Hitting the Skins: Using bounce strokes or non-bounce strokes?

[Drummertist]

I wanted to start a thread on this topic. I couldn't find many conversations about this very simple matter: How do we play our drums?

Do you play with a bounce stroke or with a non-bounce stroke?
Also, what are the strengths and weaknesses of each technique approach?
Are there any other ways you "Hit the Skins" besides these?

I personally play with a bounce stroke as it allows my playing to be more organic and relaxed however I know many people who don't use bounce strokes and could play anything on a pillow.

Hopefully this will be an interesting topic to discuss. Thanks!

[larryace]

For me mastering the bounce is the lifelong quest

[HeadRush]

I usually do a mix of both
I do a lot of bounce stroke but I still practice on a pillow for more precise stuff

[zambizzi]

I think it's all about rebound - that's how the best sound will come out of the drum with the most power with the least amount of physical effort.

I personally think playing on pillows is a complete waste of time but that's been a huge debate on here in at least a zillion other threads. Some folks swear by it and naysayers like me think it's an exercise in futility.