Gavin Harrison here!

[egbt4]

Hello Mr Harrison !

Yesterday, I've listened to your beautiful piece " 19 Days " .
And then, for absolutely no reasons , I started listening to the Star Wars Cantina Theme...

And I found that the part at 2:46 on " 19 Days " ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gWTTrwx-fs&feature=related ) really sound like the part at 0:32 of The Cantina Theme :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCGPt3XFxJk

Here's my conclusion :

You, Sir, are a jedi .

[Nils]

Merry Christmas Gavin ;)

[Ramtin HajatDoust]

Hi
Dear Gavin,

How are you? I hope you are fine and everything is ok with you.

I know you are very busy but would you please check out my last new video with my last recording sound and tell me your opinion regarding the sound, tuning drums and mix.
Unfortunately, I do not have any references here that I can comparison with that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzPbegRJQQ4

I use only the maximum +/-3db EQ on drums. The cymbals' sounds are raw and use Reverb on all drum kit.

Thank you in advance,

Best Regards,
Ramtin HajatDoost
www.RamtinHajatDoost.com
Ramtin@RamtinHajatDoost.com
Tehran-Iran

[Kalma]

Hi
I know you are very busy but would you please check out my last new video with my last recording sound and tell me your opinion regarding the sound, tuning drums and mix.
Unfortunately, I do not have any references here that I can comparison with that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzPbegRJQQ4


He won't comment on your recordings..
He did a few times some years ago but he stopped..

Post your track in the "your playing" section and ask for advice :)
david

[cheech15]

Hey Gavin,

I just happened upon a discussion on Mike Portnoy's page about who is the BEST drummer, Neil Peart or yourself and I have to say, the only problem I have with this question is the fact that it was asked. I understand having a favorite style or approach but to ask which is BEST is bordering on insulting! When I think of giants like Skip Hadden, Billy Cobham, Lenny White or Steve Smith, I don't ask which of them is BETTER than the other! All these as well as Neal and you all share one equal ingredient, To strive for a mastering of drums and percussion and always reaching for that goal. I don't believe any one of these men believes he has mastered their instrument but that they are always reaching out to new and different ways to approach it.
I believe you are just as great a drummer as Neil or any of the other strivers in the music business. All the afore mentioned are in my hall of fame and will never be replaced by others, only added to.
Love your work with PT. KEEP STRIVING!

[Kalma]

Hey Gavin,

I asked you about some mixingstuff last time.

I wanted to know if you would share with us, what "plugins" you use for mixing your kit, so..
eq, compressor, reverb etc..

And especially what else do you with overheads then low-cut?


Thanks
David

[GavinIsAGodToMe]

Gavin

I registered here just so I could get an opportunity to talk to you. I might sound a little teen-girl-ish but bear with me please.

I just wanted to let you know what an inspiration you are, to teens like me (I'm 17). You, sir, are the sole reason I seriously got into playing drums. Your chops, your ideas - they're mind blowing. Thank you. For being as amazing as you are. You are God's gift on Earth.

Just knowing that you read through all that will mean the world. Thank you, if you did.

I have a question you might not be able to answer, but one's gotta try right? If you can't, we understand :).

Steven Wilson recently stated that nothing on the new Porcupine Tree album is even decided, so is there any sort of time window we could get? A year? 2 years?

And if not that, where else can we hear you in 2012? Any new projects to keep an ear out for?

Thank you, sir, for reading that. You do not know how much you have inspired me.

Love from India :)

[tmccartney]

Gavin:

Are your new signature sticks going to be available in a number of different sizes, or just the one "signature" size? Thanks to one of your videos, I'm now sold on the VF sticks with the grip and have been buying 5Bs with the red grip. Looking forward to your new sticks if they will also be available in 5B.

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi cheech15

I just happened upon a discussion on Mike Portnoy's page about who is the BEST drummer, Neil Peart or yourself

The idea of 'Best" is of course silly with anything that is a subjective art form like music.

Hi Kalma

I wanted to know if you would share with us, what "plugins" you use for mixing your kit, so..eq, compressor, reverb etc.. And especially what else do you with overheads then low-cut?

The plugins I use the most are the Waves C1 compressor - which I use on the snare drum and a little bit on the toms. I use a Space Designer (a Logic Pro standard) usually with the 'large wood room' setting - as my reverb that I send the snare drum and toms to. But there's also a big live room in my studio that I record with two mics use varying amounts of depending on what the song needs.
I also use the Logic EQ and the Apple Graphic Equalizer on various parts of the kit.
With the 'Gainer" plug in I reverse the phase on the overheads and bottom snare drum mic.

Hi GavinIsAGodToMe

Steven Wilson recently stated that nothing on the new Porcupine Tree album is even decided, so is there any sort of time window we could get? A year? 2 years?

yes we still haven't written a note yet - but we plan to later this year. We're all pretty busy doing other things.

And if not that, where else can we hear you in 2012? Any new projects to keep an ear out for?

Myself and 05Ric and trying to get a live band together for some shows later this year. I believe the new OSI album is coming out in the spring. Plus I'm doing a lot of mixing at the moment - there will be other things coming in 2012 that I can't mention yet.

Hi tmccartney

Are your new signature sticks going to be available in a number of different sizes, or just the one "signature" size?

No - just one size. That's the one that I designed for myself - just the way I like it. It really wouldn't be the same sick if it came out in other sizes.

cheers
Gavin

http://www.burningshed.com/store/gavinharrison/

[carlos ramos]

Hi gavin.
here is a cover i made, of your music Life.
i know you do not comment other peoples video, but any advise you can give me regarding to a laid back feel? that´s the most dificult part is to play relaxed and laid back (hopefuly i will do it some day).
thank you

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvTcH4yYfD8&feature=plcp&context=C3f54c55UDOEgsToPDskLaHS4RJELPHdJcjMxd1c9f

Is there some plan that you will play in portugal in near future?

[madhusudanraman]

Gavin, I have been drumming for a couple of years now, and i've noticed that I don't think I have enough limb independence. I play single bass drum. I see that you have amazing limb independence, it's like each one has a mind of its own. Could you please start me off on how develop that? I'm Madhu and from india. Thank you :D

[mutzy]

Paul Cusick's album is another one featuring Gavin on drums. My copy came the other day, hoping to give it a good play tomorrow.

Hey Gavin, do you know if your cymbal felts (not sure what you would call them... They look like they're made of neoprene or something...) would allow enough room on a standard stand for a second inverted cymbal (splash/accent bell etc)? Are they only made in one size, or will you have thin felts/ hihat clutch and bed felt replacements also?

Can't wait to hear the OSI and 05Ric albums also. Thanks for keeping us updated.

[paulegavin]

Hi Gavin,

I'm just getting to know that you exist, and you're absolutely amazing! I especially enjoy your philosophy on drumming all together. Very useful for all drummers.

As you see the music world changing, what do you think young drummers should be working on to stay relevant in the professional world? As I read about what musicians are saying about the music world it seems like there's a general consensus that it's shrinking. How does a young drummer prepare to be least affected by these changes?

Thanks so much!

[Jeffx]

Hi Gavin,

Since I’m planning to order a SQ2 snare drum, I would like to know the specs (shell material and shell type) of the snare drum you used on the Anesthetize DVD. I’m also curious about the snare you use in your current set up.

Thanks!

[UE Nastasi]

Hi Gavin

I got my SHAR sticks in the mail or post as you brits might say just the other day.

It seems to me that the whole point of a signature stick is or should be exactly that a stick designed by the player/artist that he/she will actually play that fits their specific needs. I guess it doesn’t hurt the company if they sell a few also.

Very comfortable and very nice, a very enjoyable stick to play I really love the tip design it just sounds great on my cymbals especially my Ride so good I feel the need to repeat myself the tip design just sounds great on my cymbals especially my Ride and has a great feel and response to my drums

I like to use the Vic Firth Vic Grip rock model on my pad as my practice stick and rarely use it on my kit once it a while for a different feel, I do not need the extra volume or power. I like the grip for some reason other than just pure grip sake it seems fun to me and makes me enjoy myself a little more. On my kit for the last few years I’ve been using the Zildjian Super 5B dip and like them a lot they have a nice feel and rebound the only thing I’ve not liked about them from the beginning was the sound of the tip on my ride not quite the right articulation for me.

Of course any other size stick would just not be the same stick, and would not be your Signature model I understand that 100% completely and I am not trying to say they should make different sizes or do anything to take away from your Signature model but it would be totally awesome if Vic Firth (now a part of Zildjian) would incorporate that tip and shoulder ratio type design into other sticks maybe they do already and I’m just not aware of it.

This is by no means a review of the any sorts I have no interest in being a reviewer I will leave that to the folks who fell they need to validate their lives by doing so.

Great sticks Gavin I hope you have fun and enjoy playing with them.

UE

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi carlos ramos

any advise you can give me regarding to a laid back feel? that´s the most dificult part is to play relaxed and laid back (hopefuly i will do it some day).

it's something you need to 'hear' first. Listen to some Jeff Porcaro and Steve Gadd - and notice how they make the music feel. Always record yourself when you play and listen back carefully to how your time feels. It took me many years to develop that feel.

Is there some plan that you will play in portugal in near future?

no plans at the moment.

Hi madhusudanraman

Gavin, I have been drumming for a couple of years now, and i've noticed that I don't think I have enough limb independence. I play single bass drum. I see that you have amazing limb independence, it's like each one has a mind of its own. Could you please start me off on how develop that? I'm Madhu and from india.

I don't think I have enough limb independence either - but you have to start slowly and simply. Watching some folks on YouTube with great technique can make you feel like you're a long way behind.

Hi mutzy

Hey Gavin, do you know if your cymbal felts (not sure what you would call them... They look like they're made of neoprene or something...) would allow enough room on a standard stand for a second inverted cymbal (splash/accent bell etc)? Are they only made in one size, or will you have thin felts/ hihat clutch and bed felt replacements also?

The main purpose of the cymbal felts that I've been developing is to substantially reduce breakage on (mainly) crash cymbals. At the moment the prototypes are one size but they could be cut in half - as with any cymbal felt - if you needed more room to mount other cymbals inverted on top. However that would reduce their shock absorbing effectiveness of course.

Hi paulegavin

I'm just getting to know that you exist, and you're absolutely amazing! I especially enjoy your philosophy on drumming all together. Very useful for all drummers.
As you see the music world changing, what do you think young drummers should be working on to stay relevant in the professional world? As I read about what musicians are saying about the music world it seems like there's a general consensus that it's shrinking. How does a young drummer prepare to be least affected by these changes?

I would say - work on being versatile. Quite often job opportunities appear that aren't exactly what you wanted to play. The music business has changed a lot and is continuing to - so you have to adapt.

Hi Jeffx

Since I’m planning to order a SQ2 snare drum, I would like to know the specs (shell material and shell type) of the snare drum you used on the Anesthetize DVD. I’m also curious about the snare you use in your current set up.

that snare drum is a Birch 'thin' shell 14 x 5 - and I have rounded bearing edges on it. Sonor had to custom modify that edge for me as it isn't a standard edge that they offer. Also I have S-Hoops on that drum and 8 strand Puresound snare wires.

Hi UE Nastasi

glad you like the sticks.

cheers
Gavin

[madhusudanraman]

thank you very much, sir. i also wanted to know, on the song 'dark matter',are the little double bass fills you did on the live 'anesthetize' version some kind of triplets? i love the drumming on that song, and i'm trying to replicate it on 1 bass.

[atman]

Hi Gavin, I would like to make a simple short question. I hope you know it. By listening to the Rhythmic Illsuions CD I got captivated by the sound of your snare drum. Which snare is it? Thanks a lot. I really like your drumming, most of all your sound. You´ve contributed to drumming in a very special way, cheers,
Alberto.

[Butch Axsmith]

Gavin Harrison knows where its at with music and the drums //// // . Butch Axsmith

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi madhusudanraman

i also wanted to know, on the song 'dark matter',are the little double bass fills you did on the live 'anesthetize' version some kind of triplets? i love the drumming on that song, and i'm trying to replicate it on 1 bass.

There are moments where there's three 32nd notes consecutively - which of course I'm playing on a double pedal. I can't imagine how you would do it with one pedal.

Hi atman

I would like to make a simple short question. I hope you know it. By listening to the Rhythmic Illsuions CD I got captivated by the sound of your snare drum. Which snare is it? Thanks a lot. I really like your drumming, most of all your sound. You´ve contributed to drumming in a very special way, cheers,

It's a 1982 Yamaha Recording Custom 5" x 14" drum with rounded bearing edges.

cheers
Gavin

[madhusudanraman]

Gavin, i have this weird thing that i do. i just let my foot fly. i don't know how to explain it. but the long and short of it that i can get 3 or 4 quick hits with my right foot. i tried it on 'dark matter'. didnt sound too terrible. :D thank you so much!!!

[supermac]

Hi Gavin,

Just a quick technical question, please.

I remember reading you describe some snare drums as sounding like a 'packet of crisps'.

And I know you cut some of the wire off your snare to reduce the 'buzz'.

I've just paid £400 for a 14 x 6 and a half inch maple snare, and I'm quite disappointed with the sound.

I've only messed around in the house (I play in a band in pubs in club) but it sounds like you describe above.

I'm loathe to start hacking the snares off a brand-new drum, but I'm keen to reduce the drums 'rattle'.

My old snare drum was a 14 x 5 brass model which has a nice tight sound.


Any advice?

Cheers.

[DTrocks]

Hi!

Me and my band are covering Futile as part of a school assignment. It's quite tricky to get it to sound tight. I was wondering how you count the part that starts at 0:24 in this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57FouLEDS10 (the tricky part ends at aprox. 0:37).

Maybe quite difficult to explain on a forum like this, but I would be very happy of you cared to shed some insight on this!

My apologies if this question have been asked a million times before (I checked out www.askgavinharrison.com, but found nothing).

Thanks in advance!

- Sondre

[Fabian Meinders]

Hi Gavin,

What kind of bearing edges do you use on your toms?
Do you use the 45, double 45 or also the rounded ones like on your snare?

Could you shed a light on why you use a medium shell on your floor toms and a thin shell on your toms?

greetings and a lot of respect,

Fabian

[Kalma]

Damn those PROLITE Drum sound amazing gavin!

loved the tom-sound. Vintage Maple right?
I read that they will replace the delite series, is that true? Do you know anything about prices yet?

[deadwing_007]

Hey Gavin. Thanks as always for taking the time to talk to your fans and answer everyone's questions.

I'm thinking about going to a local drum company on the east coast of the US that does custom drums and getting a snare made. I love the sound that you get from your snares, in particular on the up the downstair re-issue and deadwing. Those two albums don't have the same exact sound in the mix, but it sounds to me like they still could be the same snare. Were you using your 6 ply maple 12x5 as your primary snare for those sessions?

[Anurdrums]

I like Gavin`s sound. His toms sound awesome.

[Animal drummer]

Hello Gavin

I was going over some of your solo's on youtube and I was wondering if you use alot of rudients in your drumming because I'm now learning things like ratamcues, flamacues(which are really tough) and so forth but in the past I've never really taken thrm seriouly as I have never found a practicule application for them so could if you do, which ones you use and where.

Thankyou

Joe

[EvilDrummer]

Hello Gavin. You are hands down my favorite drummer. I've been playing drums for a year now and I'm practicing for at least an hour every day. I want to be able to play like you.

I have a question about playing a bit after the beat, have you zoomed in on a recording in a sequencer or something to confirm that what happens is actually everything being delayed by the same amount or is it an effect that happens of playing after the metronome that maybe delays some parts more or less? Is it a constant delay no matter the tempo or is it something like a 64th or a 128th note? Do you know about how many milliseconds after the beat you play (roughly)? Playing after the beat with everything delayed by the same amount seems contradictionary if you play with other musicians. Especially if they are trying to play in the pocket as well :p

The reason I ask is because I practice with a digital drum kit playing VST's in a sequencer and I sequence all my practice routines. When I practice I try to play along to that until it sounds like one drummer playing. I was thinking maybe to try and delay the sequenced exercises a few milliseconds to try and get a feel for playing after the beat.

I know this will work because my kick was always way too early and by practicing to a sequencer I can instantly hear when it's off so I've got rid of that. My limbs are much more in unison now.

I tend to play a bit early and I don't like the sound of it. I don't know if I can hear the "pocket" yet but what I've noticed when I hear you play it sounds much slower than it is. Sound of muzak is around 95 BPM but it sounds like 70. Is that the effect of the delay?

