ask just asking what his technique was (i say this as a drum teacher myself).
so now i see quotes of him saying things like he wants to get into education and helping other drummers out.but if hes not even willing to tell me,a fellow drummer,something as simple as what his bass drum technique is how is he going to get into educating other drummers about drumming?
don't get me wrong,i hold no ill will towards derek at all.as a matter of fact i would still love to take some lessons with him and think that he is an awesome drummer, but i just see somewhat of a contradiction in terms of what he is telling magazines in interviews and what he is actually doing when it comes to helping out other drummers technique and playing wise.


I would tell you the same thing now as I did then.
I think to many drummers worry about technique rather than worring about hard work and dedication. As if some magical thing is going to happen by finding a "technique".
You would still have to put MANY hours into developing ANY technique. I find the whole idea of "a technique" to make things easier.....
a bunch of hogwash!!!!
For example....
If you pulled 100 NON drummers out of their cars on the way to work, put them behind a drum kit and asked them to make that little round ball hit the plastic head....... EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM are going to do it one of 2 ways....heel up or heel down.
I defy ANY of you to come up with another way to make the beater hit the head. You CAN'T!!!!! What, you're going to play the stroke with your knee???? I know... just reach down and play with your hand! LOL.
I hope you guys can see where searching for a technique to do something for you is leading down a road of never getting there.....which might be why you don't want to accept the answer.
The ONLY technique any of us NEED to know is PRACTICE!!!!!
Cheers
D.

[Mr. Pasquini]

I won't say anything but you're a monster, Derek. I love your style and how calm you look behind the kit. Cheers and keep bashin' the cans!

[drummingman]

I would tell you the same thing now as I did then.
I think to many drummers worry about technique rather than worring about hard work and dedication. As if some magical thing is going to happen by finding a "technique".
You would still have to put MANY hours into developing ANY technique. I find the whole idea of "a technique" to make things easier.....
a bunch of hogwash!!!!
For example....
If you pulled 100 NON drummers out of their cars on the way to work, put them behind a drum kit and asked them to make that little round ball hit the plastic head....... EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM are going to do it one of 2 ways....heel up or heel down.
I defy ANY of you to come up with another way to make the beater hit the head. You CAN'T!!!!! What, you're going to play the stroke with your knee???? I know... just reach down and play with your hand! LOL.
I hope you guys can see where searching for a technique to do something for you is leading down a road of never getting there.....which might be why you don't want to accept the answer.
The ONLY technique any of us NEED to know is PRACTICE!!!!!
Cheers
D.
but how you practice is what matters the most, and thats where techniques come into play. and the question still remains which is the best way to get power and speed,heels up or down.and what about the whole flatfoot technique that you used to do,even you switched because you found that there was a better way to play the bass drum for power.like i said,its about HOW you practice not just practice.
i dont look for the right technique to try to find a way to cheat out of doing the hard work.but there are ways of doing things that are better then others.and yes it is different for everybody,but we have to know what techniques are available so we can try them to see what works best for each of us.
i mean,look at great teachers like dom famularo,or jim chapin or joe morello.these guys have passed on great techniques that they have learned from their teachers that have made them and many many others better drummers because of showing them how to play better.the gladstone method,the moeller stroke and other techniques have made the lives of a ton of drummers better because they show how to play the drums in more efficient ways.
all im saying is is that the issue of technique is a real issue and that there are different techniques that will help people.so thats why i seek out what techniques are available so i can choose which ones to work on to make me a better drummer.

[Derek Roddy]

I haven't "changed" anything about my bass drum playing. I play the same way now that I did 10- 15- 20 years ago. What has changed is the body and how it wants to accomplish what I'm trying to do. I certainly haven't changed it on purpose because I found a better way.
Flat foot is still heel up. I use that term because I don't angle my feet. The entire surface of my foot hits the pedal at the same time. It's the same thing that everybody I've ever seen play a bass drum does.( accept for the heel down players) Maybe the angles are different from player to player but at the end of all of that.... is still only one "techinque".
Again dude, I just play the drum, no tricks, no specific techinque, just play and find what works for you.
Maybe you haven't put much thought into this but I've been working on DB for 20 years. And I'm where I'm at because of that....not because I found a better, more efficient way.
If you want to become faster with the kicks.....find some songs like "angel of death" or "rapture" and play them 25 times a day. That's a great "technique" and that's what I did.
As far as Moeller, etc.... I don't find those to be "techinques" but NATURAL motion that your body does when adapting to moving forward.
If you apply everything you know about physics and natural motion, you will come to these conclusions on your own without someone telling you to do so. Techinque is just a word, not an application.
Your body will tell you what needs to be done to accomplish your goals....if you listen to it.
Cheers.
D.

[Derek Roddy]

Here is one thing that goes overlooked in bass drum playing....
When you are playing a single stroke roll with your hands on a pad...and you increase the tempo........what happens?
Think about the motion, and watch what happens with your hands and stick heigth.
Motion is the key word here.
Try it, come to your conclusion, and get back to me.
D.

[Therma lobsterdore]

Hey Derek, I do agree that alot of drummers focus too much on the whole 'should i use this or that techique', but it's always handy to get a professionals thoughts on what has benefited him/her the most. Anywho, drummingman, there are plenty of videos, threads etc. out there that detail the various foot techniques , just try them all and see what works best for you hombre.

[Derek Roddy]

Playing the drums has benifited me most. Searching for techniques to playing the drums has done nothing for me.
But that's just me. I guess it's a different mindset, but has worked great for me.
D.

[Shinx]

I haven't "changed" anything about my bass drum playing. I play the same way now that I did 10- 15- 20 years ago. What has changed is the body and how it wants to accomplish what I'm trying to do. I certainly haven't changed it on purpose because I found a better way.
Flat foot is still heel up. I use that term because I don't angle my feet. The entire surface of my foot hits the pedal at the same time. It's the same thing that everybody I've ever seen play a bass drum does.( accept for the heel down players) Maybe the angles are different from player to player but at the end of all of that.... is still only one "techinque".
Again dude, I just play the drum, no tricks, no specific techinque, just play and find what works for you.
Maybe you haven't put much thought into this but I've been working on DB for 20 years. And I'm where I'm at because of that....not because I found a better, more efficient way.
If you want to become faster with the kicks.....find some songs like "angel of death" or "rapture" and play them 25 times a day. That's a great "technique" and that's what I did.
As far as Moeller, etc.... I don't find those to be "techinques" but NATURAL motion that your body does when adapting to moving forward.
If you apply everything you know about physics and natural motion, you will come to these conclusions on your own without someone telling you to do so. Techinque is just a word, not an application.
Your body will tell you what needs to be done to accomplish your goals....if you listen to it.
Cheers.
D.Very well put. Thanks Derek, that made a lot of sense to me

[Drum-Head]

I would tell you the same thing now as I did then.
I think to many drummers worry about technique rather than worring about hard work and dedication. As if some magical thing is going to happen by finding a "technique".
You would still have to put MANY hours into developing ANY technique. I find the whole idea of "a technique" to make things easier.....
a bunch of hogwash!!!!
For example....
If you pulled 100 NON drummers out of their cars on the way to work, put them behind a drum kit and asked them to make that little round ball hit the plastic head....... EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM are going to do it one of 2 ways....heel up or heel down.
I defy ANY of you to come up with another way to make the beater hit the head. You CAN'T!!!!! What, you're going to play the stroke with your knee???? I know... just reach down and play with your hand! LOL.
I hope you guys can see where searching for a technique to do something for you is leading down a road of never getting there.....which might be why you don't want to accept the answer.
The ONLY technique any of us NEED to know is PRACTICE!!!!!
Cheers
D.


Drummingman,


See I told you this is what Derek will tell you lol. You can do it mate, you just got to get behind that kit and play!


Regards,
Christopher.

[Tutin]

I agree with Derek, that's exactly what I've done. Just played really. I mean, I've learned every technique I have come by, but when I get on the drums I never use them, I just do what's natural and it works for me.

[II xMETALx II]

I would tell you the same thing now as I did then.
I think to many drummers worry about technique rather than worring about hard work and dedication. As if some magical thing is going to happen by finding a "technique".
You would still have to put MANY hours into developing ANY technique. I find the whole idea of "a technique" to make things easier.....
a bunch of hogwash!!!!
For example....
If you pulled 100 NON drummers out of their cars on the way to work, put them behind a drum kit and asked them to make that little round ball hit the plastic head....... EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM are going to do it one of 2 ways....heel up or heel down.
I defy ANY of you to come up with another way to make the beater hit the head. You CAN'T!!!!! What, you're going to play the stroke with your knee???? I know... just reach down and play with your hand! LOL.
I hope you guys can see where searching for a technique to do something for you is leading down a road of never getting there.....which might be why you don't want to accept the answer.
The ONLY technique any of us NEED to know is PRACTICE!!!!!
Cheers
D.

That is the best advice anyone can give.

To many drummers worry about technique and the technical asspects of drumming. I can say that i used to be like that also. Trying to find a technique that will hopefully make things easier.

My drum teacher simply said you dont practice enough. Although i didnt want to accept that, that was the problem. So i went home and from that day forth i practice rudiments everynight on the pad and everything else. And what do you know, i improved faster than i ever had. Of cource i practiced before hand, but i think there is a large difference between a little practice and complete dedication to the instrament.

As for your videos Derek you completely blow my mind. I know you would hear that from everyone but my god you are unreal. Keep it up man!

Do you have myspace? Mine is www.myspace.com/newxpain. You ll notice your in my inspirations haha.

If you also have it could you please link me up so i can send you a FR.

Thanks :)

[drummingman]

I haven't "changed" anything about my bass drum playing. I play the same way now that I did 10- 15- 20 years ago. What has changed is the body and how it wants to accomplish what I'm trying to do. I certainly haven't changed it on purpose because I found a better way.
Flat foot is still heel up. I use that term because I don't angle my feet. The entire surface of my foot hits the pedal at the same time. It's the same thing that everybody I've ever seen play a bass drum does.( accept for the heel down players) Maybe the angles are different from player to player but at the end of all of that.... is still only one "techinque".
Again dude, I just play the drum, no tricks, no specific techinque, just play and find what works for you.
Maybe you haven't put much thought into this but I've been working on DB for 20 years. And I'm where I'm at because of that....not because I found a better, more efficient way.
If you want to become faster with the kicks.....find some songs like "angel of death" or "rapture" and play them 25 times a day. That's a great "technique" and that's what I did.
As far as Moeller, etc.... I don't find those to be "techinques" but NATURAL motion that your body does when adapting to moving forward.
If you apply everything you know about physics and natural motion, you will come to these conclusions on your own without someone telling you to do so. Techinque is just a word, not an application.
Your body will tell you what needs to be done to accomplish your goals....if you listen to it.
Cheers.
D.
sorry, i thought that you sais that you changed you technique in that youtube vid.i thought that you were maybe doing somethig different now then at a different time.
im a tech head, i cant help it.im always looking for the best way to do things.thats why im always asking questions about technique.i just have this need to be doing things in the most efficient way possible.

