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    Music

    Drummers on Drumming

    This isn’t your typical drumming podcast. Hosted by Ben Hilzinger (Cannons, Eve 6) and presented in association with Big Fat Snare Drum, it’s a curated collection of conversations that explore what it means to play, create, and live as a drummer.
    With segments like Big Fat Five—where drummers break down the five albums, influences, or moments that shaped their style—and The Drum Panel, featuring roundtable discussions on polarizing topics, no two episodes are the same. You’ll also hear candid insights from special guests and conversations that dig deeper than the usual talk.
    Whether you’re a seasoned player or just passionate about drums, Drummers on Drumming offers an honest, varied, and in-depth look at the craft.
    For more info, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com or find us on Instagram @bigfatsnaredrum. Cheers!

    Advertise

    Copyright: © Ben Hilzinger

    • Apple Podcasts
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    Latest Episodes:
    Big Fat Five: Jesse Boyle (Chase Atlantic) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records... Oct 30, 2024

    Today I’m joined by Jesse Boyle, my good buddy and the drummer for the boundary-pushing band Chase Atlantic. Known for blending genres like alternative, R&B, and electronic music, Jesse’s unique approach drives the pulse behind Chase’s immersive live soundscapes. We’ll dive into the top five influences that shaped his drumming and musical journey and we get into a newer career he’s started…all because he gave himself permission. I think it’s important for everyone to stay tuned through the end of the episode.


    JESSE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Reggatta De Blanc

    Artist - The Police

    Release Year - 1979

    Key Track(s) - Message in a Bottle, Walking On the Moon

    Drummer - Stewart Copeland

    -

    Album - By The Way

    Artist - Red Hot Chili Peppers

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - By the Way, Don’t Forget Me

    Drummer - Chad Smith

    -

    Album - Only by the Night

    Artist - Kings of Leon

    Release Year - 2008

    Key Track(s) - Closer, I Want You

    Drummer - Nathan Followill

    -

    Album - The Colour and The Shape

    Artist - Foo Fighters

    Release Year - 1997

    Key Track(s) - My Hero, Everlong

    Drummer - Dave Grohl / William Goldsmith

    -

    Album - TOTO IV

    Artist - TOTO

    Release Year - 1982

    Key Track(s) - Rosanna

    Drummer - Jeff Porcaro


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    A New Chapter: 'Big Fat Five' Is Becoming 'Drummers on Drumming' + A Book Announcement Oct 23, 2024

    Hey friends, Ben Hilzinger here. I wanted to take a few minutes to talk to you about a pretty exciting shift I’m making with this podcast. After much thought, I’ve decided to change the name of the podcast. Moving forward, it will be known as Drummers on Drumming.

    Let me tell you a little about how I got here.

    This whole thing started as The Big Fat Snare Drum Podcast, just a fun way to connect with drummers I admire—talking about stories, gear, grooves, and whatever else came up. It was a blast. But after a while, I wanted to dive deeper into the stories that shaped the way drummers think and play. That’s where the Big Fat Five concept came from: drummers sharing the five records or moments that influenced them the most.

    The Big Fat Five format really connected with people, and I loved it. But over time, I realized the name was becoming a little limiting. I’ve got so many ideas for other segments—like The Drum Panel, where multiple drummers join me for roundtable discussions—and I didn’t want to feel stuck in one format. I needed a title that gave me space to try new things and keep the podcast fresh.

    And honestly, if I want to keep doing this—and growing the show—I need to make sure it’s easy for new listeners to find. Big Fat Five isn’t exactly the most discoverable name if someone’s searching for “drumming podcasts.” So this rebrand to Drummers on Drumming not only reflects the direction I want to take, but it’ll also make the show more findable for people who haven’t discovered it yet.

    Now, here’s how the change will happen. Right now, the podcast is still called Big Fat Five, but I wanted to give everyone a heads-up before the switch. One week from today, both the name and the podcast icon will officially change to Drummers on Drumming. So, if you see the new name and artwork in your podcast feed next week, don’t worry—it’s still the same show you know and love, just with a new name and more room to grow.

    Oh! And speaking of exciting new things, I’ve been working on a book—also called Drummers on Drumming—and it’s almost ready! The book dives deep into the Big Fat Five concept, with insights from some truly amazing drummers. I’m currently wrapping up the book cover as I record this, and I plan to have it available by Black Friday. So keep an eye out for that—it’ll make a pretty sweet gift for the drummer in your life...or, you know, yourself.

    So there you have it—a new chapter for the podcast. It’s the same vibe, the same passion, just with a new name and more freedom to explore new ideas. I can’t wait to bring you along for this next phase.

    Thank you so much for listening, supporting, and being part of this journey. I’ll see you next time on Drummers on Drumming.

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    The Drum Panel: Stealing Feel, Perfect Drum Takes, and Defining Pocket Oct 16, 2024

    Episode 4 of The Drum Panel

    This week's guests are my good buddies Kris Mazzarisi (owner/founder of Big Fat Snare Drum), and Mark Stepro (The Wallflowers, Butch Walker).

    In this episode, we dive into:

    · If we could steal one drummers’s feel and add it to our own, who would it be?

    · What is an example of a perfect drum take on record?

    · What does “pocket” ACTUALLY mean?

    · What is the role of drummers in songwriting credits?

    · Does music theory really make one a better musician?

    · What’s the first thing we notice about a drummer that makes them come across as “amateur”?


    Check out Steward Copeland on Drumeo HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Julian Wieder (Independent) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records Oct 08, 2024

    Our guest today is one of Berlin’s rising stars in the drumming world, Julian Wieder. At just 25, he’s already making serious moves across the RnB, Hip-Hop, and Indie scene, both on stage and in the studio. I first discovered Julian thanks to the algorithm gods on Big Fat Snare Drum’s Explorer page—and once I saw his playing, I knew I had to get him on the show. His feel is unreal, blending pocket grooves with a sense of freedom that feels completely natural and effortless. Plus, he’s not just a drummer…he’s an educator, and a bit of a clinic master in the making.

    In this episode, we’ll dive into the top records that shaped his sound, and he introduced me to a new favorite of mine that I can’t wait for you to hear. So I hope you enjoy the top records that helped shaped Julian Wieder into the drummer he is today.

    JULIAN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - The Joy Of Motion

    Artist - Animals as Leaders

    Release Year - 2014

    Key Track(s) - The Woven Web, Tooth and Claw

    Drummer - Matt Garstka

    -

    Album - Continuum

    Artist - John Mayer

    Release Year - 2006

    Key Track(s) - Waiting On The World To Change, Gravity

    Drummer - Steve Jordan

    -

    Album - Wallflower

    Artist - Jordan Rakei

    Release Year - 2017

    Key Track(s) - Eye To Eye, Sorceress

    Drummer - Jim Macrae

    -

    Album - Chris Dave and The Drumhedz

    Artist - Chris Dave

    Release Year - 2018

    Key Track - Whatever

    Drummer - Chris Dave

    -

    Album - Past Present and Futures

    Artist - Chick Corea

    Release Year - 2001

    Key Track(s) - Fingerprints, Rhumba Flamenco

    Drummer - Jeff Ballard

    -

    Honorable Mentions:

    Nas - Illmatic

    Ghost Note - Swagism

    Yussef Kamaal - Black Focus


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Gabe Smith (Gracie Abrams) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records Oct 02, 2024

    Our guest today is Gabe Smith, the current CEO of Drums for Gracie Abrams Inc. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, now based in New York City, Gabe has also worked with incredible contemporary artists like Wet, Tei Shi, Eden, Frankie Cosmos, Kimbra and many more. Last summer, he opened for Taylor Swift and is about to rejoin that tour after some headline shows with Gracie Abrams. He’s a busy guy! It took some finessing since we’re both on tour, but we made it happen. I loved his picks, and I’m excited for you to hear this one. Please enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Gabe Smith into the sought-after, hardworking musician he is today. Cheers!

    GABE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Abbey Road

    Artist - The Beatles

    Release Year - 1969

    Key Track - She Came In Through The Bathroom Window

    Drummer - Ringo

    -

    Album - Songs In The Key of Life

    Artist - Stevie Wonder

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track - Knocks Me Off My Feet

    Drummer - Stevie Wonder

    -

    Album - When The Pawn...

    Artist - Fiona Apple

    Release Year - 1999

    Key Track - A Mistake

    Drummer - Matt Chamberlain

    -

    Album - Friendly Travelers Live

    Artist - Wolfgang Muthspiel, Brian Blade

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track - Gnadenwald (Live)

    Drummer - Brian Blade

    -

    Album - Donny Hathaway

    Artist - Donny Hathaway

    Release Year - 1971

    Key Track - She Is My Lady

    Drummer - Al Jackson Jr.


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    The Drum Panel: The Worth of Gear: Are Drum Heroes Still Relevant?...and yes, we talk about Oasis Sep 25, 2024

    Episode 3 of The Drum Panel

    This week's guests are my good buddies Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Carina Round), Neal Daniels (Matchbox 20, Liz Phair), Mike Robinson (Blame My Youth, Food On Tour Podcast).

    In this episode, we dive into:

    • The value of high-end gear: Is it really worth the investment?
    • The existence of drum heroes: Do they still inspire us today?
    • Yes...we talk about Oasis...
    • Insights from the guys on the current landscape of drum endorsements.


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Daniel Glass (Royal Crown Revue, Author/Historian) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records Sep 18, 2024

    Our guest today is Daniel Glass. Daniel is a renowned drummer, educator, and historian known for his deep expertise in the roots of American drumming, particularly in jazz, swing, and early rock 'n' roll. A member of the pioneering retro-swing band Royal Crown Revue, Glass has performed with a wide array of top artists, blending historical influence with modern flair. His passion for drumming history is reflected in his books, clinics, and instructional videos. The project that introduced Daniel to me was his three-hour documentary called “The Century Project” which explores the evolution of the drum set and drumming styles from 1865 to 1965. Glass is also celebrated for his dynamic, groove-focused playing and his ability to bridge the gap between past and present drumming traditions. Go check out all his happenings at danielglass.com, but for now, please enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Daniel Glass into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    DANIEL'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Made In Japan

    Artist - Deep Purple

    Release Year - 1972

    Key Track(s) - Highway Star, Space Truckin', The Mule

    Drummer - Ian Paice

    -

    Album - Three Quartets

    Artist - Chick Corea

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - Quartet No. 1, Quartet No. 2, Part 2

    Drummer - Steve Gadd

    -

    Album - Buffalo

    Artist - Frank Zappa

    Release Year - 2007 (from a 1980 live concert)

    Key Track(s) - The Torture Never Stops

    Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

    -

    Album - Lyric

    Artist - Billy Childs

    Release Year - 2005

    Key Track(s) - In Carson's Eyes, Into the Light, Scarborough Fair, American Landscape

    Drummer - Brian Blade, Marvin "Smitty" Smith

    -

    Album - From Darkness

    Artist - Avishai Cohen

    Release Year - 2015

    Key Track(s) - Beyond, Abie, C#-, From Darkness

    Drummer - Daniel Dor

    -

    Honorable Mentions:


    Album - Blue

    Artist - Joni Mitchell

    Release Year - 1971

    Key Track(s) - All I Want, This Flight Tonight

    -

    Album - The Concert at Carnegie Hall

    Artist - Benny Goodman

    Release Year - 1938

    Key Track(s) - Don't Be That Way, Honeysuckle Rose, Sing, Sing, Sing

    -

    Album - Drumsville

    Artist - Earl Palmer

    Release Year - 1961

    Drummer - Earl Palmer

    -

    Album - Live at the Royal Festival Hall

    Artist - John McLaughlin

    Release Year - 1989

    Key Track(s) - Mother Tongues

    Drummer - Trilok Gurtu

    -

    Album - Tiny Resistors

    Artist - Todd Sickafoose

    Release Year - 2008

    Key Track(s) - Allision Miller

    Drummer - Everyone Is Going


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    The Drum Panel: Gear Criticism, Flat Toms, and Endorsement Realities: Can You Play Without Knowing the Vocals? Sep 11, 2024

    Episode 2 PART DEUX of The Drum Panel

    Welcome to The Drum Panel—a segment where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions on polarizing and controversial drum topics submitted by our listeners.

    Today's episode is the second half of a conversation between myself (Ben), my co-host Eric Urrea and special guest, Kris Mazzarisi (owner/founder of Big Fat Snare Drum & drummer for Winnetka Bowling League).

    SUBMIT YOUR CONTROVERSIAL MUSIC OPINIONS HERE


    Today we discuss:

    • If you're overly critical of gear, are you showcasing your lack of skill?
    • Should snare drums and floor toms always between flat (Eric is surprisingly passionate about this subject)?
    • If you don't know what the singer is singing, can your take still suit the song?
    • We do it...we talk the world of endorsements.


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Taye Dever Shares His Top 5 Influential Records Sep 04, 2024

    Our guest today is Taye Dever, a young drummer from North Carolina who recently came onto my radar and quickly grabbed my attention. Taye draws inspiration from a diverse range of genres, including R&B, Pop, Folk, Rap, Gospel, and more. While his musical style is eclectic, he seems to be a fresh face in the music scene. I’m honored if this is your first introduction to his work. We dive right in, so here are the records that have shaped Taye Dever into the musician he is today. Cheers!


    TAYE'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Not Guilty

    Artist - The New Life Community Choir featuring John P. Kee

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - Rain On Us

    Drummer - Calvin Rodgers

    -

    Album - Thirsty

    Artist - Marvin Sapp

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track(s) - Praise Him In Advance

    Drummer - Calvin Rodgers

    -

    Album - Confessions

    Artist - Usher

    Release Year - 2004

    Key Track(s) - "Caught Up" Aaron Spears' drum performance @ 2006 Modern Drummer Festival

    Drummer - Aaron Spears

    -

    Album - Pure Energy DVD

    Artist - Various drummers

    Release Year - 2009

    Key Track(s) - Rekindled featuring Tony Royster Jr

    Drummer - Tony Royster Jr.

    -

    Album - Paramore

    Artist - Paramore

    Release Year - 2013

    Key Track(s) - Ain’t It Fun?, Still Into You

    Drummer - Ilan Rubin


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    The Drum Panel: Click Tracks, Minimal Setups, and the Truth About Bass Drums Aug 28, 2024

    Episode 2 of The Drum Panel

    Welcome to The Drum Panel—a show where a rotating group of professional drummers engages in roundtable discussions on polarizing and controversial drum topics submitted by our listeners.

    For today's panel, we have my co-host Eric Urrea and special guest, Kris Mazzarisi (owner/founder of Big Fat Snare Drum & drummer for Winnetka Bowling League).

    SUBMIT YOUR CONTROVERSIAL MUSIC OPINIONS HERE


    Today we discuss:

    • does practicing to a click make your playing sterile?
    • those who can't, teach. True or False?
    • does using less drums/cymbals make you more creative?
    • you should never put anything in your bass drum! True or False?
    • do drum shells tune themselves?
    • do you need to put a button at the end of every live song?
    • are the most musical drummers...non-drummers?


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Philo Tsoungui's (The Mars Volta) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 21, 2024

    Today's guest is Philo Tsoungui, an independent drummer based in Berlin, Germany. Philo has played with many incredible artists both in Germany and internationally, including a recent stint with The Mars Volta.

    I can't praise Philo's playing enough; it just works. While it can be categorized as Hip Hop, it's so much more than any single genre, as you'll discover in this episode. Philo shares many incredibly valuable insights, and we actually kicked off our recorded conversation by discussing practice routines (in an ideal world).

    So, without further ado, please enjoy the top 5 influences that shaped the incredible Philo Tsoungui. Cheers!


    PHILO's BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Black Orpheus

    Artist - Keziah Jones

    Release Year - 2003

    Key Track - Afrosurrealismfortheladies

    Drummer - Joshua McKenzie / Jose Joyette

    -

    Album - The Bedlam in Goliath

    Artist - The Mars Volta

    Release Year - 2008

    Key Track - Wax Simulacra

    Drummer - Thomas Pridgen

    -

    Album - Black Radio

    Artist - Robert Glasper

    Release Year - 2012

    Key Track - Afro Blue

    Drummer - Chris "Daddy" Dave

    -

    Album - Omar Rodriguez Lopez Group: Live Los Angeles on Sept 14th, 2010 (video)

    Artist - Omar Rodriguez Lopez Group

    Release Year - 2010

    Drummer - Deantoni Parks

    -

    Album - Zildjian K Custom Special Dry Performance

    Artist - Lenny "The Ox" Reece & The Lesson GK

    Release Year - 2018

    Key Track - The Weekend

    Drummer - Lenny "The Ox" Reece


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    The Drum Panel: Rudiments, Triggers, and the Lars/Ringo Debate: What Really Matters in Modern Drumming? Aug 14, 2024

    Today, my good friend and fellow professional drummer, Eric Urrea, and I are excited to launch the pilot episode of a new segment on our podcast, tentatively named “The Drum Panel.”

    Drummers are known for having strong opinions, and we aim to delve into many of these in a roundtable format. For this first recording, it’s just the two of us, but our vision is to feature multiple drummers from diverse backgrounds in each episode to foster engaging, relatable, and thought-provoking discussions. We invite you to join us on this journey.


    SUBMIT YOUR CONTROVERSIAL MUSIC OPINIONS HERE

    Today we discuss:

    • are there too many rudiments?
    • the hate towards Lars & Ringo
    • are triggers cheating?
    • virgin bass drums
    • do drum shells actually matter?
    • has social media ruined what it means to be a drummer?

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Adolfo Torres (M.I.J.O.) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records Jul 31, 2024

    This week’s guest is Adolfo Torres. Adolfo's musical journey started in Cali, Colombia, and from a young age, his passion for music was evident, leading his parents to enroll him in drum lessons. This early start paved the way for his education at the Drummers Collective in NYC and later at Berklee College of Music on an American Tour Scholarship.

    After his studies, Adolfo moved to Austin, TX, playing with artists like JT Coldfire and Jennifer B and the Groove Kings, where he learned about the life of a working musician. In 2013, he returned to Colombia, forming the band M.I.J.O, which blends Classic, Modern, and Progressive Rock. All that being said, I’ve been a big fan of his for a long time and go check out a few of his videos before you listen to our chat. It will set the stage for a lot of what we talk about. I hope you enjoy the five records that shaped Adolfo Torres into the musician he is today. Cheers!


    ADOLFO'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - The Inner Mounting Flame

    Artist - The Mahavishnu Orchestra

    Release Year f- 1971

    Key Track(s) - The Noonward Race, Vital Transformation, You Know You Know

    Drummer - Billy Cobham

    -

    Album - Paranoid

    Artist - Black Sabbath

    Release Year - 1970

    Key Track(s) - War Pigs, Rat Salad, Fairies Wear Boots

    Drummer - Bill Ward

    -

    Album - Red

    Artist - King Crimson

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - One More Red Nightmare, Starless

    Drummer - Bill Bruford

    -

    Album - Badmotorfinger

    Artist - Soundgarden

    Release Year - 1991

    Key Track(s) - Rusty Cage, Slaves & Bulldozers

    Drummer - Matt Cameron

    -

    Album - Amputechture

    Artist - The Mars Volta

    Release Year - 2006

    Key Track(s) - Tetragrammaton, Meccamputechture, Viscera Eyes, Day of the Baphomets

    Drummer - Jon Theodore

    -

    HONORABLE MENTIONS:

    Band of Gypsys - Hendrix

    Presence - Led Zeppelin

    Bridge of Sighs - Robin Trower

    Tony Williams Lifetime: The Collection

    Master of Reality - Black Sabbath

    10,000 Days - Tool

    Deloused in the Commatorium - The Mars Volta

    Down on the Upside - Soundgarden

    Gretchen Goes to Nebraska - King’s X


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Jost Nickel (Jan Delay & Disko No. 1) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records Jul 24, 2024

    Our guest today is none other than Jost Nickel, a renowned German drummer, composer, and educator. Jost is part of the golden generation of drummers from Germany, alongside his friends and fellow drumming legends Anika Nilles, Marco Minnemann, and Benny Greb.

    Currently, Jost keeps busy with Jan Delay and Disko No. 1, but his talent has graced many hit records both in Germany and beyond. He's also had the privilege of playing with jazz greats like Randy Brecker, Jeff Lorber, Jimmy Haslip, Barry Finnerty, and many more.

    In addition to his impressive performance career, Jost has authored four highly successful instructional books: Jost Nickel’s GROOVE BOOK, Jost Nickel’s FILL BOOK, Jost Nickel’s SNARE BOOK, and Jost Nickel’s BEGINNER BOOK.

    I absolutely love Jost’s playing. It's always so crisp, clear, snappy, and incredibly creative, yet it always feels good. Today, we're diving into the five records that have helped shape Jost Nickel into the phenomenal drummer he is today. Cheers!"


    JOST'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - The Dream of the Blue Turtles

    Artist - Sting

    Release Year - 1985

    Key Track - Shadows in the Rain

    Drummer - Omar Hakim

    -

    Album - Master Plan

    Artist - Dave Weckl

    Release Year - 1990

    Key Track - Tower of Inspiration

    Drummer - Dave Weckl

    -

    Album - True Colors

    Artist - Level 42

    Release Year - 1984

    Key Track - Kansas City Milkman

    Drummer - Phil Gould

    -

    Album - This Time

    Artist - Al Jarreau

    Release Year - 1980

    Key Track(s) - Spain (I Can Recall)

    Drummer - Steve Gadd

    -

    Album - Synchronicity

    Artist - The Police

    Release Year - 1983

    Key Track - King of Pain

    Drummer - Stewart Copeland


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Nick Wilkerson (formerly of White Reaper) Shares His Top 5 Influential Records Jul 17, 2024

    This week's guest is Nick Wilkerson. For the past decade, Nick has been the drummer for the critically acclaimed Louisville, KY rock band, White Reaper. Recently, he decided to embark on a solo journey as an independent artist, and I’m eager to see what he creates next.

    I always invite drummers on this show who truly move me with their playing. I discovered Nick’s videos on Instagram and was immediately impressed before I even realized he was the drummer for White Reaper, a band I really admire. Check out his videos, and you'll understand why.

    I was stoked to have this conversation with Nick, and it’s moments like these that make me love what I do. Now, enjoy as we explore the five records that helped shape Nick Wilkerson into the musician he is today. Cheers!