[minorchords]

I am star struck. I will just say that Gavin is one of the most inspiring musicians I have ever heard. He almost single handedly brought me back into getting serious about drumming. His dedication to the craft and his creativeness with the musicality of his playing are just so inspirational to me on a personal level.

Thank you Mr. Harrison!

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi supermac

I remember reading you describe some snare drums as sounding like a 'packet of crisps'.And I know you cut some of the wire off your snare to reduce the 'buzz'. I've just paid £400 for a 14 x 6 and a half inch maple snare, and I'm quite disappointed with the sound.I've only messed around in the house (I play in a band in pubs in club) but it sounds like you describe above. I'm loathe to start hacking the snares off a brand-new drum, but I'm keen to reduce the drums 'rattle'. My old snare drum was a 14 x 5 brass model which has a nice tight sound.

It's hard to give you advice about it without seeing and hearing it. How many snare wires does it have? Does it have the same heads and snare wires as your 14x5? Drums do tend to sound very different from room to room so maybe give it a try in a venue.

Hi DTrocks

Me and my band are covering Futile as part of a school assignment. It's quite tricky to get it to sound tight. I was wondering how you count the part that starts at 0:24 in this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57FouLEDS10 (the tricky part ends at aprox. 0:37).

That section is all in 4/4. Probably you need to see a transcription of it for it to make sense. In the first bar of that section the china cymbal is on the "&" of every beat and then the second bar begins with a snare hit. That's all I can tell you for now without a transcription.

Hi Fabian Meinders

What kind of bearing edges do you use on your toms?
Do you use the 45, double 45 or also the rounded ones like on your snare?

the regular 45 degrees that Sonor make.

Could you shed a light on why you use a medium shell on your floor toms and a thin shell on your toms?

I remembered that my old Yamaha 9000 recording custom kit from the early 80's was built like that. It made some logical sense to me.

Hi Kalma

Damn those PROLITE Drum sound amazing gavin!
loved the tom-sound. Vintage Maple right?
I read that they will replace the delite series, is that true? Do you know anything about prices yet?

Yes they are vintage maple shells and they do replace the DeLight series. I have no idea about the prices.

Hi deadwing_007

I love the sound that you get from your snares, in particular on the up the downstair re-issue and deadwing. Those two albums don't have the same exact sound in the mix, but it sounds to me like they still could be the same snare. Were you using your 6 ply maple 12x5 as your primary snare for those sessions?

No it was a 1982 Birch Yamaha 14x5.

Hi Animal drummer

I was going over some of your solo's on youtube and I was wondering if you use alot of rudients in your drumming because I'm now learning things like ratamcues, flamacues(which are really tough) and so forth but in the past I've never really taken thrm seriouly as I have never found a practicule application for them so could if you do, which ones you use and where.

Everything anyone plays could be described as some kind of a rudiment (or hybrid rudiment). It's like asking "do you use letters when you write words". I saw a comment on a YouTube video of one of my performances and someone said "this guy just uses rudiments all the time" ...and it was meant as a criticism. If I had to try and identify which ones I use the most - single strokes - double strokes - paradiddles - flams - ruffs and lots of combinations.

here's a great resource for rudiments http://www.ninjadrummist.com/drum-rudiments/rudiment-encyclopedia/

Hi EvilDrummer

I have a question about playing a bit after the beat, have you zoomed in on a recording in a sequencer or something to confirm that what happens is actually everything being delayed by the same amount or is it an effect that happens of playing after the metronome that maybe delays some parts more or less?

Yes I can see that I play after the beat most of the time. But it's a very subtle thing. The snare drum is the thing that lays back the most. The hi hat is pretty much on the beat - but it's a subtle balance between me and whatever else is playing.

Is it a constant delay no matter the tempo or is it something like a 64th or a 128th note? Do you know about how many milliseconds after the beat you play (roughly)? Playing after the beat with everything delayed by the same amount seems contradictionary if you play with other musicians. Especially if they are trying to play in the pocket as well :p

It's hard to quantify it exactly as I don't intentionally try to play exactly 5 milliseconds behind the beat (nor could I with that degree of accuracy). It's more of a feeling that I'm trying to covey. Maybe some days I lay back more than others - maybe I lay back more in certain sections of the songs - it depends on a lot of subtle organic things. No two musicians play in the same place - and in my experience a vast majority of players tend to get in front of the beat. It's pretty rare that you meet players that can really play back in the pocket. The overall feel will change depending who I'm playing with and the balance of all the timing between us. I think some guys make it sound better - and some make it sound worse - even when they are recording to the same drum track.

I tend to play a bit early and I don't like the sound of it. I don't know if I can hear the "pocket" yet but what I've noticed when I hear you play it sounds much slower than it is. Sound of muzak is around 95 BPM but it sounds like 70. Is that the effect of the delay?

I used to play early - and it didn't sound the way I liked or similar to the drummers I was listening to at that time (mainly Steve Gadd and Jeff Porcaro). You think the 95bpm sounds like 70bpm to you? When I hear that song at 95bpm - that's what 95bpm sounds like to me.

cheers
Gavin

by the way - there's a competition going on over here to win lots of stuff https://apps.facebook.com/vicfirthgiveawayprmo/contests/185055

[keep it simple]

Hi Gavin,

I hope this message finds you well.

Love the promo video for the Prolite range. After those naughty boys pulled the power plug on your performance, I hope you get the chance to get your own back sometime. If you do, be sure to post it here :)

(talcum powder on the snare batter usually works quite well)

[Alex P.]

Hi DTrocks,

Here is a transcription of the second part of Futile (after the riff).
It's not note to note, but just the basis of the drum part.

Hope that help!

Alex P.

[EvilDrummer]

You think the 95bpm sounds like 70bpm to you? When I hear that song at 95bpm - that's what 95bpm sounds like to me.

cheers
Gavin


Maybe I just need to practice it until I can play it as relaxed in 95 BPM as when I play it at 70.

BTW I read somewhere that you use a Beatnik rhythmic analyzer. What exercises do you practice on it? Do you have a good exercise I can try? What kind of accuracy goals do you have on it? For instance 99% on medium on one tempo before going to a faster one. Maybe in your case 100% on the extreme setting :D

[egbt4]

Hi Gavin ;

Do you prefer matched or traditional grip ? And why ?

[MixnMatch]

Hellooo there Gav!!!

Have recently become a BIG fan (recently acquired Rythmic Designs) and just started practicing/playing again after a long hiatus (although I believe once a drummer, always a drummer). I had forgotten how meditative and sedating playing the drums can be.

No questions really. Just wanted to say 'thank you'. It's artists like you that motivate me to always grow and keep learning. At 32, I'm as enthusiastic as I was when I first picked-up a pair of sticks at the age of 12 and it's in part due to the refreshing and unending creative work of musicians such as yourself.

Cheers,
Anastasios

[allanthomas]

Hello Mr. Gavin,
Can you please tell me which drum mics you use when you're playing live..

And yes, you have been one of the greatest influences for me....
You are a very very good drummer.....
Thank you.
Allan Thomas

[Scorn]

Hello Mr. Gavin,
Can you please tell me which drum mics you use when you're playing live..

And yes, you have been one of the greatest influences for me....
You are a very very good drummer.....
Thank you.
Allan Thomas

Check out this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aypLGuUzR0I

Cheers

[Animal drummer]

Cheers for the links gavin this resource is just what I've been looking for its nice to know an internationally famous drummer to help out a young drummer like me. Anyway I was also checking out your equipment and I noticed that your sticks are the rock model meaning they're as thick as 2B's which are huge how can you use such massive sticks without losing any of the versitilty and comfort. My experience of thick sticks has been a nightmare so what made you pick the rock model for your playing.

[paulegavin]

Hi Gavin,

Can you describe the finger technique you use when you're playing cross sticks on the snare drum? http://www.vicfirth.com/artists/harrison.php you do it a lot in So What on your VF page. It's absolutely delicious!

Thanks!

[madhusudanraman]

sir,
i have a question about rimshots. do you pick up the sticks and 'drop' it on the rim? or do you have a hold on the stick throughout the stroke? if you do have a hold throughout, where's the fulcrum point? i use the heel of my palm to keep the stick down, but in doing so i don't get enough power and end up 'picking it up and dropping it.'
thank you very much.

[gibeachhead]

Hoping you and Ric get a band together! If you do, do you think you'd be able to take the tour to the US? If not, hoping you could do some clinic shows in the US this spring/summer.

Anything we can do to help promote, let us know!

[Gavin Harrison]

Thanks To Alex P for the transcription of "Futile".

Hi EvilDrummer

BTW I read somewhere that you use a Beatnik rhythmic analyzer. What exercises do you practice on it? Do you have a good exercise I can try? What kind of accuracy goals do you have on it? For instance 99% on medium on one tempo before going to a faster one. Maybe in your case 100% on the extreme setting :D

When I was at PASIC in 2008 they had a lot of their pads set up with this pattern. I found it quite interesting and challenging.

1 quarter note, 1 quarter note, 2 eighth notes, 3 eighth note triplets, 4 sixteenth notes, 6 sixteenth note triplets, 8 thirty second notes, 1 quarter note. Skill = Medium value. 60bpm.

You then play this two bar pattern eight times and stop. You then check the accuracy of each beat whilst adding up the overall score. Each beat is measured with a score up to 100%. Maximum score is 800.

It's a hard thing to describe - if you're not familiar with the unit. I believe the Medium skill window is 10 milliseconds each side of the beat. So to keep a 100% score you have to hit each beat within 10ms of the metronome.

Hi egbt4

Do you prefer matched or traditional grip ? And why ?

for most of the things that I do I prefer matched. I can play traditional and enjoy doing so when I'm playing jazz and much lighter music. With a lot of the music I play I like to rimshot the snare drum for the backbeats - and I find it more comfortable and consistent with matched grip.

Hi allanthomas

Can you please tell me which drum mics you use when you're playing live..

Usually Audix i5 on the top and bottom of both snare drums. Electrovoice ND468 on the toms and a Shure SM91 inside the bass drum. Sometimes with an Audix D6 close to the whole in the front of the bass drum.

Hi Animal drummer

I was also checking out your equipment and I noticed that your sticks are the rock model meaning they're as thick as 2B's which are huge how can you use such massive sticks without losing any of the versitilty and comfort. My experience of thick sticks has been a nightmare so what made you pick the rock model for your playing.

I have designed a new signature stick with Vic Firth that I'm VERY happy with. It is as big as the Rock model but a little bit longer. Model SHAR. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eye7g9aOfLs
I really like big sticks. I have big hands and sometimes I find that thin sticks just hurt. I find that I can control them better and have a lot of power in reserve when I need them.

Hi paulegavin

Can you describe the finger technique you use when you're playing cross sticks on the snare drum? http://www.vicfirth.com/artists/harrison.php you do it a lot in So What on your VF page. It's absolutely delicious!

There isn't really much to describe. When my hand is flat down across the drum playing cross sticks it's pretty easy to just use your fingers to play ghost notes and rolls.

Hi madhusudanraman

i have a question about rimshots. do you pick up the sticks and 'drop' it on the rim? or do you have a hold on the stick throughout the stroke? if you do have a hold throughout, where's the fulcrum point? i use the heel of my palm to keep the stick down, but in doing so i don't get enough power and end up 'picking it up and dropping it.'

I'm assuming that you mean 'cross sticking' ? I hold the stick between the thumb and first finger and I hold onto the stick for the entire stroke.

Hi gibeachhead

Hoping you and Ric get a band together! If you do, do you think you'd be able to take the tour to the US? If not, hoping you could do some clinic shows in the US this spring/summer.

we are putting a band together for live shows. We're just starting rehearsals at the moment. I don't know if we'll get over to the States straight away. We'd love to play all over the planet if we can. Also I'm working on booking some clinics this year but nothing to announce just yet.

Cheers
Gavin

[allanthomas]

Thank you.Really appreciate it!@
Scorn: Thanks for the link.

[totopaul]

Hi Gavin,

I'm just practising drums with your book "Rhythmic Illusions".

When playing a rhythmic illusion (1 16th forward eg.) than the listener doesn't really hear that one is playing "not on the beat" because a common pattern is played a couple of times.

My question: How do YOU as a drummer feel the pattern. Does it feel like it's played "on the beat" (like the listener feels it) or are you hearing it different than the listener?

(hope you understand my question)


Thanks alot
best Regards

Paul

[Dont Taze Me Bro]

Hey Gavin!

I've asked you about some things in the past, and if you'd be so kind I'd like to ask something else.

I've been thrilled about the new OSI album sampler, it sounds killer, and to add to this excitement... I see that OSI has planned a large tour.

I was just wondering if you are going to be drumming on the tour. I understand you've got a bunch of stuff going on, with 05Ric and PT and all... So I was just wondering if these dates fit your schedule. I've seen you live a few times and its always an experience to remember. I'm going to see OSI regardless of who the drummer is but if it is you I'm going to be ecstatic!

Thanks for your time Gavin, and I hope to watch/hear you drum again in the very near future!

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi totopaul

When playing a rhythmic illusion (1 16th forward eg.) than the listener doesn't really hear that one is playing "not on the beat" because a common pattern is played a couple of times. My question: How do YOU as a drummer feel the pattern. Does it feel like it's played "on the beat" (like the listener feels it) or are you hearing it different than the listener?

No I always feel it 'off' the beat (as the example is written in the book). I do NOT switch my mind into the B Status and start to hear it like the audience. I always keep the original quarter note in my mind.

Hi Dont Taze Me Bro

I've been thrilled about the new OSI album sampler, it sounds killer, and to add to this excitement... I see that OSI has planned a large tour.

if you look at that page again you'll see that OSI are not in the artist list and are not making a tour. That is a list of all the acts on Metal Blade records. Sorry to disappoint you.

cheers
Gavin

[Dont Taze Me Bro]

Hi Dont Taze Me Bro

I've been thrilled about the new OSI album sampler, it sounds killer, and to add to this excitement... I see that OSI has planned a large tour.

if you look at that page again you'll see that OSI are not in the artist list and are not making a tour. That is a list of all the acts on Metal Blade records. Sorry to disappoint you.

cheers
Gavin


Ah no! I figured it was a bunch of stuff OSI was opening for.. I got there from the 'tour' link on the OSI website, so that is misleading :(.

Thanks for correcting me before I took the initiative to go to one of these shows!

[Scorn]

Ah no! I figured it was a bunch of stuff OSI was opening for.. I got there from the 'tour' link on the OSI website, so that is misleading :(.

Thanks for correcting me before I took the initiative to go to one of these shows!

OSI opening for Nile? I'd die to see this...

[Schnitzelhead]

Hi Gavin,

I'm sure this question has been asked before, but I haven't seen it secifically in this thread. With respect to tuning your toms, I'm curious about the relative pitch/tension between your batter and resonant heads.

Thanks for the info. I'm a big fan of your drumming, and I think your drum sound is perfect.

Rick

[szokematyi]

Hi Gavin!

Sorry in advance for the long letter, It's a wrong habit of mine lately.

My first question is about your Hardcases. I saw a Youtube video about those, where I saw that yours got foam (or something) inside them to give your drums some extra protection. But for this to happen, you needed bigger cases obviously. My setup is very similar to yours (8-10-12-14—22, 14snare), so I’m interested in what sizes do you use for which drum. I’d think that you use the following, please correct me, If I’m wrong somewhere. 8” drum into a 10” case, 10” drum into a 12” case, 12” tom into a 13” case, 14” drum into a 15” case (buti f I’m correct you’re using a 15” floor tom, so It’s probably a 16” case) but I have no idea about the bass drum and the snare. 22” bass drum into a 23? Is there a 23” bass drum case? Or a 15” snare case?

My second question is about your double bass technique. You stated that you always do single strokes, and you’re always leading with your right feet. Well, I’m only in my beginner studies, but at faster stuff I sometimes feel that starting with the left is what comes more naturally. Basically if it’s an „upstroke”, I’m starting with the left. If a „downstroke”, I’m leading with my right. I’m not sure that this upstoke-downstoke stuff is applicable to feet techique, but thats the only way for me to describe the situation (upbeat-downbeat maybe?). Do you think my approach is wrong? Can this approach be a problem for me later on at more complex stuff? Meaning: I might end up „on the wrong feet at the end of a fill or something”?