[Wavelength]

I just have this need to be doing things in the most efficient way possible.

The most efficient way to strike the kick drum is to let the beater rebound off the head. Anything else is just a derivation from or a combination of heel up and heel down motions. It seems these "exotic" techniques will develop and evolve all by themselves if you just keep on practicing both heel up and heel down and trying to go past your limits.

[Derek Roddy]

Hello Guys and gals...
I've just had enough time to up load some new video finally.
Here are a few clips from my clinics in Canada this passed month.
Enjoy and comments are welcome.
Word!
D.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_w2WRJIV6Uc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nh55OVDdKWk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kL07N1ZWy8g
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_84h55va-Mw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e12PZi3wjaA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PL2y3Z_yp0

[Green and Mean]

That practicing thing is correct. If you don't get something, practice. Actually most of my hand skill has came behind TV... Movie lasts for 2 h, I practice about 1.45h. Most important is that don't get sloppy behind TV..That's why I never remember what movie is about, lol.

[dairyairman]

awesome videos! makes difficult drumming look easy. i love all the effects cymbals!

[Tutin]

Derek, here's a question I've always wondered. See I can reach speeds like 200bpm pretty easily, but obviously that wasn't always the case. I was just wondering what speeds do you get to before you really start to struggle? And do you find it hard to play your stuff now or has it become easy over the years, or are you trying hard?

Probably a silly question, but thanks anyway.

[tynn]

Derek, I'd really like you to answer Tutin's question pelase! I also have another question: You use a HHX groove ride, right? (says so on your webpage) so, is this a good ride for metal? Im conciduring buying one!

[Derek Roddy]

Derek, here's a question I've always wondered. See I can reach speeds like 200bpm pretty easily, but obviously that wasn't always the case. I was just wondering what speeds do you get to before you really start to struggle? And do you find it hard to play your stuff now or has it become easy over the years, or are you trying hard?

Probably a silly question, but thanks anyway.


Well, right now...I top out somewhere around 230-240. I use to be able to hit 250-255 regularly but, I don't play Death Metal 260 days a year anymore. That type of physical effort requires maintenance. Pushing yourself will always make you struggle...it's to what extent are you struggling that's important.
It definately has gotten easier for me over the years.
Cheers.
D.

[Derek Roddy]

Derek, I'd really like you to answer Tutin's question pelase! I also have another question: You use a HHX groove ride, right? (says so on your webpage) so, is this a good ride for metal? Im conciduring buying one!

Ah, the HHX Groove Ride. I love that cymbal.
I've never been the type of drummer who likes these pingy, "manhole cover" ride cymbals that most "metal" drummers use. I like a sound like Tony W, or Jack D. I fuse that sound into my metal playing simply to separate myself from all the other metal drummers who have the same cymbal sound.
The Groove Ride is good because it can cover a wide variety of genres. this is good because I play gigs doing anything from Blues to Extreme metal. I don't like to change gear. I like to play what I play and that's that! LOL. I'm too forgetful to remember which ride to take to a gig.
I wouldn't say it's the best ride for "metal" but it's the best ride for "everything".
D.

Oh yea, I also use a single piece of moongel on the Groove Ride. It dries it up just slightly enough to bring out the definition.
Cheers.

[tot_fnky]

Derek Roddy!!! Just amazing. Not my kind of drummer, not even my favorite kind of drumming but one has to recognize the incredible technique he posseses. One of the best metal drummers around.

[Tutin]

Well, right now...I top out somewhere around 230-240. I use to be able to hit 250-255 regularly but, I don't play Death Metal 260 days a year anymore. That type of physical effort requires maintenance. Pushing yourself will always make you struggle...it's to what extent are you struggling that's important.
It definately has gotten easier for me over the years.
Cheers.
D.

Thanks a lot Derek, I always wondered about that. Yeah, my band split up recently and I understand what you mean about the maintenance, does that not bother you though?

Oh and the solo from the clinic rocks, well done man!

Oh, and do you use moongel on any of your drums? I do live but I take it off for recordings because it gives a slappy sound sometimes in the mix.

[DrumGod]

He is great and amazing playeer, Gorgeous kit and unreal technique and from wat i hear is very versatile and can go from extrme to jazz flawlessy( which is not an easy thing to do id say).....I also found his exercises on his site are really helpful and have been incorperated into my everyday practicse sheduale
So Thanks derek!!!

[chazgrohl]

just wondering well if derek's about on here, but usually id be listening to metal, i can drum along to most artists or try anyways, usually its about speed, like ya gota be fast to drum metal, but have you ever listened to bands like meshuggah, really mad off timing beats, would you find this kind of drumming complex, or is it only normal guys like me who do

[xbengermanx]

can you say endurance?
this guy never stops going.
i saw a video on youtube of him talking about his flat foot double bass technique its really interesting. i'll put it on here. he's talking abuot doing double at like 250 and being loud with no triggers its so loud in the video. WOW!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaMAHphUTnk

[drummingman]

i gotta say derek that i am blown away by the fact that you can run on the pedals at like 240. i have always struggled with high speeds when it comes to double bass.

[Derek Roddy]

Thanks for the kind comments.
It's just a matter of how much time you spend doing it. That's the key.
It wasn't always perfect for me. I was at a place that EVERYONE of you... are in now.
It's just about doing it as much as you can and and letting go of the idea of "gaining speed".
It will come but it might show itself in way you aren't expecting...like practicing other things.
Cheers.
D.

[HHxplorer]

Derek, you have 2 brains, right? One for the feet and one for the hands, 'cuz there is NO friggin' way that one brain can take care of both your hands and feet! =)
btw, I love the 3/2 footpattern in I Monarch, I play it very often but with my hands instead, since I don't have a cable hat on my right...
...yet =)

[Bernhard]

Derek Roddy joined the Meinl Cymbal Team and will appear at the Meinl Drumfestival 2007 in Gutenstetten....Congratulations...

Bernhard

http://www.drummerworld.com/drummers/Derek_Roddy.html


http://www.drummerworld.com/pics/drumpics10/derek-roddy-8.jpg

http://www.drummerworld.com/pics/drumpics10/derek-roddy-10.jpg

http://www.drummerworld.com/pics/drumpics10/derek-roddy-6.jpg

[HHxplorer]

What?
Noooooooooooo!!!
Well, Meinl's are good cymbals, I just prefer Sabians =)
Oh, congratz btw!

[Tutin]

Nice one Derek! I'm happy to have any you don't want...

[DreamTheater4life]

Nice one Derek! I'm happy to have any you don't want...

i second that hahaha

[Tutin]

i second that hahaha

Shotgun on Dereks spare cymbals.

There, I win.

[DreamTheater4life]

Shotgun on Dereks spare cymbals.

There, I win.

shotgun i get at least one :-p

[Doom]

Hi Derek,
Those acrylic drums in the Meinl pictures, is that your kit now?

Cheers

[philiprst]

Hi Derek,

I bought your book yesterday; it was sitting in the guitar section of my local music store! I haven't had a chance to try out any of the exercises yet but I really enjoyed what you had to say and the production and design of the book is outstanding!

Philip

[JHdrummer]

I saw you on the back of Modern Drummer for Sabian.

[Tutin]

Hey man, saw your videos on the Meinl site, kick ass stuff. Look forward to the "Today is the day" stuff!

Welcome to drummerworld JHC drummer.

[tambian89]

I know George and have seen him play many times (over 10) I have NEVER seen him play single stroke DB over 255 in a playing situation.... To this day. Yes there are some NILE tunes that are in the 265 range but like all of us...his feet float just a little. Besides, this is another case of putting words in my mouth. I said, on my forum... that at the TIME, nobody was playing over 255 or 260. Are drummers such as George getting closer? Yes they are but... I STILL haven't seen a drummer play 16th note singles over 255 in a PLAYING situation.

D.

Derek:

What do you make of this? http://youtube.com/watch?v=CVo7qxDhgoM

I somewhat trust Batdorf, but one can never tell. It doesn't seem like he's floating, but I really don't know what to make of this. Do you think he's actually going 290? I personally believe he''s going about 260 and is floating. I'm not sure though.

I'd also like to take the time to tell you how much I admire your drumming skills. You should be proud of your ability to play so well.

Thank you.

- Marc

[dale w miller]

effortless....this guy is just a master of metal. much kudos.

check this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqLabaSh52c&NR=1) out

I met Derrick Roddy working in a local drum shop about 6 months ago. I think he just happened to be in town and was helping out the owner, a friend of his. He's from South Carolina, originally. We talked a while. I played some for him. (Yawn!). He played some of his stuff for me. OMG! HOLY FREAKIN' COW. This guy is so much better than that crap music/band he plays with. In addition to MONSTER chops, he's got the most incredible independence I've EVER seen. Multiple polyrythms between hands and feet. I never understood why any drummer needed 5 pedals on each side of the snare . . . until I saw him show me what to do with them.

In addition to that, he absolutely kills rock, funk, jazz, latin, anything. Put this guy in with an acoustic jazz trio, no problem. Latin/Funk, piece of cake. He does it all.

as much respect as i have for this guy as a metal drummer, i have to disagree. i saw him on video playing in a blues/jazz band and to say the least he did not swing. he may have been schooled enough to be playing a swing pattern, but the feel was just way too straight. this happens though with a lot of technically proficient players. see neil peart on the Burning for Buddy cd.

[Tutin]

Derek:

What do you make of this? http://youtube.com/watch?v=CVo7qxDhgoM

I somewhat trust Batdorf, but one can never tell. It doesn't seem like he's floating, but I really don't know what to make of this. Do you think he's actually going 290? I personally believe he''s going about 260 and is floating. I'm not sure though.

I'd also like to take the time to tell you how much I admire your drumming skills. You should be proud of your ability to play so well.

Thank you.

- Marc

Hey man, no way is that singles, he's using heel-toe. If he was really doing singles, he'd have a close up on his feet to prove it.

It's as bad as that as blood runs black song everyone's raving about.

[dale w miller]

Hey man, no way is that singles, he's using heel-toe. If he was really doing singles, he'd have a close up on his feet to prove it.