    NICK'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Tony Hawks Pro Skater 3 Soundtrack

    Artist - Various

    Release Year - 2001

    Key Track(s) - Boy Who Destroyed The World (AFI), If You Must (Del The Funkee Homosapien), Amoeba (Adolescents)

    Drummer - Various

    -

    Album - American Idiot

    Artist - Green Day

    Release Year - 2004

    Key Track(s) - Jesus of Suburbia, St Jimmy, Homecoming

    Drummer - Tre Cool

    -

    Album - Bad Brains

    Artist - Bad Brains

    Release Year - 1982

    Key Track(s) - Attitude, Banned in DC, Big Takeover

    Drummer - Earl Hudson

    -

    Album - Live At Leeds

    Artist - The Who

    Release Year - 1970

    Key Track(s) - Heaven And Hell, Can’t Explain, Happy Jack

    Drummer - Keith Moon

    -

    Album - Wonderful Rainbow

    Artist - Lightning Bolt

    Release Year - 2003

    Key Track(s) - Assassins, Two Towers, Crown of Storms

    Drummer - Brian Chippendale


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Isaiah Weatherspoon's Top 5 Influential Records Jul 10, 2024

    This week's guest is Isaiah Weatherspoon, a Philadelphia-based drummer who started playing at the age of four. He went on to graduate from Berklee College of Music in 2019 with a Bachelor's degree in Music Production and Engineering. Over the years, Isaiah has performed with an impressive roster of artists, including Lizz Wright, Greg Phillinganes, Lauren Talese, Leehom Wang, Justin Timberlake, Sister Sledge, and many more.

    I first noticed Isaiah when I saw a video on Instagram of him using one of our Big Fat Snare Drum Steve's Donuts on his floor tom during an outdoor concert. He was going crazy on the drums, and I was truly impressed. His positive energy and outlook made this conversation a real pleasure. Plus, we dive into a fascinating topic: synesthesia, a perceptual phenomenon that Isaiah proudly embraces.

    So, without further ado, here are the five records that have shaped Isaiah Weatherspoon into the musician he is today. Cheers!

    Check out his book: MUSIC IS COOL! Music Coloring Book for Kids


    ISAIAH'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Not Guilty

    Artist - John P Kee

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track - Rain On Us

    Drummer - Calvin Rodgers

    -

    Album - Purpose By Design

    Artist - Fred Hammond and Radical For Christ

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track - Jesus Be a Fence Around Me

    Drummer - Marvin McQuitty

    -

    Album - In A Dream

    Artist - Gretchen Parlato

    Release Year - 2009

    Key Track - Butterfly

    Drummer - "No drums on this record. But I believe Kendrick Scott plays on album"

    -

    Album - Ten Summoner's Tale

    Artist - Sting

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - Seven Days

    Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

    -

    Album - Choose Your Weapon

    Artist - Hiatus Kaiyote

    Release Year - 2015

    Key Track - By Fire

    Drummer - Perrin Moss


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Eric Somers-Urrea's Top 5 Influential Records Jul 03, 2024

    This week’s guest is Eric Somers-Urrea…a Chicago-based drummer, educator and producer who I very-much admire both on and off the kit. His main project is a band called Marina City and his sincerity / kindness as a person matches his incredible prowess on the drums. I just can’t say enough good things about him.

    This is a edited and re-airing of my conversation with Eric from a few years ago so some references are a little dated, but I'm pushing this to the top of the feed because I might be switching things up a bit and, to keep things cryptic, let's just say I want you to get to know Eric a little bit more. Stay tuned. Please enjoy our chat about the 5 main influences that shaped Eric into the drummer he is today, but first…we play a little game. Cheers!


    ERIC'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    Performance - Drum Corps International 2004 Finals

    Release Year - 2004

    Artist - The Cavaliers

    Song Choice - https://youtu.be/KpUuMM1y2_o?t=140 (anywhere between 2:20-4:20ish)

    Drummer - The Cavaliers Drumline

    -

    Album - Quadrophenia

    Release Year - 1973

    Artist - The Who

    Song Choice - The Real Me (1:30ish)

    Drummer - Keith Moon

    -

    Album - Deadwing

    Release Year - 2005

    Artist - Porcupine Tree

    Song Choice - Glass Arm Shattering (3:30ish)

    Drummer - Gavin Harrison

    -

    Album - Mer De Noms

    Release Year - 2000

    Artist - A Perfect Circle

    Song Choice - Judith (2:40)

    Drummer - Josh Freese

    -

    Album - With Teeth

    Release Year - 2005

    Artist - Nine Inch Nails

    Song Choice - All the Love in the World

    Drummer - Dave Grohl/ Trent Reznor

    -

    HONORABLE MENTIONS:

    "Glass Prison" by Dream Theater

    "Heart Don't Stand a Chance" by Anderson .Paak (Tiny Desk Concert version 3:45)


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Megan Spencer's Top 5 Influential Records Jun 26, 2024

    This week's guest is Megan Spencer, a talented young drummer and educator from just outside Los Angeles. Megan recently caught my attention with her amazing cover of Marques Murrey's Million Dollar Baby remix, and I was instantly drawn to her unique tones and vibe. So, I’m excited to have her on the show! I'm always grateful for the opportunity to connect with new drummers who inspire ME and learn about the drummers who inspired THEM, in hopes of inspiring YOU. Thanks for hanging around. Today, Megan will share the five records that have significantly shaped her journey as a drummer. Enjoy the episode! Cheers!


    MEGAN'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    Album - Innervisions

    Artist - Stevie Wonder

    Release Year - 1973

    Key Track - Higher Ground

    Drummer - Stevie Wonder

    -

    Album - Bad

    Artist - Michael Jackson

    Release Year - 1987

    Key Track - Smooth Criminal, Bad, Dirty Diana, Man in the Mirror

    Drummer - John (JR) Robinson

    -

    Album - Ten Summoner’s Tales

    Artist - Sting

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track - Seven Days

    Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

    -

    Album - Alive in South Africa

    Artist - Israel Houghton & New Breed

    Release Year - 2005

    Key Track - Turn it Around, Still Standing

    Drummer - Mike Clemmons

    -

    Album - Loopified

    Artist - Dirty Loops

    Release Year - 2014

    Key Track - Hit Me, Rolling in the Deep

    Drummer - Aron Mellergard


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Chris Fryar's (Zac Brown Band) Top 5 Influences Jun 19, 2024

    This week's guest is Chris Fryar, primarily known for his work with the Zac Brown Band. He has also worked with Oteil and the Peacemakers, led by bassist Oteil Burbridge of the Allman Brothers Band, as well as with Victor Wooten, John Popper, Steve Bailey, and many more.

    Chris is powerful, creative, and consistent, yet very reactive and conversational with his playing. I was so happy to chat with him. I'll be honest—I haven't really said this in an intro before, but this conversation is what I envisioned when I started this podcast. Chris is incredible at sharing his story through his choices and offers invaluable advice along the way.

    This is hands down one of my favorite episodes. Please enjoy my chat with Chris Fryar about the five records that shaped him into the musician he is today. And make sure you check out his honorable mentions. He's got plenty, and they'll all make you a better player. I promise.

    Cheers!


    CHRIS' BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Zenyatta Mondatta

    Artist - The Police

    Release Year - 1980

    Key Track(s) - Shadows In The Rain, Driven To Tears, When The World Is Running Down

    Drummer - Stewart Copeland

    -

    Album - Ten Summoner's Tales

    Artist - Sting

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - Seven Days, St. Augustine in Hell, She's Too Good For Me, Shape of My Heart

    Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta

    -

    Album - Kind of Blue

    Artist - Miles Davis

    Release Year - 1959

    Key Track(s) - So What, All Blues, Freddie Freeloader

    Drummer - Jimmy Cobb

    -

    Album - Live and In Living Color

    Artist - Tower Of Power

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - Knock Yourself Out (live), What Is Hip (live)

    Drummer - David Garibaldi

    -

    Album - Robben Ford & The Blue Line

    Artist - Robben Ford

    Release Year - 1992

    Key Track(s) - You Cut Me To The Bone, Real Man, Prison Of Love

    Drummer - Tom Brechtlein


    HONORABLE MENTIONS:

    Aja - Steely Dan

    Big Swing Face - Buddy Rich Big Band

    TOTO IV - TOTO

    Led Zeppelin IV - Led Zeppelin

    Moving Pictures - Rush

    Saturday Night Fever Soundtrack - various artists

    Life On Planet Groove - Maceo Parker

    At Fillmore East - Allman Brothers Band

    HELP! - The Beatles

    Rubber Soul - the Beatles

    Revolver - the Beatles

    John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman

    Apple Juice - Tom Scott

    Col. Bruce Hampton & the Aquarium Rescue Unit

    Heavy Weather - Weather Report


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Mark Guiliana's Biggest Influences Jun 12, 2024

    This week’s guest is Mark Guiliana, a visionary drummer and solo artist known for his eclectic style that blends jazz, electronic, and experimental music. He’s worked with artists like David Bowie, Brad Mehldau, St. Vincent, and has his own projects such as the Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet and Beat Music.

    Mark continuously pushes the boundaries of rhythm and sound, earning him a reputation as a trailblazer in contemporary music. This is a condensed version of my conversation with Mark from early 2021. With his new album, Mark, coming out in July 2024, I wanted to highlight his insights and present an episode that fits better with our current format.

    Instead of a top 5 list of records, I gave Mark a set of prompts to choose from, and we went from there. There’s so much wisdom in this chat, so even if you heard it before, give it another listen. I definitely learned new things the second time around.

    Concierto de Osain del Monte VIDEO

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Porter Bliquez' (@415porter) Top 5 Influential Records Jun 05, 2024

    This week’s guest is Porter Bliquez, a young American drum prodigy from San Francisco. Despite his age, Porter has already recorded and performed with award-winning producers and musicians associated with Kevin Gates, Olivia Rodrigo, Haan, Andy Prado Jr., and more.

    While still attending USC, Porter manages to carve out time to make a significant impact in both the LA and online drum communities. At my ripe old age of 37, it's refreshing to connect with the younger generation of drummers and see what’s happening in their world. Porter is destined for the biggest stages globally, so I'm thrilled if this is the episode that introduces you to him. Please enjoy the records that helped shape Porter into the exceptional drummer he is today. Cheers!

    Eric Harland - Zildjian Performance Video HERE


    PORTER'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    Album - Homey

    Artist - Chon

    Release Year - 2017

    Key Track(s) - Sleepy Tea / Water slide

    Drummer - Brian Evans

    -

    Album - Black Focus

    Artist - Yussef Kammal

    Release Year - 2016

    Key Track(s) - Strings of Light / Wingtai Drums / Joint 17

    Drummer - Yussef Dayes

    -

    Album - Chon

    Artist - Chon

    Release Year - 2019

    Key Track(s) - Peace / Pitch Dark

    Drummer - Brian Evans

    -

    Album - Two Star & The Dream Police

    Artist - Mk.gee

    Release Year - 2024

    Key Track(s) - Rylee & I / Dream Police / DNM / How Many Miles

    Drummer - Micheal Gordon

    -

    Album - Misadventures

    Artist - Peirce the Veil

    Release Year - 2016

    Key Track(s) - Song For Isabel / Texas is Forever / Phantom Power / Ludicrous Speed

    Drummer - Mike Fuentes


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram.

    Big Fat Five: Wiktoria Bialic's (@wiktoria_drums / Allison Russell / Ralph Kaminski) Top 5 Influential Records May 29, 2024

    This week's guest is Wiktoria Bialic. Wiktoria has been nominated for four Grammy awards for her recordings on Allison Russell's album, "The Returner." She has also recorded drums for Grammy-winning musicians like Ondre J. Pavic, Alex Marley, Maati Baani, Ralph Kaminski, SARSA, and various other artists and producers from Britain, India, Scotland, Poland, America, and Puerto Rico.

    Wiktoria collaborated with Zildjian Artist Ash Soan on the single "Dark Dark Days" by Black Dog All Starsand often fills in for other well-known drummers in Poland. She won the Hit Like A Girl contest in 2021 and has performed at prestigious drum festivals such as PASIC, Bag Show, The UK Drum Show, and Silesia Drum Festival.

    You can find her Instagram HERE and listen to a Spotify playlist featuring many of her recordings HERE. Wiktoria offers a great perspective on excelling as a studio musician, so get ready to improve your drumming skills. I hope you enjoy the recordings that shaped Wiktoria Bialic into the musician she is today.


    WIKTORIA'S BIG FAT FIVE:

    -

    Album - Exodus

    Artist - Bob Marley

    Release Year - 1977

    Key Track(s) 0 Three Little Birds / One Love / Whole Record :)

    Drummer - Carlton Barrett

    -

    Album - The Returner

    Artist - Allison Russell

    Release Year - 2023

    Key Track(s) - Stay Right Here / Springtime

    Drummer - Wiktoria Bialic

    -

    Album VoodoO

    Artist - D'Angelo

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s)

    The Root

    Drummer - Questlove

    -

    Album - Feats Don't Fail Me Now

    Artist - Little Feat

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - Skin It Back

    Drummer - Richie Hayward

    -

    Album - 7

    Artist - Seal

    Release Year - 2015

    Key Track(s) - Redzone Killer

    Drummer - Ash Soan

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Brandon Combs' (Leon Bridges / Joy Oladakun / John Legend) Top 5-ish Influential Records May 22, 2024

    This week’s guest is Brandon Combs. Brandon is a drummer, programmer, and producer hailing from Lansing, Michigan. Brandon obtained his Bachelor of Music degree in Popular Music Studies from the University of Southern California in 2015 and is currently based in Nashville, Tennessee. He’s worked with so many amazing artists, including Grammy Award-winning artist Leon Bridges, Joy Oladakun, John Legend, Raphael Saadiq, Moses Sumney, Tori Kelly, Greyson Chance, Chris Bullock of Snarky Puppy, and many more. He’s got a lot of energy and his choices center around very hirable theme. I hope you enjoy the records that helped shaped Brandon Combs into the artist he is today. Cheers!


    BRANDON'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Perpetual motion

    Artist - Dave Weckl Band

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - Child's play

    Drummer - Dave Weckl

    -

    Album - Heavier Things

    Artist - John Mayer

    Release Year - 2003

    Key Track(s) - New Deep / Something's Missing,

    Drummer - Steve Jordan

    -

    Album - Somethin' Bout Love

    Artist - Brian Culbertson

    Release Year - 1999

    Key Track(s) - Do you Really Love Me?

    Drummer - Chris Miskel

    -

    Album - Mixtape - Volume One

    Key Track(s) - Movin / Nine

    Drummer - Ben Jones

    -

    Album - Opal / Brunei

    Artist - Vinyl Williams

    Release Year - 2018 / 2016

    Key Track(s) - Lansing / Feedback Delicates


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Myles Sargent's (The Japanese House) Top 5 Influential Records May 15, 2024

    This week’s guest is Myles Sargent. Myles is a drummer, musical director and playback engineer based in Brighton, UK. Throughout his career, he's collaborated with an array of artists and bands, including The Japanese House, Justin Jesso, Calum Scott, Thomas Headon, Gabriels, Cavetown, Mae Stephens, Gang of Youths and MANY more. He’s quickly become one of my favorite online-converted-to-real-life buddies and I was excited to force him to answer my questions for an hour. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shaped Myles Sargent into the player he is today. Cheers!

    MYLE'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - American Idiot

    Artist - Green Day

    Release Year - 2004

    Key Track(s) - Holiday / American Idiot

    Drummer - Tre Cool

    -

    Album - Rumours

    Artist - Fleetwood Mac

    Release Year - 1977

    Key Track(s) - You Make Loving Fun / The Chain

    Drummer - Mick Fleetwood

    -

    Album - Nm Brass 2015 - 1. Division

    Artist - Oslofiord Brass

    Release Year - 2015

    Key Track(s) - St. Magnus (5:45 it gets cooking)

    Composer - Peter Maxwell Davies

    -

    Album - Little Voice

    Artist - Sara Bareilles

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track(s) - Vegas

    Drummer - Matt Chamberlain

    -

    Album - Rickie Lee Jones

    Artist - Rickie Lee Jones

    Release Year - 1979

    Key Track(s) - Chuck E's in Love (and that fill at 1:55)

    Drummer - Steve Gadd

    -

    Any Honorable Mentions?

    Album - Face Value

    Artist - Phil Collins

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - In the Air Tonight

    Drummer - Phil Collins

    -

    Album - Regatta De Blanc

    Artist - The Police

    Release Year - 1979

    Key Track(s) - Walking on the Moon

    Drummer - Stewart Copeland

    Big Fat Five: Steve Durham's (Louis Tomlinson / Drummer / Musical Director) Top 5 Influential Records May 08, 2024

    This week's guest is Steve Durham. Steve is a Drummer, Musical Director and Producer from London, UK. He began playing drums at 8 years old and was out on the road by the time he was 14. Since then he's worked with Louis Tomlinson (One Direction), Dermot Kennedy, Wolf Alice, Foals, Holly Humberstone, Aurora, Declan Mckenna, Marina and the Diamonds and more. I hope you enjoy the 5 records plus a few honorable mentions that helped shape Steve Durham into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    STEVE'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - VHS! Invisible Touch Tour

    Artist - Genesis

    Release Year - 1987

    Key Track(s) - Drum Duet / Los Endos

    Drummer - Phil Collins & Chester Thompson

    WATCH HERE

    -

    Album - Who’s Next

    Artist - The Who

    Release Year - 1971

    Key Track(s) - Won’t Get Fooled Again

    Drummer - Keith Moon

    -

    Album - Colour Of Spring

    Artist - Talk Talk

    Release Year - 1986

    Key Track(s) - Give It Up

    Drummer - Lee Harris

    -

    Album - The Bends

    Artist - Radiohead

    Release Year - 1995

    Key Track(s) - High and Dry

    Drummer - Phil Selway

    -

    Album - Puzzle

    Artist - Biffy Clyro

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track(s) - Saturday Superhouse

    Drummer - Ben Johnston

    -

    HONORABLE MENTIONS:

    Artist - Led Zeppelin

    Key Tracks(s) - Good Times Bad Times / Whole Lotta Love

    Drummer - John Bonham

    -

    Album - The Trees Are Dead & Dried Out, Wait for Something Wild

    Artist - Sikth

    Key Track - Skies of the Millennium Night

    Release Year - 2003

    Drummer - Dan ‘The Lord’ Foord

    -

    Performance - Live at Woodstock '69

    Artist - Santana

    Key Track - Soul Sacrifice

    Drummer - Michael Shrieve (age 20)

    WATCH HERE

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Gunnar Olsen's (Puscifer / Bruce Springsteen / Mother Feather) Top 5 Influential Records May 01, 2024

    This week's guest is Gunnar Olsen. Gunnar's been on the show a lot recently with "save it for the pod" segments. But I noticed his Big Fat Five episode is almost 4 years old, which is a shame. Recently, I went to the Hollywood Bowl with my friends Mike Robinson and Neal Daniels, both show alumni, to see Gunnar play with Puscifer on the Sessanta tour, celebrating Maynard James Keenan's 60th birthday. It was mind-blowing. Gunnar is an incredible drummer, one of the best out there. At this show, Josh Freese was playing with A Perfect Circle, but now that Josh is busy with Foo Fighters gigs, Gunnar is playing with both Puscifer and A Perfect Circle for the rest of the tour. It's unbelievable and well-deserved. Puscifer is a perfect fit for Gunnar. Apart from this tour, Gunnar has also recorded or toured with Big Data, Bruce Springsteen, Miley Cyrus, HOKO, Mother Feather, Fischerspooner, Goo Goo Dolls, and many others. He's possibly my favorite drummer, and I admire him a lot. He's a close friend, and I always try to catch his shows when we're in the same town. Although this conversation is from 4 years ago, I wanted to bring it back up because the information is still relevant. It's fascinating to hear Gunnar talk about Tim Alexander of Primus, who has been a big influence on him, and now see them hanging out on tour together, seeming like best buds. Anyway, Gunnar, I'm really proud of you, and I admire your career more than you know, even though I tell you all the time. I hope you enjoy the records that helped shape Gunnar Olsen into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    GUNNAR'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - ...And Justice For All

    Artist - Metallica

    Release Year - 1988

    Key Track(s) - Harvester of Sorrow

    Drummer - Lars Urich

    -

    Album - Reggatta De Blanc

    Artist - The Police

    Release Year - 1979

    Key Track(s) - The Bed's Too Big Without You

    Drummer - Stewart Copeland

    -

    Album - Songs for the Deaf

    Artist - Queens of the Stone Age

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - Song for the Dead

    Drummer - Dave Grohl

    -

    Album - Dust

    Artist - Ben Monder

    Release Year - 2006

    Key Track(s) - Dust

    Drummer - Jim Black

    -

    Album - Largo

    Artist - Brad Mehldau

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - When It Rains

    Drummer - Matt Chamberlain


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Earl Talbot's (Drummer, Composer, Producer, and Educator) Top 5 Influential Records Apr 24, 2024

    This week's guest is Earl Talbot. Earl is a renowned Drummer, Composer, Producer, and Music Instructor. He wrote and produced over 90 songs broadcast regularly on the Oprah Winfrey Show. His career includes performances with house music legends Derick Carter and Mark Farina, as well as touring and recording with Master Griots Dialy Mady Cissoko, Christian Bourdon, Poi Dog Pondering, The Chicago Sinfonietta, as well as scores of other artists and clients.

    As a multi platinum recording artist, Earl has worked on songs from Maya Angelou's "Human Family Remix" with Tamarra Love, to Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy's production of "The Hush Sound" with Shawn O'Keefe. Earl wrote and produced 3 songs for Katt William’s ‘American Hustle’. His hit song "Yakalelo" with French sensation "Nomads" earned a Diamond Record for it's success throughout Central Europe and North Africa.