The third is about sticks. I know that sticks are soooo personal, that there is no real way to suggest me a stick, but my question is about HOW to choose. I’m currently keep switching back and forth between a Vic Firth X5AVG and a X5BVG. I know, not a big difference, but sometimes the 5A is perfect (feel, rebound, etc.), but sometimes it feels too thin. In case of the 5B is the same, but sometimes it feels too thick. Sometimes I got blisters from one, or my wrists hurt from the other. There’s probably some minor technique problem too that needs adjusting, but still. Do you have any workout or exercise or a "magic trick" that could help me to figure out which sticks works best for me? I’d really love to use only one kind. Choosing a 55A (the stick in between these two) is not an option, because there is no way I’ll ever use a stick again without Vic Grip, and a 55A does not come with that option, plus it's shorter too.
Any ideas could help!

Thank you for your time in advance, and I hope it’s not that cold in London. Here its -15! :(
Cheers from Hungary,
Matthew

[scottishhaggis]

Hey man, it's -25 in here!

Cheers from Lithuania

[de Nick]

Hi Gavin,

I recently moved away from home in order to study at university. Therefore I don´t have a drumset to practise on and after having played only on a practise pad for a while it is really strange to sit behind the kit again because it feels like I´ve lost a major part of my strength and especially accuracy.

So my question would be if you ever had to bypass a longer period of time you didn´t have access to a proper drumset and if you have any advice how to keep in shape the least.

cheers
Nikolas

[Nils]

Hi Gavin,

I have a question about the song What happens Now from Nil Recurring. There is a part after 5:00 I really don't get. I think it's one of the most trickiest parts I've ever heard so far. Even the other PT guys look very let's say concentrated while playing this part on your DVD Anesthetize.

So I guess the whole thing starts with the guitar alone playing in 5/4. After 9 bar the drums come in with a groove which destroys my feeling for the guitar riff completely. After a few bars the guitar starts to play something which sounds like triplets because every 3rd note fits with your ride. But I'm always confused when you play the "1" on the crashes together with the chords from the guitar.

So please tell me about this part. Usually I don't have any problems to get what people play but not this time
Thank you

[Scorn]

Hi Gavin,

I have a question about the song What happens Now from Nil Recurring. There is a part after 5:00 I really don't get. I think it's one of the most trickiest parts I've ever heard so far. Even the other PT guys look very let's say concentrated while playing this part on your DVD Anesthetize.

So I guess the whole thing starts with the guitar alone playing in 5/4. After 9 bar the drums come in with a groove which destroys my feeling for the guitar riff completely. After a few bars the guitar starts to play something which sounds like triplets because every 3rd note fits with your ride. But I'm always confused when you play the "1" on the crashes together with the chords from the guitar.

So please tell me about this part. Usually I don't have any problems to get what people play but not this time
Thank you

I guess that ride bell is played on every third sixteenth note. Gavin likes to use this one, you can also hear it on Be The Hero by O.S.I.

[allanthomas]

Hey gavin,
Silly question but still can you tell me which headphones you use..??
Does anyone know any good make headphones for drums specifically with good isolation??
Thanks..

[egbt4]

Hi Gavin,

I have a question about the song What happens Now from Nil Recurring. There is a part after 5:00 I really don't get. I think it's one of the most trickiest parts I've ever heard so far. Even the other PT guys look very let's say concentrated while playing this part on your DVD Anesthetize.

So I guess the whole thing starts with the guitar alone playing in 5/4. After 9 bar the drums come in with a groove which destroys my feeling for the guitar riff completely. After a few bars the guitar starts to play something which sounds like triplets because every 3rd note fits with your ride. But I'm always confused when you play the "1" on the crashes together with the chords from the guitar.

So please tell me about this part. Usually I don't have any problems to get what people play but not this time
Thank you


It's " easy " : a 7/8 pattern beetwen bass drum and snare against 3/16 on the bell of the ride ...

[Nils]

I thought about the 3rd/16th pattern too (since I like to watch Rhythmic Horizons all the time) but nevertheless I didn't get it :(
Guess I have to listen to it once again with the 'easy' 7/8 part in mind
But thanks anyway

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Schnitzelhead

I'm sure this question has been asked before, but I haven't seen it secifically in this thread. With respect to tuning your toms, I'm curious about the relative pitch/tension between your batter and resonant heads.

I don't really tune to exact notes - but my resonant heads are between a semitone and a tone higher than the batter heads.

Hi szokematyi

My first question is about your Hardcases so I’m interested in what sizes do you use for which drum. I’d think that you use the following, please correct me, If I’m wrong somewhere. 8” drum into a 10” case, 10” drum into a 12” case, 12” tom into a 13” case, 14” drum into a 15” case (buti f I’m correct you’re using a 15” floor tom, so It’s probably a 16” case) but I have no idea about the bass drum and the snare. 22” bass drum into a 23? Is there a 23” bass drum case? Or a 15” snare case?

Yes you have guessed correctly but the snare drum cases and bass drum cases are not 'over sized' like the tom cases are.

My second question is about your double bass technique. You stated that you always do single strokes, and you’re always leading with your right feet. Well, I’m only in my beginner studies, but at faster stuff I sometimes feel that starting with the left is what comes more naturally. Basically if it’s an „upstroke”, I’m starting with the left. If a „downstroke”, I’m leading with my right. I’m not sure that this upstoke-downstoke stuff is applicable to feet techique, but thats the only way for me to describe the situation (upbeat-downbeat maybe?). Do you think my approach is wrong? Can this approach be a problem for me later on at more complex stuff? Meaning: I might end up „on the wrong feet at the end of a fill or something”?

What you're doing is not wrong. But if you get really used to your right foot always being 'on the beat' and you left foot always playing the 'off beats' you might feel uncomfortable when playing odd time signatures as many times it will throw you into the reverse of that footing.

I know that sticks are soooo personal, that there is no real way to suggest me a stick, but my question is about HOW to choose. I’m currently keep switching back and forth between a Vic Firth X5AVG and a X5BVG. I know, not a big difference, but sometimes the 5A is perfect (feel, rebound, etc.), but sometimes it feels too thin. In case of the 5B is the same, but sometimes it feels too thick. Sometimes I got blisters from one, or my wrists hurt from the other. There’s probably some minor technique problem too that needs adjusting, but still. Do you have any workout or exercise or a "magic trick" that could help me to figure out which sticks works best for me?

I have no magic trick for you. I have changed sticks many times over the years - and it depended on what style (and volume) I was playing in. It depends how big your hands are too. Since I developed my own signature stick with Vic Firth I've just been using those. The balance feels perfect to me but what stick you end up choosing is a very personal thing.

Hi de Nick

So my question would be if you ever had to bypass a longer period of time you didn´t have access to a proper drumset and if you have any advice how to keep in shape the least.

I hate being away from my drumset for more than a few days maximum. I need to play it everyday ideally. Playing on pads or an electronic kit is a very different feeling - but it's better than nothing at all.

Hi Nils

I have a question about the song What happens Now from Nil Recurring. There is a part after 5:00 I really don't get. I think it's one of the most trickiest parts I've ever heard so far. Even the other PT guys look very let's say concentrated while playing this part on your DVD Anesthetize.

It is a tricky part to play. Forget about the 5/8 guitar loop at the start of that section. Basically I'm playing a 7/8 rhythm between the bass drum and snare drum - and a 3/16ths override on the bell of the ride cymbal. There is a crash every four bars of 7/8 to change with the guitar chords - but sometimes they fall in odd places against the 7/8 + 3/16 pattern.

Hi allanthomas

Silly question but still can you tell me which headphones you use..??
Does anyone know any good make headphones for drums specifically with good isolation??

when I'm playing at home in my studio I'm using my Ultimate Ears UE10s with a pair of maximum isolation shooting muffs over the top of those. On stage I use Sensaphonics 3D Ambient 'in ears'

cheers
Gavin.

[Venimal]

Hello Gavin,

I cannot state how much I enjoy listening to your playing, and how much I feel inspired by your playing and rhythmic ability. I have come to a very unusual problem with my practicing, and was hoping to get a little bit of advice from someone who practices several hours in a day (so I have read).

Lately, I have gotten this app for my iPad called Tempo Advanced and I have been using the feature of increasing the BPM during practice. I set it to increase 2 BPM every 20 measures and In an effort to get my arms to move a bit quicker between the drums, I have been practicing the Swiss Army Triplet while not allowing either hand to hit the same thing twice in a row. After countless hours behind my kit doing this, I did get the desired effect and I feel much more comfortable and confident in transitioning between drums. However, the problem lies in my hands. Well, my right hand to be specific. No matter how slow I start practicing, when I start getting to play faster or heavier, my right thumb starts to ache and starts slipping off where I like it to be. I am almost constantly dropping my stick at tempos I would normally feel comfortable with, and the pain gets so annoying after a while, I just can't play for an hour or so. This has been going on for quite a while, and it's really getting frustrating. Do you have any advice for helping me with this issue?

Also, I do want to thank you for taking the time to answer the questions that are posted on this board. I often come here to see your answers and I want you to know they do not go to waste. A while ago, I heard No Twilight Within the Courts of the Sun on Pandora, and recognized your playing almost immediately. For months I was mesmerized by that song, and it repeat, dissecting it as best I could, and couldn't for the life of me figure out how to play along with it. That song is the epitome of what I love about music and drumming. Upon cruising the posts, I came across your answer to how to play it. Shortly there after, I programmed my metronome to 21/8 (4/4 4/4 quater note, two dotted eighth notes) as described and after a few weeks practicing, I was able to play threw it. I cannot tell you how satisfying it is to be able to play along to it, I never thought I would be able to. As a side effect, my timing has greatly improved with odd times, and compound time signatures. Your work and your time is greatly appreciated, and I'm sure several hundred people who post and read on here would agree. Thank you again!

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Venimal

No matter how slow I start practicing, when I start getting to play faster or heavier, my right thumb starts to ache and starts slipping off where I like it to be. I am almost constantly dropping my stick at tempos I would normally feel comfortable with, and the pain gets so annoying after a while, I just can't play for an hour or so. This has been going on for quite a while, and it's really getting frustrating. Do you have any advice for helping me with this issue?

there could be something odd about your grip. Or maybe you're using sticks that are the wrong size (too thin perhaps)? Have you tried Vic Firth sticks with "Vic Grip" ? Since I've used those in the last few years everything feels better - I don't grip as hard because I don't feel like the stick is moving away from me. I can't imagine I'd ever go back to sticks without it.

cheers
Gavin

[Gus]

Hi Gavin

Excellent your new cd with Ric. I love the tom sound, and how you played them. Also love the ride cymbal sound. Is it the prototype you discussed on your RD dvd?

Congratulations and thanks!

Gustavo

[richkenyon]

Hey Gavin,
My old drumming pal Elliott Henshaw tells me you're doing the Buddy Rich 25th Memorial concert, along with Dave Weckl & Gregg Bisonnette. Do you know what tunes you're going to play - do you get to pick them? Not sure that I can make it, but hoping it will be recorded?!

Loving the O5Ric albums + the Rhythmic Designs book/dvd I got in Cleveland last summer. It's an amazing piece of work! All the best.

[jimtyler]

Hi,
I'm an old drummer (60+) and grew up listening to greats such as Cobham, Bruford, Gadd, Bozzio. I don't listen to much music anymore at all, it all seems to sound the same for some reason. In the past 2 years, people have bought me 3 CDs, 2 of them were PT. I've been a fan of your drumming since I first heard you, around 2006. You are one of the very few drummers that I feel are pushing the drumming envelope, if you will, raw talent combined with the need to explore your own abilities.
My question,,when are you going to take the next step? You hint at melodic play, but avoid things like harmonic playing on the set, scale usage, melodic playing with the bass..
You are amazing, with great skill. It seems like this would be the direction to go next.

[Meksyk]

Hi I've got a question about you touring. There has been an announcement on PT site of Steven's Grace for Drowning tour second leg. But - for some reason - it states in a tour section of PT site as "Steven Wilson and Band - Grace for Drowning Tour". Is it gonna be you and rest of PT guys playing Steve's stuff or is it announced there for no reason and it's just Steven and his guys?

Dying to see you play, keep it up :).

By the way, why is askgavinharrison.com down ;(?

[alinux]

Hi I've got a question about you touring. There has been an announcement on PT site of Steven's Grace for Drowning tour second leg. But - for some reason - it states in a tour section of PT site as "Steven Wilson and Band - Grace for Drowning Tour". Is it gonna be you and rest of PT guys playing Steve's stuff or is it announced there for no reason and it's just Steven and his guys?

Dying to see you play, keep it up :).

By the way, why is askgavinharrison.com down ;(?

Hm, You've right it's down. I'll contact the author. Thanks for noticing.

[IceMonster]

Hi Gavin!

I'm currently in the market for a new double kick pedal, Ive tried and I really like the Tama Speedcobra. Its a great pedal for the price. But my question is what made you make the switch from Axis to Tama, what impressed you the most about the Tama, and what other pedals were you considering to use on your main set-up?

Thanks for your time, and I look forward to seeing you with PT soon.

Greg.

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Gus

Excellent your new cd with Ric. I love the tom sound, and how you played them. Also love the ride cymbal sound. Is it the prototype you discussed on your RD dvd?

thanks - I used a few different rides on the album - mainly a 21" Constantinople Big Band ride and a 22" Crash Of Doom prototype (as a ride).

Hi richkenyon

My old drumming pal Elliott Henshaw tells me you're doing the Buddy Rich 25th Memorial concert, along with Dave Weckl & Gregg Bisonnette. Do you know what tunes you're going to play - do you get to pick them? Not sure that I can make it, but hoping it will be recorded?!

Yes I will be doing that show. I did get to pick the tunes - and probably it's best if I don't announce them for anyone who is coming to the show. There is a rumour of it getting filmed but we'll have to wait and see what happens.

Hi jimtyler

My question,,when are you going to take the next step? You hint at melodic play, but avoid things like harmonic playing on the set, scale usage, melodic playing with the bass..

I don't really want to get into tuning the drums for the key of the song - that would be difficult and pretty limiting. I am currently practising on my new marimba. Now there's a challenge!!

Hi Meksyk

I've got a question about you touring. There has been an announcement on PT site of Steven's Grace for Drowning tour second leg. But - for some reason - it states in a tour section of PT site as "Steven Wilson and Band - Grace for Drowning Tour". Is it gonna be you and rest of PT guys playing Steve's stuff or is it announced there for no reason and it's just Steven and his guys?

No - it's just Steve and his band - touring the next leg of his "Grace For Drowning" solo project.

Hi IceMonster

I'm currently in the market for a new double kick pedal, Ive tried and I really like the Tama Speedcobra. Its a great pedal for the price. But my question is what made you make the switch from Axis to Tama, what impressed you the most about the Tama, and what other pedals were you considering to use on your main set-up?

I happily played the Axis Longboards for 9 years and they are great pedals. Tama sent me the new SpeedCobras to try and I really liked them. I wasn't looking to change nor did I try any other pedals. I found the SpeedCobras to have more power - so I felt like I was only using half the energy to make the same volume - and it's always better to have some energy and power in reserve. I can't play any faster on these than I could on the Axis pedals but I like the feel of the Tamas a lot.

Cheers
Gavin

[alinux]

People,

http://askgavinharrison.com/ is fixed now!

Enjoy! (Thanks to Richard!).

Very soon I'll add some more question/answers! ;)

Groovy hugs to all!

[Roger//]

Hi Gavin,

I've got a couple questions about the new signature sticks from vic firth.

1: Why Blue grip? not red or any other color?

2: How do they feel compared to the Rock model? (I play that model for heavier stuff and pad use) I mean, do they have more bounce? ect? I'd like to know becouse we don't have any in stores near me. So maybe i'll order them.

[Gavin Harrison]

Thanks to Richard Holland and Vladimir for keeping this going and updated

http://askgavinharrison.com/

Hi Roger//

I've got a couple questions about the new signature sticks from vic firth.
1: Why Blue grip? not red or any other color?

I noticed that Blue had not been used before whereas there's a lot of Vic Firth's sticks already out there with the red grip.

2: How do they feel compared to the Rock model? (I play that model for heavier stuff and pad use) I mean, do they have more bounce? ect?

I played the "Rock" model for a few years and (in my opinion) my signature stick is better balanced (for me anyway). You'd need to play them side by side to really feel the differences.

cheers
Gavin

[scottishhaggis]

Dear Gavin,

hope you're fine. Heard the new OSI album's stream and it's super, looking forward to it.