It's as bad as that as blood runs black song everyone's raving about.why does that matter? does it sound the same? if so, who cares how it is accomplished.

[tambian89]

Hey man, no way is that singles, he's using heel-toe. If he was really doing singles, he'd have a close up on his feet to prove it.

It's as bad as that as blood runs black song everyone's raving about.

I think he's doing heel toe, too. You can hear it when he isolates his feet.

What song are you refering to? As Blood Runs Black is a band?

- Marc

[michael drums]

effortless....this guy is just a master of metal. much kudos.

check this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqLabaSh52c&NR=1) out



as much respect as i have for this guy as a metal drummer, i have to disagree. i saw him on video playing in a blues/jazz band and to say the least he did not swing. he may have been schooled enough to be playing a swing pattern, but the feel was just way too straight. this happens though with a lot of technically proficient players. see neil peart on the Burning for Buddy cd.

In your OPINION...of course!!

...Play On! ;-)

[Tutin]

In your OPINION...of course!!

...Play On! ;-)

I thought you swore never to post here again?

Tambian89, yes they are a band.

And thefeckcampaign, in this case I'm not saying it sounds bad, it's just that guys like this get credit for triggering the hell out of their drums and playing heel-toe at high tempos whereas guys like Derek earn it through years of practice. Running on the pedals at 240bpm, no triggers is far more impressive. Does it sound the same? Yes. Is it as challenging as full-volume running on the pedals? No.

It's a bit unfair, and that's the part that matters.

[dale w miller]

And thefeckcampaign, in this case I'm not saying it sounds bad, it's just that guys like this get credit for triggering the hell out of their drums and playing heel-toe at high tempos whereas guys like Derek earn it through years of practice. Running on the pedals at 240bpm, no triggers is far more impressive. Does it sound the same? Yes. Is it as challenging as full-volume running on the pedals? No.

It's a bit unfair, and that's the part that matters.but why does it matter if it is just as challenging or unfair? i thought the goal was to create music not be an athletic competition. if this was the WFD i can see your point but we are talking about the end result.

[Tim Waterson]

Hey man, no way is that singles, he's using heel-toe. If he was really doing singles, he'd have a close up on his feet to prove it.

It's as bad as that as blood runs black song everyone's raving about.

Brett already admitted he is doing heel toe.No big sectret and 300 is not a big deal now a days..for doubles
When I hit 1289 in 2001 it was just to be the first ..
The WFD video was to show drummers how to instantly achieve speed....
He sounds a bit too cocky for what HES DOING...
Yes I appreciate MORE the fact the DEREK has very strong legs and powerful double bass.
Tim

[Tutin]

Brett already admitted he is doing heel toe.No big sectret and 300 is not a big deal now a days..for doubles
When I hit 1289 in 2001 it was just to be the first ..
The WFD video was to show drummers how to instantly achieve speed....
He sounds a bit too cocky for what HES DOING...
Yes I appreciate MORE the fact the DEREK has very strong legs and powerful double bass.
Tim

Yes, I'm aware it's not a big secret, it just annoys me that they get all this credit. It's more the fact that his whole kit is triggered that annoys me.

And thefeckcampaign, I was talking about the technique, not the music being made. It's so much easier. I understand your point, but it's not what I was talking about.

[BrynnerAgassi]

All i can say about is. WOW!

[Bernhard]

just came back from the Meinl Festival.

Had a great time with Derek - dinner, hanging out - great playing - great guy.....

thanks Meinl, more pics coming soon.

BErnhard

[Doom]

Beautiful looking drums. I'm really anticipating seeing him at Drummer Live in October.

[Derek Roddy]

Bernhard,
Hey there.
Just wanted to say that it was a great honor to meet you. I had a wonderful time with you and the Meinl team.
Just want to thank you again for... not only providing the best source for on line drumming, for all to learn but.....For being the great human being you are!
Thank you!!!!!!
Cheers everyone.
D.

[Phil Maturano]

hey bro....Had a great hang at PPC....will you still be in London after the 24rrth?

You BA you!
hugs
PM

[Honketonk]

EDIT: A few videos are online now at meinlcymbals.com !

Hi there. I´ve been at the Meinl Drum Festival too and had a blast. Drove almost 11 hours to see Chris Adler and Derek Roddy, of course. ;-) Awesome performance and a really nice, friendly guy.
Bernhard was given the first Meinl Achievment Award for his duty on drummerworld.com. Again, congrats Bernhard !

So, here are some pics ...
http://img385.imageshack.us/img385/8008/img3028gl7.jpg
http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/6828/img3032ih7.jpg
http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/2423/img3040ny4.jpg
http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/585/img3046zp3.jpg
http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/628/img3056eo1.jpg
http://img385.imageshack.us/img385/9324/img3058xn4.jpg
Can´t wait to see some video footage.

[II xMETALx II]

Derek your kit is so amazing it makes me cry looking at it haha.

I just bought the Sonor Force 2007 Fusion model kit, with Sabian B8 cymbal pack. Its pretty nice :)

What are your thoughts on that kit?

[DreamTheater4life]

Derek's in next month's Modern Drummer. HELLZ YEA!!!! can't wait!!!

[Honketonk]

Wow, that´s great. Have to import it though but I guess It´ll be worth it. Is he on the cover of that issue ?!

[slingerland755]

I had never heard Derek play until today. I now have a new respect for metal drumming.This guy is playing at speeds I didn't think were humanly possible. I'm going to practice a few of his exercises. Phew!

[chopsy]

I would recommend checking out his book, the Evolution of Blast Beats (http://www.amazon.com/Evolution-Blast-Beats-Derek-Roddy/dp/1933811056), mentioned earlier in the thread. So many good exercises in there. I like his philosophy about training the weaker side harder.. it's been helping me a lot.

[DreamTheater4life]

Wow, that´s great. Have to import it though but I guess It´ll be worth it. Is he on the cover of that issue ?!

no he's not but i assume that there will be at least an article. hopefully an interview :)

[Tutin]

Hey Derek, any chance of a spoiler for your set at drummer live? : )

[Honketonk]

Got Dereks book yesterday in the mail. Really looked forward to this and I´m way more surprised as I thought I would be.

I love Jason Bittners book, but if I have to make a decision, I´d definately pick Dereks.

The CD rules, every lesson in the book is well, short played on the cd.
The 3 play-along tracks are killer, now I know what he played at meinl ! ^^

It´s too bad that the most music stores over here in germany are not able to order it, to my luck I found it on ebay.

[Honketonk]

Thank YOU D. !

*cough* Could you do something to activate my account ? *cough*

[Derek Roddy]

Thank YOU D. !

*cough* Could you do something to activate my account ? *cough*

I'll check into it for ya.
Mike ( the webmaster) has to enter them all by hand now (because of spammers)
I'm getting so many members now that he's having a hard time keeping up with it.
I'll let you know or it could just be a few more days.
Sorry about that.
Cheers.
D.

[Honketonk]

Not a problem, of course I can wait a few days. If Mike´s a drummer it would suck to loose the fingers because of typing with 800 beats per button ! ;-P

[Tutin]

Not a problem, of course I can wait a few days. If Mike´s a drummer it would suck to loose the fingers because of typing with 800 beats per button ! ;-P

I think it's Dereks way of training him up lol.

[Honketonk]

LOL. Yes, he´s sending the spam all by himself ! ^^

[Honketonk]

Hey everyone, go check out Dereks new videos ! KILLER !!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCz7WAi20Lw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gALP1ilydUw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kN8O5QK6YXU

[DWfan20005]

Derek Roddy + Metal= some of the best drumming ever.

[Honketonk]

Indeed !
Can´t wait for the Serpents Rise Release ! Hopefully coming soon...

[svkelleher10]

Does Derek Roddy use triggers? Or does he EQ his tracks alot?

They're pretty crisp because they pick up every stroke he takes.

And he takes ALOT of strokes.

[tomk]

I don't know if this has been covered already but does Derek blast with 1 foot or two feet? The reason I'm asking is because I saw a few videos of george kollias doing a clinic and he said in a few of those videos that he think blasting with two feet is cheating. I can't help but think that this guy has a bit of an ego. Like he's racing with other drummers? Last time I checked, music was not a race. If someone blasts with 2 feet, it's easier to do than a single foot blast. Because of triggers, the result is the same. I just think that the single foot blast is a way of saying "I'm better than you". at least thats how george kollias makes it seem.

[svkelleher10]

Haha drummers in the death/black/brutal metal genres were losers in high school so this is their form of competition, since they probably sucked at sports. Except hellhammer. He played like everything in high school.

[Shinx]

Hah, I hope you aren't serious, but I don't think you are

[svkelleher10]

Haha no i'm not serious. It takes power to do these blasts and fills.

[DreamTheater4life]

Does Derek Roddy use triggers? Or does he EQ his tracks alot?

They're pretty crisp because they pick up every stroke he takes.

And he takes ALOT of strokes.

When Derek was in Hate Eternal and Nile he used triggers. now he doesnt

I don't know if this has been covered already but does Derek blast with 1 foot or two feet? The reason I'm asking is because I saw a few videos of george kollias doing a clinic and he said in a few of those videos that he think blasting with two feet is cheating. I can't help but think that this guy has a bit of an ego. Like he's racing with other drummers? Last time I checked, music was not a race. If someone blasts with 2 feet, it's easier to do than a single foot blast. Because of triggers, the result is the same. I just think that the single foot blast is a way of saying "I'm better than you". at least thats how george kollias makes it seem.

Derek blasts with 1 foot. he always has. and George is far from egotystical. he's a really nice guy. he just thinks blasting with 2 feet is "cheating" because you're not pushing yourself with your feet. He thinks you should always push yourself to get better. You do that with 1 footing. 2 footing you're just going half the speed with each foot so there's no progress made with your feet there.

[tomk]

When Derek was in Hate Eternal and Nile he used triggers. now he doesnt



Derek blasts with 1 foot. he always has. and George is far from egotystical. he's a really nice guy. he just thinks blasting with 2 feet is "cheating" because you're not pushing yourself with your feet. He thinks you should always push yourself to get better. You do that with 1 footing. 2 footing you're just going half the speed with each foot so there's no progress made with your feet there.

I totally agree with pushing yourself to get better, but is that really getting better? You are doing a different technique to acheive the same result musically, which really, musicality is more important to me than an alternative technique that takes up practice time, that acheives the same thing musically as something that takes less effort.. I mean, shouldn't we be making things easier for ourselves and easier on our body so that we can be more creative? I mean in reality, there isn't much in the death metal genre you can do to be creative. There is only one death metal band that I've heard that blew every other death metal drummer I've heard, out of the water. I suggest you take a look at Yattering, they disbanded i think, but that drummer was awesome. His name is Zabek. I should post a song or a music video they had for one of their songs.

