Problem with practicing drums.

[MutantsOnTheBeach]

Lately it seems like I haven't been able to practice drums on my own time. By that I mean that I've been having problems playing drums without any metronome, drum books, rudiments, etc.

It seems when I just want to jam by myself I can't think of anything and I usually just end up doing jazz drum solos. I mean, practicing your speed on solos around kit is good practice but I can never think of a good rhythm to play just to play for fun.

Every rhythm I play seems to easy. Like one in 4/4 or something. I just want to play a cool jazz rhythm or something but can't think of anything when it happens...

I know this sounds bizarre, and maybe even stupid and confusing. But it's really bothering me.

[jonescrusher]

Sounds like you just need to practice with more material and play along to a good variety of music. Everybody hits plateaus in their progress at some point, just stick with it and draw inspiration from all over. If you don't have a teacher, try and get one. Go over some reading texts to increase your vocabulary.

[MutantsOnTheBeach]

I do have a teacher. I take private lessons and my teacher makes me practice from books such as Podemski (He really makes me practice rudiments and all that jazz) and A Funky Primer.

[k3ng]

You my friend need to play to some drum tracks. You need to find some minus one (sometimes even just ordinary songs) CD's and get cracking on some real playing! When you're playing drums and just drums, without any music in the background, it won't feel right unless you've got an amazing imagination and can hear every single note in your head. I've been in the exact same spot. Put me on my kit with no song in mind and I'll just blast some stupid chops. Get some tracks and start playing to them.

[Mr. Pasquini]

When you're playing drums and just drums, without any music in the background, it won't feel right unless you've got an amazing imagination and can hear every single note in your head. I've been in the exact same spot.

Don't forget the lights and pretty colors...

[Tutin]

Yeah it's better to at least feel a tune in your head. Always brings out the funk...

[Vinnysimmo]

Jusp put your favorite cd on and rock out!

[JCM]

Groove Essentials. I just recently got it and it rocks!

[h3r3tic]

Yeah it's better to at least feel a tune in your head. Always brings out the funk...

absolutly, I agree!
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[jazzsnob]

Why don't just spend your extra time working more on what your teacher gives you?