I'm here for an advice of yours really. I've got a little problem with developing my single bass pedal abilities. I do have a Sonor kit and the pedal was included with the kit. It is this one I have - http://www.sonor.com/pbas/Sonor_FE/sonor/english/detail.html?a-quicklink-n_katid=109&a-quicklink-n_artikelid=4569. The problem I've got is that I cannot quite normally learn and get comfortable playing bass drum fast and accurate. I've also got a problem with tuning the head. I know that you have a large and heavy pillow inside your bass drum. Have you always had pillows inside your bass drums? Have you had them when you were playing single bass pedal in the old days? I do also have a semi heavy pillow in my bass drum and it feels good, as you said in the PASIC clinic that it feels that you are playing on a quite hard surface. My biggest problem is that I cannot accurately perform multiple strokes on my bass drum and I don't know what is the main problem (of course it can that I've just played not much because I've been playing on a drumset for less than 2 years). Is it because it is hard to do that because the head is hard because of the pillow and the pedal do not get enough rebound from the head? Or is it something in the settings of the pedal. Did you have any experience with these cheap entry-level Sonor pedals? Do you think I should consider switching do better and more professional pedals? In your opinion, how do think that the quality and level of a pedal can effect on drummer's abilities to play fast, solid and accurate? Could you tell me please how tight do you tighten the spring tension on your pedals? Could you tell me how low or how high do you raise your throne? How long did it take you to become very experienced in getting the best feeling on the foot when hitting the bass drum? Because it is not just about getting the right sound but also about getting a good feeling right?

I am very grateful for your support to young and starting drummers like me. Thank you Gavin and I wish you all the best.

PS.: sorry for so many questions.

[formula428]

Gavin,

Do you still use Safe-hoops (S-hoops) on your toms? If you do, or when you did, where did you find the 10" 5-hole version? Do you know where I could get a set for my 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 Delites?

Thanks

[gibeachhead]

Gavin,

Do you know of any plans to release a 'live recording' from one of the Incident shows sometime this year?

Thank you for reading

[pixelbreaker]

Hey Gavin,

I remember a while back (at least a year ago) there was a website with a series of interviews with you. It was just a list of audio samples (probably about 20-30) with interviews with you and what sounded like the same guy on all of them. I might just be crazy, but do you remember what I'm talking about? If so, do you remember the website?

Thanks

[Kalma]

Hi Gavin!

I know you're using the MD421 mics on your toms right?
I bought to MD421 (old version) on ebay and they sound great and my floortoms.
But I have the problem that they pick up a lot cymbals (ride, crash and china) which are placed above them.
Do you have any tips how to reduce that?
Same problem with the i5 on the snaredrum.. Picks a lot Crash and Toms..

Do you have those problems too??


Thanks in Advance
David

[keep it simple]

Hi Gavin!

I know you're using the MD421 mics on your toms right?
I bought to MD421 (old version) on ebay and they sound great and my floortoms.
But I have the problem that they pick up a lot cymbals (ride, crash and china) which are placed above them.
Do you have any tips how to reduce that?
Same problem with the i5 on the snaredrum.. Picks a lot Crash and Toms..

Do you have those problems too??


Thanks in Advance
David

1/ downwards angle placement towards the centre of the head
2/ exchange for hypercardoid mic's
3/ gaffer tape (wonderful stuff:))
4/ lift cymbals

BTW, very obviously, I'm not Gavin ;)

[J.Rob.Charles]

Hi Gavin.

That's my first time in this Forum. My name is Roberto, am from Mexico, I realy hope you are doing fine. Am a drummer, and i have to say that you are the most influence drummer in my carrier. I really admire and respect your music and carrier. i have a lot of questions to you, but the most important question right now, is.. what about you little custom bells, up of your hi-hats. That's are a custom bells, i know but, that bells was made by your self? if it is like this, what kind of cymbals you cut to get this sound in the custom bells?

Thanks so much for your time.

Greetings.

[Alex P.]

Hi J.Rob.Charles,

Check this out: http://www.askgavinharrison.com/articles/152-What-are-the-little-splashes-to-your-left-bells-

Alex P.

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi scottishhaggis

I've got a little problem with developing my single bass pedal abilities. I do have a Sonor kit and the pedal was included with the kit. It is this one I have - http://www.sonor.com/pbas/Sonor_FE/s...artikelid=4569. The problem I've got is that I cannot quite normally learn and get comfortable playing bass drum fast and accurate.

playing accurate bass drum patterns takes a really long time - I wouldn't worry about playing fast.

I've also got a problem with tuning the head. I know that you have a large and heavy pillow inside your bass drum. Have you always had pillows inside your bass drums? Have you had them when you were playing single bass pedal in the old days?

yes

Is it because it is hard to do that because the head is hard because of the pillow and the pedal do not get enough rebound from the head?

there's very little rebound from my bass drum head.

Or is it something in the settings of the pedal. Did you have any experience with these cheap entry-level Sonor pedals? Do you think I should consider switching do better and more professional pedals? In your opinion, how do think that the quality and level of a pedal can effect on drummer's abilities to play fast, solid and accurate?

I know those pedals but I haven't played them much. If you've been playing less than two years you just need to practise on slow accuracy. Don't get freaked out by kids on YouTube who can play at ridiculous speeds. Good pedals can make a difference but nowhere near the amount of difference that having good technique can have.

Could you tell me please how tight do you tighten the spring tension on your pedals? Could you tell me how low or how high do you raise your throne? How long did it take you to become very experienced in getting the best feeling on the foot when hitting the bass drum? Because it is not just about getting the right sound but also about getting a good feeling right?

It sounds like you're frustrated with your lack of ability on the pedal. All the settings don't really matter. Sit at a height that makes you feel comfortable - and set the pedal to a 'medium' setting (basically not too loose or too tight) and do lots of practise with it. The development of your feet take ten times longer than the development of your hands.

Hi formula428

Do you still use Safe-hoops (S-hoops) on your toms? If you do, or when you did, where did you find the 10" 5-hole version? Do you know where I could get a set for my 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 Delites?

yes I have them on my toms and years ago they used to make a 5 hole 10" hoop. I can see there's a few hoop variations they don't offer. 8 hole 12" for snare drums would be nice too. I don't know where you can find them now.

Hi gibeachhead

Do you know of any plans to release a 'live recording' from one of the Incident shows sometime this year?

we do have some recordings of some live shows from that tour and we are thinking about it.

Hi pixelbreaker

I remember a while back (at least a year ago) there was a website with a series of interviews with you. It was just a list of audio samples (probably about 20-30) with interviews with you and what sounded like the same guy on all of them. I might just be crazy, but do you remember what I'm talking about? If so, do you remember the website?

I don't remember ever seeing that. There's some interviews on the Vic Firth site - but I don't think that's what you mean.

Hi Kalma

I know you're using the MD421 mics on your toms right?
I bought to MD421 (old version) on ebay and they sound great and my floortoms.
But I have the problem that they pick up a lot cymbals (ride, crash and china) which are placed above them. Do you have any tips how to reduce that? Same problem with the i5 on the snaredrum.. Picks a lot Crash and Toms..
Do you have those problems too??

yes I've been using MD421 on my toms. I'm not aware of them picking up excessive amounts of spill. Of course in isolation I can hear all the other drums and cymbals from every mic - but that's to be expected. If I put a lot of high frequency EQ on any of the mics then it will start to attract the cymbals.

cheers
Gavin

[Kalma]

yes I've been using MD421 on my toms. I'm not aware of them picking up excessive amounts of spill. Of course in isolation I can hear all the other drums and cymbals from every mic - but that's to be expected. If I put a lot of high frequency EQ on any of the mics then it will start to attract the cymbals.


Thanks for your answer!

Here's a little snippet from my 14" Drum Mic. No EQ or something:
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/17340676/tom14.mp3

Is this the amount you also have on those mics when you haven't edited anything?


And btw:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhlq4Yl8qXY&feature=related
On 0:48 - what's that above your 16" tom mic?

Thanks!
David

[Arky]

(...) The development of your feet take ten times longer than the development of your hands.Gavin, this is soooo reassuring! Ok then, back to practice.

[Jeffx]

Hi Gavin,

After looking at the equipment on your website, I wondered why your 14 x 5 snare is made out of birch, and the 12 x 5 out of maple. Is there a big difference between these wood types? If so, could you describe the difference in sound?
I don't have the opportunity to compare both, since my local drum shop only offers maple snare drums.
I am also curious about your thought on beech shells.

Thanks!

Jeffrey

[K_HiHats]

Hey Gavin! It's been quite a while since I've been on here. But then I guess that means that I haven't had many drum related problems as of late, or just overall any questions. But that all stops today. Just a couple questions I'd like to ask:

1) I recently burst into a craving for listening to The Incident many, many times. In that time I finally thought about asking the question that first came to me me when I first heard the album. That question being, is there a definite time signature for Occam's Razor/ Degree Zero of Liberty. I mean, there has to be some way that you and the band know when to play, and I've given up on trying to figure it out myself.

2) Do you think that PT will still continue to play "The Incident" as just as single song on your next tour? I mean, it could be odd in that regard, as it was meant to be heard as one 54 minute long piece (or however long it is), but then you have songs that can stand alone such as "Time Flies" and "The Blind House." I think it could be done, though, as it's really a good song.

3) Unrelated to The Incident, do you happen to know why PT never released XMII as a download, whereas the original XM was? I've listened to it on Grooveshark and a few songs from it on youtube, and I gotta say it'd be cool to have. So do you know why?

Thanks for taking the time to answer.

Cheers --Peter

[gibeachhead]

Being a fan of Gavin's I naturally had to get a pair of his signature sticks to simply try. I knew they wouldn't replace my normal stick. I normally play with X5Bs and I'm quite small and skinny to begin with; but I couldn't resist.

They are massive, so when Gavin says that, believe him! My favorite thing about them are the blended taper/tip, I really wish it was an option for all sticks, it is top notch.

As Gavin said it's most similar to a ROCK model stick.

Great stick Gavin, very impressive design!

[formula428]

Hi formula428

Do you still use Safe-hoops (S-hoops) on your toms? If you do, or when you did, where did you find the 10" 5-hole version? Do you know where I could get a set for my 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 Delites?

yes I have them on my toms and years ago they used to make a 5 hole 10" hoop. I can see there's a few hoop variations they don't offer. 8 hole 12" for snare drums would be nice too. I don't know where you can find them now.

Just a heads-up,

I talked to the manufacturer (Big Bang Distribution in CA, US) and they are considering making a 12" 8-hole version for snares. They are waiting to see how much interest there would be. I would like one too for my GH Sonor 12x5 (which sounds absolutely amazing).

I spoke with bob@bigbangdist.com

[Rítmico]

Hi Gavin,

I was watching your DVD "Rhythmic Visions". I believe that you was playing in a Sonor Delite drumset. What‘s the difference in sound in the studio recording betwen the delites and your SQ2 Euro set?

Thank you

[Sjogras]

Would someone recommend an online store for buying The man who sold himself as mp3 download? I believe I've tried 4 or 5 different stores now, but apparently downloads aren't available in my country, I live in sweden. Help!

[Gekko12482]

Hi Gavin,

Me and a friend had an endless argument about the time signature of "The Sound Of Muzak". At first we both thought the song was in 7/4, but after a video a found on youtube about the concept of overriding odd time signatures ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2ReDqc3aFs ) I had understood the song actually is in 7/8 with a quarter note override (so I also state that override does NOT change the time signature). My friend however, listen more to the song as a whole, and states that if you listen to it as a 7/8, you won't find an accent of the first note of the second bar. He says that the only thing you might count in 7/8 is the kick/snare pattern, but the rest of the instruments makes it a 7/4 song. It sounds plausible to me, but the way you keep speaking of two bars in that video, and the fact that you tick 7 eights notes before starting still makes me believe the song actually is in 7/8 but with a little illusion to make it sound like it's in 7/4. So, dear Gavin, help us out and tell us if the song is in 7/8 or 7/4!

[Chaos_Inferno]

Hi Gavin,

Me and a friend had an endless argument about the time signature of "The Sound Of Muzak". At first we both thought the song was in 7/4, but after a video a found on youtube about the concept of overriding odd time signatures ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2ReDqc3aFs ) I had understood the song actually is in 7/8 with a quarter note override (so I also state that override does NOT change the time signature). My friend however, listen more to the song as a whole, and states that if you listen to it as a 7/8, you won't find an accent of the first note of the second bar. He says that the only thing you might count in 7/8 is the kick/snare pattern, but the rest of the instruments makes it a 7/4 song. It sounds plausible to me, but the way you keep speaking of two bars in that video, and the fact that you tick 7 eights notes before starting still makes me believe the song actually is in 7/8 but with a little illusion to make it sound like it's in 7/4. So, dear Gavin, help us out and tell us if the song is in 7/8 or 7/4!

To answer your question... 7/4 is just two bars of 7/8. It's more in the way it's felt rather than the way it's counted if that makes any sense. They're both technically the same thing, it's whether the emphasis resides with the set of 7 eighth notes or looking at the entire measure of 7/4 as a musical phrase so it flows more smoothly. You can nitpick all day but it could easily be viewed or counted as either.

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Kalma

Here's a little snippet from my 14" Drum Mic. No EQ or something:
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/17340676/tom14.mp3
Is this the amount you also have on those mics when you haven't edited anything?

It's hard to tell from that because I don't know how loud your tom is in relation to the background.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhlq4...eature=related
On 0:48 - what's that above your 16" tom mic?

It's a Primacoustic CrashGuard.

Hi Jeffx

After looking at the equipment on your website, I wondered why your 14 x 5 snare is made out of birch, and the 12 x 5 out of maple. Is there a big difference between these wood types? If so, could you describe the difference in sound?
I am also curious about your thought on beech shells.

To me Birch has a slightly more EQ'd sound about it (more highs and lows) whereas Maple seems more open and natural. Just my impression. I have never played any Beech drums.

Hi K_HiHats

1)That question being, is there a definite time signature for Occam's Razor/ Degree Zero of Liberty.

Are you talking about the hits at the beginning of the tunes? There is a 4/4 pulse running through them so we can all play them together.

2) Do you think that PT will still continue to play "The Incident" as just as single song on your next tour? I mean, it could be odd in that regard, as it was meant to be heard as one 54 minute long piece (or however long it is), but then you have songs that can stand alone such as "Time Flies" and "The Blind House." I think it could be done, though, as it's really a good song.

I don't think so. We played it many times on the last tour.

3) Unrelated to The Incident, do you happen to know why PT never released XMII as a download, whereas the original XM was? I've listened to it on Grooveshark and a few songs from it on youtube, and I gotta say it'd be cool to have. So do you know why?

I've no idea.

Hi Rítmico

I was watching your DVD "Rhythmic Visions". I believe that you was playing in a Sonor Delite drumset. What‘s the difference in sound in the studio recording betwen the delites and your SQ2 Euro set?

I think my SQ2 Euro set has a bit more punch and volume in it. It's hard to say as I no longer have that blue DeLight so I can't compare them side by side.

Hi Sjogras

Would someone recommend an online store for buying The man who sold himself as mp3 download? I believe I've tried 4 or 5 different stores now, but apparently downloads aren't available in my country, I live in sweden. Help!

iTunes and Amazon don't have it?

Hi Gekko12482

Me and a friend had an endless argument about the time signature of "The Sound Of Muzak". So, dear Gavin, help us out and tell us if the song is in 7/8 or 7/4!

It doesn't actually matter what the time signature is - a time signature is only there to help you play it - the listener doesn't need to know where I might be drawing in the bar lines. In some of the pieces with 05Ric I put bar lines in all sorts of strange places because it makes the song easier to play and understand (to me). Ric quite often uses different time signatures to me - in the same song. You might hear it and understand it as something else. When Terry Branam made the transcriptions for the first two albums of me and 05Ric I was quite surprised sometimes where he was hearing the downbeats. We had a lot of discussions about that and in the end chose the easiest to read options. For instance if you had a song in 7/4 and there was a 4 bar section that had a lot of hard syncopation in it - you might prefer to write it out as 7 bars of 4/4. For what it's worth - I think of the Sound Of Muzak in 7/8 although the bass to snare drum pattern is actually 7/16.

cheers
Gavin

[Sjogras]

iTunes and Amazon don't have it?

I don't use iTunes. Amazon does have it, but downloads aren't available in Sweden so I ordered a physical copy instead. Can't wait!

...although the bass to snare drum pattern is actually 7/16.