[tomk]

I found the music video. I'll upload one of their songs. Probably one of the most awesome metal songs i've ever heard. I'll upload it soon.

Here's the video.

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=6pWDmhJKHMc&feature=related

[tomk]

Here's my favourite metal/death metal song ever (so far...):

http://download.yousendit.com/49016A636D70083D

I don't really like any of their earlier albums. The album entitled Genocide is their best, and my favourite. It's definately worth checking out. The title of the song is Temptation of a crime.

[DreamTheater4life]

I totally agree with pushing yourself to get better, but is that really getting better? You are doing a different technique to acheive the same result musically, which really, musicality is more important to me than an alternative technique that takes up practice time, that acheives the same thing musically as something that takes less effort.. I mean, shouldn't we be making things easier for ourselves and easier on our body so that we can be more creative?


yes. it's making you have more speed, power, endurance, and precision by blasting with one foot. then what you need to do is alternate feet. blast with your right foot for awhile, then switch off to your left.

I mean in reality, there isn't much in the death metal genre you can do to be creative.

NOT TRUE. two words: Romain Goulon:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6Zwrs_nDJY

[tomk]

yes. it's making you have more speed, power, endurance, and precision by blasting with one foot. then what you need to do is alternate feet. blast with your right foot for awhile, then switch off to your left.



NOT TRUE. two words: Romain Goulon:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6Zwrs_nDJY

It's not that I don't agree that it can have benefits, but saying using two feet is cheating is a crappy thing to say. But it goes both ways, using two foot blast can help to conserve energy and playing smarter in my opinion. I guess it doesn't even really matter, depends on how you look at it. I just don't agree with how George Kollias said it was cheating and not fair. If someone wants to blast a certain way, thats their perogative and not up to someone else to determine if it is right, wrong, cheating, or not fair. Since the drums are triggered, and can acheive the same results musically, it really doesn't matter.

Romain Goulon was blast blast blast with some variations. If you check out the stuff I posted , it will really blow your mind.

[Therma lobsterdore]

I found the music video. I'll upload one of their songs. Probably one of the most awesome metal songs i've ever heard. I'll upload it soon.

Here's the video.

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=6pWDmhJKHMc&feature=related

Great band, awesome vid, shame they released that dodgy techno album before they disbanded cause I loved all there other albums. You ever listened to wormed or negativa? Check them out for some awesome and weird drumming.

[DreamTheater4life]

If you check out the stuff I posted , it will really blow your mind.

eh. that's not really my kind of stuff. but i will give it to you that is different thinking for drum tracks.

[Tutin]

NOT TRUE. two words: Romain Goulon

Derek Roddy anyone?

Blasting with two feet does give the same result musically but I see where George is coming from in honesty. I get angry with myself if I two foot.

And also, I think George has every right to have a small brag to himself! heheh

[Mr. Pasquini]

Not that I'm the fastest drummer (Can't really hold double bass over 200 or blast over 200) but I find that blasting with 2 feet is more difficult than blasting with one foot.... more coordination.

Just out of curiosity does anyone know Inferno of Behemoth's speed? In "Slaves Shall Serve he plays 280, I'm wondering how high he locks in, he's a very quick drummer.


Derek, are you enjoying your endorsement with Meinl? Are they as nice to work with as Sabian?
How's the work with Today is the Day coming? I really liked the Meinl Drum Festival clip.

[Honketonk]

Well, watch some of the Meinl Drum Festival clips with Derek, there you can see how many feets he´s using.

Away from that, I don´t give a damn if I´m a cheater when I´m blasting with both of my feets, it´s about having fun and about having a good feel while playing. IMO, that´s what counts !

[Trip McNealy]

Derek, are you enjoying your endorsement with Meinl? Are they as nice to work with as Sabian?
How's the work with Today is the Day coming? I really liked the Meinl Drum Festival clip.

yea, how's Meinl doing!

I watched one of your YouTube videos the other night... about training muscle memory and playing fast (200bpm or more)... the exercises you have to do in a loop for 10 minutes each... Great stuff, I really enjoyed and can use it.... and I don't even play much Metal!

[Derek Roddy]

Derek, are you enjoying your endorsement with Meinl? Are they as nice to work with as Sabian?
How's the work with Today is the Day coming? I really liked the Meinl Drum Festival clip.

I love the Meinl Company. They have it together man. Great people too!
They actually get things done..... as opposed to talking about getting stuff done! And, that's great from an artist prospective.

I have fulfilled my obligation to TITD and have no plans to do another recording.
My full attention is now with my band Serpents Rise.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OneQ-gLf2Ik
We are writing now and plan to record and release for free download in the late spring time.
I'll keep ya posted.

Hey Tripp, yea...keep on that exercise. It did wonders for me as well.

Thanks everyone for the continued support.
Drummer ROCK!!
D.

[Tutin]

My full attention is now with my band Serpents Rise.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OneQ-gLf2Ik
We are writing now and plan to record and release for free download in the late spring time.
I'll keep ya posted.

FREE?! Man, that song was awesome, you can't just give stuff like that away. I love the slower bit at 1:40. The song has really tasteful drumming throughout. Well done man!

[Mr. Pasquini]

I have fulfilled my obligation to TITD and have no plans to do another recording.

I've noticed that Steve Austin almost never keeps a drummer for a long period of time, is he unpleasant to work with or does he just like to mix it up?

[pearlygates]

Your speed is impressive Mr. Roddy. I have not seen many YouTube clips, so I wonder what kinda stuff, if any, do you play that has any redeeming value. I mean, blast beats are okay, but, can you groove like Benny Greb or Dave Weckl? I mean no offense, I just don't think of the art of playing the drum set as much of an EXTREME sport as some others.
I guess, times are changing.

[Mr. Pasquini]

Your speed is impressive Mr. Roddy. I have not seen many YouTube clips, so I wonder what kinda stuff, if any, do you play that has any redeeming value. I mean, blast beats are okay, but, can you groove like Benny Greb or Dave Weckl? I mean no offense, I just don't think of the art of playing the drum set as much of an EXTREME sport as some others.
I guess, times are changing.

He's been doing a lot of work in other fields is word on the street, though I'm not sure, its just written down in some random places. Roddy isn't just fast, he's a very good drummer. Research him a bit, even if he was all blast beats he has some very creative blasts (check out the multi pedal blasting video)

[pearlygates]

He's been doing a lot of work in other fields is word on the street, though I'm not sure, its just written down in some random places. Roddy isn't just fast, he's a very good drummer. Research him a bit, even if he was all blast beats he has some very creative blasts (check out the multi pedal blasting video)
I will do that..Thanks!

[Mr. Pasquini]

I will do that..Thanks!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxsxsU4DnKI&feature=user

[Derek Roddy]

Your speed is impressive Mr. Roddy. I have not seen many YouTube clips, so I wonder what kinda stuff, if any, do you play that has any redeeming value. I mean, blast beats are okay, but, can you groove like Benny Greb or Dave Weckl? I mean no offense, I just don't think of the art of playing the drum set as much of an EXTREME sport as some others.
I guess, times are changing.

try these on
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLRnltoKSZI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMyrJgQymLA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdZwx-xE-GQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENLDeERX1Ps
D.

Understand, I'm a musician first.
I started playing "redeeming" music long before the "blast beat" stuff.
Doesn't mean I'm any good at ANY of it though!!! LoL!
Cheers.
D.

[gr82bagn]

Wow, your blues playing was outstanding, you were right in that pocket.

[cantstandyourfunk]

Classifying a musician by looking at one "kind" of music that he has played is a fool's decision :)

[Honketonk]

If I remember correctly, at the Meinl Drum Festival, Norbert told the crowd where he first met Derek Roddy, he knew that he´s an outstanding blast beat drummer ... and then he watched Derek in a bar in Texas drumming some country tunes ! ^^

[cantstandyourfunk]

the key is being "open" :)

http://www.myspace.com/fivelittleindians

[Tutin]

Plug Lol 20 characters

[drums4pie]

anybody else like his drumming? he's awsome

[Mr. Pasquini]

I totally agree with pushing yourself to get better, but is that really getting better? You are doing a different technique to acheive the same result musically, which really, musicality is more important to me than an alternative technique that takes up practice time, that acheives the same thing musically as something that takes less effort.. I mean, shouldn't we be making things easier for ourselves and easier on our body so that we can be more creative? I mean in reality, there isn't much in the death metal genre you can do to be creative. There is only one death metal band that I've heard that blew every other death metal drummer I've heard, out of the water. I suggest you take a look at Yattering, they disbanded i think, but that drummer was awesome. His name is Zabek. I should post a song or a music video they had for one of their songs.
Think about the percussion he has with his left foot, though. He can open up new doors because he can roll his left foot around and hit his alternate bass drum or work with his high hats. I think single foot blasting is quite useful.

[MikeyOdrums]

Hey Dereck
I really enjoy the way you play and am curious on the clave pattern that you played in one of your solos. Was it a movable clave pattern or were playing in a time sig that wasn't so obvious? Just curious keep up the good work. Also I am good friends of Dougs from Defcon 4 he says wuzzz up!!!
Mike o
www.myspace.com/growri check it out funk/groove/hip hop

[MikeyOdrums]

Hey Dereck
I really enjoy the way you play and am curious on the clave pattern that you played in one of your solos. Was it a movable clave pattern or were playing in a time sig that wasn't so obvious? Just curious keep up the good work. Also I am good friends of Dougs from Defcon 4 he says wuzzz up!!! Also I see you have a double pedal and a second bass is it tuned up higher? what do you use it for? thanks again
Mike o
www.myspace.com/growri check it out funk/groove/hip hop

[*JOHN FAVICCHIA *]

Hey D!!!!!

Great to see you here...Call me back homie!!!! lol

Also-thanks for the mention on your forum!!! You're the best..

Best
Fav

[Derek Roddy]

Hello everyone...
Been awhile since I've been around.
I'm knee deep in snake eggs this season.
Snake eggs you ask?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC02435.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC02415.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC02439.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC02432.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC02418.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC02437.jpg

I know...it's a bit "weird". LoL!


Anyway, I've also been busy with my band... "Serpents Rise"
Just wanted to stop by and give you guys a link to hear some of the "demo work" we've done thus far.


http://www.derekroddy.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=12778
The link will give you all the details.
Cheers everyone! Hope you all are well.
D.

[Doom]

Cool, how do they taste?