    EARL'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Back In Black

    Artist - ACDC

    Release Year - 1980

    Key Track(s) - Back In Black

    Drummer - Phill Rudd

    -

    Album - Time Out

    Artist - Dave Brubeck

    Release Year - 1952

    Key Track(s) - Pick Up Sticks

    Drummer - Joe Morello

    -

    Album - Moving Pictures

    Artist - Rush

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - YYZ

    Drummer - Neil Peart

    -

    Album - Glass Menagerie

    Artist - Billy Cobham

    Release Year - 1982

    Key Track(s) - Observations and Reflections

    Drummer - Billy Cobham

    -

    Album - My Favorite Things

    Artist - John Coltrane

    Release Year - 1961

    Key Track(s) - My Favorite Things

    Drummer - Elvin Jones


    HONORABLE MENTIONS

    -

    Album - Regatta de Blanc

    Artist - The Police

    Release Year - 1979

    Key Track(s) - Walking on the Moon

    Drummer - Stuart Copeland

    -

    Album - Romantic Warrior

    Artist - Return to Forever

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - Medieval Overture

    Drummer - Lenny White

    -

    Album - Van Halen

    Artist - Van Halen

    Release Year - 1978

    Key Track(s) - Runnin with the Devil

    Drummer - Alex Van Halen

    -

    Album - By All Means Necessary

    Artist - KRS One and Boogie Down Productions

    Release Year - 1988

    Key Track(s) - I’m Still #1

    Drummer - (Sample, All the People- Cramp Your Style)

    -

    Album - Let’s Dance

    Artist - David Bowie

    Release Year - 1983

    Key Track(s) - Modern Love

    Drummer - Omar Hakim

    -

    Album - The Game

    Artist - Queen

    Release Year - 1980

    Key Track(s) - Another One Bites the Dust

    Drummer - Roger Taylor

    -

    Album - Nightclubbing

    Artist - Grace Jones

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - Pull Up to the Bumper

    Drummer - Sly Dunbar


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Maxwell Flanders' (Luke Hemmings / Lizzy McAlpine) Top 5 Influential Records Apr 17, 2024

    This week, our guest is Maxwell Flanders, a close friend of mine and pseudo-neighbor based in Los Angeles, California. He's a highly sought-after touring and session drummer who recently wrapped up touring with Lizzie McAlpine and is now preparing for a world tour with Luke Hemmings. I've admired Max's drumming for a long time; he plays with such creativity, and his selections today reflect why. I hope you enjoy learning about the five records that have influenced Maxwell Flanders into becoming the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    MAX'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - 1

    Artist - The Beatles

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - Ticket to Ride, Paperback Writer, The Ballad of John and Yoko

    Drummer - Ringo Star

    -

    Album - The Nightfly

    Artist - Donald Fagen

    Release Year - 1982

    Key Track(s) - Ruby Baby, The Goodbye Look

    Drummer - Jeff Porcaro

    -

    Album - Stuff

    Artist - Stuff

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - Foots, (Do You) Want Some of This, Happy Farms

    Drummer - Steve Gadd

    -

    Album - Tom Scott and the L.A. Express

    Artist - Tom Scott

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - Bless My Soul, Sneakin' In the Back, Nunya

    Drummer - John Guerin

    -

    Album - Wrecking Ball

    Artist - Emmylou Harris

    Release Year - 1995

    Key Track(s) - Where Will I Be

    Drummer - Brian Blade


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Steve Jocz's (Sum 41, The Vandals) Top 5 Influential Records Apr 10, 2024

    This week’s guest is Steve Jocz, also known as Stevo 32. Steve is a Canadian musician best known as the original drummer of the punk rock band Sum 41. Steve co-founded Sum 41 in 1996 with Deryck Whibley and played a significant role in the band's early success, contributing to their distinctive punk rock sound. He remained with Sum 41 until 2013, showcasing his drumming skills on albums like "All Killer No Filler”, “Does This Look Infected?” and Chuck." After leaving Sum 41, Steve left music behind all-but-completely...only to rekindle his relationship with the drums around 2019. We get into a lot of fun Sum 41 history and insider stories via very welcomed tangents and I was smiling the whole time. Steve was a big part of my drumming when I was younger and I was giddy as all hell to have him on the show. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Steve Jocz into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    STEVE'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Nevermind

    Artist - Nirvana

    Release Year - 1991

    Key Track(s) - In Bloom

    Drummer - Dave Grohl

    -

    Album - Dookie

    Artist - Green Day

    Release Year - 1994

    Key Track(s) - Burnout (1:12 - 1:38)

    Drummer - Tre Cool

    -

    Album - Master Of Puppets

    Artist - Metallica

    Release Year - 1985

    Key Track(s) - Master Of Puppets

    Drummer - Lars Ulrich

    -

    Album - Live Fast, Diarhea

    Artist - The Vandals

    Release Year - 1995

    Key Track(s) - And Now We Dance (00:40 - 01:15)

    Drummer - Josh Freese

    -

    Album - Milestones

    Artist - Miles Davis

    Release Year - 1958

    Key Track(s) - Two Bass Hit (00:00 - 01:00)

    Drummer - Philly Joe Jones

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: JohnnyBgood's Top 5 Influential Records Apr 02, 2024

    This week's guest is JohnnyBgood. I've been following his Instagram account for a while now and I'm really impressed by his nostalgic, retro-futuristic synth sounds and vintage video game vibe. Paired with a clean, opaque colored-infused aesthetic, it's beautiful in its minimalist approach. He's committed to his branding so strongly that he chooses to remain anonymous, creating a character and a whole world to convey his art. It's great – he's a great guy. I love his choices. While he may not consider himself a drummer's drummer, he sees himself more as a producer, which I think is fabulous and a perspective we should all tap into more often. I hope you enjoy learning about the 5 records that shaped JohnnyBgood into the musician he is today.

    - Get JohnnyBgood's FREE SAMPLE PACK

    - Marble Soda by "Shawn Wasabi" - VIDEO

    JOHNNYBGOOD'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Where the Light is: John Mayer Live in Los Angeles

    Artist - John Mayer

    Release Year - 2008

    Key Track(s) - I Don't Trust Myself (With Loving You)

    Drummer - J.J. Johnson

    -

    Album - Songs About Jane

    Artist - Maroon 5

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - The Sun

    Drummer - Ryan Dusick

    -

    Album - Come to Daddy

    Artist - Aphex Twin

    Release Year - 1997

    Key Track(s) - Flim

    Drummer - Aphex Twin

    -

    Album - Single Release on YouTube

    Artist - Shawn Wasabi

    Release Year - 2015

    Key Track(s) - Marble Soda

    Drummer - Shawn Wasabi

    -

    Album - Small Plates

    Artist - J3PO

    Release Year - 2019

    Key Track(s) - Intensor (Feat. Ateller)

    Drummer - Ateller

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Nick Adams' (Aly & Aj / Take That) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 27, 2024

    This week’s guest is Nick Adams … a Los Angeles-based touring and recording drummer whose passion for music and live performance has led him to work with an array of well-known artists such as Rivers Cuomo,Noah Cyrus, Fifth Harmony, Aly & Aj, Liz Phair, and Take That among others. I am obsessed with his Instagram; he gets such amazing sounds and is a nerd when it comes to engineering himself out of his own studio. If you want to watch a drummer who plays deceivingly hard parts with absolute conviction….please go check him out. I'm stoked to introduce a bunch of you to Nick! So please enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Nick Adams into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    NICK'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Steve Miller Band: Greatest Hits 1974-78

    Artist - Steve Miller Band

    Release Year - 1974-78

    Key Track(s) - Take The Money And Run, Swingtown

    Drummer - Gary Mallaber

    -

    Album - Take Off Your Pants And Jacket

    Artist - Blink 182

    Release Year - 2001

    Key Track(s) - Story of a Lonely Guy

    Drummer - Travis Barker

    -

    Album - Lateralus

    Artist - Tool

    Release Year - 2001

    Key Track(s) - The Grudge, Ticks & Leeches

    Drummer - Danny Carey

    -

    Album - Sawdust

    Artist - The Killers

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track(s) - Sam's Town

    Drummer - Ronnie Vannucci Jr.

    -

    Album - Hotel California

    Artist - The Eagles

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - Life in the Fast Lane

    Drummer - Don Henley


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Dissecting the Drumming of Phil Selway (Radiohead) Mar 21, 2024

    This week’s topic on our "Save It For the Pod" segment with Mr. Gunnar Olsen is the timeless and seemingly underrated drummer of Radiohead, Phil Selway. Gunnar and I each choose our top 5 Phil beats and go a dissectin’!


    GUNNAR'S CHOICES:

    -

    Track - Morning Bell (Live in Oxford)

    Album - I Might Be Wrong

    Release Year - 2001

    -

    Track - There, There

    Album - Hail To the Thief

    Release Year - 2003

    -

    Track - Pyramid Song

    Album - Amnesiac

    Release Year - 2001

    -

    Track - Where I End and You Begin

    Album - In Rainbows From the Basement

    Release Year - 2008

    -

    Track - Bodysnatchers

    Album - In Rainbows

    Release Year - 2007



    BEN'S CHOICES:

    -

    Track - All I Need

    Album - In Rainbows

    Release Year - 2007

    -

    Track - Dollars and Cents

    Album - Amnesiac

    Release Year - 2001

    -

    Track - 15 Step

    Album - In Rainbows

    Release Year - 2007

    -

    Track - Myxomatosis

    Album - Hail To the Thief

    Release Year - 2003

    -

    Track - Rekoner

    Album - In Rainbows

    Release Year - 2007

    -

    Track - I Might Be Wrong

    Album - Amnesiac

    Release Year - 2007


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Big Fat Five: Russell Holzman's (Caroline Polachek, @starpowerdrummer) Top 5 Influential Recordings Mar 13, 2024

    This week's guest is drummer and producer Russel Holzman (@starpowerdrummer). Russell received his education in Jazz and Classical music at the New England Conservatory. Currently, he tours with artists such as Caroline Polachek and, known for his captivating drumming videos, Russell has garnered a substantial following on social media. Based in NYC, he adeptly juggles in-studio recording sessions with global live performances. I hope you enjoy the top 5 recordings that helped shape Russell Holzman into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    Be sure to scope Russell's finely crafted DnB style drum loops & sample packHERE. These unique and original drum loops were played-live by Russell, not programmed, and are 100% royalty-free.

    There are 3 different mix styles for each loop: Clean (highly usable, standard studio mix), Comp (over compressed, modern breakcore style mix) and Vintage (old school, classic Amen Break style mix).

    RUSSELL’S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Zeppelin 1

    Artist - Led Zeppelin

    Release Year - 1969

    Key Track(s) - Dazed and Confused

    Drummer - John Bonham

    -

    Album - Nil Recurring

    Artist - Porcupine Tree

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track(s) - Cheating The Polygraph

    Drummer - Gavin Harrison

    -

    Performance - Live At Cafe Bohemia

    Artist - Miles Davis

    Release Year - 1957

    Key Track(s) - Walkin

    Drummer - Philly Joe Jones

    -

    Album - Break Stuff

    Artist - Vijay Iyer Trio

    Release Year - 2015

    Key Track(s) - Taking Flight

    Drummer - Marcus Gilmore

    -

    Album - Secret Liaison

    Artist - Source Direct

    Release Year - 1996

    Key Track(s) - Secret Liaison

    Drummer - Source Direct

    -

    Any Honorable Mentions?

    Performance - Coltrane Live @ Half Note, NYC

    Artist - John Coltrane

    Release Year - 1965

    Track - I Want To Talk About You

    Drummer - Elvin Jones


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Where's The Beat?! (can you find the ONE in these 10 songs?) Mar 06, 2024

    Back in the day, Gunnar Olsen and I launched a segment for this show named 'Save It For the Pod!' without much of a plan beyond discussing random topics in a back-and-forth, list-style format. We managed to produce just three episodes before life got in the way. However, I'm considering bringing it back as an enjoyable addition to this podcast feed. As a way to reconnect with the show's essence, I'm re-airing episode 3, where we each share five songs that initially left us completely puzzled about where the downbeat is

    I hope you enjoy !

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Dave Elitch - Top 5 Things You're NOT Doing That Are Hurting You & Your Drumming Feb 29, 2024

    Today, we have a very special guest, Dave Elitch, here to talk about his new online course titled "Staying Out of Your Own Way." Dave believes that musicians should approach their craft with the mindset of athletes, and he's created this new course because he sees a significant need for it in the community. Until now, such a resource simply didn't exist.

    As of this recording, the course is available for pre-order, with the official launch set for March 4th, 2024. For those listening in the future, head over to daveelitch.com or sooyow.com (which stands for Staying Out Of Your Own Way) to grab your copy.

    To keep things engaging, I've asked Dave to put together a top 5 list, and he's chosen "Top 5 Things You're Not Doing That Are Hurting You and Your Drumming." So, grab your notepads, folks, because it's time to learn. And a big thank you to Dave for joining us today! Always a pleasure to have you. Cheers!

    *note from show - Dave suggests finding a “Myofascial Sports Massage Therapist who does Deep Tissue Sports Massage who works on Athletes”


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Allison Miller's (Drummer / Composer / Teacher) Top 5 Influential Records Feb 20, 2024

    This week’s guest is Allison Miller. Allison, based in New York City, is an American drummer, composer, and educator known for her versatile style. Fusing jazz with rock, funk, and global music elements, she has collaborated with notable artists including Dr. Lonnie Smith, Ani DiFranco, Natalie Merchant, Brandi Carlile, and others. A prolific solo artist, her latest album "Rivers in Our Veins" was released in 2023. Miller's dynamic drumming and dedication to musical innovation resonate with audiences across the globe. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Allison Miller into the musician she is today. Cheers!


    ALLISON’S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Around the World in a Day

    Artist - Prince

    Release Year - 1985

    Key Track(s) - Tamborine, Condition of the Heart, Temptation

    Drummer - Prince, Sheila E

    -

    Album - Miles Smiles

    Artist - Miles Davis

    Release Year - 1967

    Key Track(s) - Freedom Jazz Dance, Gingerbread Boy, Footprints, Dolores

    Drummer - Tony Williams

    -

    Album - The Avant-Garde

    Artist - John Coltrane and Don Cherry

    Release Year - 1966

    Key Track(s) - The Invisible, The Blessing, Focus on Sanity

    Drummer - Ed Blackwell

    -

    Album - Plantation Lullabies

    Artist - Meshell Ndegeocello

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - I’m Diggin’ You, Step into the Projects, Call Me, Sit Outside Your Door

    Drummer - David Gamson

    -

    Album - Zoning

    Artist - Mary Lou Williams

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - Praise The Lord, Intermission, Rosa Mae

    Drummer - Mickey Roker

    -

    HONORABLE MENTIONS:

    -

    Speak No Evil - Wayne Shorter

    Black and Red - Live in Willisau

    The Cure - Keith Jarrett Trio

    Empyrean Isles - Herbie Hancock

    Sounds of Joy - Joe Lovano

    Unity - Larry Young

    Special Edition - Jack Dejohnette

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Bill Bruford's (Yes / King Crimson / Earthworks / Genesis) 5 Influential Records Feb 14, 2024

    This week’s guest is THE Bill Bruford. Bill is a legendary drummer whose illustrious career spans over five decades, marked by pioneering contributions to progressive rock, jazz fusion, and beyond. Emerging onto the music scene in the late 1960s, Bruford gained prominence as the drummer for progressive rock icons Yes, where his intricate rhythms and dynamic playing style helped define the band's sound. His tenure with Yes produced several critically acclaimed albums, including "Close to the Edge" and "Fragile," solidifying his reputation as one of the foremost drummers of his generation.

    In addition to his work with Yes, Bruford became a member of the seminal progressive rock band King Crimson, where his innovative drumming continued to captivate audiences and influence generations of musicians. Over the years, Bruford's musical journey evolved, leading him to explore jazz fusion with his own band, Earthworks, and delve into experimental projects that pushed the boundaries of musical expression. A prolific recording artist, respected educator, and insightful author, Bill Bruford's multifaceted career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to pushing the limits of creativity and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

    Check out "Bill Bruford: Inspirations" playlist HERE


    BILL'S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Drums Unlimited

    Artist - Max Roach

    Release Year - 1966

    Key Track(s) - For Big Sid

    Drummer - Max Roach

    -

    Album - Live Sesh and Extra Songs

    Artist - Louis Cole

    Release Year - 2019

    Key Track(s) - F it Up - Live Sesh

    Drummer - Louis Cole

    -

    Album - Caravan

    Artist - Art Blakey & Jazz Messenger

    Release Year - 1963

    Key Track(s) - Caravan

    Drummer - Art Blakey

    -

    Album - Blackstar

    Artist - David Bowie

    Release Year - 2016

    Key Track(s) - Blackstar

    Drummer - Mark Guiliana

    -

    Album - Fresh Cream

    Artist - Cream

    Release Year - 1966

    Key Track(s) - I Feel Free

    Drummer - Ginger Baker

    -

    HONORABLE MENTION:

    -

    Artist: John Taverner

    Track: The Lamb

    Release Year: 1982

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Brian Dunne's (Hall & Oates / Live at Daryl's House) Top 5 Influential Records Feb 07, 2024

    This week’s guest is Brian Dunne. Brian is the current drummer for Hall & Oates as well as the house drummer for Live From Daryl's House. Everything Brian plays sounds like a pre-produced groove and it's no wonder that he’s held the throne behind so many incredible musicians…including but certainly not limited to Joe Walsh, Ben Folds, Allen Stone, Average White Band, Cee Lo Green, Sting, Michael Brecker, Chaka Khan, Hesekiah Walker and many more. His pocket is insane and all of the information in today's episode is coming from someone who KNOWS about studio drumming. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Brian Dunne into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    BRIAN’S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - What We Do

    Artist - John Scofield

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - Camp Out

    Drummer - Bill Stewart

    -

    Album - Upfront

    Artist - David Sanborn

    Release Year - 1992

    Key Track(s) - Snakes

    Drummer - Steve Jordan

    -

    Album - Plantation Lullabies

    Artist - Meshell Ndegeocello

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - I'm Diggin' You - Like an Old Soul Record

    Drummer - Programmed David Gamson

    -

    Album - The Best of Earth Wind and Fire

    Artist - Earth Wind and Fire

    Release Year - 1978

    Key Track(s) - Fantasy

    Drummer

    Maurice White, Fred White, Ralph Johnson

    -

    Album - Stomping at the Savoy

    Artist - Rufus and Chaka Khan

    Release Year - 1983

    Key Track(s) - Tell Me Something Good

    Drummer - JR Robinson

    -

    HONORABLE MENTION:

    -

    Album - Closer To The Light

    Artist - Leni Stern

    Release Year - 1990

    Key Track(s) - Sandbox

    Drummer - Zack Danziger / Dennis Chambers


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Sarah Jones' (Harry Styles / New Young Pony Club / Hot Chip) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 31, 2024

    This week's guest is Sarah Jones…an English musician best known for being a session and touring drummer. She has recorded and/or toured with New Young Pony Club, Aynsley Lister, Bat for Lashes, Puscifer, Hot Chip, Bloc Party, Pillow Person and many more. Since 2017, she has been in one of the most high-profile drum thrones in the world as the drummer for Harry Styles band. She’s a veteran and such a great player. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Sarah Jones into the drummer she is today. Cheers!

    SARAH’S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - From The Beginning

    Artist - Small Faces

    Release Year - 1967

    Key Track(s) - All or Nothing

    Drummer - Kenney Jones

    -

    Album - Metropolis pt 2 Scenes From a Memory

    Artist - Dream Theatre

    Release Year - 1999

    Key Track(s) - Scene 2 Overture 1928

    Drummer - Mike Portnoy

    -

    Album - Around The Fur

    Artist - Deftones

    Release Year - 1997

    Key Track(s) - My Own Summer / Around The Fur

    Drummer - Abe Cunningham

    -

    Album - Still Bill

    Artist - Bill Withers

    Release Year - 1972

    Key Track(s) - Kissing My Love

    Drummer - James Gadson

    -

    Album - Survivor

    Artist - Destiny's Child

    Release Year - 2001

    Key Track(s) - Survivor

    Drummer - Electronic


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Arbak Dal's (T Cymbals / Independent) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 24, 2024

    This week’s guest is Arbak Dal––a phenomenal turkish drummer and founder of T Cymbals. He’s toured and/or recorded with countless European artists over the years in addition to his own solo projects. He also worked for decades as the everyman at Istanbul Agop Cymbals before taking a crack at doing it all himself with T Cymbals. I met him a few years ago at NAMM and he's just a hoot :) If you’re heading to NAMM this weekend in Anaheim, be sure to stop by the T Cymbals booth and say hi to Arbak yourself. I’ll also be there on Sunday so shoot me a DM and maybe we can link up. I hope you enjoy this chat about the 5 (actually 6) records that helped shape Arbak Dal into the drummer and cymbalsmith he is today. Cheers!


    ARBAK’S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - Led Zeppelin IV

    Release Year - 1971

    Artist - Led Zeppelin

    Key Track(s) - Stairway to Heaven / Black Dog

    Drummer - John Bonham

    -

    Album - Come and Taste the Band

    Release Year - 1975

    Artist - Deep Purple

    Key Track(s) - Getting Tighter / You keep on Moving

    Drummer - Ian Paice

    -

    Album - Crash

    Release Year - 1996

    Artist - Dave Matthews

    Key Track(s) - Too much - #41

    Drummer - Carter Beauford

    -

    Album - Behind Closed Doors

    Release Year - 1991

    Artist - Peter Erskine

    Key Track(s) - Bulgana

    Drummer - Peter Erskine

    -

    Album - Kingdom of Desire

    Release Year - 1992

    Artist - TOTO

    Key Track - Jake to the Bone

    Drummer - Jeff Porcaro

    -

    Album - Take Me Back To Eden

    Release Year - 2023

    Artist - Sleep Token

    Key Track(s) - The Summoning

    Drummer - II


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: JP Bouvet's (Childish Japes / Educator) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 17, 2024

    This week’s guest is JP Bouvet. JP is a fabulous drummer, educator and winner of the 2011 Guitar Center Drum Off. He has his own band called Childish Japes and has toured with artists like Steve Tai and Zack Wylde as part of guitar supergroup Generation Axe…AND he runs his educational drum website where he specializes in teaching improvisation. I am a happily-subscribed student and I suggest you all do the same. If you wanted to try out his website for free (www.jpbouvetmethod.com), use the code: bigfatfive

    JP Bouvet is clearly a great deliverer of information and his insight into approaching this instrument is invaluable. I know you’ll enjoy this chat about the 5 records that helped shaped JP Bouvet into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    JP'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - The Chick Corea Elektric Band

    Artist - Chick Corea

    Release Year - 1986

    Key Track(s) - Got a Match? / King Cockroach

    Drummer - Dave Weckl

    -

    Album - Perceptual

    Artist - Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - Crooked Creek

    Drummer - Brian Blade

    -

    Album - Flood

    Artist - Herbie Hancock

    Release Year - 1975

    Key Track(s) - Actual Proof

    Drummer - Mike Clark

    -

    Album - Prog

    Artist - The Bad Plus

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track(s) - Thriftstore / Jewelry / Physical Cities

    Drummer - Dave King

    -

    Album - I Have the Room Above Her

    Artist - Bill Frisell / Joe Lovano / Paul Motian

    Release Year- 2004

    Key Track(s) - Osmosis Part 1

    Drummer - Paul Motian


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Ray Brown's (Snail Mail) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 10, 2024

    This week’s guest is Ray Brown...drummer for the band Snail Mail. I’ve been a big fan of Ray's drumming since I first heard him on Snail Mail’s debut album, Lush, in 2017. His upbringing in the DC area music scene gives him authority on a lot of music I've never heard before...and I'm assuming maybe some of you as well? He’s got a lot of energy and it was so enjoyable getting to sit back, relax, and learn a lot from a guitarist / bassist turned fabulous drummer. If you’re unfamiliar with Snail Mail, I’m excited for you to find one of your new favorite bands! Also, we play a lot more than 5 tracks today, so buckle up. Here are some of the records that helped shape Ray Brown into the musician he is today. Cheers!