Wow, that is really clever, I never noticed it! I always thought TSOM as 7/4 though, since the open hi-hat followed by the snare on beat 7 kind of wraps up the bar. Consequently, I had a hard time understanding why you were calling the accented quarter notes overriding when I saw that clinic video.

[xxdrexx]

Hey Gavin.. I read through this whole thread and I thought I'd reply and say thanks for posting here. My only knowledge of your playing was through some youtube videos I'd seen.. Thanks to this thread I've gone out and bought 3 Porcupine Tree records and I'll definitely be picking up your instructional DVDs/books.

I have a question on storage.. You've stated that you've got quite a big collection of snare drums, cymbals, etc. On previous replies I think I saw that you store these items in your garage. So, is your garage climate controlled? Or do you have some kind of storage box or system that will keep your gear cool in the hot months and warm in the cooler months? Any tips on dealing with humidity?

Thanks,

[tmccartney]

Gavin: I've always had trouble with limb independence, specifically using my left foot to work the hi-hat while I'm playing the ride. (Example: what you're doing during the chorus of "The Sound of Muzak" in this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxqWiRCg4mM).) Weirdly, I could play bass drum with either foot if I had to, but getting my left foot to operate independent of my right foot or my left hand is a real challenge for me.

Does that kind of thing just come naturally to good drummers, or is it something you had to concentrate on when you started? Any suggestions for getting better at it? Thanks!

Tracey

[Sjogras]

Gavin: I've always had trouble with limb independence, specifically using my left foot to work the hi-hat while I'm playing the ride. (Example: what you're doing during the chorus of "The Sound of Muzak" in this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxqWiRCg4mM).) Weirdly, I could play bass drum with either foot if I had to, but getting my left foot to operate independent of my right foot or my left hand is a real challenge for me.

Does that kind of thing just come naturally to good drummers, or is it something you had to concentrate on when you started? Any suggestions for getting better at it? Thanks!

Tracey

This question fits better in Drum technique... But yes, it does come naturally. I find The sound of muzak particularly hard with maintaining 1/8 notes on the left foot. The only way to get better at it is to actually do it, so just keep your left foot going whenever you're not playing the hi-hat with your hand, as long as it fits the musical context of course.

[szokematyi]

Hi Gavin!

My question is about the Basic Sonor Arm System. Recently, I got a few cracked cymbals (Paiste Formula 602 hihats, and some other stuff), and a friend of mine is gonna cut them down with a CNC-machine so I could use them as "bells-chimes". The cymbal stand is the tricky part. I could recreate a basic version of your old quite famous cup-chime-bell thingee-holder, but it would take too much time away from work and other stuff going on in my life lately. So I decided to order the Sonor-version of the cymbal-holder.

I'd think that yours is something like this:
1pc BR12 MC Basic Rack, with Arm
5pc BA-CH Basic Arm Cymbal Holder

Is it something like that? And are the BA-CH arms adjustable? Meaning can you adjust one to a shorter version, so the bell is more lower, and adjust the other to have a longer "arm" to use the other bell (next to the previous one) higher? Or did you have to cut the arm down, and recut the threads?

My version will only have 3-4 bell-like cymbals, the last one will stay my old faithful Sabian HHX Evolution splash. I hope the BR12 is a long enough arm for 4-5 of these BA-CHs.

Thank you in advance for your time!
Cheers,
Matthew

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi xxdrexx

You've stated that you've got quite a big collection of snare drums, cymbals, etc. On previous replies I think I saw that you store these items in your garage. So, is your garage climate controlled? Or do you have some kind of storage box or system that will keep your gear cool in the hot months and warm in the cooler months? Any tips on dealing with humidity?

I do keep a load of stuff in the garage - but it's not climate controlled. The drums are wrapped up and inside cases so they never get that cold. In never gets crazy hot in England for any length of time so overheating isn't really an issue.

Hi tmccartney

I've always had trouble with limb independence, specifically using my left foot to work the hi-hat while I'm playing the ride. Does that kind of thing just come naturally to good drummers, or is it something you had to concentrate on when you started? Any suggestions for getting better at it? Thanks!

Can you play 8ths on the hi hat foot whilst playing the same 8ths on the ride? How about 8ths on the ride and the in between 16ths with the left foot on the hi hat? Then try putting a bass drum on 1 &3 and a snare on 2 & 4.
Independence is something that gets better with practice of course.

Hi szokematyi

I'd think that yours is something like this:
1pc BR12 MC Basic Rack, with Arm
5pc BA-CH Basic Arm Cymbal Holder

You might need a BA-CR to get from the stand to the bar.

Is it something like that? And are the BA-CH arms adjustable? Meaning can you adjust one to a shorter version, so the bell is more lower, and adjust the other to have a longer "arm" to use the other bell (next to the previous one) higher? Or did you have to cut the arm down, and recut the threads?

I had have the threads cut right down to the bottom for the low mounted cymbals. You might not need it if you can get them all in a line.

Cheers
Gavin

[paulegavin]

Gavin,

What do you think about the prospect of someone making a living as drummer despite the rapid changes that have happened to the music industry?

[Dustondrums]

Gavin, how you fix the pillow inside your bass drum to avoid moving of pillow away from bass drum head?

[drumbumhamza]

Hello Sir,
I had a few questions regarding your Drum song and Cymbal song.

1) What was composing process like ? As in did you first record the parts and lay them down during the editing phase or did you first conceptualize what the song would sound like and then record the individual pieces ?

2) Did you place short video clips on a click or did you play through the song with each drum and cut out the video where you're not playing the drum ?

3) Did you edit the video yourself or did you get someone else to do it ?

I recently made a drum ensemble video (which is actually more of a tribute to you) and I came across the above problems. Hence the questions.

Thanks again for all the inspiration :)

[Tyger]

Wow, I've got to go through this thread, a wealth of info from one of the most musical drummers today! It's really such a privilege that you respond and share your knowledge.

Gavin, I've been a fan for a short time as I'm a 37yr old late bloomer, been playing the drums for about a year now and loving every minute of it.

First I just wanted to mention that there was an interview you did I had watched not too long ago where you said that musical drumming is what impressed you. You mentioned someone (who I don't recall at the moment) who had no chops but could play the drums musically.

This was close to heart for me because of my lack of technical skills I often try to come up with other ways of expression and have since enjoyed drumming even more. Of course I still practice rudiments and do speed exercises so that the ideas in my head can be expressed, but I no longer have that as a main focus.

My question to you is: Why Sonor drums, what was it that drew your attention to them and have you considered other companies like DW, Gretsch? (I play a sonor 3007 by the way and would love to own a De-Lite or Pro-Lite kit later on)

I haven't read this whole thread so if you've answered that already I'm sure I will come across it once I get through the thread.

[pixelbreaker]

Hey Tyger,

First I just wanted to mention that there was an interview you did I had watched not too long ago where you said that musical drumming is what impressed you. You mentioned someone (who I don't recall at the moment) who had no chops but could play the drums musically.

I think you might be thinking of Steve Jansen, the drummer for Japan.

[Tyger]

Hey Tyger,

First I just wanted to mention that there was an interview you did I had watched not too long ago where you said that musical drumming is what impressed you. You mentioned someone (who I don't recall at the moment) who had no chops but could play the drums musically.

I think you might be thinking of Steve Jansen, the drummer for Japan.

Yes exactly! forgot what his name was but I remembered something about Japan, Thanks!

[JakkP]

Hey Gavin.
Very big fan from Ireland here and getting to meet you at your clinic in Xmusic in Dublin was amazing. I use the picture we took together for everything!
In the next month or so ill be doing an audition to get into a drum course in college. I have to perform a prepared piece and ive chosen The Sound of Muzak as my piece.
Do you have any tips for playing the song, or playing in general that might help my chances of getting in? I have a mainly metal background (fast double bass, blast beats etc) but for the past 3 years ive been focusing on styles like yours, Danny Carey from Tool's and generally innovative, tasteful drumming. In a way its great, seen as I can incorporate the metal style into this new style ive been developing but I just wanted to ask if you had any advice on the song or drumming in general.
The college is called Bimm by the way. Theres one in Dublin, Bristol and Brighton. If youre ever back in Ireland for a clinic or a Porcupine Tree gig and I manage to get into the college, it would be wonderful if you could stop by the college for an hour or two and teach us a few things!
Hope to here from you soon!
Jakk

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi paulegavin

What do you think about the prospect of someone making a living as drummer despite the rapid changes that have happened to the music industry?

I think it's probably quite hard - but it always was to be honest. It's true that the kind of work opportunities that existed when I was starting out - aren't there any more - but there's music being made and played all over the place so people still need drummers!! I think being adaptable in your playing and expectations will be the key.

Hi Dustondrums

how you fix the pillow inside your bass drum to avoid moving of pillow away from bass drum head?

usually I don't. It's a very heavy pillow that (once I've adjusted it) doesn't move that much during a show. Other times (with lighter pillows) I have tied string across the pillow and attached it to the screws inside the shell that hold the lugs.

Hi drumbumhamza

I had a few questions regarding your Drum song and Cymbal song
1) What was composing process like ? As in did you first record the parts and lay them down during the editing phase or did you first conceptualize what the song would sound like and then record the individual pieces ?

It was a long process. First I made a demo of the Cymbal Song and wrote the parts as it went along - but to turn it into a 'composition' (that I thought had some musical shape to it) I had to spend a lot of time planning and arranging where and when all the ideas would come in and out. Then I went back and replayed all the parts whilst filming them (with 3 different coloured shirts). Then I wrote the Drum Song at 2/3 of the tempo of the Cymbal Song so when I finally edited the "Drum and Cymbal Song" they would play a rhythmic illusions against each other.

2) Did you place short video clips on a click or did you play through the song with each drum and cut out the video where you're not playing the drum ?

I only filmed the little sections where each part played.

3) Did you edit the video yourself or did you get someone else to do it ?

I filmed it and edited it myself.

Hi Tyger

First I just wanted to mention that there was an interview you did I had watched not too long ago where you said that musical drumming is what impressed you. You mentioned someone (who I don't recall at the moment) who had no chops but could play the drums musically.

Yes - Steve Jansen.

My question to you is: Why Sonor drums, what was it that drew your attention to them and have you considered other companies like DW, Gretsch? (I play a sonor 3007 by the way and would love to own a De-Lite or Pro-Lite kit later on)

I had always admired Sonor drums from when I first saw and heard them in the 1970's they were obviously very high quality - so in 2001 when I had the chance to endorse them I was very happy to do so.

Hi JakkP

In the next month or so ill be doing an audition to get into a drum course in college. I have to perform a prepared piece and ive chosen The Sound of Muzak as my piece.
Do you have any tips for playing the song, or playing in general that might help my chances of getting in?

I would suggest that you just concentrate on the timing - and try to make it feel as good (and relaxed) as you can. I'm sure the folks holding the audition will recognize that.

cheers
Gavin

[keep it simple]

Then I went back and replayed all the parts whilst filming them (with 3 different coloured shirts).

cheers
GavinHehehe, nice shirt tip :)

[Dustondrums]

Hi, Gavin!
Thanks a lot for your answer!
One more question: how do think, what position of body on drum stool is most comfortable for the best balance (especially for double pedal drumming style like yours)- on the edge or in the middle of the seat?
And what helps you to keep perfect balance?

[paulegavin]

Gavin,

I have lots of ideas that I think would sound good, but they always sound sloppy as I play them. As a result my playing overall seems to sound kind of sloppy when I record it sometimes. Any suggestions on what to do as I notice things like this to work them out of my playing?

[astroandy]

Hi Gavin,

I am really excited to hear about the drum clinic / workshop in Hannover in april. May there be a chance of other dates in germany? Perhaps you know, Hannover is the hometown of the amazing Marco Minnemann!

And did anyone ever consider the possibility of a tour or concert event as a drummers equivalent to the guitarists "G3"? Three world class drummers / percussionists in one show, so to say a "D3". I would suggest a mixed lineup with maybe you, Trilok Gurtu and Johnny Raab. That would be fun!

And a friend of mine did a great drum solo, partly inspired by you, but also by drummers like Danny Carey, Mike Portnoy and Mike Mangini. Really worth listening to, maybe I can post a youtube-link so everyone can enjoy it.

Regards

Andy

[JakkP]

Hey Gavin
Thanks for the reply!
I was wondering is there any chance of another clinic in Ireland? I would love to get a chance to meet you properly as you have been my biggest source of inspiration for drumming for years.
Also I was wondering, what were the difference in playing and writing for Steven Wilson's "Insurgence" album, compared to writing for Porcupine Tree? Were you given as much freedom as you would be given on a Porcupine Tree album?
My final question is would you recommend the coated Remo CS Ambassador for someone who wants very little overtones. Ive been striving to get a similar snare sound to your own for a while. Would removing some of the snare wires help in any way?
Finally I just got the date for my drum audition. Friday, the 13th of April. Wish me luck!
All the best,
Jakk

[Dom Chandler]

Hi Gavin, I had a look on this thread first but can't see the answer to my question , so here it is.
What is the roll/sticking you play on this version of 'The Chicken' at about 1'54"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igDSyZMy8_E



I looks like some kind of Swiss army Triplet or Blushda, but I can't work it out.

It sounds great and I wanna steal it!
All the best
Dom

[Terry Branam]

Hi Gavin, I had a look on this thread first but can't see the answer to my question , so here it is.
What is the roll/sticking you play on this version of 'The Chicken' at about 1'54"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igDSyZMy8_E



I looks like some kind of Swiss army Triplet or Blushda, but I can't work it out.

It sounds great and I wanna steal it!
All the best
Dom

Hey Dom Chandler,

Here's a full transcription that I did:

http://www.drummerworld.com/Videos/gavinharrisonlettermanchicken.html

Hope it helps!

Terry

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Dustondrums

One more question: how do think, what position of body on drum stool is most comfortable for the best balance (especially for double pedal drumming style like yours)- on the edge or in the middle of the seat? And what helps you to keep perfect balance?

I sit in the middle and the stool is pretty low. Sitting on the edge I usually associate with folks who have their stool very high. It has a lot to do with what makes you feel comfortable - how tall you are - and if you play heel up on the pedals.

Hi paulegavin

I have lots of ideas that I think would sound good, but they always sound sloppy as I play them. As a result my playing overall seems to sound kind of sloppy when I record it sometimes. Any suggestions on what to do as I notice things like this to work them out of my playing?

There's two things - first you need to really work on things lining up and get microscopic about it. Bass drum and hi hat, snare drum and hi hat, snare drum and bass drum. Second - REALLY try to listen to the timing details as you're playing - so there's not a surprise when you listen back to a recording.

Hi astroandy

I am really excited to hear about the drum clinic / workshop in Hannover in april. May there be a chance of other dates in germany?

None plans at the moment.

And did anyone ever consider the possibility of a tour or concert event as a drummers equivalent to the guitarists "G3"? Three world class drummers / percussionists in one show, so to say a "D3". I would suggest a mixed lineup with maybe you, Trilok Gurtu and Johnny Raab. That would be fun!

I haven't ever thought about that - but it sounds like it could be fun with those guys.

Hi JakkP

I was wondering is there any chance of another clinic in Ireland?

I'd love to - but a promoter or shop would need to organise it and invite me.

Also I was wondering, what were the difference in playing and writing for Steven Wilson's "Insurgence" album, compared to writing for Porcupine Tree? Were you given as much freedom as you would be given on a Porcupine Tree album?

Pretty much the same - but Steve had more definite ideas about what he wanted on his album.

My final question is would you recommend the coated Remo CS Ambassador for someone who wants very little overtones. Ive been striving to get a similar snare sound to your own for a while. Would removing some of the snare wires help in any way?

I really like that head - but you still might need some dampening if you want to reduce most of the overtones. I like having only 8 strands on the bottom of the snare - but if you do the same it won't guarantee that it will sound like mine. There's an enormous amount of factors with getting a snare drum sound - and that's before you start messing around with it inside a computer with eq, compression reverbs etc.

Finally I just got the date for my drum audition. Friday, the 13th of April. Wish me luck!

good luck

Thanks to Terry Branam for the transcription!!