[DreamTheater4life]

Cool, how do they taste?

he doesnt eat them hahaha

[Ironcobra]

he doesnt eat them hahaha

Where have you been? It's the newest thing.

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Derek,

great to hear from - I'm excited about seeing you play - and looking forward to hanging out with you at the MD festival.

cheers
Gavin

[Big_Philly]

"Serpents Rise"


Judging by the pictures, they will be rising soon indeed :) So you have a pet snake? That's pretty cool. I was thinking about getting me a pet lizard or another reptile.

[Derek Roddy]

Judging by the pictures, they will be rising soon indeed :) So you have a pet snake? That's pretty cool. I was thinking about getting me a pet lizard or another reptile.

Ha..yea, about another 20-25 days...they'll be hatching.

Yes, I keep and breed...(well, I don;t breed them...I let the snakes do that!)
And raise up the babies.
It's a fun hobby.
Cool to see the very start of life...such as a hatching snake coming out of an egg.
Very cool stuff.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC01765-1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC01823.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC01830.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC01848.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/derekroddy/DSC01882.jpg
Life is cool.

D.

[LinearDrummer]

Congrats on being invited to the MD fest....

I don't really listen to Metal but I've seen some of your clips on your site/YouTube and you have tremendous chops....

Looking forward to seeing you play!

[Derek Roddy]

Congrats on being invited to the MD fest....

I don't really listen to Metal but I've seen some of your clips on your site/YouTube and you have tremendous chops....

Looking forward to seeing you play!

Thank you very much.
I still have to pinch myself to see if I'm dreaming!!! Haha.
Should be loads of fun!
See you there?
Cheers.
D.

[*JOHN FAVICCHIA *]

Hey D-

Awesome!!! Congrats about MD-

Look forward to haning when you hit NYC


John

[Derek Roddy]

Thanks John.
I'm looking forward to hanging with you as well.
I'm still on for the Collective in June.
Let's get together and play!
D.

[Tutin]

Well done on MD Derek!

What sort of stuff will you be playing?

Tutin

[hendecahedron]

Hey, Derek, question about the excercise, is it any better if we do each section for more than 2 minutes? I wonder what's the longest you've done it.

Kind of a silly question I know

Thanks!!

[Bernhard]

Hi Derek

I congratulate you for the big gig - Modern Drummer Festival Weekend.

Great to see and makes me feel good that ALL appearing drummers are personal friends of Drummerworld:

Derek, Simon, Billy, Todd, Thomas, Dafnis, Gavin, Ndugu.....so great!!

Bernhard

[Derek Roddy]

Hi Derek

I congratulate you for the big gig - Modern Drummer Festival Weekend.

Great to see and makes me feel good that ALL appearing drummers are personal friends of Drummerworld:

Derek, Simon, Billy, Todd, Thomas, Dafnis, Gavin, Ndugu.....so great!!

Bernhard

THANK YOU SO MUCH Bernhard.
That means a lot to me.

Are you going to come?
I'd love to see you there.

Hope all is well with you and look forward to hanging again. Hopefully soon.
D.

[Derek Roddy]

Hey, Derek, question about the excercise, is it any better if we do each section for more than 2 minutes? I wonder what's the longest you've done it.

Kind of a silly question I know

Thanks!!

You can do it as long as you see fit. Or until you feel you've made progress.

Longest I've done it???????Hummmmm......
Maybe a solid hour but... I'd rather practice "working on speed and endurance" while playing music.
I'm not really an "exercise guy". Haha.

D.

[hendecahedron]

You can do it as long as you see fit. Or until you feel you've made progress.

Longest I've done it???????Hummmmm......
Maybe a solid hour but... I'd rather practice "working on speed and endurance" while playing music.
I'm not really an "exercise guy". Haha.

D.

I think when it comes to techniques or exercises, that is simply the best advise a pro drummer of your caliber can give to anyone: Wanna get better? PLAY!!

Thanks for your reply, Derek.

[T-1000]

Flat foot is still heel up. I use that term because I don't angle my feet. The entire surface of my foot hits the pedal at the same time. It's the same thing that everybody I've ever seen play a bass drum does.( accept for the heel down players) Maybe the angles are different from player to player but at the end of all of that.... is still only one "techinque".

This quote, from the man himself is important because there is a lot of misinformation out there which tries to explain that 'flat foot' technique is something altogether different from heel up.

Technique A). What flat-foot technique ISN'T: using only the muscles in your hips/butt to lift the entire weight of your thigh, calf and foot up in the air, and the antagonistic muscle pair plus the aid of gravity to bring said bodily structures back down, consequently depressing the bass drum pedal.

Technique B). What flat-foot technique IS: using the muscles in your calves, just like in regular heel up, albeit at a slightly flatter angle which Derek happens to find more comfortable playing at.

NOTE - using your calf muscles in the way described in 'Technique B).' will still cause your leg to be raised into the air, so these two techniques essentially, look the same, but feel very different.

I think, the use of the term 'hip-flexor muscles' is what throws people off into thinking that flat foot technique is 'Technique A).' where you're lifting your whole thigh into the air from the hip. The hip flexors may well be involved in flat foot technique, but only as a stabilizing muscle ie. so you don't fall off your stool.

If flat foot technique is as the quote from Derek above says - then the muscles driving the action of the technique will still be the muscles of the calf - again, just like regular heel up.

Seriously, try playing Technique A). - I guarantee you will be struggling to play with any consistency, you will be off-balance, and you may even get back-ache.

[emre_16]

hi derek how are you?I am from Turkey.I am your fan.I want to meet you a lot. see you

[blastface]

Hey Derek! just want to tell you that you're a huge inspiration man, since I've been into your drumming it has inspired me to practice a lot more, to try to take my drumming to the next level, and to try to be unique. I've been trying to learn The Victorious Reign, amazing drumming dude. Hopefully you read this, lol.

I wish you luck on future projects

blastface

[blastface]

I just bought Derek's book, "The Evolution Of Blast Beats" and I would strongly recommend it, it's great for your overall playing, not only blast beats, I've learned a lot from it and I've had it for less than a week.

[kwolf68]

I tolerate death metal because I love the drumming so much and Roddy is no exception. Dude is amazing.

[Derek Roddy]

I just bought Derek's book, "The Evolution Of Blast Beats" and I would strongly recommend it, it's great for your overall playing, not only blast beats, I've learned a lot from it and I've had it for less than a week.

Hey Blastface.....Just wanted to say thanks for the positive book review.
Cheers Man.!


Hudson Music will be re-releasing it in August or September.... for those interested in picking up a copy.

D.

[Derek Roddy]

I tolerate death metal because I love the drumming so much and Roddy is no exception. Dude is amazing.

Cheers brother!
Funny, how the drummers carry these bands.......
D.

[Tylerdrums109]

I am by no means a death or speed metal fan...but i can appreciate Derek Roddy's skills....hes a very good drummer just not one who plays in a style i love to hear...cheers and keep playing and inspiring young drummers Mr. Roddy

[AmateurDrummer]

I really like your playing Derek, you are fast and not like bunch of soulless death-metal drummer, you got the soul for it and i really want to be like you!!!

[mvikred]

the key is being "open" :)

http://www.myspace.com/fivelittleindians

cant believe u r here my man !!

@ derek : always enjoyed ur playing, and i am there on ur forum most of the time. no time to post much or practice these days .. works eating up my time.

anyways, just thought i'd say HEYLLOOOO

[Derek Roddy]

As always guys....I'm thankful for your kind replies......makes me blush!!! Haha.

mvikred....What's up man? I know the "busy" scenario. Story of my life! LoL.

Just wanted to post a link to my YouTube page.
Lots of video's there....maybe stuff you all haven't seen.
Anyway.....here it is and happy rockin out!

http://www.youtube.com/MrObsidian
D.

[Phil Maturano]

Dude I cant believe we didnt hook up in Miami!!!!
Bwwaaaaaaaaaaaaa
PM

[blastface]

Has anybody else had trouble joining Derek's forum? I've signed up about five times starting maybe six months ago or more XD, it says my account needed to be verified by an administrator and they'd e-mail me back when it happens... It hasn't happened yet! :(

[Derek Roddy]

Dude I cant believe we didnt hook up in Miami!!!!
Bwwaaaaaaaaaaaaa
PM

DUDE!!! I KNOW.
Halle wasn't feeling well all that weekend and I just couldn't free myself up enough to make the trip down.
We'll hook up soon enough. You going to be around at the MD fest ( In NY)?

Looking forward to hanging.

D.

[Derek Roddy]

Has anybody else had trouble joining Derek's forum? I've signed up about five times starting maybe six months ago or more XD, it says my account needed to be verified by an administrator and they'd e-mail me back when it happens... It hasn't happened yet! :(

Hey man. what was your user name and e mail address you signed up under. I'll look into it.
Cheers.
D.

[blastface]

Hey man. what was your user name and e mail address you signed up under. I'll look into it.
Cheers.
D.

My username I signed up with was john_lake, and the e-mail was blastface@hotmail.com

Thanks man

Blastface

[CountHavoc]

Hey Derek!Feel embarresed to admit it but i've been playing metal for close to 13 yrs & had'nt really listened to much of your work...until recently.I have a play along trax cd from Drumscene mag that features Virgil Donati,Jason Bittner & yourself.I love Virgil's flow & bittner feels a little sterile but i found your trax helped me out so much more.I learnt to play double bass watching an old Tommy Aldridge video,but thanx to guys like you,Chris Adler & Matt Byrne(and the net)i'm now more inspired to become a better person & player
Thanx again

[Ritualovsin]

I think derek roddy is amazing.

When he does his blast beats he only uses his right foot to match his hands, which in amamzin in itself

[Derek Roddy]

Hi guys....O.K. more free music from Serpent's Rise. Some of you may have some of these from the post I made earlier.
I just posted a new one last night.....The Polymath.

Check it out.



Right click save yaw!


Greater Equanimity
http://www.derekroddy.com/free_audio/260.mp3
Mist Suwangie
http://www.derekroddy.com/free_audio/235.mp3
Initiation Rituals
http://www.derekroddy.com/free_audio/230.mp3
Intertwine.
http://www.derekroddy.com/free_audio/Intertwine.mp3
Signs Of Identity
http://www.derekroddy.com/free_audio/serpentsrise.mp3

NEW ONE HERE!!!!!
The Polymath
http://www.derekroddy.com/free_audio/ThePolymath.mp3

These songs aren't close to being finished but, I thought you guys might like to see the progress from now until we actually record these.

This recording is live.
No tracking and only a stereo mix to the recorder.