    RAY’S BIG FAT FIVE

    -

    Album - The Smiths

    Artist - The Smiths

    Release Year - 1984

    Key Track(s) - Still Ill (Live on the Tube version 1:28 verse/chorus transition)

    Drummer - Mike Joyce

    -

    Album - Red Medicine

    Artist - Fugazi

    Release Year - 1995

    Key Track(s) - Birthday Pony (fill at 1:01)

    Drummer - Brendan Canty

    -

    Album - Floral Green

    Artist - Title Fight

    Release Year - 2012

    Key Track(s) - Like A Ritual (chorus fill 1:02)

    Drummer - Ben Russin

    -

    Album - S/T

    Artist - Clique

    Release Year - 2014

    Key Track(s) - Lil T

    Drummer - Tom Anthony

    -

    Album - Tesseract

    Artist - Warehouse

    Release Year - 2015

    Key Track(s) - Promethean Gaze

    Drummer - Doug Bleichner

    -

    HONORABLE MENTIONS

    -

    Album - Am

    Artist - Ovlov

    Release Year - 2013

    Key Track(s) - The Well

    Drummer - Theo Hartlett

    -

    Album - Hoodwink'd

    Artist - LVL Up

    Release Year - 2014

    Key Track(s) - Angel from Space

    Drummer - Greg Rutkin

    -

    Album - In Utero

    Artist - Nirvana

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - Serve the Servants

    Drummer - Dave Grohl

    -

    Album - Drop

    Artist - Turnstile

    Release Year - 2016

    Key Track(s) - Nonstop Feeling

    Drummer - Daniel Fang

    -

    Album - Lonesome Crowded West

    Artist - Modest Mouse

    Release Year - 1997

    Key Track(s) - Truckers Atlas

    Drummer - Jeremiah Green


    Album - DSU

    Artist - Alex G

    Release Year - 2014

    Key Track(s) - Harvey

    Drummer - Alex G


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Rhys Hastings' (Yves Tumor / Educator) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 03, 2024

    This week’s guest is Rhys Hastings. This episode has been a long time coming as both Rhys and myself have been two ships in the night trying to schedule this thing. We’ve both had an insanely busy year of touring, but we finally did it! Rhys is an incredible person and drummer based in Los Angeles and has played with the likes of Yves Tumor, Melanie Martinez, Angel Olsen, Kim Gordon, Mark Ronson, Tobias Jesso Jr and many more. His mind/body approcah to the instrument is very inspring and I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Rhys Hastings inot the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    • Check out Rhys' website HERE
    • Find out more about The Hastings Method HERE


    RHYS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Ege Bamyasi

    Artist - CAN

    Release Year - 1972

    Key Track(s) - Pinch / Vitamin C / Soup / I'm So Green

    Drummer - Jaki Liebezeit

    -

    Album - Speak No Evil

    Artist - Wayne Shorter

    Release Year - 1966

    Key Track(s) - Witch Hunt / Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum / Dance Cadaverous

    Drummer - Elvin Jones

    -

    Album - Miles Smiles

    Artist - Miles Davis

    Release Year - 1967

    Key Track(s) - Footprints, Dolores, Freedom Jazz Dance, Gingerbread Boy

    Drummer - Tony Williams

    -

    Album - I Want You

    Artist - Marvin Gaye

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - I Want You / Come Live With Me Angel / Soon I'll Be Loving You Again

    Drummer - James Gadson

    -

    Album - Siamese Dream

    Artist - Smashing Pumpkins

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - Cherub Rock / Quiet / Geek USA

    Drummer - Jimmy Chamberlain

    -

    Honorable Mentions:

    Jimi Hendrix "Are You Experienced"

    Led Zeppelin "Houses of the Holy"

    David Axelrod "Song of Innocence"

    Yes "Yes"

    Minnie Ripperton "Adventures in Paradise"

    D'Angelo "Voodoo"

    J Dilla "The Shining"


    Also mentioned during the show:

    Minnie Riperton - Adventures in Paradise


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    My End of Year REQUEST!!!! Dec 27, 2023

    I need your help to make this show the best it can be going into the new year. Even after 170+ episodes...I'm ALL EARS on how I can improve. Below is a link to an anonymous survey for you to give me ANY AND ALL feedback. Seriously...dont mince words 😬


    YOU CAN FILL OUT THE SURVEY HERE

    Big Fat Five: Zach Jones' (Sting) Top 5 Influential Records Dec 20, 2023

    This week’s guest is Zach Jones. Zach is a is a drummer, singer, songwriter, and producer from Brooklyn, NY. Zach has performed and recorded with artists such as Sting, Ingrid Michaelson, A Great Big World, Elle King, and many more. He also writes and records music with his own group, Zach Jones & the Tricky Bits. He’s the kindest dude ever; I was smiling the whole time. We could all benefit from being a little more like Zach on and off the kit so I know you’ll enjoy my chat with Zach Jones about the 5 records that helped shape into the player he is today. Cheers!


    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE

    ZACH’S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - With The Beatles

    Artist - The Beatles

    Release Year - 1963

    Key Track(s) - It Won’t Be Long, All I’ve Got to Do, All My Loving, I Wanna Be Your Man

    Drummer - Ringo Starr

    -

    Album - ‘60s Soul: When A Man Loves A Woman

    Artist - Various

    Release Year - 1997

    Key Track(s) - Soul Man, Knock On Wood, Chain Of Fools

    Drummer - Al Jackson, Jr., Roger Hawkins

    -

    Album - Live

    Artist - James Taylor

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - Your Smiling Face, Mexico, Country Road

    Drummer - Carlos Vega

    -

    Album - Every Breath You Take: The Classics

    Artist - The Police

    Release Year - 1995

    Key Track(s) - Can’t Stand Losing You, Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic

    Drummer - Stewart Copeland

    -

    Album - The Royal Scam

    Artist - Steely Dan

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - Kid Charlemagne, The Caves of Altamira, Green Earrings

    Drummer - Bernard Purdie, Rick Marotta (Everything You Did)

    -

    Any Honorable Mentions?

    “When The Pawn…”, Fiona Apple, Matt Chamberlain on drums

    “Transatlanticism” & “Plans”, Death Cab For Cutie, Jason McGerr on drums

    “Riot!” & “After Laughter”, Paramore, Zac Farro on drums


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Griffin Goldsmith's (Dawes) Top 5 Influential Records Dec 13, 2023

    This week’s guest is Griffin Goldsmith, drummer for the band Dawes. I’ve been lucky enough to see Griffin perform a few times in person the last month and he is quickly becoming one of my favorite drummers. Also…Dawes just released a 10TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION of their album “Stories Dont End” on limited edition storm cloud vinyl with Remixed & Remastered songs + 6 Bonus Tracks. You can check out that and all their other offerings at dawestheband.com

    In addition to Dawes, Griff has also worked with countless artists such as Jackson Browne, John Fogerty, Robbie Robertson, Jim Keltner, Elvis Costello, Sharon Von Etten, Angel Olson, Jenny Lewis, Bahamas and the list goes on and on. He’s recently added film scoring to his list of accomplishments. His delicate and deliberate touch is timeless and honors the gold standard of what it means to be a studio musician. Conversations like this are why I get so excited every week to talk to the best drummers of the day. Griffin’s choices are sourced from the apex of human artistry behind the kit and I know you will all be better drummers after hearing what he has to say. Please enjoy my conversation with Griffin Goldsmith…also please go down a rabbit hole of his playing, not only throughout the entire Dawes catalogue, but all the artists I just mentioned. I can't stress enough how underrated he is. Cheers!


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    GRIFF'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Think!

    Release Year - 1960

    Artist - James Brown & The Famous Flames

    Album - Stax Profiles: Little Milton

    Release Year - 2006

    -

    Artist - Little Milton

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - Let Me Down Easy (the fill at 2:36)

    Drummer - Calep Emphrey Jr.

    -

    Album - Good News

    Release Year - 1977

    Artist - Attitudes

    Song Choice - Drink My Water

    Drummer - Jim Keltner

    -

    Album - Desire

    Release Year - 1976

    Artist - Bob Dylan

    Key Track(s) - Oh, Sister

    Drummer - Howard Wyeth

    -

    Album - The Royal Scam

    Release Year - 1976

    Artist - Steely Dan

    Key Track(s) - Kid Charlemagne

    Drummer - Bernard "Pretty" Purdie

    -

    Album - No Secrets

    Release Year - 1972

    Artist - Carly Simon

    Key Track(s) - You're So Vain

    Drummer - Jim Gordon


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Evan Woodle's (Heatwarmer, Karl Blau, Racer Sessions) Top 5 Influential Records Dec 06, 2023

    This week’s guest is Evan Woodle. I was turned onto Evan’s playing through a previous guest of the podcast, Sheridan Riley of the band Alvvays. Evan got his start in the internationally acclaimed Roosevelt High School jazz program in Seattle before going on to earn a Jazz Studies degree from the University of Washington. Go huskies. Evan has toured the world with countless acts, but remains an ambassador for the Seattle Jazz Scene. He maintains a private drum studio, works with local jazz institution Origin Arts, and is one of the co-founders and current organizers of the Racer Sessions, a bimonthly free-improvisation series and a forum for cutting-edge composers and performers. I am a huge fan of his playing, knowledge, and perspective on music so I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Evan Woodle into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


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    YONI'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Kind of Blue

    Artist - Miles Davis

    Release Year - 1959

    Key Track(s) - So What, Freddie Freeloader, All Blues

    Drummer - Jimmy Cobb

    -

    Album - Yaya3

    Artist - Yaya3

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - Slow Orbit

    Drummer - Brian Blade

    -

    Album - Speak

    Artist - Speak

    Release Year - 2010

    Key Track(s) - Amalgam in the Middle, Mustard Knuckles

    Drummer - Chris Icasiano

    -

    Album - Offend Maggie

    Artist - Deerhoof

    Release Year - 2008

    Key Track(s) - Jagged Fruit

    Drummer - Greg Saunier

    -

    Album - Heigh Ho

    Artist - Blake Mills

    Release Year - 2014

    Key Track(s) - Just Out of View

    Drummer - Jim Keltner

    -

    HONORABLE MENTION

    Album - I Have the Room Above Her

    Artist - Paul Motian / Bill Frisell / Joe Lovano

    Release - 2005

    Drummer - Paul Motian


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Yoni Madar's (Independent / Multi-Instrumentalist) Top 5 Influential Records Nov 29, 2023

    This week’s guest is Yoni Madar. Yoni is an Israeli multi-instrumentalist with an incredible facility on the kit; it’s a mad scientist level of technical ability. He has released multiple books on his unique approach to technique that I urge everyone go check them out on his website www.madardrum.com. Once there, you can also contact him about private lessons 😊 Yoni truly is a drummer to the core. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Yoni Madar into the multi-instrumentalist he is today. Cheers!


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    YONI'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Selling England by the Pound

    Artist - Genesis

    Release Year - 1973

    Key Track(s) - Dancing With the Moonlit Knight

    Drummer - Phil Collins

    -

    Album - Wind & Wuthering

    Artist - Genesis

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - Wot Gorilla?

    Drummer - Phil Collins

    -

    Album - The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway

    Artist - Genesis

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - Anyway

    Drummer - Phil Collins

    -

    Album - The Gist of the Gemini

    Artist - Gino Vannelli

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - The Battle Cry

    Drummer - Graham Lear

    -

    Album - The Court of the Crimson King

    Artist - King Crimson

    Release Year - 1969

    Key Track(s) - Moonchild

    Drummer - Michael Giles


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Branden Steineckert's (Rancid, The Used) Top 5 Influential Records Nov 22, 2023

    This week’s guest is Branden Steineckert. Brandon will always be a massive part of my childhood as a founding member of The Used (specifically the first two records for which he played drums and had a major role in the songwriting). But for the last decade, Branden has also been the drummer for Rancid; he’s a legend playing with legends. I was uniquely excited about this one so I hope you enjoy my chat with Branden Steineckert about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!


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    BRANDEN'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Nevermind

    Artist - Nirvana

    Release Year - 1991

    Key Track(s) - Territorial Pissings

    Drummer - Dave Grohl

    -

    Album - Rage Against The Machine

    Artist - Rage Against The Machine

    Release Year - 1992

    Key Track(s) - Killing In The Name

    Drummer - Brad Wilk

    -

    Album - Dookie

    Artist - Green Day

    Release Year - 1994

    Key Track(s) - Longview

    Drummer - Tre Cool

    -

    Album - Get Some

    Artist - Snot

    Release Year - 1997

    Key Track(s) - I Jus’ Lie

    Drummer - Jamie Miller

    -

    Album - The Shape of Punk To Come

    Artist - Refused

    Release Year - 1998

    Key Track(s) - New Noise

    Drummer - David Sandström

    -

    Honorable Mentions:

    Nine Inch Nails - Trent Reznor

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Chad Smith

    Korn - Self Titled - David Silveri


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Travis Orbin's (Darkest Hour, Independent) Top 5 influential Records Nov 15, 2023

    This week’s guest is Travis Orbin…Travis is a progressive / metal-leaning drummer who has recorded and/or performed with Darkest Hour, Of Legends, Sky Eats Airplane, Periphery and many more heavy hitters. He’s probably the most technically proficient drummer we’ve had on the show, but he’s also one of the most creative and prolific. His setup is also very unique…often being described as a “minimalist, quasi-open-stance kit”. He’s very well-studied in his craft as both a drummer and composer, and I hope you enjoy the 5-ish records that helped shape Travis Orbin into the musician he is today. Cheers!

    Dennis Chambers – Serious Moves (ft. J. Scofield, G. Grainger, J. Beard) - WATCH HERE

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    TRAVIS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - ...And Justice for All

    Artist - Metallica

    Release Year - 1988

    Key Track(s) - One, The Frayed Ends of Sanity

    Drummer - Lars Ulrich

    -

    Album - Serious Moves (VHS)

    Artist - Dennis Chambers (John Scofield)

    Release Year - 1992

    Key Track(s) - Trim

    Drummer - Dennis Chambers

    -

    Album - Soul Vaccination: Tower of Power Live

    Artist - Tower Of Power

    Release Year - 1999

    Key Track(s) - Soul Vaccination, So Very Hard to Go

    Drummer - David Garibaldi

    -

    Album - Serious Young Insects

    Artist - On The Virg

    Release Year - 1999

    Key Track(s) - Native Metal, Alien Hip-Hop

    Drummer - Virgil Donati

    -

    Album - Universe

    Artist - Planet X

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - Clonus

    Drummer - Virgil Donati

    -

    Album - Joe's Garage

    Artist - Frank Zappa

    Release Year - 1979

    Key Track(s) - Catholic Girls

    Drummer - Vinnie Colaiuta


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Chris Icasiano's (Fleet Foxes, Bad Luck, Pure Bathing Culture) Top 5 Influential Records Nov 08, 2023

    This week’s guest is Chris Icasiano - Chris is a Filipino-American percussionist and composer from Redmond, WA. His specialization in free-improvisation and experimental music combined with his vast experience with pop and rock have made him a highly sought after collaborator in all genres of music. His debut solo work Provinces explores the complexity of cultural identity and community as a second generation immigrant in Seattle.

    You can find Chris on the road with Fleet Foxes and Pure Bathing Culture or at home in Seattle playing weirdo experimental shows as a soloist or with longtime drum and sax duo Bad Luck. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Chris Icasiano into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


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    CHRIS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Koln Concert

    Artist - Keith Jarrett

    Release Year - 1975

    Key Track(s) - Part I

    -

    Album - Perceptual

    Artist - Brian Blade Fellowship

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - Reconciliation

    Drummer - Brian Blade

    -

    Album - The Trials of Van Occupanther

    Artist - Midlake

    Release Year - 2006

    Key Track(s) - Roscoe; Van Occupanther

    Drummer - McKenzie Smith

    -

    Album - Catch Thirty-Three

    Artist - Meshuggah

    Release Year - 2005

    Key Track(s) - In Death - Is Death; Autonomy Lost; The Paradoxical Spiral

    Drummer - Tomas Haake

    -

    Album - Time (the revelator)

    Artist - Gillian Welch

    Release Year - 2001

    Key Track(s) - I Dream a Highway; Dear Someone; Revelator


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Introducing 'Big Fat Favorites" Nov 01, 2023

    I wanted to introduce a new segment for the show moving forward called 'Big Fat Favorites.' There are over 160+ episodes of this podcast and you know that I usually play more than 5 songs during the episodes so that means we've talked about almost 1000 songs so far! My whole goal with this show is to help people find their voice by interviewing the most creative and prolific drummers in the world and learning about THEIR influences. In order to keep up with that goal, I'm going to choose a favorite influence from a previous guest and share it at the end of every show. These songs stand out and are worthy of an additional spotlight.

    Also…I can't really give TOO much information yet, but I'm working on a book based on the podcast, so each drummer involved sent me a re-worded version of their explanations to be a little more concise…and that's what I'll be reading from. So, to kick it off, I am going to read 10 of my favorite choices, and then I'll play the songs … so there's no guest today. It's just Ben…but here are 10 of the greatest hits. In no particular order.


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    THIS WEEK'S BIG FAT FAVORITES:

    -

    From Rajeev Madella

    Album - Traveling Without Moving

    Release Year - 1996

    Artist - Jamiroquai

    Key Track(s) - Do You Know Where You're Coming From

    Drummer - Derrick McKenzie

    -

    From Quinton Robinson

    Album - Four Corners

    Release Year - 1987

    Artist - The Yellowjackets

    Key Track(s) - Sightseeing

    Drummer - Will Kennedy

    -

    From Madden Klass

    Album - Glass Drop

    Artist - Battles

    Release Year - 2011

    Key Track(s) - Futura

    Drummer - John Stanier

    -

    From Guy Licatta

    Album - Vintage Dread 2000

    Release Year - 2009

    Artist - Renegade aka Ray Keith

    Song Choice - Terrorist

    -

    From Griffin Goldsmith

    Album - No Secrets

    Release Year - 1972

    Artist - Carly Simon

    Song Choice - You’re So Vain

    Drummer - Jim Gordon

    -

    From Chris Marshak

    Album - James Taylor Live

    Release Year - 1993

    Artist - James Taylor

    Song Choice - Country Road

    Drummer - Carlos Vega

    -

    From Joe Plummer

    Album - The Flowers of Romance

    Artist - Public Image Ltd.

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - Four Enclosed Walls

    Drummer - Martin Atkins

    -

    From Neal Daniels

    Album - Over-Nite Sensation

    Release Year - 1973

    Artist - Frank Zappa

    Key Track(s) - I'm The Slime

    Drummer - Ralph Humphrey

    -

    From Jesse Kongos

    Album - The Cure

    Artist - Keith Jarrett Trio

    Release Year - 1990

    Key Track(s) - The Cure

    Drummer - Jack DeJohnette

    -

    From Carson Gant

    Album - Mr. Hands

    Release Year - 1980

    Artist - Herbie Hancock

    Key Track - 4 A.M.

    Drummer - Harvey Mason


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Brody Simpson's Top 5 Influential Records Oct 18, 2023

    This week’s guest is Brody Simpson. I’ve been wanting to re-work this episode and shoot it to the top of the feed because this conversation, which originally aired in August of 2020, is an episode that I quote all the time when chatting to current guests–whether it makes it into the shows or not. My motto has been “just repeat Brody’s opinions and people will think you’re insightful and creative”. But anyways, if you don’t know Brody, he’s a New Zealand-based drummer and studio owner who has been blowing people’s minds on social media for years. His unique, broken-while-being-perfectly-unbroken grooves are at the forefront of the dilla / Neo soul movement and, to be honest, his breakdown of that style of drumming is worth its weight in gold. His choices are great, but a lot different than one might expect. Before listening to this episode, I encourage you to go down the rabbit hole of his playing, because I ask him a lot of specific questions about his videos. Regardless, I hope you enjoy this new and improved chat about the 5 records that shaped Brody Simpson into the player her is today. Cheers!


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    BRODY'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Grace

    Release Year - 1994

    Artist - Jeff Buckley

    Key Track(s) - Lover, You Should Have Come Over

    Drummer - Matt Johnson

    -

    Album - Nevermind

    Release Year - 1991

    Artist - Nirvana

    Key Track(s) - Drain You

    Drummer - David Grohl

    -

    Album - 21

    Release Year - 2011

    Artist - Adele

    Key Track(s) - He Won't Go

    Drummer - Chris "Daddy" Dave

    -

    Album - Thirteenth Step

    Release Year - 2003

    Artist - A Perfect Circle

    Key Tracks - The Package

    Drummer - Josh Freese

    -

    Album - To Pimp A Butterfly

    Release Year - 2015

    Artist - Kendrick Lamar

    Key Track(s) - Hood Politics

    Drummer (if known) - Robert ‘Sput’ Searight?


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Rob Humphreys (Kacey Musgraves, Nikki Costa) Top 5 Influential Records Oct 11, 2023

    This week’s guest is Rob Humphreys. Originally from New Mexico, Rob currently lives in Los Angeles and has quite the impressive list of professional credits having played and/or recorded with Billy Ray Cyrus, Celine Dion, Karon O, Kacey Musgraves, Leonard Cohen, Theo Katzman, Elle King, Scary Pockets and MANY MORE. I absolutely love his playing. He’s just a cool damn dude. Maybe someday I can be rad like him. Anyway…I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Rob Humphreys into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    Check out Rob’s videos HERE

    Check The Meters 1974 HERE

    Check out Theo Katsman’s YouTube Channel HERE


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    ROB'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album That Thing You Do - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

    Artist - The Oneders

    Release Year - 1996

    Key Track(s) - That Thing You Do

    Drummer - Guy Patterson (Kenny Arnoff, Adam Schlesinger)

    -

    Album - Elastic

    Artist - Joshua Redman

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - Molten Soul, Still Pushin’ That Rock

    Drummer - Brian Blade

    -

    Album - Rejuvenation

    Artist - The Meters

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - People Say, Just Kissed My Baby, Jungle Man

    Drummer - Zigaboo Modeliste

    -

    Album - The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do

    Artist - Fiona Apple

    Release Year - 2012

    Key Track(s) - Left Alone

    Drummer - Charlie Drayton

    -

    Album - Be The Wheel

    Artist - Theo Katzman

    Release Year - 2023

    Key Track(s) - She’s In My Shoe

    Drummer - Jordan Rose

    -

    HONORABLE MENTION:

    -

    Album - Fire Eater

    Artist - Rusty Bryant

    Release Year - 1971

    Key Track(s) - Fire Eater

    Drummer - Idris Muhammad



    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Rest in Peace Dom Famularo Oct 04, 2023

    This past week, we lost a very important member of the drumming community, Dom Famularo. Known as "Drumming's Global Ambassador" spent the last 30 years traveling the globe preaching the gospel of drumming. An intense performer, Dom remains one of the most respected solo drum artists in the world, with a career built solely upon his unique skills as a drummer, educator, author and motivational speaker.