OK here's some news: Myself and 05Ric band will be touring the UK this June with Justin Dwyer (gtr) and Tiago Coimbra (bass). We'll be joined by Tony Levin/Pat Mastelotto/Markus Reuter's Stickmen

June.3 Manchester Manchester Academy 3

June.4 Birmingham O2 Academy2 Birmingham

June.5 Cardiff Clwb Ifor Bach

June.6 Bristol O2 Academy2 Bristol

June.7 London O2 Academy Islington

Tickets are on sale
http://www.gigsandtours.com/Tour/GAVIN-HARRISON-S-BAND-PLUS-TONY-LEVIN

Please spread the word with any folks you know in the UK. Depending on the success of it we will try to play in other territories.

cheers
Gavin

[keep it simple]

OK here's some news: Myself and 05Ric band will be touring the UK this June with Justin Dwyer (gtr) and Tiago Coimbra (bass). We'll be joined by Tony Levin/Pat Mastelotto/Markus Reuter's Stickmen

June.3 Manchester Manchester Academy 3

June.4 Birmingham O2 Academy2 Birmingham

June.5 Cardiff Clwb Ifor Bach

June.6 Bristol O2 Academy2 Bristol

June.7 London O2 Academy Islington

Tickets are on sale
http://www.gigsandtours.com/Tour/GAVIN-HARRISON-S-BAND-PLUS-TONY-LEVIN

Please spread the word with any folks you know in the UK. Depending on the success of it we will try to play in other territories.

cheers
GavinGreat news Gavin. I'll see you in Cardiff :)

Andy.

[Talismanis]

Hi Gavin,
Just wondering what your pedal tension settings are like?
And can you remember how long it took you to get up to a good standard on double bass?

Muchos gracias, huge fan btw. :)

[Kalma]

Hi Gavin,
Just wondering what your pedal tension settings are like?
And can you remember how long it took you to get up to a good standard on double bass?

Muchos gracias, huge fan btw. :)

Hey dude :) Check out www.askgavinharrison.com

[Arky]

(...) And can you remember how long it took you to get up to a good standard on double bass?My guess is: 9 years, 3 months and 14 days. I could be wrong though ;-)

Ok, silly kidding aside...

Gavin, I admire you (in addition to being a stunning drummer/musician) taking the time to answer people's questions. That's ultra nice!

[Dustondrums]

How low is your stool? Is it on your knees level or lower/higher when you stand?
I'm 6,2 feet tall and always play heel up.

[drumbumhamza]

It was a long process. First I made a demo of the Cymbal Song and wrote the parts as it went along - but to turn it into a 'composition' (that I thought had some musical shape to it) I had to spend a lot of time planning and arranging where and when all the ideas would come in and out. Then I went back and replayed all the parts whilst filming them (with 3 different coloured shirts). Then I wrote the Drum Song at 2/3 of the tempo of the Cymbal Song so when I finally edited the "Drum and Cymbal Song" they would play a rhythmic illusions against each other.


That seems like an awful lot of work, then again that's why you are Gavin Harrison !

The reason I asked these questions was because I recently made a Drum Ensemble Video quite similar to yours (With 1/1000th the talent obviously). It's actually a tribute video to You, Danny Carey and Terry Bozzio.

The idea was to record a main melodic jungle groove composition that would build up in intensity till it reached the climax. This was the video in the center around which I added short clips of Xylophones, Cymbal Swells, Percussive Instruments and my Custom Chimes (I don't know if you remember but when we met in India, I'd shown you my Custom Bell Stand that I designed myself)

Recording took less than a day but editing took 2 weeks ! (Your execution probably took months right ?) The main composition was pre composed but the other smaller videos were arranged in the editing process.

I've attached a screen shot of the editing phase.

It would be very kind of you if you wish to see it. I've incorporated a few of your Rhythmic Illusions concepts (and given credit of course) in the video.

Regards,
Hamza.

http://img641.imageshack.us/img641/7377/41582210150614237099244.jpg

[Dom Chandler]

Hey Dom Chandler,

Here's a full transcription that I did:

http://www.drummerworld.com/Videos/gavinharrisonlettermanchicken.html

Hope it helps!

Terry

Thanks Terry, as always fantastic transcription.

[drumstu]

Hi Gavin,
I watched the "Chicken" performance (again) and always pick up something to use from you. I noticed you are playing the lick similar to the one you used on Anesthetize at the end around 3:48 - truely amazing.

One question; A while ago you told us how you placed the piece of wood in your bass drum to hold the pillow against the batter head and away from the resonant head. How do you fasten the wood into the bass drum, i.e., screws, glue etc.?

Thanks for the inspiration.

[Alex P.]

Hi drumstu,

Here is a picture of the inside of the bass drum.

[Jeffx]

Hi Gavin,

While watching the Rythmic Designs DVD I noticed both your snare drums have ebony veneer on the inside.
Does this inner veneer affect the sound, or do you think there isn't a noticeable difference?

Thanks!

[nkod]

Hi Gavin,

Just a quick question about the signature drumsticks. Any ideas when are they going to be available in europe (Im from Greece). Trying to track them down but I cant.

thnx

[Drummerrobin]

Hi Gavin,
First of all congratulations on your performance at the Buddy Rich Memorial Concert last night. Outstanding drumming as always! Also loved the tunes you played - they gave you great opportunities to show both your chops and musicality.

Do you know if there are plans for it to be released on DVD/Blu-ray like the 2008 one was?
Also, was sad to see Gregg Bissonette's name had vanished from the bill - any idea what happened?

Cheers,
Robin

P.S. Not that the finale part was a competition or anything, but I thought that you won in the drum break section :P

[drumstu]

Hi drumstu,

Here is a picture of the inside of the bass drum.


Alex, Thank you for this, I sincerely appreciate it. But, I've seen this. This is what I meant when I said "you told us how you put the wood in to hold the pillow back" etc. What I'm asking is, I don't know what is used to hold the wood securely in the drum. Is it glued, fastened to existing lugs, etc.?

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Talismanis

[I]Just wondering what your pedal tension settings are like?

Medium loose I would say.

And can you remember how long it took you to get up to a good standard on double bass?

I don't know - I'll let you know when I get there!

Hi Dustondrums

How low is your stool? Is it on your knees level or lower/higher when you stand?
I'm 6,2 feet tall and always play heel up.

It's about 18.5 inches to the top of the seat. It comes up to the bottom of my knee caps when I'm standing. (I'm 6'2" too).

Hi drumstu

One question; A while ago you told us how you placed the piece of wood in your bass drum to hold the pillow against the batter head and away from the resonant head. How do you fasten the wood into the bass drum, i.e., screws, glue etc.?

Velcro (which I believe is called 'hook & loop' in America).

Hi Jeffx

While watching the Rythmic Designs DVD I noticed both your snare drums have ebony veneer on the inside. Does this inner veneer affect the sound, or do you think there isn't a noticeable difference?

None of my drums have an ebony veneer inside. Might be the lighting on the video?

Hi nkod

Just a quick question about the signature drumsticks. Any ideas when are they going to be available in europe (Im from Greece). Trying to track them down but I cant.

They are coming - but I have no arrival dates. The sticks are shipped via sea transport so I don't know when they will hit the shores of Europe.

Hi Drummerrobin

First of all congratulations on your performance at the Buddy Rich Memorial Concert last night. Outstanding drumming as always! Also loved the tunes you played - they gave you great opportunities to show both your chops and musicality.

Thanks I had a blast!!

Do you know if there are plans for it to be released on DVD/Blu-ray like the 2008 one was? Also, was sad to see Gregg Bissonette's name had vanished from the bill - any idea what happened?

It wasn't recorded or filmed - I understand it was just too expensive to do it. Many 'famous venues' will charge an 'origination fee' which can be many thousands of pounds (even tens of thousands) because you're filming/recording in their prestigious venue. Of course that is on top of all your camera crew and audio recording costs. We have run into this problem many times with PT. I don't know why Gregg Bissonette didn't come.

cheers
Gavin

[EvilDrummer]

Hey Gavin. Right now I want to focus on getting my limbs to play in unison, I've noticed for instance that the hi hat/right hand tends to be a bit after the bass drum. My goal is to improve all limbs to be exact to a microscopic level as you put it.

I have an electronic drum kit hooked up to a computer and it's very easy for me to record and zoom in. It will tell me exactly how much after/before I am. The problem is, how do I use all that in the most effective way?

What kind of exercises should I do? Right now I've been doing this one but I don't know what else I can do to practice these things in the most effective way:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9_MpVt8Eok

Skip to 01:10 if you want to see the exercise slow.

[paulegavin]

Gavin,

Do you have any suggestions for working on our timing when we're away from the drums? Say traveling on the bus from one place to another or waiting at the doctors office, for instance.

Thank you!

[drumbumhamza]

Sir,
I don't know if you've watched this.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u6JI9mOI1o&feature=youtu.be

It's a cover of Sound of Muzak by a drummer who is Physically Challenged.
It's a matter of pride for you to have inspired someone so much to over come a disability and I'm sure he'll be extremely honored if you'd watch it.

[ProgJazzy(QC)]

Hi, Gavin!

I just bought and listened the most recent OSI album (Fire make Thunder). I must say it sounds great and as usual you did an amazing job. I'd like to know, at the beginning of the second track (Guards), you can hear drum loops. Did you record these? If so, did Jim and Keven had this intro in mind while they were recording or you just came up with these idea?

I've been following this thread for long time now and over the years you answered lots of questions about micking, mixing and recording the drums. Did you get all this knowledge from yourself (books, self-experimentations, videos, forums, etc.) ?, from sound engineers ?
Or both?

Thanks, again for answering these!!!!
Ethan (Quebec, Canada)

[bmawatson]

http://youtu.be/5oEFOlrjg2s

Hey here is a link to my first Youtube video, let me know what you think!

[Sticks_n_Stones]

Hey Gavin. Right now I want to focus on getting my limbs to play in unison, I've noticed for instance that the hi hat/right hand tends to be a bit after the bass drum. My goal is to improve all limbs to be exact to a microscopic level as you put it.

I have an electronic drum kit hooked up to a computer and it's very easy for me to record and zoom in. It will tell me exactly how much after/before I am. The problem is, how do I use all that in the most effective way?

What kind of exercises should I do? Right now I've been doing this one but I don't know what else I can do to practice these things in the most effective way:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9_MpVt8Eok

Skip to 01:10 if you want to see the exercise slow.

Hey EvilDrummer, although I'm not Gavin I know some of his warm up exercises, just go on youtube and look for "Gavin Harrison warm up", you'll find a lot of different videos with great exercises ;) In my opinion this video is the best answer to your question of how to play precisely http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rs25CQyBaoc
Have fun and keep up practising ;)
Cheers

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi EvilDrummer

Right now I want to focus on getting my limbs to play in unison, I've noticed for instance that the hi hat/right hand tends to be a bit after the bass drum. My goal is to improve all limbs to be exact to a microscopic level as you put it.
I have an electronic drum kit hooked up to a computer and it's very easy for me to record and zoom in. It will tell me exactly how much after/before I am. The problem is, how do I use all that in the most effective way?What kind of exercises should I do?

You need to really hear what it sounds like when the bass drum is exactly with the hi hat...and get that sound in your memory. Looking at it on a computer will drive you crazy and won't help you whilst you're playing. You need to recognise when they're are not together and be able to adjust. Try playing quarter notes on the bass drum and hand to hand 16ths on the hi hat. When that sounds ok play the 16ths starting with the left..and when that sounds ok play triplets on the hi hat (keep the quarter notes on the bass drum) and just concentrate on hearing the bass drum and hi hat together.

Hi paulegavin

Do you have any suggestions for working on our timing when we're away from the drums? Say traveling on the bus from one place to another or waiting at the doctors office, for instance.

I usually just think of different polyrhythms and tap them out on my legs.

Hi drumbumhamza

Sir,
I don't know if you've watched this.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u6JI...ature=youtu.be

It's a cover of Sound of Muzak by a drummer who is Physically Challenged.
It's a matter of pride for you to have inspired someone so much to over come a disability and I'm sure he'll be extremely honored if you'd watch it.

yes I've seen it before and he's very good.

Hi ProgJazzy(QC)

I just bought and listened the most recent OSI album (Fire make Thunder). I must say it sounds great and as usual you did an amazing job. I'd like to know, at the beginning of the second track (Guards), you can hear drum loops. Did you record these? If so, did Jim and Keven had this intro in mind while they were recording or you just came up with these idea?

I didn't record those loops - they were already there when I got the track to play on.

I've been following this thread for long time now and over the years you answered lots of questions about micking, mixing and recording the drums. Did you get all this knowledge from yourself (books, self-experimentations, videos, forums, etc.) ?, from sound engineers ?Or both?

I learnt a lot from working in studios and noticing what was going on with the mics and and the outboard gear. I talked to a lot of engineers and also experimented a lot on my own in my home studio...and I'm still learning!!

Hi bmawatson

http://youtu.be/5oEFOlrjg2s
Hey here is a link to my first Youtube video, let me know what you think!

sorry but I don't comment on videos folks post here for me.

cheers
Gavin

[Sjogras]

Hey Gavin, I'm wondering about a passage in the song Free, starting at 1.03. I'm counting two bars of 7/4 followed by 5/16, is that correct? How did you count that part?

Thanks :)

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Sjogras

I don't know a song called "Free". What band/album are you referring to?

cheers
Gavin

[astroandy]

Hello Gavin,

thanks for the great drum clinic yesterday in Hannover. We enjoyed it and learned so much. The most important thing is to listen, as you said. How true, I keep telling that my young musicians all the time...

My question: when you say you try to think like e.g. a piano player, I think you think/feel in phrases. Do you switch between thinking in phrases and in bars?

Regards

Andy Lux

[Sjogras]

Hi Sjogras

I don't know a song called "Free". What band/album are you referring to?

cheers
Gavin

The song is on Rebirth by Alberto Rigoni.

[CareyCopelandCameron]

Hi Gavin,
I'd be really thankful if you could post a picture of your current Axis-pedal setting.
Ive been experimenting with my old Axis for months now,but I never really get satisfied.
It would be great to see your setup.

(My left pedal is basically the same...)

Thank you very much!
Chris

[Drizzle]

Hi Gavin,
I'd be really thankful if you could post a picture of your current Axis-pedal setting.
Ive been experimenting with my old Axis for months now,but I never really get satisfied.
It would be great to see your setup.

(My left pedal is basically the same...)

Thank you very much!
Chris

To my knowledge Gavin doesn't play Axis pedals anymore. He now uses Tama Speed Cobra pedals.

Here is a link that might be useful:
http://www.askgavinharrison.com/articles/37-Can-you-share-your-Axis-double-bass-pedal-settings-

But remember that you're not Gavin so, what works for Gavin might not work at all for you.

Dre

[CareyCopelandCameron]

Thank you!
Sure,Im not Gavin,I was just curious about his setup.

[philipp]

Hi Gavin,

I saw you 5 days ago in Hannover and it was just stunning. You played absolutely incredible and explained everything very well.
I want to know if you could explain or name a rudiment or have a transcription for the pattern you play for example in the creator has a mastertape at 3:29. you play it in other songs as well. there are some ghost notes on the snare that i cant figure out. and there are 2 bass drum kicks within and 2 toms every time the pattern ends i think.
Thank you very much.

Sincerely,
Philipp

[Sjogras]

epic chop

I'm pretty sure the sticking is RLRRLKK

[AndysJunkyMusic]

Hello Gavin,

Here's my dilemma...I've been playing for about 10 years now and never really put proper technique to use when playing with bands (I play mostly fast aggressive music). I've recently been practicing proper stick/hand and foot technique and do fine on my own on a pad or my kit but, when I start playing with someone it all goes by the wayside. I'll find myself halfway through a jam session and realize I'm doing everything the way I always have rather than the way I'm practicing now.

I guess what I'm asking is do you have any tips that will help me break those old habbits?

Thanks in advance!

[uniin]

I'd be really thankful if you could post a picture of your current Axis-pedal setting.

he plays tama speed cobras now...

[Sam Bidgood]

Hi Gavin,

I'm sitting a practical examination in May for my music course at university and one of the pieces i've chosen to perform is your rendition of Slippin' Away. I am in need of a backing track for this piece and I was wondering if there is one available for download/purchase on the market and where I could get hold of it?

Many thanks,

Sam B.

[JeffV71]

Hi Gavin,

While you were recording the drum tracks for the new OSI album did you use the BC2 or Gigster? If so, how did it change your experience while tracking? Did you make adjustments with your headphone mix, for example. Do you hear, and/or feel, a difference in your playing by using the BC2 or Gigster?

Thanks!

[Terry Branam]

Hi Gavin,

I saw you 5 days ago in Hannover and it was just stunning. You played absolutely incredible and explained everything very well.
I want to know if you could explain or name a rudiment or have a transcription for the pattern you play for example in the creator has a mastertape at 3:29. you play it in other songs as well. there are some ghost notes on the snare that i cant figure out. and there are 2 bass drum kicks within and 2 toms every time the pattern ends i think.
Thank you very much.