This stuff will be "chock o block" with percussion and noises. Maybe some loops under some of it.
We have decided that Serpents Rise will be 97% instrumental also. There will be small amounts of vocals but, only where needed.

O.K. Enjoy....
or not.

These are a work in progress.
D.

[BBman]

Derek,
I an a huge fan and can't wait to see you at PASIC! Will you be at any of your endorser's booths?
I live in Jacksonville, FL and was wondering if you would be doing any clinics near here?

[Derek Roddy]

Yea...I'll be around for the whole PASIC show. Hunt me down...we'll hang and talk some drums.

Hummm....clinic in Jacksonville......any Sonor or Meinl dealers up there?
Cheers.
D.

[Derek Roddy]

Hey Derek!Feel embarresed to admit it but i've been playing metal for close to 13 yrs & had'nt really listened to much of your work...until recently.I have a play along trax cd from Drumscene mag that features Virgil Donati,Jason Bittner & yourself.I love Virgil's flow & bittner feels a little sterile but i found your trax helped me out so much more.I learnt to play double bass watching an old Tommy Aldridge video,but thanx to guys like you,Chris Adler & Matt Byrne(and the net)i'm now more inspired to become a better person & player
Thanx again

Haha....glad the trax helped out there brother.....and THANKS for the props.

D.

[drumhead61]

Dude it is AWESOME that a drummer of your caliber would focus some time on other drummers such as us...I LOVE IT...thanks a TON...we appreciate your time and giving heart!

[Derek Roddy]

Dude it is AWESOME that a drummer of your caliber would focus some time on other drummers such as us...I LOVE IT...thanks a TON...we appreciate your time and giving heart!

Isn't that what it's all about?.....Haha.
Thanks a lot drumhead61!

D.

[Tutin]

Hi Derek,

Quick but odd question:

How do you keep your hair in such good condition?!?! haha!

My hair isn't as long, but it grows much the same as yours and keeping it's a drag. So if you're bored and have a few minutes, there's an odd one for you! LOL

Thanks bro!

T

[Derek Roddy]

Hahaha....if my wife saw this.... she'd roll over laughing!

I actually don't do much of anything to it.
Wash it....that's it. I keep it up about 95% of the time. The only time it's down is... if I'm performing or for photos.
It gets the most damage from the sticks tearing it out!

I'd cut it all off..... but, the Mrs. wouldn't be too happy about that.
She likes it....so, I keep it. LoL.

D.

[Tutin]

Hahaha....if my wife saw this.... she'd roll over laughing!

I actually don't do much of anything to it.
Wash it....that's it. I keep it up about 95% of the time. The only time it's down is... if I'm performing or for photos.
It gets the most damage from the sticks tearing it out!

I'd cut it all off..... but, the Mrs. wouldn't be too happy about that.
She likes it....so, I keep it. LoL.

D.

Hahaha, thanks man! I'm pretty much the same in that I have it up all the time. See my Mrs. HATES my hair! But I love it, and when I cut it before I totally regretted it, so for now we can both be metal.

Btw Do you write the riffs for Serpents rise? I know you wrote some of "It is our will" by Hate Eternal, and that's my favourite song from I Monarch, and I'm really loving the S.R. tracks.

Thanks again.

T

[Derek Roddy]

Hahaha, thanks man! I'm pretty much the same in that I have it up all the time. See my Mrs. HATES my hair! But I love it, and when I cut it before I totally regretted it, so for now we can both be metal.

Btw Do you write the riffs for Serpents rise? I know you wrote some of "It is our will" by Hate Eternal, and that's my favourite song from I Monarch, and I'm really loving the S.R. tracks.

Thanks again.

T

Yeah....actually, I wrote about 95% of that stuff.
Not because I want to though.
I have an vision of what I'd like SR to sound like. Something different than all the Necro and Origin rip offs.
Fast but, open. Lots of "musical space" even though it's fast and aggressive.
I'm so tired of hearing a new metal CD come out and it's the same song 10 times in a row...just rearranged differently....with different words.

I want SR music to say something different on each track.....without words.

I remember a day of when metal records were full of dynamics and textures, interludes that connected songs.
All of that seems to be lost to "br00talness" and the "need to play fast"....not write good tunes.
There are no more peaks and valleys...no more "listening experience". Or, at least it's not common.

That said...I've found a guitarist that fits the bill very nice and he has adapted the sound very well and is writing a good bit of newer stuff.....Coming soon.

I have a full band together but I'm moving back to my home state next year and don't want to get a solid line up as of yet.
At the present time...we are just having fun playing metal. Myself and JP will continue writing music and I'm sure before we know it....will have 30 songs of crushing metal to record.

I'm in no hurry.....I want it to be right first and foremost.

Oh yes....... I wrote "IIOW" and "path of the eternal gods" on I, Monarch.

Cheers.
D.

[drumhead61]

D, yes that is what it is all about, but that does not mean that others get ahold of that concept! Of course there are many others such as yourself sharing their knowledge and time with us on here and for that I am extremely grateful...that way I will know you guys better when I GO PRO!! haha.

I am extremely grateful that you would throw out some chops for us to pick up on and better ourselves as drummers...RIGHT ON!


Isn't that what it's all about?.....Haha.
Thanks a lot drumhead61!

D.

[blastface]

Awesome tunes Derek... Keep it up. You should do a clinic in Nova Scotia, hahaha... I know it isn't possible XD.

[Therma lobsterdore]

Hi Derek,

Quick but odd question:

How do you keep your hair in such good condition?!?! haha!

My hair isn't as long, but it grows much the same as yours and keeping it's a drag. So if you're bored and have a few minutes, there's an odd one for you! LOL

Thanks bro!

T

Haha that made me do a chuckle. You prob already know this, but the best thing for long hair is to not wash it that often, like once every 3-4 days tops and make sure you comb it all the way through every morning, starting very gently from the bottom. I've had many an in-depth discussion about this with girlfriends and whatnot.

Derek, the new tunes are real good, nice work!

[slingerland755]

Wow Derek....
Your playing is superhuman!

[Tutin]

Yeah....actually, I wrote about 95% of that stuff.
Not because I want to though.
I have an vision of what I'd like SR to sound like. Something different than all the Necro and Origin rip offs.
Fast but, open. Lots of "musical space" even though it's fast and aggressive.
I'm so tired of hearing a new metal CD come out and it's the same song 10 times in a row...just rearranged differently....with different words.

I want SR music to say something different on each track.....without words.

I remember a day of when metal records were full of dynamics and textures, interludes that connected songs.
All of that seems to be lost to "br00talness" and the "need to play fast"....not write good tunes.
There are no more peaks and valleys...no more "listening experience". Or, at least it's not common.

That said...I've found a guitarist that fits the bill very nice and he has adapted the sound very well and is writing a good bit of newer stuff.....Coming soon.

I have a full band together but I'm moving back to my home state next year and don't want to get a solid line up as of yet.
At the present time...we are just having fun playing metal. Myself and JP will continue writing music and I'm sure before we know it....will have 30 songs of crushing metal to record.

I'm in no hurry.....I want it to be right first and foremost.

Oh yes....... I wrote "IIOW" and "path of the eternal gods" on I, Monarch.

Cheers.
D.

You wrote Path to the Eternal gods? Hah, that's a great song. Funny you bring up the point of "br00talness" (lozl0r), because I've always found Eriks writing tends to go a bit like that if you get me. Sometimes it's like he's trying to test peoples tolerance haha! But he is a great composer. His stuff with M.A. in particular was so good.

I also write a large portion of songs for my bands, and I totally agree with what your saying about how metal has become like a contest for speed and heaviness, so I'm always trying to deviate from using it constantly. Makes me happy when bands bring something new to the table without being stupid.

Anyway man, well done for writing the tunes, very impressed.

T

[mind_drummer]

I've just seen an Hudson sample or "teaser" of your weekend performance at the MD festival and want to tell you were awesome, outstanding performance. Two times Bravo !

[Trip McNealy]

Derek, nice to meet you this weekend at MD Festival, along with Jason Bittner.

You have a great sense of humor on stage. And your performance... I was left speechless, as was everyone else in the audience! You have some really solid contributions to drumming, thank you for everything.

Derek: "So when you're guitarist plays a fast rift BUMMMAAA BUMMAAB BUMMAA.. and you have a tendancy to play BLPPBLPLBPLBPLBPBLPBLP...."

Audience: (Histerical laughter)


Cheers Derek!

[Derek Roddy]

Derek, nice to meet you this weekend at MD Festival, along with Jason Bittner.

You have a great sense of humor on stage. And your performance... I was left speechless, as was everyone else in the audience! You have some really solid contributions to drumming, thank you for everything.

Derek: "So when you're guitarist plays a fast rift BUMMMAAA BUMMAAB BUMMAA.. and you have a tendancy to play BLPPBLPLBPLBPLBPBLPBLP...."

Audience: (Histerical laughter)


Cheers Derek!

Hahaha.......Trip. THANK YOU so much man. I had such a great time.


DUDES!!!!!!!!!!............................

Just going to make this quick as I really need some sleep.

What a great time I had. Absolutely crazy!
So humbling to be there with all those legends and heroes.

I'll post a detailed thread after I get some rest.

I felt my performance was O.K. ......There were some things (as always) that went wrong ( In ears... lodged in my right ear, wobbling riser, bad mic on my last floor tom) but, all and all......I'm pretty happy.

I'll give a more detailed report after I get some rest.

Thank you to all who came and supported.... not only me but, all the drummers there. It was a great hang and experience.

Cheers.

D.

[JjBb12]

Derek you're freak of nature...

[Gavin Harrison]

Derek,
it was great to hang out with you. Can't wait to do it all over again at PASIC !!!! You can give my ass another kicking there. Haha

all the best
Gavin

[Derek Roddy]

Haha....that's too much.

Duh...I forgot about PASIC!
Oh yeah...it's on. Can't wait to get my lessons from ya! Lol.

D.

[Ironcobra]

Derek, you kicked butt at the MD fest! There is no way I would ever be able to keep my feet moving like that in front of an audience. What is that super-trashy sounding china on the far left? Extremely dirty sounding, I like it.

Also, are you using two 10" toms?

[Derek Roddy]

Thanks man.... I really enjoyed myself. And the gang with the rest of the guys was just outstanding.

On the china.....my left or your left?
The one on my left is a 20 Byzance Rock china... in brilliant finish.
The one on your left was an 18 Byzance Rock china... in brilliant finish.

The toms are 8, 12, 10.

Cheers and thanks for coming!

D.

[Big_Philly]

...bad mic on my last floor tom...