    Dom was a guest on this show in 2021 and it was, of course, a great chat chalk-full of life lessons. It was back before I asked the guests to pick 5 records that shaped them into the players they are today…instead I provided prompts (which I read aloud) and they answered them accordingly. Dom answers went far beyond drumming…of course 😊

    I learned that Dom’s cancer had retuned back in June when I reached out regarding a little secret project I’m working on. After hearing about his health, the Big Fat Snare Drum team offered to organize a fundraiser to offset some of the costs of his cancer treatment, but in typical selfless fashion, Dom kindly insisted we raise awareness for his non-profit Can-Do Musos … an organization for disabled musicians. You can find out more about this non-profit at candomusos.com; you can donate directly on the website.

    I’ve learned a lot from Dom, far beyond the parameters of this conversation you’re about to hear, and so if you enjoy this podcast, Dom has indirectly impacted your life too. I have donated myself, and, if you have the ability, I encourage you to check it out.

    I have updated this chat a bit and, of course wanted to shoot it to the top of my feed not only to celebrate Dom’s life, but to promote his non-profit work and re-air an episode that will certainly leave you smiling and a better person. Rest in Peace Dom. I can’t wait to chat with you again on the other side.

    Also please visit WhyHunger.org

    https://youtu.be/4zio72R2Nmw?si=CAiCNoBbQSt8ZMiR

    Thank you for everything Dom and I hope you rest in peace. Cheers. For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Jimmy Chamberlin's (The Smashing Pumpkins, Jimmy Chamberlin Complex) Top 5 Influential Records Sep 27, 2023

    This week’s guest is THE Jimmy Chamberlin. He is a singular player that blends jazz/rock/prog and I was SO curious as to what his top 5 would be; and he did not disappoint. He is, of course, most known for his time with Smashing Pumpkins, but he's also formed his own group, Jimmy Chamberlin Complex, in addition to a supergroup with Pumpkins lead singer Billy Corgan called Zwan. He's performed and recorded with Skysaw, Frank Catalano, and many more…and so…without further ado, I hope you enjoy the five records that helped shape Jimmy Chamberlin into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


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    JIMMY'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Tony Williams Lifetime - Believe it

    Artist - Tony Williams

    Release Year - 1975

    Key Track(s) - Fred / Proto-Cosmos

    Drummer - Tony Williams

    -

    Album - Blow by Blow

    Artist - Jeff Beck

    Release Year - 1975

    Key Track(s) - Air Blower / Scatterbrain

    Drummer - Richard Bailey

    -

    Album - Captain Beyond

    Artist - Captain Beyond

    Release Year - 1972

    Key Track(s) - Dancing Madly Backwards

    Drummer - Bobby Caldwell

    -

    Album - Unorthodox Behaviour

    Artist - Brand X

    Release Year - 1976

    Key Track(s) - Euthanasia Waltz / Smacks / Euphoric Hysteria

    Drummer - Phil Collins

    -

    Album - Low Spark of High Heeled Boys

    Artist - Traffic

    Release Year - 1971

    Key Track(s) - Low Spark of High Heeled Boys

    Drummer - Jim Gordon


    Honorable Mentions:

    Real McCoy/McCoy Tyner

    Empyrean Isles/Herbie Hancock

    Wired/Jeff Beck

    Gist of the Gemini/Gino Vanelli

    Now he sings, Now he sobs/Chick Corea

    Bill Evans/Any

    Roxy and Elsewhere/Zappa

    Pat Metheny Trio/99-00

    Story of Neptune/Tony Williams

    Dave Holland/Big Band

    Blue Train/ John Coltrane

    Any Lee Morgan

    Any Art Blakey

    Monk

    Any Roy Haynes

    Hank Jones

    Any Elvin

    Mose Allison

    Weather Report

    Jazz Crusaders

    UK

    Terry Bozzio

    Bill Bruford

    Ian Paice

    Nate Smith

    Nate Wood

    ...so many drummers - I'm inspired by anyone doing their own thing!


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Tommy Igoe's Top 5 Influential Records Sep 20, 2023

    This week’s guest is Tommy Igoe. Tommy is a world-class musician / producer / author / creator based in San Francisco, CA. He is the top-selling author in his field with four #1 titles on Amazon.com. He began drumming before the age of 2, started classical piano at 10, won every music competition available to him in High School, simultaneously winning two High Percussion awards with the legendary Bridgemen Drumlines.

    In 1997, Tommy wrote the drum set book for Disney’s epic Broadway production of the “The Lion King” where he served as principal drummer and conductor. He has played drums on three Grammy award winning recordings and was voted the World’s #1 Jazz Drummer in the 2014 Modern Drummer Reader’s Poll. He has created two ongoing weekly musical residency at iconic Jazz clubs in New York and San Francisco. His New York band, The Birdland Big Band, is the most popular weekly music event in the city for the last 9 years. His most recent and exciting project is the Tommy Igoe Groove Conspiracy, a 15-piece supergroup from the San Francisco that has quickly become an integral part of the San Francisco cultural landscape.


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    TOMMY'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Apple Juice

    Artist - Tom Scott

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - Instant Relief

    Drummer - Steve Gadd

    -

    Album - Buddy Rich Swinging New Band Band

    Artist - Buddy Rich

    Release Year - 1996

    Key Track(s) - West Side Story Medley

    Drummer - Buddy Rich

    -

    Album - Blue Matter

    Artist - John Scofield

    Release Year - 1987

    Key Track(s) - Blue Matter

    Drummer - Dennis Chambers

    -

    Album - Manhattan Burn

    Artist - Paquito D'Rivera

    Release Year - 1987

    Key Track(s) - All The Things You Are

    Drummer - Ignacio Berra

    -

    Album - Live in Concert (in London)

    Artist - Stan Kenton

    Release Year - Recorded in 1972

    Drummer - John Von Ohlen


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Brandon Scott's Top 5 Influential Records Sep 13, 2023

    This week’s guest is Brandon Scott –– a fabulous drummer, YouTuber and cinematographer. I’ve been following his channel for YEARS and was really excited to finally get him on the show. Brandon’s YouTube channel is an exceptional blend of great playing, education, humor and VFX. In this episode we, of course, discuss the 5 records that helped shape Brandon into the drummer he is today, but we also touch on taking self-inventory of happiness and allowing all your passions to become one big “good life stew”…and where Brandon is at with all of that. Go check out his channel link in the show notes…and enjoy that chat! Alright cheers.

    Check out Brandon’s YouTube Channel HERE


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    BRANDON'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Self Titled

    Artist - Blink-182

    Release Year - 2003

    Key Track(s) - I Miss You

    Drummer - Travis Barker

    -

    Album - Moving Pictures

    Artist - Rush

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - Tom Sawyer / YYZ

    Drummer - Neil Peart

    -

    Album - Systematic Chaos

    Artist - Dream Theater

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track(s) - In The Presence of Enemies / Constant Motion

    Drummer - Mike Portnoy

    -

    Album - Colors

    Artist - Between the Buried and Me

    Release Year - 2007

    Key Track(s) - Prequel to the Sequel / White Walls

    Drummer - Blake Richardson

    -

    Album - We Like It Here

    Artist - Snarky Puppy

    Release Year - 2014

    Key Track(s) - What About Me?

    Drummer - Larnell Lewis


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Joe Lana Jr's (The Cowboy Drummer, Dropout Kings) Top 5 Influential Records Sep 06, 2023

    This week’s guest is Joe Lana Jr. AKA The Cowboy Drummer. Based Rochester, NY, Joe has created quite the following with his hilarious drum videos coupled with amazing playing. If you don’t know about The Cowboy Drummer, go give him a follow right now. He has been a consistent positive force in my life, and I’m sure he will be for you too. But he’s not just an influencer, he’s a very active touring drummer with his band Dropout Kings, based in Phoenix, Arizona. He’s great. He’s a kind soul and I’m really grateful to have chatted with him. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Joe Lana into the drummer he is today!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    JOE'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - The Sickness

    Artist - Disturbed

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - Stupify / Droppin Plates / Down With The Sickness

    Drummer - Mike Wengren

    -

    Album - Hybrid theory

    Artist - Linkin Park

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - One Step Closer / Crawling / Papercut

    Drummer - Rob Bourdon

    -

    Album - Chocolate Star Fish and The Hotdog Flavored Water

    Artist - Limp Bizkit

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - Rollin / My Way / My Generation

    Drummer - John Otto

    -

    Album - Follow the Leader

    Artist - Korn

    Release Year - 1998

    Key Track(s) - Freak on a Leash

    Drummer - David Silveria

    -

    Album - Dookie

    Artist - Green Day

    Release Year - 1994

    Key Track(s) - When I Come Around / Basket Case / Welcome to Paradise

    Drummer - Tre cool


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Elias Mallin's (Filter, Kesha, Noah Cyrus) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 30, 2023

    This week’s guest is Elias Mallin. Elias is one of my newest favorite people and this chat was fun. He warned me that he’d have a lot of controversial takes and I certainly was not disappointed. Elias is one of THE go-to drummers in LA with a resume that includes Kesha, Filter, Noah Cyrus, Kill Hannah, Hollywood Undead, Julia Michaels, Fear and the Nervous System, and so many more. This chat felt like I was just shooting the sh$t with an old friend and I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shaped Elias Mallin into the drummer he is today.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    ELIAS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - …And Justice For All

    Artist - Metallica

    Release Year - 1988

    Key Track(s) - All of them

    Drummer - Lars Ulrich

    -

    Album - aenema

    Artist - Tool

    Release Year - 1996

    Key Track(s) - All of them

    Drummer - Danny Carey

    -

    Album - White Pony

    Artist - The Deftones

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - Digital Bath, Passenger

    Drummer - Abe Cunningham

    -

    Album - Live And Loud

    Artist - Ozzy Osbourne

    Release Year - 1993

    Key Track(s) - Shot in the Dark, Crazy Train, Bark at the Moon

    Drummer - Randy Castillo

    -

    Album - Under the Table and Dreaming

    Artist - Dave Mathews Band

    Release Year - 1994

    Key Track(s) - Ants Marching, Satellite

    Drummer - Carter Beauford


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Tim Carman's (GA-20) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 23, 2023

    This week’s guest is Tim Carman. Tim international touring musician, session drummer, educator, and published author with both Alfred Music and Hudson Music. He’s released 5 books and we talk about all of them at the end of our chat. Tim currently records and tours extensively with GA-20, a three-time Billboard #1 blues trio as well as leading two of his own projects: Tim Carman & The Street 45s—a world-groove inspired funk band—and the Tim Carman Trio—a vintage organ jazz trio. He loves to shuffle and I loved this chat. Big shoutout to Zack from the podcast Working Drummer for connecting Tim and me. This was a fun one with excellent choices and one of my favorite honorable mentions in this shows history. So I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Tim Carmen into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    TIM'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - The Colour and the Shape

    Artist - Foo Fighters

    Release Year - 1997

    Key Track(s) - All ("Hey, Johnny Park!")

    Drummer - Dave Grohl

    -

    Album - Cracklin'

    Artist - Roy Haynes with Booker Ervin

    Release Year - 1963

    Key Track(s) - Scoochie

    Drummer - Roy Haynes

    -

    Album - Funkify Your Life: The Meters Anthology

    Artist - The Meters

    Release Year - 1995

    Key Track(s) - Live Wire, Yea You're Right, Pungee, Cissy Strut

    Drummer - Zigaboo Modeliste

    -

    Album - The Capitol Vaults Jazz Series: Big John Patton

    Artist - Big John Patton

    Release Year - 2011

    Key Track(s) - The Silver Meter, Spiffy Diffy, String Bean

    Drummer - Ben Dixon (First two tracks), Clifford Jarvis (String Bean)

    -

    Album - Natural Boogie

    Artist - Hound Dog Taylor

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - See Me In the Evening

    Drummer - Ted Harvey


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Johnny Kelly's (Type O Negative, Quiet Riot, Danzig) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 16, 2023

    This week’s guest is Johnny Kelly. Johnny is mostly known for his tenure as the drummer for Type O Negative, but his full resume includes Quiet Riot, Danzig, Silvertomb, A Pale Horse Named Death, Kill Devil Kill, and his latest endeavor, Eye Am. Johnny is a hell of a hard-hitting player, but his awareness of dynamics and the development of a theme while crafting parts is the reason he’s in the third decade of a very fruitful career. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Johnny Kelly into the drummer he is today. Cheers

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    JOHNNY'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Physical Graffiti

    Artist - Led Zeppelin

    Release Year - 1975

    Key Track(s) - In My Time of Dying, Kashmir, Ten Years Gone

    Drummer - John Bonham

    -

    Album - Sabotage

    Artist - Black Sabbath

    Release Year - 1975

    Key Track(s) - The Writ, Megalomania

    Drummer - Bill Ward

    -

    Album - BBC Sessions

    Artist - Led Zeppelin

    Release Year - 1997

    Key Track(s) - Since I’ve Been Loving You, Thank You

    Drummer - John Bonham

    -

    Album - Motley Crue

    Artist - Motley Crue

    Release Year - 1994

    Key Track(s) - Power To The Music, Till Death Do Us Part

    Drummer - Tommy Lee

    -

    Album - Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

    Artist - Beatles

    Release Year - 1967

    Key Track(s) - Lovely Rita, A Day In The Life

    Drummer - Ringo Star


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Tina Raymond's (Drummer, Composer, Educator) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 09, 2023

    This week’s guest is Tina Raymond. Tina is an accomplished drummer, composer, bandleader, and educator based in Los Angeles, CA and is the director of Jazz Studies at California State University Northridge. She presented globally and her teaching credits include Los Angeles City College, The Herbie Hancock Institute, University of Michigan, Bard College and Idyllwild Arts. She’s toured all over the world as a both a leader and sideman. Her upcoming releases include “Divinations” featuring 6 of her own compositions and Rachel Eckroth’s Live at Sam First. She’s incredibly talented and an expert at relaying information in a fun way. I really hope you learn something from this one; she goes over A LOT. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Tina Raymond into the drummer she is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    TINA'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

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    Album - Everybody Digs Bill Evans

    Artist - Bill Evans

    Release Year - 1959

    Key Track(s) - Minority

    Drummer - Philly Joe Jones

    -

    Album - Live at The Pershing

    Artist - Ahmad Jamal

    Release Year - 1959

    Key Track(s) Surrey With The Fringe On Top, Poinciana

    Drummer

    Vernel Fournier

    -

    Album - When the Pawn…

    Artist - Fiona Apple

    Release Year - 1999

    Key Track(s) - Limp, Fast As You Can

    Drummer - Matt Chamberlain, Butch Norton, Jim Keltner

    -

    Album - Art Pepper + Eleven

    Artist - Art Pepper

    Release Year - 1960

    Key Track(s) - Move, Groovin’ High

    Drummer - Mel Lewis

    -

    Album - Soul Station

    Artist - Hank Mobley

    Release Year - 1960

    Key Track(s) - This I Dig of You

    Drummer - Art Blakey


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Bosh Rothman's (Kills Birds, Living Things, Blondshell) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 02, 2023

    This week’s guest is Bosh Rothman. Bosh is an LA based drummer who’s played with Kills Birds, Living Things, Blondshell, Kim Gordon, Courtney Love, Marissa Nadler, Alison Mosshart and many more. I was first turned on to Bosh when I subbed for the main live drummer of the band, Blondshell this past January / February. And, while Bosh doesn’t normally tour with Blondshell, he recorded the drums on her debut record and it was really fun to learn his parts. The record kicks ass btw. Ever since that tour, I’ve wanted to get Bosh on the show so we finally made it happen…and I’m grateful we did! I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Bosh Rothman into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    BOSH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Lōc-ed After Dark

    Artist - Tone Loc

    Release Year - 1989

    Key Track(s) - Wild thing

    -

    Album - Appetite For Destruction

    Artist - Guns N’ Roses

    Release Year - 1987

    Key Track(s)

    Welcome to the jungle

    Drummer - Steven Adler

    -

    Album - White Album

    Artist - The Beatles

    Release Year - 1968

    Key Track(s) - All!

    Drummer - Ringo Starr/Paul McCartney

    -

    Album - The Doors

    Artist - The Doors

    Release Year - 1967

    Key Track(s) - Break On Through

    Drummer - John Densmore

    -

    Album - Plastic Ono band

    Artist - John Lennon

    Release Year - 1971

    Key Track(s) - Well Well Well

    Drummer - Ringo Starr


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Stanton Moore's (Galactic, Corrosion of Conformity, Krasno / Moore Project) Top 5 Influential Records Jul 26, 2023

    This week’s guest is the one…the only Stanton Moore. Stanton is a GRAMMY award-winning drummer, educator and performer born and raised in New Orleans. His pride for his hometown is pretty unmatched. In the early ‘90s, Moore helped found the New Orleans-based essential funk band Galactic who continue to amass a worldwide audience via recording and touring globally. The band has averaged 100 shows a year for the last 25 years. Moore launched his solo career in 1998. He has 8 records under his own name. In 2022 Moore started a new project with Grammy award winning guitarist and producer Eric Krasno. The Krasno / Moore Project’s current record is “Book of Queens”.

    Throughout his 25 year career, Moore has played and or recorded with a diverse group of artists including Maceo Parker, Joss Stone, Irma Thomas, Leo Nocentelli and George Porter (of the Meters),Tom Morello (of Rage Against the Machine), Corrosion of Conformity, Donald Harrison Jr., Nicholas Payton, Trombone Shorty, Skerik, Charlie Hunter, Robert Walter, Will Bernard, Ivan Neville, Anders Osborne and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Les Claypool (Primus) to name a few.

    With a bachelor’s degree in music and business from Loyola University, Moore stays involved in education by constantly presenting clinics and teaching master classes and private lessons all over the world. He has released two books and three video projects. His book Groove Alchemy was picked by Modern Drummer as one of the top 25 instructional drum books of all time. To continue with his passion for teaching and to become more closely connected with his students, he recently launched his own online drum academy, StantonMooreDrumAcademy.com. He’s the man and this is one for the books. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Stanton Moore into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    STANTON'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

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    Album - Live at Birdland

    Artist - John Coltrane

    Key Track(s) - Afro Blue

    Drummer - Elvin Jones

    -

    Album - 20 Greatest hits

    Artist - James Brown

    Key Track(s) - All

    Drummer - Melvin Parker, Jabo Starks, Clyde Stubblefield

    -

    Album - Look a Py Py

    Artist - The Meters

    Key Track(s) - All

    Drummer - Zigaboo Modeliste

    -

    Album - Physical Graffiti

    Artist - Led Zeppelin

    Key Track(s) - All

    Drummer - John Bonham

    -

    Album - Crawfish Fiesta

    Artist - Professor Longhair

    Key Track(s) - All

    Drummer - Johnny Vidacovich


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Rich Redmond's (Jason Aldean) Top 5 Influential Records Jul 19, 2023

    This week’s guest is Rich Redmond. Rich has been the touring and recording drummer with multi platinum country rocker Jason Aldean for nearly two decades. He has recorded 31 #1 radio hits and plays to millions of fans per year in iconic venues across the globe. Rich has also worked with artists such as Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Ludacris, Bryan Adams, Bob Seger, Chris Cornell, Miranda Lambert, Eric Church, Keith Urban, Luke Bryan and many more. Rich is also a busy educator, speaker, author and actor. www.richredmond.com. But before that, I hope you enjoy the 5 (actually six) records that helped shape Rich Redmond into the player he is today. Cheers !

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    RICH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

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    Album - Winelight

    Artist - Grover Washington Jr. (Featuring Bill Withers)

    Release Year - 1980

    Key Track(s) - "Just The Two Of Us"

    Drummer - Steve Gadd, Ralph MacDonald (also writer)

    -

    Album - Foreigner

    Artist - Foreigner

    Release Year - 1977

    Key Track(s) - "Feels Like The First Time" and "Double Vision"

    Drummer - Dennis Elliott

    -

    Album - Outlandos D'Amour

    Artist - The Police

    Release Year - 1978

    Key Track(s) - "So Lonely", "Born in the 50's", "Can't Stand Losing You"

    Drummer - Stewart Copeland

    -

    Album - The Power Station

    Artist - The Power Station

    Release Year - 1985

    Key Track(s) - "Bang A Gong" and "Some Like It Hot"

    Drummer - Tony Thompson

    -

    Album - "Scarecrow" 1985 and "The Lonesome Jubilee" 1987

    Artist - John Mellencamp

    Release Year - 1985 and 1987

    Key Track(s) - "Small Town" and "Lonely Ol' Night" 1985 and "Check it Out" and "Hard Times For An Honest Man" 1987

    Drummer -Kenny Aronoff


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Curt Bisquera AKA Kirkee B's (Mick Jagger, Johnny Cash, Elton John, Seal) Top 5 Influential Records Jul 12, 2023

    This week’s guest is Curt Bisquera, AKA Kirkee B. He’s played with so many great artists, such as Elton John, Mick Jagger, Tom Petty, Sarah Mclaughlin, Lana Del Ray, and Johnny Cash, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. His pocket is deeeeeep, and his stories are endless. This episode is Kirkee B’s SECOND appearance on the show; I had him on a few years back to discuss five defining moments in his recording career, but this time he discusses the five records that helped shape him to be one of the GO-TO sessions players in LA. I love him. He’s so fun. I hope you enjoy my chat with the one and only Curt Bisquera.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    KIRKEE B'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

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    Album - Yellowjackets

    Artist - Yellowjackets

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - Matinee Idol

    Drummer - Ricky Lawson

    -

    Performance - Live at Disneyland

    Artist - Buddy Rich

    Release Year - 1976

    Drummer - Buddy Rich

    -

    Album - What Time Is It?

    Artist - The Time

    Release Year - 1982

    Key Track(s) - The Walk

    Drummer - Morris Day

    -

    Album - TOTO IV

    Artist - TOTO

    Release Year - 1982

    Key Track(s) - Waiting For Your Love

    Drummer - Jeff Porcaro


    Album - Group Sex

    Artist - Circle Jerks

    Release Year - 1981

    Key Track(s) - Red Tape

    Drummer - Lucky Leher


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Noah Hecht's (Cassandra Jenkins, Purr, Dan English) Top 5 Influential Records Jul 05, 2023

    This week’s guest is Noah Hecht - a Brooklyn-based drummer / instructor who proudly studied under Billy Hart at Oberlin Conservatory of Music and College. He’s worked with Purr, Yeasayer, Eleanor Friedberger, Man Forever, Porches, Cassandra Jenkins and many more. If I were to state a through line for this chat, it’s that Noah is obsessed with placement and its relationship with time. You’ll see what I mean 😊 BYEEE!