Sincerely,
Philipp

Here you go Phillipp:

http://www.askgavinharrison.com/transcriptions/3

Hope it helps!

Terry

[euphoric_anomaly]

Gavin,

I recently purchased "The Man Who Sold Himself" and already have 2000 questions to ask. But this first one should be easy, in the 1st chorus of Prize I can hear a cymbal that sounds off, I can tell your thrashing away on the China's but at 1:23 and 1:31 in the song I can hear a cymbal that sounds like a mix of splash/china.. it has a very unique sound that I have not heard in your other works (with 05Ric, or PT), did you happen to get a new cymbal that hasn't been recorded before?

Eric

[Clay_C]

Gavin
I was listening to Bonnie the Cat, and was wondering how you feel the main groove of that song. To me it seems like a bar of 7/8, a bar of 5/8, and a bar of 2/4. This all adds up to 4/4 time, but what's the best way, in your mind, to feel this? Regardless, it's still an extremely tasteful groove!

[Kalma]

Gavin
I was listening to Bonnie the Cat, and was wondering how you feel the main groove of that song. To me it seems like a bar of 7/8, a bar of 5/8, and a bar of 2/4. This all adds up to 4/4 time, but what's the best way, in your mind, to feel this? Regardless, it's still an extremely tasteful groove!

Hi there, it's all 4/4 :)

[mabhz]

Gavin, hi. First off, thanks a lot for being such a nice, modest, down to earth genius and for spending your extremelly limited time with fellow drum freaks here at this forum.

I just wanted to pop up a simple question: any plans in the near future to come to Brazil, play and do some clinics??

If you tell me you already have done that, it would probably mean you only came to São Paulo. What happens musically in São Paulo, rest of the country never hears about. :-(

I know you played with Heitor TP some many years ago, so I guess brazilian music is not so unfamiliar to you.

Thanks, and peace and music in your heart, always!

[JakkP]

Hey Gavin!
The audition went great! The tutor said i had great feel and some really interesting ideas while still keeping true to the song. He also said that I should start learning the things they do in first year so hopefully thats a hint that I played well enough to get in!
By the way I was wondering would you (or anyone on this thread) know where I can get a good version of The Chicken? The stuff they do in first year is very similar to that so I wanna get started!
Also I asked Xmusic in Dublin if they could get you back for a clinic soon, they said they'd try there best so im hoping to see you soon! If it happens it would be great if you could stop by the college, if its at the right time of course. I know you know Graham Hopkins, hes one of the drum tutors.
Many thanks!
Jakk

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi astroandy

when you say you try to think like e.g. a piano player, I think you think/feel in phrases. Do you switch between thinking in phrases and in bars?

I just mean to think outside of being a drummer and try to play melodically - play in phrases like a sax or trumpet soloist. I never lose where the bars and downbeats are.

Hi Sjogras

I'm wondering about a passage in the song Free, starting at 1.03. I'm counting two bars of 7/4 followed by 5/16, is that correct? How did you count that part?

yes I think that's correct.

Hi CareyCopelandCameron

I'd be really thankful if you could post a picture of your current Axis-pedal setting.
Ive been experimenting with my old Axis for months now,but I never really get satisfied.
It would be great to see your setup.

I don't have any photos of my Axis settings - I haven't played them for more than a year since I started playing Tama SpeedCobras. There are a lot of adjustments on the Axis and of course they all have an affect on each other. If you move the cam bar setting it really changes the feel of all the other settings. Looking at your photo it seems that your beaters are not straight - kind of pointing off to the right. Am I right? I found those Sonic Hammer beaters quite hard to play.

Hi philipp

I want to know if you could explain or name a rudiment or have a transcription for the pattern you play for example in the creator has a mastertape at 3:29. you play it in other songs as well. there are some ghost notes on the snare that i cant figure out. and there are 2 bass drum kicks within and 2 toms every time the pattern ends i think.

thanks to the transcription master Terry Branam for helping us out with that.

Hi AndysJunkyMusic

Here's my dilemma...I've been playing for about 10 years now and never really put proper technique to use when playing with bands (I play mostly fast aggressive music). I've recently been practicing proper stick/hand and foot technique and do fine on my own on a pad or my kit but, when I start playing with someone it all goes by the wayside. I'll find myself halfway through a jam session and realize I'm doing everything the way I always have rather than the way I'm practicing now.I guess what I'm asking is do you have any tips that will help me break those old habbits?

Playing and practising are quite often completely different things. It takes a very long time to break old habits - I think you'd have to make a very conscious effort to hang on during jam sessions.

Hi Sam Bidgood

I'm sitting a practical examination in May for my music course at university and one of the pieces i've chosen to perform is your rendition of Slippin' Away. I am in need of a backing track for this piece and I was wondering if there is one available for download/purchase on the market and where I could get hold of it?

Sorry but it's not available. It's a very simple song so maybe you could get a keyboard player to sequence it for you. (That's what I did).

Hi JeffV71

While you were recording the drum tracks for the new OSI album did you use the BC2 or Gigster? If so, how did it change your experience while tracking? Did you make adjustments with your headphone mix, for example. Do you hear, and/or feel, a difference in your playing by using the BC2 or Gigster?

I used the BC2. It just makes playing the bass drum a bit more comfortable and feels like you have a little more control of your articulation.

Hi euphoric_anomaly

I recently purchased "The Man Who Sold Himself" and already have 2000 questions to ask. But this first one should be easy, in the 1st chorus of Prize I can hear a cymbal that sounds off, I can tell your thrashing away on the China's but at 1:23 and 1:31 in the song I can hear a cymbal that sounds like a mix of splash/china.. it has a very unique sound that I have not heard in your other works (with 05Ric, or PT), did you happen to get a new cymbal that hasn't been recorded before?

I think it was a Zildjian 15" Custom Hybrid Trash Crash. I don't recall if I've used it on a recording before that song.

Hi Clay_C

I was listening to Bonnie the Cat, and was wondering how you feel the main groove of that song. To me it seems like a bar of 7/8, a bar of 5/8, and a bar of 2/4. This all adds up to 4/4 time, but what's the best way, in your mind, to feel this? Regardless, it's still an extremely tasteful groove!

Thanks - it is all in 4/4 and I think Terry Branam has also made a good transcription of this somewhere. Has it already been posted on this thread?

Hi mabhz

I just wanted to pop up a simple question: any plans in the near future to come to Brazil, play and do some clinics??

No plans at the moment. Of course I'd love to come and do some. I had a great time there when I toured Brazil for a month in 1994 with Heitor.

Hi JakkP

By the way I was wondering would you (or anyone on this thread) know where I can get a good version of The Chicken?

KFC ?

cheers
Gavin

[Agd8]

Hi Gavin,

Can you please break down the fill you did just before the last chorus of "Sound Of Muzak" on your Modern Drummer performance?
It's absolutely brilliant and I keep thinking I'm missing something...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxqWiRCg4mM&feature=fvst Fill starts @ 4:04

Thanks,
Amir.

[Kalma]

Hi Gavin,

Can you please break down the fill you did just before the last chorus of "Sound Of Muzak" on your Modern Drummer performance?
It's absolutely brilliant and I keep thinking I'm missing something...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxqWiRCg4mM&feature=fvst Fill starts @ 4:04

Thanks,
Amir.

I'm pretty sure it's this sticking:
askgavinharrison.com/transcriptions/9 - the first bar is being repeated and the accents moved around the kit

[mabhz]

Hi mabhz

I just wanted to pop up a simple question: any plans in the near future to come to Brazil, play and do some clinics??

No plans at the moment. Of course I'd love to come and do some. I had a great time there when I toured Brazil for a month in 1994 with Heitor.

cheers
Gavin

Thanks a lot for the reply, Gavin. I´m glad to hear you have fond memories of the time spent here with Heitor. By the way, he just dissapeared! At least, we dont hear from him for quite a long time now.

Lets say, if I wanted to try and make arrangements so a few performances and clinics could happen here in Brazil in the medium future, how should I proceed and who should I talk to?

Has "anyone" from Brazil already aproached you concerning this? Is anything already in the process (like Sonor Brasil sponsoring or something like that)?

Thanks for any info! As they say, theres a wish, theres a wil, theres a way.

[Agd8]

I'm pretty sure it's this sticking:
askgavinharrison.com/transcriptions/9 - the first bar is being repeated and the accents moved around the kit

It does sound similar, thanks.

[Terry Branam]

Hi Gavin,

Can you please break down the fill you did just before the last chorus of "Sound Of Muzak" on your Modern Drummer performance?
It's absolutely brilliant and I keep thinking I'm missing something...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxqWiRCg4mM&feature=fvst Fill starts @ 4:04

Thanks,
Amir.

Hi Amir,

Here is a transcription that I did of that fill.

http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/2760/muzakmdfill2.jpg

And also this one for Clay_C:

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/4529/bonniethecatgroove800x6.jpg

[Agd8]

Hi Amir,

Here is a transcription that I did of that fill.

http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/2760/muzakmdfill2.jpg

And also this one for Clay_C:

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/4529/bonniethecatgroove800x6.jpg

Awesome! Thanks Terry.

[heaven'stef]

Hi Gavin,
sorry if this question was asked and answered before, couldn't find anything here or on the askgavinharrison site...

I enquire about the hardware/cymbal holder you use for the 5 custom bells/chimes, is it Sonor or a different maker? If you (or anyone else) could give me a hint...

Cheers.

Keep up the good work, Gavin for your inspiring creativity and Bernhard for the site and forum.
Looking forward to the next PT album and tour.

Kind regards
Stef

[HutchinsonDrummer]

Hey Gavin,

I was just wondering if when you first joined PT, how much of an interest you had in the band's music. Did you like their music? I know you've stated that you were ready to finally join a band, but didn't know if their music prior to you joining was a big factor for you or not.

Cheers,

- Danny

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Agd8

Can you please break down the fill you did just before the last chorus of "Sound Of Muzak" on your Modern Drummer performance?

Thanks again to Terry Branam for the great transcriptions.

Hi mabhz

I´m glad to hear you have fond memories of the time spent here with Heitor. By the way, he just dissapeared! At least, we dont hear from him for quite a long time now.

I knew he moved to LA more than 10 years ago. In fact the last time I saw him was there in 1998.

Has "anyone" from Brazil already aproached you concerning this? Is anything already in the process (like Sonor Brasil sponsoring or something like that)?

no - nobody has approached me concerning drum clinics in Brazil.

Hi heaven'stef

I enquire about the hardware/cymbal holder you use for the 5 custom bells/chimes, is it Sonor or a different maker? If you (or anyone else) could give me a hint...

It is made with the Sonor 'Basic Arm' parts...but the lowest three cymbal holders had to be customised so that the threads go a lot lower than usual. That way those 3 cymbals can be lower than the higher two. Does that make sense?
48647

Hi HutchinsonDrummer

I was just wondering if when you first joined PT, how much of an interest you had in the band's music. Did you like their music? I know you've stated that you were ready to finally join a band, but didn't know if their music prior to you joining was a big factor for you or not.

I wasn't following PT and didn't really know their music - nor was I really looking for a band to join. I had heard a little bit of their stuff through Richard Barbieri and I thought it was interesting. When the opportunity arose and I was asked to join - then I thought it was worth a go. After that I thought it was probably a good time for me to try being in a band anyway.

cheers
Gavin

[section8usmc]

I absolutely love your Vic Firth signature sticks. My favorite color too ! They just feel so right. So versatile. Great job ! They are my favorites overall, and I have a lot of styles, all Vics of course.

[heaven'stef]

Hi heaven'stef

I enquire about the hardware/cymbal holder you use for the 5 custom bells/chimes, is it Sonor or a different maker? If you (or anyone else) could give me a hint...

It is made with the Sonor 'Basic Arm' parts...but the lowest three cymbal holders had to be customised so that the threads go a lot lower than usual. That way those 3 cymbals can be lower than the higher two. Does that make sense?
48647


cheers
Gavin

Hi Gavin,
thanks a lot for your reply, 'course it makes sense. Did Sonor customise the 3 holders for you or did you do it yourself? Or should I ask, would it be possible to customise them myself?

Thank you, once again, apprechiate you're taking your time to answer all those questions, I think I can speak for all us us here.
Kind regards

Stefan

[Meksyk]

Hi Gavin, I've got a question about your custom chimes.

You've said before you have made them yourself - but those 5 chimes you play nowadays seem to have a full "Zildjian" logo. It is pretty unusual for a 14" and bigger cymbals to have the "Zildjian" logo so close to the bell. Are those some new chimes, that Zildjian made for you? If so, is there any way of buying them :)? They should make that "Gavin Harrison signature chimes"!

Thanks in adv.

[Arky]

Here's more info on how Gavin made those bell cymbals:

http://www.askgavinharrison.com/articles/152-What-are-the-little-splashes-to-your-left-bells-

That inspired me to do some myself... Modded 6 (cracked) cymbals into bells - and got addicted doing more in the future. Need to build a cymbal holder now.

@ Meksyk
If you browse a bit through this thread you'll find some more info on those bells. The link I mentioned is repeatedly brought up in the thread, too. Do you have cracked cymbals? Modify them! (I didn't have any cracked cymbals but bought some off Ebay.)

[Meksyk]

@Arky

Yea, I have seen that, but what I mean - it seems like those aren't the custom cymbals made by himself anymore. I'm talking about those that he uses nowadays, cuz in the past they were surely custom-made. Now - they all have full ZIldjian logo, and Zildjian doesn't place the logo so close to bell on it's crashes etc. So it looks like those aren't chimes that Gavin made himself anymore, but some new that Zildjian made for him. That's what I'm curious of : p.

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi section8usmc

I absolutely love your Vic Firth signature sticks. My favorite color too ! They just feel so right. So versatile. Great job ! They are my favorites overall, and I have a lot of styles, all Vics of course.

thanks - I'm really enjoying playing them too.

Hi heaven'stef

Did Sonor customise the 3 holders for you or did you do it yourself? Or should I ask, would it be possible to customise them myself?

Sonor did it for me - but you could do it yourself if you have the correct tools. You need to make the thread go all the way to the bottom - then you can cut off the excess off the top.

Hi Meksyk

You've said before you have made them yourself - but those 5 chimes you play nowadays seem to have a full "Zildjian" logo. It is pretty unusual for a 14" and bigger cymbals to have the "Zildjian" logo so close to the bell. Are those some new chimes, that Zildjian made for you? If so, is there any way of buying them :)? They should make that "Gavin Harrison signature chimes"!

yes I made the original set myself - and then I sent them to Zildjian and they made a couple of sets for me. That's why the logo is there - but I don't believe they make them for general sale - sorry.

cheers
Gavin

[Meksyk]

Hi Meksyk

yes I made the original set myself - and then I sent them to Zildjian and they made a couple of sets for me. That's why the logo is there - but I don't believe they make them for general sale - sorry.


Aww, such a pity :<. By the way, could you give us your current cymbals setup? I'm confused, because Wikipedia, Zildjian site and your official site - all say different things :p.

[Drizzle]

Hey Gavin,

I noticed on the photo of your chimes that on the hi-hat is written "Lab prototype".

Are you "testing" new hihats for Zildjian?

Cheers,
Dre

[gibeachhead]

You've said before you have made them yourself - but those 5 chimes you play nowadays seem to have a full "Zildjian" logo. It is pretty unusual for a 14" and bigger cymbals to have the "Zildjian" logo so close to the bell. Are those some new chimes, that Zildjian made for you? If so, is there any way of buying them :)? They should make that "Gavin Harrison signature chimes"!

yes I made the original set myself - and then I sent them to Zildjian and they made a couple of sets for me. That's why the logo is there - but I don't believe they make them for general sale - sorry.

cheers
Gavin

It was a possibility at one point that they were considering making them for mass consumption though? I thought I remember hearing when they first made them for you, that there was potential for a general retail release?

I've been listening to Storm Corrosion and was curious if when Steven and Mikael sent you the music if they told you specifically what they had in mind for the percussion work, and didn't want anything to stray from their idea? Or if they gave you a basis and you free-styled it based on those specifications?

[euphoric_anomaly]

Gavin,

I had a question about recording songs. What instruments usually get recorded first? Does it change often and does it depend on who you're recording with? (I.e. - PT or you an 05Ric).