Yeah I could tell... a little noisy when you would play it loud, right?
Great performance though, I'm sure nobody in the audience cared about the bad mic :)

[Mr. Pasquini]

I'm sorry I missed out on this until now, this is some really incredible music you've put together! The shuffle in Greater Equanimity took me off guard but in the best way possible. the transitions in Initiation Rituals really ruled, the groovy feel that you pushed through parts of that song put a smile on my face. Intertwine ripped my brain apart and put it back together upside down. Signs of identity had a very different feel, cadence almost, very pushy and powerful. I don't have proper words to describe most of these songs. The Polymath sounds the most polished to me. I really dug that track, probably my favorite of the bunch, that or intertwine.

This is a very different type of sound you guys have assembled and I'm happy to say it's great.

Keep up the good work,
Ian

[Derek Roddy]

Thanks Ian, I can tell you listened to the tunes thoroughly.Haha.

Cheers to ya.

I'll keep you posted on new songs etc......

D.

[Zildjian232]

Hey derek,

I have some questions....some of them are a bit unconventional but here i go.


Do you find it is productive to practice to albums, practice exercises, or fool around and be creative? I'm sure you do your exercises, but what would you consider a productive practice session.

you playing any clinics in the LA area anytime soon?


How did you get into a music career? Where you just doing it as a hobby,and it just boomed out of no where? or where you set on being a musician for a living? Im going through a tough-time right now deciding. Subsequently, Ive even put off going to berklee school of music. Im running into some(possible) record contract/radio play/touring opportunities with this band im in, but im not going to count my chickens before the eggs hatch. College verses running off with a band??. Everyone i know has their career planned out already(military, pilots,union jobs,doctors,etc) , all i can say is "yeah i played at the house of blues in hollywood last month, it was bad ass!" I have support around me, its just that you get that general attitude from people, like you told them that youre going to win the lottery and retire as your career plan. I have no other career aspirations besides music. I dont know if i should be worried or what.

I dont mean to sound like a drunk prattling school child, i have years worth of frustration, and trying to condense it was hard . You're leading a successful career in the same field im interested in, so i thought you might have some insight?


all the best,

mike.

[Derek Roddy]

Hey derek, Do you find it is productive to practice to albums, practice exercises, or fool around and be creative? I'm sure you do your exercises, but what would you consider a productive practice session.

you playing any clinics in the LA area anytime soon?

Hey Mike,
Yes, I find playing to recordings....the best way to learn all that is needed to advance as a player...... with the exception of listening skills (As playing to records never changes and playing with people..... does.) I've always said that the only way we truly get better at all aspects of playing drums.....is to play with people. I've never been one to practice exercises. In fact....I'd say that .00000000001% of my time playing.....has been practicing exercises. Exercises don't allow you to play music....playing music does.

I will be out in that area at NAMM time in January. I'm sure I'll perform there. As far as clinics....maybe in the spring time. That's what I'm planning for, at least.


How did you get into a music career? Where you just doing it as a hobby,and it just boomed out of no where? or where you set on being a musician for a living? Im going through a tough-time right now deciding. Subsequently, Ive even put off going to berklee school of music. Im running into some(possible) record contract/radio play/touring opportunities with this band im in, but im not going to count my chickens before the eggs hatch. College verses running off with a band??. Everyone i know has their career planned out already(military, pilots,union jobs,doctors,etc) , all i can say is "yeah i played at the house of blues in hollywood last month, it was bad ass!" I have support around me.


Well Mike,
I could write a book about this topic. If you're feeling frisky....you can search my forum...I have a ton of info about this there.

I'd say 100% of the time.....GO TO SCHOOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
There's is plenty of time to create music.
Now you asked about my career as a drummer.
First of, I'd say that........ I don't think of my drumming as a career because at this point....drumming hasn't paid a 10th of my bills. In fact, I've spent more money to play in the bands I've played in...than I made. All the bands I've been in have done nothing but, put me in debt.
Now, Not saying it wasn't fun or any of that but......IT DID NOTHING FOR MY LIFE!
You may look at the mags and stuff and see some drummers....maybe myself but, it's a case of ......"the grass is always greener".
I know a lot of dudes playing and touring in bands and if any of them tell you they are "making a decent living" they are lying or don't know what a decent living is.
Look at the price of gas right now. Tell me.....how are you going to tour when gas is 4 bucks a gallon and shows are 400 miles apart ( average) from one another? Most of these guys come home with a few hundred dollars and if you have nothing.....seems like a lot.
It's all good when you're 18-25 years old and if you're in that age range....then yes, take a year or 2 out of your life to peruse it. Just know when to wake up.....that's all.

The illusion of money being made playing music....is being made more clear by the day. Just look at records sales. Labels are now taking a percentage of touring and merch money because record sales are so low.
10 years ago...it was common to sell a million records. Now....the artist that sold that much then............ is barely selling 200,000 copies now.
The music industry is a joke and the only way to truly be happy trying to play music in this day and age.... is to do it because you love it. If it brings you some "fame" and a little "cash".....then great. Nothing happened for me until I realized this one simple fact!

its just that you get that general attitude from people, like you told them that youre going to win the lottery and retire as your career plan. I have no other career aspirations besides music. I dont know if i should be worried or what.

That's a great way to look at it as you have about 40% better chance of winning the lottery than you do of "making it" playing music. If you truly have no other aspirations....I'd be very worried. Although, I don't think that is truly the case is it Mike? You don't want to be successful at anything........but music?


You're leading a successful career in the same field im interested in, so i thought you might have some insight?

This is a case of "the grass is always greener". Successful career?
Mike, I make more at my part time job than I have ever made playing music. And while yes....I'm starting to get my ugly mug in the mags and play these high profile drum gigs.......I'd hardly say it was a "career"....... with a straight face.
Am I working on getting there.....absolutely but, I'm not relying on music or drumming to make me somebody......that's up to me.
See where I'm going?

Do something with yourself, do something, become somebody first. Music will always be there for you to enjoy. Again, music doesn't solve personal life problems...............being responsible for your life........... does.

Hope it helps and if you have anymore questions....I'll be happy to answer them.

Cheers and happy drumming!
D.

[drumhead61]

Derek, I just become a bigger and bigger fan of yours when I read your straight from the hip reality answers about your "careeer" in music and your part time job. Having someone out there like yourself can be very helpful for kids who may otherwise flounder for years thinking "they are gonna make it". While it is true one may every once in awhile we all seem to have (myself included) this grand illusion that you are sitting on top of the world looking down from your pile of money and laughing and your response seems more to me to be saying:
Go to school
Find a good career
and love music

RIGHT ON DUDE you rock now more than ever in my book!

Hey Mike,
Yes, I find playing to recordings....the best way to learn all that is needed to advance as a player...... with the exception of listening skills (As playing to records never changes and playing with people..... does.) I've always said that the only way we truly get better at all aspects of playing drums.....is to play with people. I've never been one to practice exercises. In fact....I'd say that .00000000001% of my time playing.....has been practicing exercises. Exercises don't allow you to play music....playing music does.

I will be out in that area at NAMM time in January. I'm sure I'll perform there. As far as clinics....maybe in the spring time. That's what I'm planning for, at least.





Well Mike,
I could write a book about this topic. If you're feeling frisky....you can search my forum...I have a ton of info about this there.

I'd say 100% of the time.....GO TO SCHOOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
There's is plenty of time to create music.
Now you asked about my career as a drummer.
First of, I'd say that........ I don't think of my drumming as a career because at this point....drumming hasn't paid a 10th of my bills. In fact, I've spent more money to play in the bands I've played in...than I made. All the bands I've been in have done nothing but, put me in debt.
Now, Not saying it wasn't fun or any of that but......IT DID NOTHING FOR MY LIFE!
You may look at the mags and stuff and see some drummers....maybe myself but, it's a case of ......"the grass is always greener".
I know a lot of dudes playing and touring in bands and if any of them tell you they are "making a decent living" they are lying or don't know what a decent living is.
Look at the price of gas right now. Tell me.....how are you going to tour when gas is 4 bucks a gallon and shows are 400 miles apart ( average) from one another? Most of these guys come home with a few hundred dollars and if you have nothing.....seems like a lot.
It's all good when you're 18-25 years old and if you're in that age range....then yes, take a year or 2 out of your life to peruse it. Just know when to wake up.....that's all.

The illusion of money being made playing music....is being made more clear by the day. Just look at records sales. Labels are now taking a percentage of touring and merch money because record sales are so low.
10 years ago...it was common to sell a million records. Now....the artist that sold that much then............ is barely selling 200,000 copies now.
The music industry is a joke and the only way to truly be happy trying to play music in this day and age.... is to do it because you love it. If it brings you some "fame" and a little "cash".....then great. Nothing happened for me until I realized this one simple fact!



That's a great way to look at it as you have about 40% better chance of winning the lottery than you do of "making it" playing music. If you truly have no other aspirations....I'd be very worried. Although, I don't think that is truly the case is it Mike? You don't want to be successful at anything........but music?




This is a case of "the grass is always greener". Successful career?
Mike, I make more at my part time job than I have ever made playing music. And while yes....I'm starting to get my ugly mug in the mags and play these high profile drum gigs.......I'd hardly say it was a "career"....... with a straight face.
Am I working on getting there.....absolutely but, I'm not relying on music or drumming to make me somebody......that's up to me.
See where I'm going?

Do something with yourself, do something, become somebody first. Music will always be there for you to enjoy. Again, music doesn't solve personal life problems...............being responsible for your life........... does.

Hope it helps and if you have anymore questions....I'll be happy to answer them.

Cheers and happy drumming!
D.

[drumhead61]

Derek, I just become a bigger and bigger fan of yours when I read your straight from the hip reality answers about your "careeer" in music and your part time job. Having someone out there like yourself can be very helpful for kids who may otherwise flounder for years thinking "they are gonna make it". While it is true one may every once in awhile we all seem to have (myself included) this grand illusion that you are sitting on top of the world looking down from your pile of money and laughing and your response seems more to me to be saying:
Go to school
Find a good career
and love music
And then maybe then it will take you somewhere if not you still love music

Hey Mike,
Yes, I find playing to recordings....the best way to learn all that is needed to advance as a player...... with the exception of listening skills (As playing to records never changes and playing with people..... does.) I've always said that the only way we truly get better at all aspects of playing drums.....is to play with people. I've never been one to practice exercises. In fact....I'd say that .00000000001% of my time playing.....has been practicing exercises. Exercises don't allow you to play music....playing music does.

I will be out in that area at NAMM time in January. I'm sure I'll perform there. As far as clinics....maybe in the spring time. That's what I'm planning for, at least.