    Noah’s Teacher - Marivaldo Lima

    https://www.instagram.com/marivaldolima/


    2 Part Documentary - Maracatu Nação Estrela Brilhante (it’s in Portuguese, but used those CC’s)

    https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bU0L6HHSpc8

    https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UIMORU9ao1o

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    NOAH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

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    Album - On The Beach

    Artist - Neil Young

    Release Year - 1974

    Key Track(s) - Revolution Blues

    Drummer - Levon Helm

    -

    Album - A Love Supreme

    Artist - John Coltrane

    Release Year - 1965

    Key Track(s) - Acknowledgement

    Drummer - Elvin Jones

    -

    Album - Billy Hart Quartet

    Artist - Billy Hart

    Release Year - 2006

    Key Track(s) - Neon

    Drummer - Billy Hart

    -

    Album - Maracatu Nação Estrela Brilhante

    Artist - Maracatu Nação Estrela Brilhante

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - Cheguei Meu Povo

    -

    Album - Voodoo

    Artist - D'Angelo

    Release Year - 2000

    Key Track(s) - The Root

    Drummer - Questlove


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Chris Dadge's (Chad VanGaalen, Alvvays, Samantha Savage Smith) Top 5 Influences Jun 28, 2023

    This week’s guest is Chris Dadge, a Canadian drummer producer based out of Calgary, Alberta. He’s worked with so many great artists and he tells you all about a month in the life of him …so I’ll let the master do the talking. Just push play; it’s worth it. Thanks again to Sheridan Riley, drummer for the band Alvvays for recommending Chris. He did not dissappoint. All right, please enjoy my chat with Chris Dodge about the 5 records that shaped him into the player…and person he is today. Cheers!

    Check out Chris' Discography HERE

    Phil Minto and Roger Turner Performance HERE

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    CHRIS' BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

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    Album - Gone, Just Like A Train

    Artist - Bill Frisell

    Release Year - 1998

    Key Track(s) - Verona; Egg Radio; Girl Asks Boy (Pt. 1)

    Drummer - Jim Keltner

    -

    Album - Outlaster

    Artist - Nina Nastasia

    Release Year - 2010

    Key Track(s) - You're A Holy Man; You Can Take Your Time

    Drummer - Jay Bellerose

    -

    Album - Largo

    Artist - Brad Mehldau

    Release Year - 2002

    Key Track(s) - Dusty McNugget; When It Rains

    Drummer - Matt Chamberlain

    -

    Album - Drainage

    Artist - Phil Minton and Roger Turner

    Release Year - 2003

    Key Track(s) - All of it!

    Drummer - Roger Turner


    Album - Nefertiti

    Artist - Miles Davis

    Release Year - 1968

    Key Track(s) - Nefertiti; Fall; Hand Jive

    Drummer - Tony Williams


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Jojo Mayer: Clarity > Perfection Jun 21, 2023

    This week’s guest is Jojo Mayer. I am in the midst of a project that has me going through a bunch of our past episodes (I will be announcing this project shortly and I’m super excited about it), but when I went back through the Jojo’s episode, I was reminded of its importance. Jojo is mind-blowing player who helped pioneer the drum n bass movement in New York City by “reverse engineering” programmed drum loops and applying them to the drum set. He is also revered for his exceptional technique, which he dissects in the wildly-popular instructional series titled “Secret Weapons For The Modern Drummer Parts 1 & 2”. He is the leader of his own band, Nerve, which he founded back in 1997. We don’t necessarily stick to the normal format in this one; Jojo is a great storyteller. We start off with a few anecdotes about a cymbal once-owned by Billy Higgins that Jojo picked up by happenstance and Jojo’s time spent “studying” with Freddy Gruber, but we certainly touch on a lot of Jojo’s opinions / perspectives regarding accepting influences, but knowing when they’re actually a detriment to your personal growth on the instrument. He’s a very philosophical man and shares quite a few nuggets of slap-you-in-the-face style wisdom. Even though this is probably one of our most-downloaded episodes over the life of the show, we’ve been getting a lot of new listeners and I wanted to push this towards the top because, well…it’s important. I’ve cleaned it up a bit and put a cute lil bow in it. Stay tuned for my fun little project announcement, but in the meantime…please enjoy my chat with my esteemed guest, Jojo Mayer. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Kris Myers' (Umphrey's McGee) Top 5 Influential Records Jun 14, 2023

    This week’s guest is Kris Myers - a Nashville-based drummer whose main project is the progressive-rock band Umphrey’s McGee, but he’s also played with a variety of jazz artists including Nicholas Payton, Randy Brecker, Dennis DiBlasio and many more. With Umphrey’s, Kris has shared the stage with Les Claypool, Huey Lewis, Stephen Perkins, Victor Wooten, Bill Evans, Jason Bonham and many more…as always. He truly is an INSANE drummer and I will say he’s probably the best guest at breaking down his choices. Even though we’ve heard a few of his picks before, I learned a lot from his explanations. AND a Big Fat thanks to Neal Daniels for the recommendation :) Go check out Neal’s episode from a few weeks back. OKKKKKK…here are Kris Myers’ 5 records that shaped him into the drummer he is today :)))

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    KRIS' BIG FAT FIVE👇🏻

    -

    Album - Zenyatta Mondatta

    Release Year - 1980

    Artist - The Police

    Key Track(s) - Driven To Tears

    Drummer - Stewart Copeland

    -

    Album - Are You Experienced?

    Release Year - 1967

    Artist - Jimi Hendrix

    Key Track(s) - Fire

    Drummer - Mitch Mitchell

    -

    Album - Led Zeppelin

    Release Year - 1969

    Artist - Led Zeppelin

    Key Track(s) - Good Times Bad Times

    Drummer - John Bonham

    -

    Album - Speak No Evil

    Release Year - 1966

    Artist - Wayne Shorter

    Key Track(s) - Witch Hunt

    Drummer - Elvin Jones

    -

    Album - Vinnie Calaiuta

    Release Year - 1993

    Artist - Vinnie Calaiuta

    Key Track(s) - I’m Tweeked! Attack of the 20 LB Pizza

    Drummer - Vinnie Calaiuta


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Ian Froman's Top 5 Influential Records Jun 07, 2023

    This week’s guest is Ian Froman - an incredible jazz drummer based in New York City. Ian has taught at Berklee College of Music, Drummers Collective, New School University, City College of New York in addition to private lessons. He has toured the world with so many of the greatest players in the genre including (but CERTAINLY not limited to) John Abercrombie, Dave Holland, Michael Brecker, Gary Burton, and Matthew Garrison. This is easily one of my favorite conversations I’ve ever had…and not just on the podcast. Ian is such a fun story teller and he’s got A LOT of stories. Also, a big shoutout to Mike Powers from Boston who suggested I reach out to Ian! Alright, here is Ian Froman’s Big Fat Five. Cheers!



    IAN'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - A Love Supreme

    Release Year - 1965

    Artist - John Coltrane

    Song Choice - Resolution

    Drummer - Elvin Jones

    -

    Album - Now He Sings, Now He Sobs

    Release Year - 1968

    Artist - Chick Corea

    Song Choice - Steps

    Drummer - Roy Haynes

    -

    Album - Still Live

    Release Year - 1986

    Artist - Keith Jarrett

    Drummer - Jack DeJohnette

    -

    Album - Michael Brecker

    Release Year - 1987

    Artist - Michael Brecker

    Song Choice - Syzygy

    Drummer - Jack Dejohnette

    -

    Album - Paths Prints

    Release Year - 1982

    Artist - Jan Garbarek

    Drummer - Jon Christensen


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Neal Daniels' (LP, Liz Phair, Matt Nathanson) Top 5 Influential Records May 31, 2023

    This week’s guest is Neal Daniels…an LA-based drummer with credits that include LP, Liz Phair, Matt Nathanson, Booker T. Jones, Post Malone, Due Lipa, Camila Cabello and many more. As is common with this podcast, we’ve known each other from afar for quite some time, but this podcast keeps bringing people together! Neal is a pro drummer through and through and this is certainly a masterclass in the journey towards enlightenment. We talk about the music that sparked his initial interest in drums / his inevitable stoner rock stage / his previous tendency to overplay / his moving to LA & feeling lost with his playing. Don't worry, it all has a happy ending. Please enjoy my conversation with Neal Daniels about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    NEALS BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - TEN

    Release Year - 1991

    Artist - Pearl Jam

    Song Choice (to be played during the show) - Alive

    Drummer (if known) - Dave Krusen

    -

    Album - Master Of Puppets

    Release Year - 1986

    Artist - Metallica

    Song Choice (to be played during the show) - Battery

    Drummer (if known) - Lars Ulrich

    -

    Album - Anchor Drops

    Release Year - 2004

    Artist - Umphrey's Mcgee

    Song Choice (to be played during the show) - Ja Junk Part 1

    Drummer (if known) - Kris Myers

    -

    Album - Over-Nite Sensation

    Release Year - 1973

    Artist - Frank Zappa

    Song Choice (to be played during the show) - I'm The Slime

    Drummer (if known) - Ralph Humphrey

    -

    Album - Clones Of Dr. Funkenstein

    Release Year - 1976

    Artist - Parliament

    Song Choice (to be played during the show) - Everything Is On The One

    Drummer (if known) - Jerome “Bigfoot” Brailey


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Kellii Scott's (Failure) Top 5 Influential Records May 24, 2023

    This week’s guest is Kellii Scott - drummer for the band Failure. He’s also worked with Liquid Jesus, A Perfect Circle, Queens of the Stoneage, Veruca Salt, Pink, James Blunt, Christina Aguilera, Linda Perry, Faith Hill, etc.…it’s all over the place. He’s a monster-of-a-player and, while we’ve known OF each other from afar for a bit, we finally got to meet backstage at a Sunny Day Real Estate concert recently in LA (thanks to William Goldsmith!). I hope you enjoy my interview with Kellii Scott about the 5 records that shaped him into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    KELLII'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Highway to Hell

    Release Year - 1979

    Artist - ACDC

    Song Choice - Walk All Over You

    Drummer - Phil Rudd

    -

    Album - All The World's A Stage

    Release Year - 1976

    Artist - Rush

    Song Choice - 2112 Overture

    Drummer - Neil Peart

    -

    Album - Destroyer

    Release Year - 1976

    Artist - Kiss

    Song Choice - Flaming Youth

    Drummer - Peter Criss

    -

    Album - Number of the Beast

    Release Year - 1982

    Artist - Iron Maiden

    Song Choice - Prisoner

    Drummer - Clive Burr

    -

    Album - In Through The Out Door

    Release Year - 1979

    Artist - Led Zeppelin

    Song Choice - Fool In The Rain

    Drummer - John Henry Bonham


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Noa Kahn's Top 5 Influential Records May 17, 2023

    This week’s guest is Noa Kahn…a Grammy-nominated drummer who, while only moving to the US from Israel in 2019, has already taken the industry by storm and getting hired by some of the best names in the game…including Jax and Big Wild. I had the pleasure of sharing a bill with her last month and wow - she’s incredibly humble, but SUCH a monster player. Her name will be heard a lot for some time to come. I was so excited to chat and I hope you enjoy this conversation with one of my new favorite drummers, Noa Kahn, on the 5 records that shaped her into the musician she is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    NOAH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Tower of Power

    Release Year - 1973

    Artist - Tower of Power

    Song Choice - Soul Vaccination

    Drummer - David Garibaldi

    -

    Album - Master Plan

    Release Year - 1990

    Artist - Dave Weckl

    Song Choice - Festival De Ritmo

    Drummer - Dave Weckl

    -

    Album - Live In Concert

    Release Year - 2001

    Artist - Kim Burrell

    Song Choice - I’ll Keep Holding On

    Drummer - Robert “Sput” Searight

    -

    Album - Elastic

    Release Year - 2002

    Artist - Joshua Redman

    Song Choice - Jazz Crimes

    Drummer - Brian Blade

    -

    Album - Fuzzy

    Release Year - 2007

    Artist - Oz Noy

    Song Choice - Fuzzy

    Drummer - Keith Carlock


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Andrew Marshall's (Billie Eilish, FINNEAS) Top 5 Influential Records May 10, 2023

    This week’s guest is Andrew Marshall – the incredible drummer for both Billie Eilish and FINNEAS. He was one of the first drummers I met when moving to LA and we’ve been friends ever since. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Andrew Marshall into the drummer he is today.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    ANDREW'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - The Birthday Concert

    Release Year - 1995 (recorded in 1981)

    Artist - Jaco Pastorius

    Song Choice - Soul Intro/The Chicken

    Drummer - Peter Erskine

    -

    Album - Soul Vaccination: Tower of Power Live

    Release Year - 1999

    Artist - Tower of Power

    Song Choice - Soul Vaccination

    Drummer - David Garibaldi

    -

    Album - To The Stars

    Release Year - 2004

    Artist - Chick Corea Elektric Band

    Song Choice - Mistress Luck--The Party

    Drummer - Dave Weckl

    -

    Album - ...Is A Real Boy

    Release Year - 2004

    Artist - Say Anything

    Song Choice - Belt

    Drummer - Coby Linder

    -

    Album - The Bells Sketch

    Release Year - 2010

    Artist - James Blake

    Song Choice - Buzzard & Kestrel

    Drummer - James Blake (programming)


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Jordan Rose' (Theo Katzman, Cory Wong, Caleb Hawley) Top 5 Influential Records May 03, 2023

    This week’s guest is Jordan Rose - a Brooklyn-based session drummer who’s worked with Theo Katzman, Cory Wong, SZA, Caleb Hawley, Charlie Puth, Pomplamoose, Charlie Hunter and so many other legends. I know I’m a broken record, but I LOVE his feel on the kit and I couldn’t wait to get him on the show. He’s overcome a lot in his life, including a period of 2 years where he lost hearing in his right ear, but it only made him into a better musician. We also talk about music helped him overcoming his social anxiety (something that I personally struggle with to this day). All in all, Jordan is a gem. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shaped Jordan Rose into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    JORDAN'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - The Best of Yellowjackets

    Release Year - 1999

    Artist - Yellowjackets

    Song Choice - New Rochelle

    Drummer - Will Kennedy

    -

    Album - Texas Flood

    Release Year - 1983

    Artist - Stevie Ray Vaughn

    Song Choice - Lenny

    Drummer - Chris Layton

    -

    Album - Continuum

    Release Year - 2006

    Artist - John Mayer

    Song Choice - Vultures

    Drummer - Steve Jordan

    -

    Album - Donny Hathaway Live

    Release Year - 1972

    Artist - Donny Hathaway

    Song Choice - You've Got a Friend

    Drummer - Fred White

    -

    Album - Band of Gypsys (50th Anniversary / Live At Fillmore East, 1970)

    Artist - Jimi Hendrix

    Song Choice - Power To Love - Live

    Drummer - Buddy Miles

    -

    HONORABLE MENTIONS

    Life on Planet Groove by Maceo Parker - Kenwood Dennard on drums

    Bill Withers Live at Carnegie Hall - James Gadson on drums

    King Curtis Live At The Fillmore West - Bernard Purdie on drums

    Without A Net by Wayne Shorter - Brian Blade on drums


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Jonathan Pinson's (Boom Clap, Mark Turner, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock) Top 5 Influential Records Apr 26, 2023

    This week’s guest is Jonathan Pinson - an award-winning drummer and band leader. He’s played with Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Mark Turner and so many others…he has a Masters in music from UCLA via the very prestigious Thelonius Munk Institute of Jazz Performance. He is currently a professor at California Institute of the Arts and the leader of his own band, Boom Clap. He’s an incredible musician and it was an honor to have him on the show. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that’s helped shape Jonathon Pinson into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    Call / Text me YOUR picks @ (424) 253-6676 for a chance to be on the show. Just state:

    • Your name
    • Where you’re calling from
    • A little backstory of yourself as a drummer (whatever you feel comfortable with…but do some self promotion, we all want to support you!)


    JONATHAN'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Perceptual

    Release Year - 2000

    Artist - Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band

    Song Choice - Perceptual

    Drummer - Brian Blade

    -

    Album - Citizen Tain

    Release Year - 1999

    Artist - Jeff Tain Watts

    Song Choice - The Impaler

    Drummer - Jeff Tain Watts

    -

    Album - Live on Tour in Europe

    Release Year - 1976

    Artist - The Billy Cobham George Duke Band

    Song Choice - Almustafa The Beloved

    Drummer - Billy Cobham

    -

    Album - Continuum

    Release Year - 2006

    Artist - John Mayer

    Song Choice - Gravity

    Drummer - Steve Jordan

    -

    Album - Live at The Village Vanguard

    Release Year - 1999

    Artist - Wynton Marsalis

    Song Choice - Jig’s Jig

    Drummer - Herlin Riley


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Our Top 5 Movies About Music (w/ Mike Schulte) Apr 19, 2023

    This week, Mike Schulte (drummer for The Pork Tornadoes / Dope Walker and co-host of the podcast ‘Confused Breakfast’) and I discuss each of our 5 favorite movies involving music in SOME capacity 😊. This was a lot of fun.


    Listen to Confused Breakfast HERE

    Find out more about The Pork Tornadoes: YouTube / Instagram

    Listen to Dope Walker: HERE

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Butch Vig's Top 5 Influential Records (that shaped him into the producer/engineer/songwriter/drummer he is today) Apr 05, 2023

    This week’s guest is Butch Vig. He needs no introduction, but HERE WE GO. He is one of the most successful producers in rock history - having produced a handful of critically and commercially acclaimed albums such as Nirvana’s ‘Nevermind’, both ‘Gish’ and ‘Siamese Dream’ from Smashing Pumpkins, Sonic Youth’s ‘Dirty’, Soul Asylum’s ‘Let Your Big Light Shine’, Foo Fighters’ ‘Wasting Light’, Jimmy Eat World’s ‘Chase This Light’ and the two latest Silversun Pickups records ‘Widow’s Weeds’ and ‘Physical Thrills’. In addition to producing, Butch is one helluva drummer - having played with Spooner, Fire Town, 5 Billion in Diamonds and, of course, Garbage. This was a milestone for both myself and the podcast; I love how it turned out. Butch is a sweetheart of a man and it made me love him and his career even more. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Butch Vig into the producer and drummer he is today.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    BUTCH'S BIG FAT FIVE 👇🏻

    -

    Album - Who's Next

    Release Year - 1971

    Artist - The Who

    Song Choice - Behind Blue Eyes

    Drummer - Keith Moon

    -

    Album - Country Life

    Release Year - 1974

    Artist - Roxy Music

    Song Choice - Out Of The Blue

    Drummer - Paul Thompson

    -

    Album - Ramones

    Release Year - 1976

    Artist - Ramones

    Song Choice - Beat On The Brat

    Drummer - Tommy Ramone

    -

    Album - Marquee Moon

    Release Year - 1977

    Artist - Televison

    Song Choice - See No Evil

    Drummer - Billy Ficca

    -

    Album - London Calling

    Release Year - 1979

    Artist - The Clash

    Song Choice - Train In Vain

    Drummer - Topper Headon


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Nate Wood's (fOUR, Kneebody, Wayne Krantz) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 29, 2023

    This week’s guest is Nate Wood. Nate can do it all…and he can do it all at once. In his solo project fOUR, he sings / plays bass/keys/drums all at the same time. Wow. But throughout his career, he’s been involving in so many projects including Kneebody, Wayne Krantz, George Harrison, Tigran Hamasyan, Louis Cole, Taylor Hawkins and the Coattail Riders, Sting…incredible. It was truly and honor talking to him and I hope you enjoy the 5 records that shaped Nate Wood in the musician he is today. Cheers!

    As promised...check out the video of Marcus Gilmore HERE.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Chris Marshak's (Steve Winwood, Amy Helm, Ben Wisch, Sessions) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 22, 2023

    This week’s guest is Chris Marshak - a drummer and percussionist whose worked with a boat load of great artists throughout the years including Steve Winwood, Amy Helm, James Maddock, Jeffrey Gaines, Willy Porter and many more. We also touch on some pretty vulnerable (yet universal) topics in this one and it felt amazing; he’s a great guy. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shape Chris Marshak into the drummer he is today, but get your notes out for this one as he gives some stellar advice than can be applied both on and off the kit. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Forrest Rice's (WØLFY) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 15, 2023

    This week’s guest is THE Forrest Rice. He is an incredible drummer with a seemingly endless amount of creativity flowing through as shown by the amount of projects with which he’s involved. His own project, WØLFY, has a lot of exciting things come up, but he’s also drummed for Covet, Standards and The Illustrative Violet over the last few years. Before listening to the episode, I suggest you check out his drumming. Regardless, I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Forrest Rice into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    I get interviewed... Feb 28, 2023

    This week’s guest is…me! I’ve been getting a lot of questions from new listeners regarding my time in LA and asking for any advice on how to make strides in their drumming career. While I certainly don’t think I’m an authority on that matter, I still welcome these conversations. That being said, I wanted to upload this episode for a good reference as to what I tend to say time and time again. I also acknowledge that my favorite podcasts ARE my favorite podcasts because I feel like I know the host and, while I try to keep these conversations as causal as possible, I don’t really talk about myself and my history too much. Sooo a few months back, I interviewed Ryan Seaman for Big Fat Five, but Ryan has his own show as well on Idobi Radio called ‘Ryan Seaman and Friends’. After our chat for this podcast, I hopped on his show to talk about MY story as a drummer and offer some advice of varying credibility. I hope you enjoy getting to know me a little bit better and we’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming soon! Also, please email me at ben@bigfatsnaredrum.com at any time to offer suggestions for the show e.g. comments, concerns, guest recommendations, congratulations on being such a great host - whatever you want! I’ve had some really kind people reach out as of late and it truly means the world. I don’t take any of it for granted. Anyways, enough about me. Here’s an episode all about me! Cheers.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: E-MAN's (Andy Grammer) Top 5 Influential Records Feb 22, 2023

    This week’s guest is my good buddy, E-MAN - drummer and recording extraordinaire. His main project these days is Andy Grammer, but he’s always busy recording out of his home studio near. Over the years, he’s worked with many amazing artists and producers including Gwen Stefani, Cody Simpson, Steve Lukather, Tommy Page, Tyler Johnson, Rabbit and it goes on and on and ON. He’s performed on SNL, David Letterman, The Tonight Show – basically all the shows 😊 But, at the end of the day, I consider him a dear friend and he’s just got a genuinely good and playful soul. I hope you enjoy the five records that shaped E-MAN into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    Check out his loops pack HERE

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Brendan Buckley (Morrissey, Shakira, Perry Farrell): 5 Records That Inspired Him Growing Up Feb 15, 2023

    This week’s guest is Brendan Buckley…a drummer with an incredible resume that includes Shakira, Perry Farrell, Morrissey, Tegan and Sara, Damian Rice, JJ Lin and many more. I gush all about his playing to his face in the chat so I’ll leave that there, but I will say that he is one of the most articulate guests we’ve had on the show in regards to setting up each of his choices; and because of that, this is one of my favorites. He had a little bit of a different take on his choices, so buckle and enjoy this chat with Brendan Buckley. Cheers!