Also, the rapid fill you play on Illusion @ 3:27 sounds like multiple triplet flams with double bass in between. Very eclectic fill!

Thanks for your time :)

[Sam Sanders]

Hi Gavin,

I am learning The Sound Of Muzak, and for practise I am following what you play on your modern drummer version (as best I can). I don't suppose you have a drumless or vocal track? That'd really be great :) oh and also if its not too much to ask, do you have a transription for that fill you do into the first chorus in you modern drummer version? look forward to hearing from you soon

All the Best

Sam

P.S. Rhythmic Designs is really great :D

[Clay_C]

Thanks, Gavin and Terry, for the advice and transcription!

[tradgrip]

Hi Gavin,

I know that the question of playing live or touring with OSI has come up a few times in the past couple of years. In a recent interview with Jim Matheos, he commented about, among the different topics, the recent label switch to Metal Blade and the positive feedback with regards to the new disc. Although he went on to say that playing live wouldn't be the easiest thing to pull off, he wasn't they weren't ruling it out.
With P.T. on a bit of an extended break, (your upcoming tour with 05Ric, notwithstanding) and the potential support of a bigger label, has any "serious" talk about playing live been brought up for either later on in the year or at some point in the not too distant future?

thanks!
mc

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi Meksyk

By the way, could you give us your current cymbals setup? I'm confused, because Wikipedia, Zildjian site and your official site - all say different things :p.

The Wiki one is probably the most accurate in terms of what I use with Porcupine Tree - but I do change (from time to time) my hi hats, ride cymbals and crashes. For instance at the moment - here in my studio I am using a pair of 14" K Constantinople hi hats - a 19" K Custom Dark crash - an 18" Armand Crash - a 20" Custom Dark Complex ride plus the usual chinas and bell cymbals.

Hi Drizzle

I noticed on the photo of your chimes that on the hi-hat is written "Lab prototype".Are you "testing" new hihats for Zildjian?

No - these are the new K Constantinople Hi Hats 14" (the final prototypes before they were released) so they are the same as the ones you'll find in the shops. Very good they are too!!!

Hi gibeachhead

It was a possibility at one point that they were considering making them for mass consumption though? I thought I remember hearing when they first made them for you, that there was potential for a general retail release?

It's always a possibility.

I've been listening to Storm Corrosion and was curious if when Steven and Mikael sent you the music if they told you specifically what they had in mind for the percussion work, and didn't want anything to stray from their idea? Or if they gave you a basis and you free-styled it based on those specifications?

They pretty much knew exactly what they wanted. The only thing I really added was a few mad drum fills in one song.

Hi euphoric_anomaly

I had a question about recording songs. What instruments usually get recorded first? Does it change often and does it depend on who you're recording with? (I.e. - PT or you an 05Ric).

It normally starts with who's writing it. If it's a song Steve is writing then probably he'll record some guitar or piano. Then he might add some other things - so when I get to record I'm usually playing to a demo - and some (or all of that demo) might get replaced later on. It might turn out that my drums are the first of the things that end up being final. Does that make sense? I might even rerecord the drums after I've heard what everyone else is playing on top - because maybe I can find a better part that fits the overall picture. So it's a kind of ever evolving demo - into the final thing.

Also, the rapid fill you play on Illusion @ 3:27 sounds like multiple triplet flams with double bass in between. Very eclectic fill!

I don't know what song you mean. What is "Illusion"?

Hi Sam Sanders

I am learning The Sound Of Muzak, and for practise I am following what you play on your modern drummer version (as best I can). I don't suppose you have a drumless or vocal track? That'd really be great :) oh and also if its not too much to ask, do you have a transription for that fill you do into the first chorus in you modern drummer version?

I can't give you the recording of that song. There is however a drum-less (and vocal-less) version of it out there somewhere made by a German Drum magazine called Drumheads. They recorded a play along version that was once on their cover mount CD a few years ago.

Hi tradgrip

I know that the question of playing live or touring with OSI has come up a few times in the past couple of years. In a recent interview with Jim Matheos, he commented about, among the different topics, the recent label switch to Metal Blade and the positive feedback with regards to the new disc. Although he went on to say that playing live wouldn't be the easiest thing to pull off, he wasn't they weren't ruling it out.
With P.T. on a bit of an extended break, (your upcoming tour with 05Ric, notwithstanding) and the potential support of a bigger label, has any "serious" talk about playing live been brought up for either later on in the year or at some point in the not too distant future?

I'd love to play live with them - and it's been a source of discussion between us - but there's nothing to report at the moment.

cheers
Gavin

[euphoric_anomaly]

Gavin,
Sorry for the confusion. The fill I was referring to was on the "water slips" song from ur newest album w Ric. I guess my media player incorrectly labeled it as illusion. I have no idea why it would do that. Haha

Thanks

[Sam Sanders]

Cheers Gavin, I wasn't expecting any kind of drumless track at all so thats made my day :D thank you ever so much!

Sorry to keep on, but is there a chance you or Mr. Branam have that first MD Sound of Muzak fill transcribed at all?

Thanks again

Sam

[NerfLad]

Gavin,

Thanks for taking the time to answer so many questions!

What was it like playing the Buddy Memorial? I've long considered these events the "Super Bowl of drumming". Did they film for a home video release?


Thanks!

-Huge Fan

[NerfLad]

Gavin
I was listening to Bonnie the Cat, and was wondering how you feel the main groove of that song. To me it seems like a bar of 7/8, a bar of 5/8, and a bar of 2/4. This all adds up to 4/4 time, but what's the best way, in your mind, to feel this? Regardless, it's still an extremely tasteful groove!

The way I hear it is a 7 and a 9, with the vocals keeping the 4/4 time (the "ands" during the 7 and then the downbeats during the 9).

(sorry for the double post)

[Otto]

There appears to be a real market for drum-less tracks.

I respectfully suggest looking into that market...I think $ could be made releasing either a multi-tracked version of songs where the purchaser could drop out the tracks he cares to or simple mixes with specific instrument dropped out.


I would also consider the idea of a DVD showing the actual studio recorded performance(s)...

Specialty releases with a target market of musicians...all at a near criminal elevated price...which I and many others would likely pay...with a smile while we hold our hands in the air during the mugging : ).

...could then have a sponsor flip the bill for a competition showing the best substitution parts.(drums, guitar, vocal, bass, keyboard, kazoo...etc)...great advertising for the sponsor as well as Porcupine Tree/05ric...whatever other project.


Your playing as well as the playing of the musicians you gravitate to REALLY appeals to the musician crowd amongst many other crowds...and I for one would love an expanded interactive experience...at a price range I would expect to be well beyond a usual CD/DVD.


Thanks for all the etudes!

[Fox622003]

Sorry to keep on, but is there a chance you or Mr. Branam have that first MD Sound of Muzak fill transcribed at all?


Is this the fill you mean?

It's the one on THIS (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxqWiRCg4mM) video at 0:56.

I haven't really written anything down in a while, but I'm pretty sure it's something like this.


Fox.

[Maurish]

Gavin,
Sorry for the confusion. The fill I was referring to was on the "water slips" song from ur newest album w Ric. I guess my media player incorrectly labeled it as illusion. I have no idea why it would do that. Haha

Thanks
My physical copy of "The Man Who Sold Himself" has the ninth track listed as "Illusion" although Kscope site has it as "Water Slips". http://www.kscopemusic.com/gavinharrison/themanwhosoldhimself/

This is a bit confusing. Perhaps Gavin could tell us which one is meant to be the final name of the song? :)

[euphoric_anomaly]

My physical copy of "The Man Who Sold Himself" has the ninth track listed as "Illusion" although Kscope site has it as "Water Slips". http://www.kscopemusic.com/gavinharrison/themanwhosoldhimself/

This is a bit confusing. Perhaps Gavin could tell us which one is meant to be the final name of the song? :)

Ah ha! Nice to know I'm not the only one who thought track 9 was Illusion. I was wondering why I couldn't find water slips on the album, thought I got ripped off one song lol.

[Sam Sanders]

Is this the fill you mean?

It's the one on THIS (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxqWiRCg4mM) video at 0:56.

Fox.

Fox mate you are a star!! I almost had it, but I think you are right there with the double snare hit, which was the part I couldn't get!

All the best

Sam

[Gavin Harrison]

Hi euphoric_anomaly

Sorry for the confusion. The fill I was referring to was on the "water slips" song from ur newest album w Ric. I guess my media player incorrectly labeled it as illusion. I have no idea why it would do that.

OK now I've understood. The song was originally called "Water Slips" but it got changed to "Illusion" right at the last moment...and that's why I didn't recognise it. So to answer your original question...yes that fill is triplet flams - with double bass drum hits in between it. An idea I stole from my buddy Roger Biwandu.

Hi NerfLad

What was it like playing the Buddy Memorial? I've long considered these events the "Super Bowl of drumming". Did they film for a home video release?

It was absolutely amazing. I had a great time and played "Sister Sadie", "Love For Sale" and my version of "Killer Joe" (arranged by Laurence Cottle). It was great to see all the other drummers play with a big band - and Dave Weckl was mind blowing!

The show wasn't filmed because the budget for it was just too expensive. On top of the costs of film crew and everyone getting a fee, many of the prestigious venues in the world will charge an 'origination fee' for it being shot in their venue. We've come across this many times with PT. We might have a concert that we want to film in a really amazing venue and then we find out that the venue wants many 10's of thousands of dollars because it will be released as "PT Live at venue X" or whatever.

Hi Otto

There appears to be a real market for drum-less tracks.
I respectfully suggest looking into that market...I think $ could be made releasing either a multi-tracked version of songs where the purchaser could drop out the tracks he cares to or simple mixes with specific instrument dropped out.

I believe something like this already exists. I was shown a demo of it a couple of years ago as an app on an iPad. They had secured some songs from some famous bands and had it in virtual multi track form so that you could drop out one or more instruments.
I can't remember what it was called. Maybe someone can help us out here?

We don't really film our studio recording performances either. I think it would stifle the creative process to have folks there with cameras pointing at you the whole time. It makes you feel uncomfortable. We did a tiny bit of that when we recorded The Incident.

I think also that we want to make the music for the music sake and not really for educational purposes. I have gone through some PT drum stuff on my DVD Rhythmic Horizons - and dissected and demonstrated a whole load of stuff from my first two albums with 05Ric (Rhythmic Designs book/DVD) long after the albums were released.

It nice that you suggest we could charge 'criminally elevated prices' for it - and that there maybe a few who would pay it to make the thing worthwhile. But I sadly know the truth of anything you make in the digital domain these days will be shared for free by the vast majority of people would end up with it. That's not a reason to not do it - but it does dampen enthusiasm a bit.
The very first day that my new record with 05Ric came out - in fact that very morning - someone decided to upload every track onto YouTube.

cheers from Moscow!!!
Gavin

[Kalma]

The very first day that my new record with 05Ric came out - in fact that very morning - someone decided to upload every track onto YouTube.


That's pretty sad indeed!

I remember on the sonor days masterclass you said you (or PT?) pays people to search the internet and remove live performance videos from you and stuff.
Couldn't they search for the stuff of you and 05ric as well?

Maybe you also reported the uploader?

[keep it simple]

Hi Gavin,

I hope this message finds you well, & you're enjoying Moscow :)

Do you think you'll get the chance to pop into the London Drum show this year? (Olympia, October 13th/14th)?

Best regards, Andy.

[Sam Sanders]

Hey Gavin,

Do you know George Fredericks? If so do you think you will be on the drum academy any time soon? :P

Sam

[keygenftw]

Hey Gavin,
First may I just say you are my primary drumming inspiration, your drumming is just so subtle and classy, which I find very impressive. As a teenager myself I know a lot of similarly-aged drummers who have yet to overcome the whole 'speed / crowd-pleasing / showy-offy' playing.
But anyway, the reason I am posting:
I wanted to play your piece '19 Days' for my drum exam and recital and the end of the year. Hudson provides a chart and a sampled backing track. I think the sampled instruments really ruin the piece... I was wondering if I could possibly obtain the version (with real instruments) you play along to in your DVD and live? That would be fantastic!
Many thanks. Oliver Iacono.

[alinux]

Privet Gavin! :)
Hi People!


The program is called Jammit. I was able to buy
Neal Pearlt's original drum part of Tom Sawyer.

You can slow down even some specific parts and s
follow drum score. It's really great.

Cheers,

Vladimer


Hi euphoric_anomaly

Sorry for the confusion. The fill I was referring to was on the "water slips" song from ur newest album w Ric. I guess my media player incorrectly labeled it as illusion. I have no idea why it would do that.

OK now I've understood. The song was originally called "Water Slips" but it got changed to "Illusion" right at the last moment...and that's why I didn't recognise it. So to answer your original question...yes that fill is triplet flams - with double bass drum hits in between it. An idea I stole from my buddy Roger Biwandu.

Hi NerfLad

What was it like playing the Buddy Memorial? I've long considered these events the "Super Bowl of drumming". Did they film for a home video release?

It was absolutely amazing. I had a great time and played "Sister Sadie", "Love For Sale" and my version of "Killer Joe" (arranged by Laurence Cottle). It was great to see all the other drummers play with a big band - and Dave Weckl was mind blowing!

The show wasn't filmed because the budget for it was just too expensive. On top of the costs of film crew and everyone getting a fee, many of the prestigious venues in the world will charge an 'origination fee' for it being shot in their venue. We've come across this many times with PT. We might have a concert that we want to film in a really amazing venue and then we find out that the venue wants many 10's of thousands of dollars because it will be released as "PT Live at venue X" or whatever.

Hi Otto

There appears to be a real market for drum-less tracks.
I respectfully suggest looking into that market...I think $ could be made releasing either a multi-tracked version of songs where the purchaser could drop out the tracks he cares to or simple mixes with specific instrument dropped out.

I believe something like this already exists. I was shown a demo of it a couple of years ago as an app on an iPad. They had secured some songs from some famous bands and had it in virtual multi track form so that you could drop out one or more instruments.
I can't remember what it was called. Maybe someone can help us out here?

We don't really film our studio recording performances either. I think it would stifle the creative process to have folks there with cameras pointing at you the whole time. It makes you feel uncomfortable. We did a tiny bit of that when we recorded The Incident.

I think also that we want to make the music for the music sake and not really for educational purposes. I have gone through some PT drum stuff on my DVD Rhythmic Horizons - and dissected and demonstrated a whole load of stuff from my first two albums with 05Ric (Rhythmic Designs book/DVD) long after the albums were released.

It nice that you suggest we could charge 'criminally elevated prices' for it - and that there maybe a few who would pay it to make the thing worthwhile. But I sadly know the truth of anything you make in the digital domain these days will be shared for free by the vast majority of people would end up with it. That's not a reason to not do it - but it does dampen enthusiasm a bit.
The very first day that my new record with 05Ric came out - in fact that very morning - someone decided to upload every track onto YouTube.

cheers from Moscow!!!
Gavin

[NerfLad]

Gavin,

What went through your mind when you dropped a stick on Letterman? I would not have handled it as cooly and quickly as you certainly did!!

[gibeachhead]

Gavin,

What went through your mind when you dropped a stick on Letterman? I would not have handled it as cooly and quickly as you certainly did!!

I watched that performance several times and not once noticed any stick dropping. Guess that shows just how good Gavin is at what he does.

[Clay_C]

The way I hear it is a 7 and a 9, with the vocals keeping the 4/4 time (the "ands" during the 7 and then the downbeats during the 9).

(sorry for the double post)
I was thinking the same thing. 7 and 9 (or 4+5).

[NerfLad]

I watched that performance several times and not once noticed any stick dropping. Guess that shows just how good Gavin is at what he does.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99ATD9vTHSE&list=FLyBfuF1_YaG0-dq7Yj3lvtQ&index=2&feature=plpp_video

You can see it at 2:30.

There's a lesson in that for me. I usually try to save the stick instead of just letting it go and grabbing another one. Nice work!

[alparrott]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99ATD9vTHSE&list=FLyBfuF1_YaG0-dq7Yj3lvtQ&index=2&feature=plpp_video

You can see it at 2:30.

There's a lesson in that for me. I usually try to save the stick instead of just letting it go and grabbing another one. Nice work!

Indeed he did. In the next bit they switch to an overhead shot and you can see the stick on the floor next to him on the right (between him and his 15" tom). Great eyes! I don't know how many times I've watched that video and never noticed.

Mr. Harrison, as high as my opinion of you already was, it's that much higher having finally seen that. Great recovery!