Well Mike,
I could write a book about this topic. If you're feeling frisky....you can search my forum...I have a ton of info about this there.

I'd say 100% of the time.....GO TO SCHOOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
There's is plenty of time to create music.
Now you asked about my career as a drummer.
First of, I'd say that........ I don't think of my drumming as a career because at this point....drumming hasn't paid a 10th of my bills. In fact, I've spent more money to play in the bands I've played in...than I made. All the bands I've been in have done nothing but, put me in debt.
Now, Not saying it wasn't fun or any of that but......IT DID NOTHING FOR MY LIFE!
You may look at the mags and stuff and see some drummers....maybe myself but, it's a case of ......"the grass is always greener".
I know a lot of dudes playing and touring in bands and if any of them tell you they are "making a decent living" they are lying or don't know what a decent living is.
Look at the price of gas right now. Tell me.....how are you going to tour when gas is 4 bucks a gallon and shows are 400 miles apart ( average) from one another? Most of these guys come home with a few hundred dollars and if you have nothing.....seems like a lot.
It's all good when you're 18-25 years old and if you're in that age range....then yes, take a year or 2 out of your life to peruse it. Just know when to wake up.....that's all.

The illusion of money being made playing music....is being made more clear by the day. Just look at records sales. Labels are now taking a percentage of touring and merch money because record sales are so low.
10 years ago...it was common to sell a million records. Now....the artist that sold that much then............ is barely selling 200,000 copies now.
The music industry is a joke and the only way to truly be happy trying to play music in this day and age.... is to do it because you love it. If it brings you some "fame" and a little "cash".....then great. Nothing happened for me until I realized this one simple fact!



That's a great way to look at it as you have about 40% better chance of winning the lottery than you do of "making it" playing music. If you truly have no other aspirations....I'd be very worried. Although, I don't think that is truly the case is it Mike? You don't want to be successful at anything........but music?




This is a case of "the grass is always greener". Successful career?
Mike, I make more at my part time job than I have ever made playing music. And while yes....I'm starting to get my ugly mug in the mags and play these high profile drum gigs.......I'd hardly say it was a "career"....... with a straight face.
Am I working on getting there.....absolutely but, I'm not relying on music or drumming to make me somebody......that's up to me.
See where I'm going?

Do something with yourself, do something, become somebody first. Music will always be there for you to enjoy. Again, music doesn't solve personal life problems...............being responsible for your life........... does.

Hope it helps and if you have anymore questions....I'll be happy to answer them.

Cheers and happy drumming!
D.

[Derek Roddy]

Derek, I just become a bigger and bigger fan of yours when I read your straight from the hip reality answers about your "careeer" in music and your part time job. Having someone out there like yourself can be very helpful for kids who may otherwise flounder for years thinking "they are gonna make it". While it is true one may every once in awhile we all seem to have (myself included) this grand illusion that you are sitting on top of the world looking down from your pile of money and laughing and your response seems more to me to be saying:
Go to school
Find a good career
and love music

RIGHT ON DUDE you rock now more than ever in my book!


Hahaha...thanks man.
I truly believe in what I'm saying and doing. This is nothing new for me.
In fact, In the extreme metal world.....I'm not looked at as a positive example. Because I tell it like it is.....and many bands, band members etc.....don't like the fact that I do this. It is....... what it is. Why let ego get in the way of being honest about it.
I've gotten so tired of seeing my friends and very talented people I know throw their life away by going on tour and starving....not for a couple of years .....but, for 15 years!
Starting a band from the ground floor and going on tour......is just a way to escape responsibility from life.
Don't fall into that trap.

Not saying don't do it........just know when to stop.

D.

[sssssssss]

Hi, Derek! I guess you're the first voice that I should listen to as far as extreme metal drumming is concerned, so I'm just going to ask you a rather indiscreet question:
are the double bass parts of Pete Sandoval on "Opening of the Gates" by Morbid Angel and of Hellhammer on "The Chosen Legacy" sped up in the studio in your opinion? Because for me, it's hard to believe that a biologically human individual can play 32nd notes at well over 300 bpm, and that, not even with his hands, but with the feet (especially if we consider legendary mortals like yourself apparently cannot come even close to it :D)! I feel your answer on this - if it is possible and politically correct to provide one - will be as revealing as it gets.

Thanks (evil smile)!
And definitely congrats (once again) for your work! You're the real thing.

[Derek Roddy]

Hi, Derek! I guess you're the first voice that I should listen to as far as extreme metal drumming is concerned, so I'm just going to ask you a rather indiscreet question:
are the double bass parts of Pete Sandoval on "Opening of the Gates" by Morbid Angel and of Hellhammer on "The Chosen Legacy" sped up in the studio in your opinion? Because for me, it's hard to believe that a biologically human individual can play 32nd notes at well over 300 bpm, and that, not even with his hands, but with the feet (especially if we consider legendary mortals like yourself apparently cannot come even close to it :D)! I feel your answer on this - if it is possible and politically correct to provide one - will be as revealing as it gets.

Thanks (evil smile)!
And definitely congrats (once again) for your work! You're the real thing.


Thanks a lot for your comments

As far as who plays what on records......Well,I live that to the listener to decide. My moto is....
If it doesn't sound human.....it isn't.

That being said.... Some guys are now playing the "toe down" double stroke that Tim Waterson made popular. With this motion...you can push 16th notes from 280 and up.
HellHammer (Jan) John Longstreth are a couple of drummers who have adapted that into their playing.
Pete on the other hand plays singles only. The tempo on that song is 280.
Did he play it or not? All I can say is....
I've seen them rehearsing it and he played triplets on that part.

Hope that helps.
D.

[DamoSyzygy]

I'd cut it all off..... but, the Mrs. wouldn't be too happy about that.
She likes it....so, I keep it. LoL.
Aaah trust me mate - They get used to it pretty quick. I went from one extreme to the other. Shaved head and goatee is still 'metal' \m/

Heres hoping you can get down to Perth, Western Australia again at some point and I can tee up a clinic for you. Im the main Sonor retailer down here and there are plenty of guys thatd love to see you perform again!

Regards!

[sssssssss]

Thanks a lot for your comments

As far as who plays what on records......Well,I live that to the listener to decide. My moto is....
If it doesn't sound human.....it isn't.

That being said.... Some guys are now playing the "toe down" double stroke that Tim Waterson made popular. With this motion...you can push 16th notes from 280 and up.
HellHammer (Jan) John Longstreth are a couple of drummers who have adapted that into their playing.
Pete on the other hand plays singles only. The tempo on that song is 280.
Did he play it or not? All I can say is....
I've seen them rehearsing it and he played triplets on that part.

Hope that helps.
D.

Yes, it definitely helps, because in this case 220 for the feet is still a "very fast" type of speed and consequently we don't have to have additional practice sessions to get up to 300 if we want to be called fast drummers :)) As far as Tim Waterson's technique is concerned... well, it's a multi-faced thing, because on the one hand, it really doesn't sound like too much of a powerful technique - you've got to use triggers to play it in a (metal!) song and on the other hand, you're bound to play Axis Longboards or Trick pedals, or to have a pretty small foot :)
In any case, I'm a big Sandoval (and Morbid Angel) fan - he's the foundation to me as far as blast beats are concerned, and Trey is also an amazing composer - and I like Jan Axel and Dimmu Borgir too (to be honest I mostly like Nick Barker), but they really don't have to speed up their already extremely fast feet to persuade us that they're good.

[Tama Player]

Just got done listening to one of your solo's or jams rather. Sounds great, I mean you are sick at speed but your a monster at some grooves too. I think you get a lot of recognition for your speed but not enough for your grooves and beats. Maybe it's just me, but dude your a pretty sweet drummer. You and Kollias are up there.

Alex

By the way, would you mind emailing me, just set the subject to "Topic in Forum" to my email alex@rockersitedesign.com, thanks man I appreciate it.

[Zildjian232]

Derek and who ever else this may concern,

I didnt mean to seem pretentious in any way. I dont have ignorant dreams of ferraris and starring in a really bad vh1 reality tv show(brett michaels). I've been watching the music industry crumble for years, this is not news to me. The last thing I want to sound like is like a kid who thinks he can just hit it "big time" and makes lots of money. Im aware of the difficulty to make a living playing music, thats why im so unsure about it. It was early early morning post, which probably was more of a incessant rant than anything else.

Thankyou for your input Derek, it was really insightful and helped me out.

[Derek Roddy]

Derek and who ever else this may concern,

I didnt mean to seem pretentious in any way. I dont have ignorant dreams of ferraris and starring in a really bad vh1 reality tv show(brett michaels). I've been watching the music industry crumble for years, this is not news to me. The last thing I want to sound like is like a kid who thinks he can just hit it "big time" and makes lots of money. Im aware of the difficulty to make a living playing music, thats why im so unsure about it. It was early early morning post, which probably was more of a incessant rant than anything else.

Thankyou for your input Derek, it was really insightful and helped me out.

Hey, It's all good man.
There are no stupid questions....just stupid answers! Haha.

At least you asked.
I don't think my words will effect what you actually do in life but....at least you heard them.

Evrybody has to find this stuff out on their own. In this age of the internet....the info is there for you to make a more sound decision about your life....something that a lot of us didn't have in the past.

You do with the info...... what you want to do, and use it how you see fit... for your daily life.


Cheers man,
D.

[Derek Roddy]

I had a great drumshred with a couple of friends this week.

So much fun.
I had forgotten how much fun it use to be working at Rez drums and being able to sit down with all the KILLER drummers down here in South Florida for a shred.

This video is of myself, Joe Fagan, and David Chiverton having a drum day at my warehouse.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4lQU-jJl0g

Cheers.

D.

[jasonrhcp]

Derek

You ROCKED MD Fest, man..what an inspiration...Excellent work, and I just ordered your book, so I am looking forward to working on it...

J

[TheAnalogKid]

Hey there Derek.

Nice to see a fellow Meinl endorser and metal player. I have been a fan of yours for a couple years now, and you have been an inspiration for my playing. I've been in various metal bands for years now, and I'm only recently incorporating pseudo-blasts and various hand techniques.

If you could take your book and get an instructional DVD, you'd go into my rotation with Lang, Mayer, Peart, Smith, and Bissonette.

[Derek Roddy]

Hello everyone....and thank you guys for the kind replies since my last post.
I'd like to bring your attention to a contest I'm running on my forum at www.derekroddy.com.
Here's a video example.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQwgyUlMeNw

Looking forward to judging the entrees.

Here's the thread at my site.
http://www.derekroddy.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=13928

Cheers.
D.