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    Brendan's Honorable Mentions (as promised)...

    - Kenny Werner: "Meditation 1-4 "Effortless Mastery" 1996

    - Carlos Vega: "Country Road" on James Taylor's "Live" 1993

    - Omar Hakim: “Fortress Around Your Heart” on Sting’s “The Dream of the Blue Turtles” 1985

    - Steve Jordan: "Ramblin" on David Sanborn's "Upfront" 1992

    - John Bonham: “Good Times Bad Times” on Led Zeppelin 1 1969

    - Stephen Perkins: “Mountain Song” on Jane’s Addiction’s “Nothing’s Shocking” 1988

    - Matt Cameron: “Ugly Truth” on Soundgarden’s “Louder Than Love” 1989

    - Dennis Chambers: "Blue Matter" on John Scofield's "Blue Matter" 1986

    - Matt Chamberlain: "A Sort Of Fairytale" on Tori Amos's "Scarlet's Walk" 2002

    - Tony Williams: "So What" on Miles Davis's "Four And More" 1966

    - Bill Stewart: “She’s So Lucky” on John Scofield’s “Hand Jive” 1994

    - Boris Williams: “Icing Sugar” on The Cure’s “Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me” 1987

    Big Fat Five: Josh Grigsby's (Houston Calls, Mae, Just Surrender) Top 5 Influential Records Feb 08, 2023

    This week’s guest is Josh Grigsby - a drummer I’ve looked up to and apparently ripped off for a quite some time. He was/is the drummer for Houston Calls (a now-defunct pop punk band from New Jersey who actually just announced a batch of reunion shows in June), but he’s also the current drummer for Mae and Just Surrender. I hope you enjoy this chat with Josh Grigsby about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Sheridan Riley's (Alvvays, Peg) Top 5 Influential Records Feb 01, 2023

    This week’s guest Sheridan Riley - a drummer and overall fabulous musician based out of Washington State. Sheridan is the drummer for the band Alvvays (which I love) in addition to their own projects Peg and releases under their own name, Sheridan Riley. They’ve also worked with Avi Buffalo, Hand Habits, Cassandra Jenkins, John Mitchell Quartet, Time of Wolves, Fort Wife among many others. Sheridan is a such a kind, caring person and it shows in their conversational drumming. Please enjoy my chat with Sheridan Riley about the 5 records that shaped them into the player they are today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Jeremy Taggart's (ex-Our Lady Peace, Taggart & Torrens) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 25, 2023

    This week’s guest is Jeremy Taggart. Jeremy has been mentioned on the pod of few times in other drummer’s top 5 in regards to his previous work with the band Our Lady Peace…which Jeremy joined when he was 17 and remained their drummer until 2014. He’s also a fellow podcaster with his show “Tarrant & Torrens”…which we talk about at the end of the show (it's also a musical duo)…plus he's the co-auther of the book "Canadianity ".

    Jeremy and my mutual friend (and yet another friend of the pod) Mike Robinson of Blame My Youth, K Flay, Oliver Tree sums up Jeremy’s playing in a great way. Quote “Jeremy’s drumming just seems so conversational and almost stream of conscious. But at the same time so deliberate”. I mean...that’s the gaol right? We also get into his friendship…it’ll make you love Elvin even more. All in all, Jeremy has an Infectious laugh and youthful playfulness thoughout this whole conversation. I loved it. Please enjoy this chat with Jeremey Taggart about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Dave Scalia's (Elle King) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 18, 2023

    This week’s guest is Dave Scalia. Dave is a Brooklyn-based professional drummer, producer, and songwriter. For the last 7 years, he’s been playing with Elle King, but throughout his career he’s also worked with White Rabbits, Dawn Richard, Theo Katzman, Miranda Lambert, A Great Big World, Darren Criss, Dierks Bentley and many more. He’s incredible, nuanced and purposeful, yet very elastic with his playing. I just love his style and I was extremely excited to chat with him. Please enjoy the 5ish records that shaped Dave Scalia into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Adam Christgau's (Tegan and Sara, Troye Sivan, Miley Cyrus, movies like Pixar’s Luca and HBO’s Station 11) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 11, 2023

    This week’s guest Adam Christgau. Adam is one of THE go-to drummers in the live music scene. He’s worked with Tegan & Sara, Troye Sivan, Sia, Weezer, John Scofield, Kacey Musgraves, Brandon Flowers, Ingrid Michaelson, Chaka Kahn, LP, Dan Romer and, of course, many more. He’s also worked on music scores including Pixar’s Luca and HBO’s Station 11. In addition to musical endeavors, Adam owns and operates Christgau Design: a high-end custom furniture company. I’ve wanted to get Adam on the show for awhile and it seemed like a great time to do it after Stacy Jones spoke so highly of him during last week’s episode. So here we go, I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Adam Christgau into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Stacy Jones' (Miley Cyrus, American Hi-Fi, Matchbox Twenty) Top 5 Influential Records Jan 04, 2023

    This week’s guest is Stacy Jones … a hell of a drummer, front man, guitarist, singer, producer and musical director. He is currently the musical director AND drummer for Miley Cyrus, the primary songwriter / singer / rhythm guitarist for American Hi-Fi and the drummer for Matchbox Twenty and Letters to Cleo. As a Musical Director, he’s also worked with Olivia Rodrigo, Demi Lovato, The Chainsmokers, Logic and Ryan Tedder, Noah Cyrus, Troye Sivan, 5 Seconds of Summer, Broods and many more. And to list off a few more names he’s worked with - Veruca Salt, Madonna, Everclear, Avril Lavigne, Ariana Grande, Joan Jett, The Flaming Lips, Sheryl Crow, Butch Walker…I mean…yeah. Get out your notepads for this one ya'll. This dude not only HOLDS the drum seat, but he HIRES drummers so he knows what works and what WILL GET YOU PAID. SORRY FOR THE CAPS! I can’t say enough good things about him. Please enjoy the 5 records that shaped Stacy Jones into the drummer he is today.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Zach Lind (Jimmy Eat World) Tells The Stories Behind His Favorite Jimmy Eat World Recordings Dec 28, 2022

    This week’s show has Zach Lind of Jimmy Eat World breaking down his favorite Jimmy Eat World grooves and tells the story of why they each hold a special place in his drumming heart. There are a lot of great perspectives in this episode including how the element of surprise is an artist’s greatest weapon, acknowledging when you’re not needed and how he’s always thinking about what he can take AWAY from a part to make it unique as opposed to adding more.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Daniel Fang's (Turnstile, Angel Dust) Top 5 Influential Records Dec 21, 2022

    This week’s guest is Daniel Fang…drummer for the hardcore band Turnstile.


    Turnstile was nominated for three Grammys this year which includes:

    Best rock performance (Holiday)

    Best rock song (Blackout)

    Best metal performance (Blackout)

    Daniel’s Tour Kit Rundown


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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Nick Ruffini's (Drummer's Resource Podcast) Top 5 Influential Records Dec 14, 2022

    This week’s guest is Nick Ruffini…host of the longest-running drumming podcast out there today…Drummer’s Resource. With over 650 episodes, Nick has talked to almost every drummer one could think imagine. I love his interviews; I’ve learned a lot from him and his show is one I look up to quite a bit. We’ve chatted a few times off the air over the years, but it was great to finally get him on the show. If you’re a fan of drumming podcasts, I’m sure you’re aware of Nick, but you might not know a lot about him as a player so let’s get to know Nick through the records that shaped him into the drummer he is today. And go check out Drummer’s Resource…but then be sure to come back to this feed! 😊

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Check out this episode's playlist HERE

    Big Fat Five: Sarab Singh's (MUNA, Joji, KLVR GRL) Top 5 Influential Records Dec 07, 2022

    This week’s guest is Sarab Singh. I’ve admired Sarah from afar for a long time and it’s funny that we’ve never met face to face prior to this chat as we’ve randomly shared lockouts in LA essentially across the hall from each other twice at this point. Sarab has worked with Ingrid Michaelson, Charlie XCX, Joji, his solo project called KLVR GRL, and most recently he’s kept busy with the band MUNA. Please enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Sarah Singh into the amazingly-unique drummer he is today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Nov 30, 2022

    well dammit.

    THE James Gadson Breaks Down the Songs That Define His Recording Career Nov 23, 2022

    **This is the new and improved interview with James Gadson that happened 2 years ago now in November of 2020.**

    ‘Gadson on Gadson’. Today was a milestone for me. I’ve been such a huge fan of this man for years and I hope I hide my nervousness well enough in this conversation. This week’s guest is James Gadson…one of the funkiest drummers out there. He gave life to the 16th note groove and used it on countless records with Bill Withers, The Jackson Five, Beck, Cheryl Lynn, Charles Wright and the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band and many more. For a time, it was rare to go a whole day without hearing James’ drumming on the radio, and probably still true to this day on some stations. We discuss the top records on which he played that best represent his career in the studio. I had a blast talking with James and he is a gentleman through and through. And if you’re a drummer, his DVD ‘Funk / R&B Drumming’ is a must watch. Honestly…must OWN. It will get you paid. I guarantee it.

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Sam Merrick's (Broadway's '& Juliet') Top 5 Influential Records Nov 16, 2022

    This week’s guest is THE Sam Merrick, drummer for ‘& Juliet’ on Broadway at the Sondheim Theater in New York City. We’ll learn more about that show later on in the episode, but Sam just got done with a 1200+ long run as the drummer for the national tour of Hamilton: An American Musical. In addition to live theatre, Sam has played with Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Charlie Wilson, Charles Bradley and his Extraordinaires…and many more. He’s also got an amazing sample pack series called Break Habits (available exclusively at The Drum Broker). He’s a stud; people want to hire him and he can teach all of us a whole hell of a lot. I wanted to find out what he focuses on from a drumming perspective that’s formed him into such a professional, consistent player. Please enjoy my chat with Sam Merrick about the 5 records that shaped him into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Willy Rodriguez' (The Mars Volta, Mon Laferte) Top 5 Influential Records Nov 09, 2022

    This week’s guest is Willy Rodriguez. Willy is a Latin-Grammy award winning drummer and percussionist based in New York City. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Willy has been playing drums since he was thirteen and his list of associated acts is endless…including Omar Rodriguez-Lopez, Mon Laferte, Domino Saints and more. After leaving Puerto Rico, he attended Berklee College of Music and began making a name for himself in the Boston music scene rather quickly, but he ultimately set up shop in New York City. His work with Omar eventually led to him being called to drum on the newest The Mars Volta record (which is an insane honor for any drummer), but Willy is a singular player. He extremely knowledgeable and well-plugged in to so many scenes and genres that you can’t really describe him in any particular way; He’s just Willy. Also, hit him up on his Instagram the next time you’re in New York City and he’ll point to the right places to go. Please enjoy my chat with THE willy Rodriguez about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Rod Elkins' (Tyler Childers) Top 5 Influential Records Nov 02, 2022

    This week’s guest is Rod “Hot Rod” Elkins…drummer for Tyler Childers and The Food Stamps…among many others. Rod was born and raised in Huntington, West Virginia and has spent his life keeping time and sharing his infectious love for music…but more importantly…his devotion to the song. Rod is fairly new to my radar. As you know, I’ve been on tour the last six weeks and I was recently in Lexington, Kentucky playing The Burl. My good buddy (and friend of the podcast, Steve from Junkdrummer.tv) came out to hang and we, of course, started chatting about Levon Helm. He mentioned that his buddy, Rod, was the closest living thing to Levon’s legendary style AND his drumming his currently on a top 10 country album by an artist called Tyler Childers. I immediately checked him out and damnnnn…Steve was right. Sooooo I got him on the show right away; I LOVED all his picks and loved his reasoning even more. This was a really relaxing chat and Rod has a great perspective on all things music. I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Rod Elkins into the drummer he is today!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Greg Hersey's Top 5 Influential Records Oct 26, 2022

    This weeks guest is Greg Hersey…a percussionist and educational artist based out of Jackonville, Florida. He is currently the Director of Instrumental Music at Episcopal School of Jacksonville. I first found him on Instagram when he started tagging Big Fat Snare Drum. His creativity has seemingly grown exponentially and it’s super inspiring and his use of multi-percussion is insane. Before you listen to the episode, I encourage you to check out some of Greg’s videos to understand the context of both my questions and his approach to music as a whole. But anyways…enough of my yacking…please enjoy the top 5 records that helped shape greg Hersey into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Dimitri Fantini's Top 5 Influential Records Oct 19, 2022

    This week’s guest is Dimitri Fantini. I’m actually not sure how I first found out about Dimitri, but he was my online instructor for quite some time and I’m just a huge fan of his drumming. He’s garnered quite the collection of followers on Instagram due to his consistent posting of…well super rad awesome videos. They look great, sound great…and are very inspiring. Also check out his growing YouTube. His book “The Total Drummer: a guide to developing your style, feel, touch, groove and more” was published by Hal Leonard in 2022 and continues to receive high accolades. I’ve also included a link to his free course, 'Technique Fundamentals' HERE.

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Big Fat Five: Ryan Seaman's (Mercy Music) Top 5 Influential Records Oct 12, 2022

    This week’s guest is everybody’s favorite drummer, Ryan Seaman. Ryan has been on my wishlist of guests for a while now and surprisingly enough, we were finally able to work it out on the road when it’s the hardest time to schedule people! Anyways, Ryan has played with so many amazing artists throughout his career, especially in the punk rock scene, but his current project is called Mercy Music. Ryan is a one of the most likable guys out there and I look up to him AND how he’s navigated his career in so many ways. I know I say this about every guest, but I really enjoyed this chat. Ryan and I have a lot in common when it comes to our background as drummers and it was just an easy chat. He’s the kind of person you want to see succeed. Alright, please enjoy my chat with Ryan about the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok\

    Big Fat Five: Q. Robinson (Broadway's 'Hamilton', 'Ain't Too Proud') Oct 05, 2022

    This week’s guest is Q. Robinson…the newly-announced touring drummer for Broadway's ‘Hamilton’ (which is huge as it's a highly-coveted chair!). But before he starts that, he currently finishing up his tenure with the “Ain’t Too Proud”…a musical about the band The Temptations. Besides Broadway, Q has played with Avery Sunshine, Bobby Brown, Anthony David and a host of others. He’s a mentor to a few of my peers and is just a bundle of positivity. On top of that, he’s a great drummer with finesse and pocket for DAYZZZ. It was great catching up with him and I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Quinton “Q” Robinson into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Ralph Alexander's (Poppy, CRX) Top 5 Influential Records Sep 29, 2022

    This week’s guest is Ralph Alexander…an incredibly talented drummer currently out with the artist Poppy. Ralph is one of those “rarely makes a mistake” kind of drummers, but his incredible independence was the first thing that turned me onto his skills…referring to this video. I mean…wow. He’s also worked with other legendary artists including CRX (featuring Nick Valensi of The Strokes). Anyways, just trust me, he’s great. Please enjoy this chat about the 5 records that shaped him into the bombastic yet incredibly precise drummer he is today.

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Mike Robinson's (k.flay, Oliver Tree, Blame My Youth) Top 5 Influential Records Sep 21, 2022

    My guest this week is my good buddy and even gooder drummer, Mike Robinson. Mike is the quintessential working LA drummer who’s played with so many rad artists and bands…most recently with the two powerhouses Oliver Tree and k.flay, but let’s add Joseph, Blame My Youth, Cannons (he subbed for me and KILLED it), Del Water Gap, MORGXN, Chain Gang of 1974, Geographer and many more. He also runs the Instagram account @food.ontour, which we talk about right off the bat. He’s a first-call drummer and I loved loved LOVED this conversation. Please enjoy my chat with Mike Robinson about the 5 records that shaped who he is as a drummer today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Can You Guess the Drum Machine?! Sep 14, 2022

    Let’s play a game…

    Can you guess the drum machine in these 30 songs?

    Check out the playlist HERE

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    5 Things To Avoid When You’re Engineering Drums Sep 07, 2022

    This episode is Part 2 of my conversation with Dan Bailey.

    Dan is a Drummer / Music Director / Engineer / Multi-Instrumentalist who’s played with Father John Misty, First Aid Kit, Reignwolf and many more..

    He also has a handful of very useful online courses known as ‘The Bailey Method”. He covers everything from tuning, to recording, to engineering with a very boots-on-the-ground approach. I’ve learned a lot from them myself and they're great. I promise.

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    5 Things to Avoid on a Session When You're Playing Drums For an Artist Aug 31, 2022

    Today’s episode is part one of my conversation with Dan Bailey on the topic of 5 Things To Avoid When Working on a Session For An Artist".

    Dan is a Drummer / Music Director / Engineer / Multi-Instrumentalist who’s played with Father John Misty, First Aid Kit, Reignwolf and many more.

    He also has a handful of very useful online courses known as ‘The Bailey Method”. He covers everything from tuning, to recording, to engineering with a very boots-on-the-ground approach. I’ve learned a lot from them myself and they're great. I promise.

    SUBMIT YOUR LISTENER PICKS HERE


    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Ilan Rubin's (Nine Inch Nails, Angels and Airwaves) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 24, 2022

    This week’s guest is Ilan Rubin. He is currently the drummer for Nine Inch Nails and Angels and Airwaves, but has collaborated with Paramore, M83, Beck, Phantogram and many, many more throughout the years. He’s also the co-owner of Q Drum Co and a prolific solo artist with releases under his own name (Ilan Rubin) and 'The New Regime' where he writes and records everything himself. He’s...incredible. We discuss A LOT of different topics, but I hope you enjoy a conversation built around the 5 records that shaped Ilan into the drummer he is today. Cheers!


    Paiste Roto Sound:

    https://youtu.be/eoqBlMVyn6A

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Rob "Beatdown" Brown's Top 5 Influential Records Aug 17, 2022

    This week’s guest is Rob “Beatdown” Brown. If you haven’t heard of Rob, it means you’re the perfect drummer and don’t need to work on anything. You’ve won drums. But if that’s not you (also ME!), and you’ve ever searched YouTube for literally anything drum education related…you’ve seen Mr. Beatdown. He is, hands down, my favorite YouTube instructor and one of the reasons I am lucky enough to still be a full-time drummer today. Here are the 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today.

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Eddie Burns' (Clairo) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 10, 2022

    This week’s guest is Eddie Burns…a Chicago-based producer / drummer who is currently out with the artist ‘Clairo’. He’s an incredible drummer with an old soul and a VAST knowledge of the Chicago music scene. I hope you enjoy the top 5 records that shaped Eddie into the drummer he is today.

    WATCH - 'Questlove talks Drums, Dilla, and D'Angelo | Red Bull Music Academy' HERE

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Thom Sonny Green's (alt-J) Top 5 Influential Records Aug 03, 2022

    This week’s guest is Thom from the band Alt-J. He’s one of the most creative drummers out there today and the band, as a whole, are young legends. It was truly an honor talking with him and, if you don’t know Alt-J, they’re crafted a unique blend of folk, indie, electronica, and rock; it's their own genre, really. I hope you enjoy the 5 records that helped shaped Thom into the drummer he is today. He truly is a singular player and it's conversations like this that made me want to switch to this format. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    J-rod Sullivan's Top 5 Influential Records Jul 27, 2022

    This week’s guest is Mr. Jerrod “J-rod” Sullivan…a bada$$ drummer, programmer, arranger, producer and educator. He’s incredibly clean with both his beard trimming skills and his playing, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg of the things I love about him. He’s incredibly prolific…posting all the time on his socials, which currently sit at almost 90,000 on YouTube and nearly 230,000 on Instagram. I’m sure it’s laughably beyond that if you’re listening to this a few years from now. He’s currently the drummer for Jeffrey Osborne / Avery Sunshine and The 4 Corners. Please enjoy the 5 records that shaped J-rod into the playe he is today. Cheers!


    Follow J-Rod on Instagram HERE

    Follow J-Rod on YouTube HERE

    Sign Up for his newsletter HERE

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Rajeev Maddela's (Currency Audio) Top 5 Influential Records Jul 20, 2022

    This week’s guest is Rajeev Maddela. He’s a drum set artist, electronic music composer, DJ, computer programmer, and rudimental percussion instructor based in Brooklyn, NY.

    Under the name Maddela, he has released a host of singles and EP’s. His production work spans the genres of experimental drum and bass, future bass, and UK garage, with a focus on live performance elements and wide sonic palettes. The project I heard from him was CURRENCY AUDIO, which is an improvisational performance project exploring jungle, IDM, UK garage, dubstep and their various offshoots.

    Rajeev holds a degree in Computer Science from New York University. His career as a software engineer spans nearly two decades. Let’s just say he is a go-getter and it was truly an honor to talk to him. Big shoutout to Ian Maciak for introducing Rajeev to me, and yeah…let’s learn about the top 5 records that shaped Raj into the musician he is today. Cheers!


    Star of Indiana Drumline ‘93

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZF3tFhUPT4

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Jessica Burdeaux's (@jburdsbeats) Top 5 Influential Records Jul 13, 2022

    This week’s guest is Jessica “The Hoot” Burdeaux. She’s a former guest of the show before we switched to the current format so I knew I had to get her back on. I’m confident you’ve seen her on either social media, Drumeo, YouTube or Reverb.com (for whom she’s sorta become the face of drumming). She’s extremely powerful and plays with a conviction that is undeniably fun to both watch and listen to. Her creative, syncopated rhythms have caught the attention of the entire drumming community and I’m very happy to call her a dear friend. You know her. You love her. I hope you enjoy my chat with Jessica Burdeaux on the 5 records that shaped her into the now-full-time drummer she is today. Cheers!


    Follow Jessica on Instagram HERE

    Jessica’s (now-archived) first time on the podcast - LISTEN HERE

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Logan Baudean's Top 5 Influential Records Jul 06, 2022

    This week’s guest Logan Baudean…a New Orleans-raised, now LA-based musician. He can do it all. I don’t even remember how I first heard about Logan, but I’ve been following him for awhile now I was really excited to have him on. He certainly identifies as a drummer, but he’s also a sought-after guitarist, bassist and keyboardist and I’m sure the list goes on and on. Recently, he’s toured the world as the drummer for Barns Courtney and bassist for Palaye Royale. He’s just a cool guy. His perspectives are cool. His hair is cool. You won’t be able to see it, but his SHIRT was cool. Anyways, there’s a lot of great insight in this one. Truly. I hope you enjoy the 5 influential happenings that shaped Logan into the consistency-working hired guy he is today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Petar Janjic's (Cory Wong) Top 5 Influential Records Jun 29, 2022

    This week’s guest is Petar Janjic…a Serbian-born, Nashville-based drummer by way of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He’s one of the funkiest groovers out there today and is THE drummer for one of today’s funkiest guitarists / bandleaders, Cory Wong.

    Before passing away, Prince himself even asked Petar to play on his record and…well…that’s that! He’s involved in a bunch of happenings, including his own project called ‘Heavy Chevy’. Please enjoy the trip 5 influential records that shaped Petar into the drummer he is today…CHEERS!


    Petar Janjic – Wanna Be Starting Something (Michael Jackson)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3FfziDlztU

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Matthew Pretty's (@thebucketboy) Top 5 Influential Records Jun 22, 2022

    This week’s guest is Matthew Pretty a.k.a. @thebucketboy on social media. He’s an incredible, world-renowned street percussionist based out of Las Vegas. We get into everything from his setup, to why he chose street performing and eventually stagger into the 5 biggest influences that made him into the extremely-unique player he is today. Cheers!


    A few of Matthew’s street performances:

    https://youtu.be/B1-3G-O4pik

    https://youtu.be/Yn-hDqFgNAQ

    https://youtu.be/Gu0zI19dT30


    Blue Devils 2004 Drum Line:

    https://youtu.be/N4wujNNhpWg


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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Eric Somers-Urrea's Top 5 Influential Records Jun 15, 2022

    This week’s guest is Eric Somers-Urrea…a Chicago-based drummer, educator and producer who I very-much admire both on and off the kit. His main project is a band called Marina City and his sincerity / kindness as a person matches his incredible prowess on the drums. I just can’t say enough good things about him. I love his drumming and this is episode is LONG overdue. Please enjoy our chat about the 5 main influences that shaped Eric into the drummer he is today, but first…we play a little game. Cheers!

    Drum Corps International 2004 Finals: https://youtu.be/KpUuMM1y2_o?t=140

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Aaron Haggerty's (Willow, Al McKay, Kool & The Gang) Top Influential Records Jun 08, 2022

    This week’s guest is Aaron Haggerty…a California-based drummer who played for Al McKay (Earth, Wind and Fire) and his ‘Al McKay All-Stars’ for 11 years. Aarons also recorded and/or toured with Kool & The Gang, Eric Gales, Gary Clark Jr, Wicked Wisdom and many more with his current gig being Willow (Smith). He’s just a badass drummer and I think you should know about him. His pocket is deep and his wisdom is wicked *wink wink*. Please enjoy the top 5 records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

    Follow Aaron on Instagram HERE

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Nick Baglio's (aka @nickybagzz) Top 5 Influential Records Jun 01, 2022

    This week’s guest is Nick Baglio (aka @nickybagzz). I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to get him on the damn podcast. If you follow Big Fat Snare Drum on Instagram (@bigfatsnaredrum), he’s literally our most-reposted account because A) he’s an amazing drummer / insanely creative and B) he captures a very powerful recorded sound and it’s super inspiring.

    We get into his backstory right off the bat, but in high school Nick was continuously selected for All State and All Region Jazz Bands, which helped him earn a full music performance scholarship to study drums at the University of Miami. After graduating, he hit the ground running with the alt/rock band morissonpoe and the rest is history. He’s done all the travels and currently splits his time teaching / recording and performing from his homebase of Raleigh, NC. I love him and I hope you enjoy getting to know him a little bit and learning about the 5 records that shaped him into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    Rory O'Connor's (Tycho, Nitemoves) Top 5 Influential Records May 25, 2022

    This weeks guest is a Rory O’Connor…the New York-based drummer for the Gramny-nomninated band Tycho. He also finds time for his own electronic music under the name Nitemoves. Before joining Tycho, Rory played with Com Truise (another legend in that world of music). Rory brings the world of Tycho to life both in the studio AND figuring out how to re-create his own (often-chopped up) grooves for a live setting in the most interesting ways. With what I do for one of my projects, Cannons, I look up to Rory a whole hell of a lot. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    50 Simple Yet Effective Drum Grooves (you voted!) May 18, 2022

    Alright so…if you listened to the ‘70’s Drum Sounds’ episode, you know that we sometimes do a little questionnaire/poll thing about a certain topic on the Big Fat Snare Drum Instagram. Recently, I asked “What are the simplest, yet most effective drum parts”. Of course, drummers are a bunch of smartasses so many of you answered with “tension rod, nylon washers, the snare strainer…” to which I chuckled. Well done…


    But for this episode, I made a playlist of all the songs ya’ll responded with and I thought we’d go through them together. Many of them I haven’t heard before, so I’m gonna hear them in real time. AFTER that, we are going to do a little giveaway. I’m making the playlist live on Spotify HERE so I need ya’ll to choose YOUR top 5 and email me at ben@bigfatsnaredrum.com I’m going to choose a participant at random to win a very special package from Big Fat Snare Drum. Again, choose your 5 from this list…or hey….choose your own top 5 and email me at ben@bigfatsnaredrum.com. Have fun!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Greyson Nekrutman's Top 5 Influential Records May 11, 2022

    This weeks guest is the Greyson Nekrutman. He exploded on Instagram and YouTube over the last few years by picking a lane that he saw was lacking representation on the platforms…jazz drumming. If you can, go check out his pages below before listening to this episode so you really grasp how truly amazing Greyson is. That being said, he certainly doesn’t want to be pigeonholed as just a jazz drummer…and THAT'S why I was stoked to see his 5 drastically different choices. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Kyle Crane's (Daniel Lanois, Neko Case, Maddison Cunningham) Top 5 Influential Records May 04, 2022

    This week’s guest is Kyle Crane…a drummer I’ve been following and looking up to for years. He’s a highly-sought after independent drummer based in LA who’s worked with Daniel Lanois (look him up), Neko Case, Kurt Vile, Brad Mehldau, Bill Frisell, and Conor Oberst (plus many more), but is currently out with Maddison Cunningham. He was also a drum double for the movie ‘Whiplash’ and is the principal everything for his project, Crane Like The Bird. We talk about all this and more before hopping into the 5 records that made him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

    Josh Dion's (Paris Monster, John Scofield) Top 5 Influential Records Apr 27, 2022

    This week’s guest is the incomparable Josh Dion (of Paris Monster and a million other rad things). He’s a busy New York cat and I’ve wanted to get him on for a long time. If you don’t know of Josh, he’s an independent drummer for than one reason (and yes there’s a dad joke coming); he’s played with sooo many including John Scofield, Jim Campilongo, Wayne Krantz, Bill Evans, Chuck Loeb, Ulu, and Esperanza Spalding, but, in Paris monster, he plays drums with his left hand, synth with his right hand, and sings lead vocals…now THAT’S independence. Ok. We start off by breaking down a bunch of the songs from his career and then hop into the 5 records that shaped him into the extremely-unique drummer his is today. This was so fun and Josh’s drumming superb to say the least. Cheers!


    Full Moon – The Heavy Scuffles On

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQP5Waj_jdQ


    The Richard Smallwood Singers – Testimony

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u99pKb7iMZ0


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    Aksel Coe's Top 5 Influential Records Apr 20, 2022

    We are back to our regularly-scheduled programing with this week’s guest, Aksel Coe. I first learned of Aksel via Instagram thanks to a shoutout by our good buddies at Nelson Drum Shop (Nashville). I was hooked right away. Seriously, check him out before listening to this episode.

    Aksel is the epitome of a modern drummer and has collaborated with Homes at Night, The Sisterhood Band, Cody Jinks, K.Flay, Temecula Road, Brittany Spencer, Pam Tillis, Larkin Poe, Jars of Clay, The Donelson Broncos, Okey Dokey, Savannah Conley, SONTALK, Elenowen, The Saint Johns and many, MANY more…

    If you’re looking to start OR further your career as a session player, Aksel’s insight comes from a very boots-on-the-ground approach. I hope you enjoy the five records that shaped him into the player he is today. Cheers!

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    5 Records That Will FINALLY Get You Into Jazz Apr 13, 2022

    This week’s guest is Anthony Fung…an incredible talent drummer based in Los Angeles. I brought him on to discuss the 5 records (and subsequent drummers) to FINALLY get you into jazz. He definitely did not disappoint. Cheers!

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    Song: Fred

    Album: Lifetime - The Collections

    Artist: Tony Williams

    Release Year: 1975

    Drummer: Tony Williams


    Song: Stella By Starlight

    Album(s): My Funny Valentine + Four and More

    Artist: Miles Davis

    Release Year: 1965 & 1966

    Drummer: Tony Williams

    Song: Matrix

    Album : Now He Sings and Now He Sobs

    Artist: Chick Corea

    Release Year: 1968

    Drummer: Roy Haynes

    Song: Acknowledgement

    Album: A Love Supreme

    Artist: John Coltrane

    Release Year: 1965

    Drummer: Elvin Jones


    Song: Blues For Ball

    Album: Supertrios

    Artist: McCoy Tyner

    Release Year: 1977

    Drummers: Jack Dejohnette & Tony Williams

    Song: Cornbread

    Album: Cornbread

    Artist”: Lee Morgan

    Release Year: 1965

    Drummer: Billy Higgins

    Honorable Mention!

    Song: Freedom Day

    Album: We Insist! (Subtitled Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite)

    Artist: Abbey Lincoln and Max Roach

    Release Year: 1960

    Drummer: Max Roach

    Artwork by Trevin Frame. For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Records That Define the 70's Drum Sound Apr 06, 2022

    This week’s episode is going to be a little different. I’m starting a new, perhaps self-indulgent series where I pose a question on the Big Fat Snare Drum Instagram and make an episode out of your responses. Maybe it’ll stick. Who knows?…but these are the conversations I have with my musician friends anyways, so now I’m just pushing record. The first question posed was “which records helped define the 70’s drum sound?”. We got A LOT of responses and opinions were certainly shared (THANK YOU!) Ihad to shave a 5,000 hour playlist down to a handful of songs. Then, I called up my good buddy and amazing drummer, Jake Reed, to chat with me about his views on 70’s recording techniques and listen to the songs with me. Please enjoy!

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    Blair Sinta's (Alanis Morrisette, Chris Cornell, Annie Lennox) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 30, 2022

    This week’s guest is Blair Sinta. Blair’s drumming resume includes touring and/or recording with Alanis Morrisette, Ringo Starr, Annie Lennox, Gwen Stefani, Stevie Nicks, Chris Cornell, John Fogerty, Dave Stewart, Glen Ballard, Lisa Loeb, Better Than Ezra, Josh Groban, Damien Rice…I mean that’s basically everyone right? He’s based out of Los Angeles and runs his own studio where he records himself for artists, records other drummers, runs live lessons, records online courses and talks to meandering podcasts hosts. Also…please go check out his own podcast titled, Recording Drums with Blair Sinta. He’s chatted with some monster players, but make sure you still like my show more betterly and whatnot. Cheers!

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    Donnie Marple's (Guitar Center Drum-Off Champion, Lee Brice) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 23, 2022

    This week’s amazing guest is Mr. Donnie Marple. Donnie was (still is) the 2007 Guitar Center Drum Off Champion and has been the new guy in Lee Brice’s band for over 10 years. He is a monster soloist who can really hold it down. Donnie is the exact drummer you want in your band and his career is gonna keep going and going. He’s played on numerous #1 hits and is a gentlemen through and through. I kind of just want him to be my best friend. Alright bye !!!!

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    Donnie Marple playing “Rumor” with Lee Brice

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IT0aFDfRyRg


    Donnie Marple - Guitar Center's 19th Annual Drum-Off Winner (2007)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpsMz57p8N4

    Artwork by Trevin Frame

    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    David Raouf's (aka rdavidr) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 16, 2022

    This week’s guest is Mr. David Raouf aka rdavidr. I’ve been a fan of his YouTube Channel for years and, with his seemingly-endless offering of videos featuring drum tips, tricks, hacks and DIY projects, David has combined a love of craftsmanship and drums into a beautifully-hilarious melting pot of education and entertainment. The dude knows his way around a garage and his beard gives mine a run for its money. Please enjoy the 5-ish records that shaped David’s style behind the kit and beyond.

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    William Goldsmith (Sunny Day Real Estate, Foo Fighters, Assertion) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 09, 2022

    This week’s guest is THE William Goldsmith. William has been a member of two incredibly influential bands with Sunny Day Real Estate and Foo Fighters in addition to The Fire Theft, his current project Assertion, and many others. William’s emotional and bombastic-yet-dynamic grooves have been in many previous guests top 5. If you listen to the show, especially recently…you’ve heard his name quite a bit. I could go on and on about this drumming, but I sorta do it to his face at the top of this conversation. I hope you enjoy learning about the records the shaped William into the drummer he is today….with a whole bunch of tangents that I loved exploring.

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    Stella Mozgawa's (Warpaint, Kurt Vile, Courtney Barnett) Top 5 Influential Records Mar 02, 2022

    This week’s guest is Stella Mozgawa…drummer for the band Warpaint. In addition to her band, she’s also collaborated with Courtney Barnett, Kurt Vile, Flea, Adam Green, Regina Spektor, The xx, Sharon Von Eaten and many, many more. It’s basically a list of all the cool kids…but like that actual cool kids. I’m truly a fan of Stella, so having watched and read many of her interviews before this chat, I knew she has incredible taste in music and I was so stoked to hear what she had to say. Her style was most-recently dissected in my episode with Martina Barakoska (being that Stella was on her big fat five list) so go check that out pleeaseee. Basically, Stella’s the shit. She’s rad on and off the drums and this was a really joyful conversation. I hope you enjoy my chat with Stella about the 5 records thats made her into the drummer she is today. Cheers!

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    Tim Very of Manchester Orchestra's Top 5 Influential Records Feb 23, 2022

    This week’s guest is Tim Very…drummer for the rock band Manchester Orchestra. Tim is a highly-imaginative crafter of parts who knows exactly where to sit in a song. He’s powerful, playful and perfectly in tune to what the vibe needs to be. I first saw Tim live at The Fillmore in Philadelphia in 2018, but not because I bought a ticket. I was on tour with my band and we were playing the smaller, upstairs room of that same venue called The Foundry. The thing is, to get to our dressing room, we had to walk along a path at the top of The Fillmore…clearly seeing the sold out Manchester Orchestra show. It’s either a good motivation booster and / or humiliation depending on how one's tour is been going.

    —

    Anywayssssss, I hope ya’ll enjoy this chat about what makes Tim Tim! And go check him out on tour with Manchester Orchestra now! Head over to manchesterorchestra.com for all the deets. Cheers! Artwork by Trevin Frame

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    Martina Barakoska's Top 5 Influential Records Feb 16, 2022

    This week’s guest is Martina Barakoska….a Macedonian drummer / educator / composer and clinician. I heard about Martina via Instagram and was hooked immediately. She’s just starting her career and I’m really excited to see how it unfolds. All in all, she’s a badass drummer and I wanted to chat. Go give her a follow at @iamthe_m on Instagram and Tik Tok and go to school. Today, we discuss the 5(ish) records that helped shape Martina into the drummer she is today. Cheers!

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    Billy Martin's (Medeski, Martin & Wood) Top 5ish Influential Records Feb 09, 2022

    This week’s guest is Billy Martin aka Illy B, a world-renown drummer, educator, visual artist, filmmaker, record label owner, non-profit organizer, and author…but above all else…he’s a Creative through and through. If you enjoy this episode, please go check out Billy’s interview with Mike Dawson on the Drum Candy podcast titled “Improvising and Cultivating a Creative Mindset”. Verrrryy fruitful. Billy has collaborated with some of the best out there including but not limited to John Scofield, John Zorn, Iggy Pop, Natalie Merchant, Flea, Bill Laswell, and Mickey Hart, but many people know him from his work with Medeski, Martin, and Wood featuring himself, John Medeski and Chris Wood.

    I recently checked out his “Anti-Instructional” movie filmed alongside fellow teacher and friend Allen Herman titled “Life on Drums” and I can’t recommend it enough. We discuss the unique structure of the movie towards the end of our conversation, but we start off talking about soloing…something which Billy encourages all drummers to do fist thing when sitting behind the kit, “even if just for five minutes”. We also get into a bunch of my insecurities surrounding creativity before jumping into the records that shaped billy into the amazing musician he is today. Lots of good stuff in this one ya’ll. Cheers!Podcast

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    Erin Tate's (Minus The Bear, Kill Sadie) Top 5 Influential Records Feb 02, 2022

    This week’s guest is Erin Tate, founding member of the Seattle-based indie-rock, Minus the Bear, but he’s played with many great bands throughout his career including Kill Sadie (from Minneapolis), Ghost Work, Time Pieces (etc.) in addition to running Indie Drummer Collective…which we get to right off the bat. Erin has an incredible ability to weave his way through odd time and syncopated phrases with seaming-ease and confidence. He’s a legend and a big inspiration to a lot of my peers (especially having grown up in the northwest). I’ve know Erin for a few years now, but this was the first time we’ve had the chance to chat like this and I was grateful to say the least. Please please PLEASE go check out Erin’s discography. He truly is a drummer with a uniquely unique creative voice. You’re amazing Erin. So here are the top 5 records that shaped Erin’s approach to the drumset. Alright cheers!

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    Joe Bagale AKA Otis McDonald's Top 5 Influential Records Jan 26, 2022

    This week’s guest is Joe Bagale, a San Francisco-based producer, artist, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and educator. Now, I know that might seem like he’s a jack of all trades and a master of none, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. As Joe’s bio states on his website, his sound is “fresh, but tangibly rooted in nostalgia” and I think that’s the perfect way to describe it. Joe is also a self-proclaimed “Groover Not A Prover” and this conversation perfectly showcases that vibe. Originally from Rochester, NY, Joe has produced and released a number of albums under his name, followed by a project he calls Otis McDonald, writing audio library music for YouTube. As I said, he basically does everything and on top of produced / recording … he’s shared the stage with (and I might add not always on drums) with Stevie Wonder, Mickey Hart of Grateful Dead, Fred Wesley and PeeWee Ellis (members of James Brown’s band) Dave Schools (of Widespread Panic), Mike Gordon (of Phish), Martin Luther (of The Roots), Gift2Gab, Lyrics Born and many more. At the end of the day, Joe just wants you to dance. Enjoy the top 5 records the built Joe Bagale into the musician he is today. Cheers!

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    Connor Denis' (Beartooth) Top 5 Influences Jan 19, 2022

    This week’s guest is Connor Denis…drummer for the rock band Beartooth. Connor has been touring since he was 15…making sure that live rock n roll music still rocks. Seriously, he’s a basher, but has all the technical prowess in the world to back it up. He’s got an insanely long career ahead of him and has already accomplished so much at such a relatively young age. I rarely get young, hard hitting rock n rollers on this show, so this was a fun one. Please enjoy the top 5 records (in order) that shaped Connor’s playing.

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    Dave Elitch's Top 5 Influences Jan 12, 2022

    This week’s guest is Dave Elitch and this chat is long overdue because he’s one of the most-mentioned drummers on this podcast…behind Levon Helm, of course. Dave has played with The Mars Volta, The 1975, Miley Cyrus, Justin Timberlake…and countless others, but a lot of drummers know him as a “teacher’s teacher”. He’s helped many of the best drummers (and instructors) fine tune their own playing such as Jason McGerr, Benny Greb, Tomas Haake, Chris McHugh and even Bill Burr...who I would love to get on this podcast. His zen-like approach to viewing drummers as athletes and listening to the body and how it relates to one’s goals makes him one of the most sough-after teachers today. His online instructional course, aptly named “Getting Out Of Your Own Way” was just updated (and we do talk about all of that in this episode), but I wanted to get to know the drummer behind the instructor. I hope you enjoy my chat with Dave about the 5 records that helped shaped the way he approaches the instrument. Cheers!

    As promised: https://drinklmnt.com🤘🏻🥁🔥

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    Matt Johnson's (Jeff Buckley's album 'Grace', St. Vincent) Top 5 Influences Jan 05, 2022

    This week’s guest is Matt Johnson...one of the most-respected drummers to a handful of the guests I’ve had on this podcast. He is probably most-known in the drumming community for playing on ‘Grace’ by Jeff Buckley. He was also the touring drummer with St. Vincent for a handful of years and played with many, many other artists (you can look them all up), but the two I just mentioned are enough to make him a legend. He’s an incredible teacher and a very philosophical thinker. This episode is chalk full of fun tangents that showcase his deep thinking and very passionate approach to music. We actually recorded this episode earlier in 2021, so I apologize for the wait, but it’s finally here!

    So…the audio isn’t the best in this one, which is partly why I hadn’t released it, but I think the content is all worth it. The first words you’ll hear from Matt is him responding to a story that I’ve told a few times on this podcast about when we shared practice spaces across the hall from each other at a facility in Los Angeles. I took a lesson with him (it was obviously great) and at the end he wanted to see what kit I was working with him my room. At the time, it was a shared kit; it wasn’t even mine. I wanna say it was an old beat up Ludwig standard? with pitted heads and it was just falling apart. It did not sound good when I played it at all. But when he sat behind the kit, it transformed into the most vibey, musical kit I’d heard in-person in a long time. He proved it really is all in the hands and mind of the player. I think about that moment all time…anyways…enjoy my lighthearted, but simulatanously heavy conversation with one of my favorite drummers matt Johnson.

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    What Made Bonham...Bonham?! Dec 29, 2021

    **GET YOUR NOTEPAD OUT FOR THIS ONE!**

    This week’s guest is Terry Keating of the Bonzoleum YouTube Page. Soooo when I first started this podcast, I had no idea what I was doing (and sometimes I feel like I still don’t) so it was just called ‘The Big Fat Snare Drum Podcast’. There wasn’t really any sort of format besides it somehow focusing on drums. In the summer of 2020, however, I started to hone in on a format that excited me, which is what you’re used to now, but I wanted to separate the original episodes from the current state of the show to avoid confusion. The good news is you can still hear all of the conversations at bigfatsnaredrum.com under the Archived Episodes tab, but they no longer exist on this feed. That being said, one of my favorite episodes EVER features Terry Keating, a massive John Bonham historian and enthusiast. While it was one of the most-listened-to episodes, it was released under the ‘Big Fat Snare Drum Podcast’ era so TO THE ARCHIVE IT WENT! For many reasons, I wanted to bring this episode back to life, therefore, I am re-airing it so people can enjoy the energy that is Terry Keating. I initially wanted to get him on the show to discuss 5 hidden gems in John Bonham's catalogue that drummers might not necessarily know unless he or she is a huge Led Zeppelin fan. I’m not NOT a fan, but I’d fall in the category that a lot of my peers fall into of, “yeah, I know Fool in the Rain, Good Times Bad Times, Rock 'n Roll and When the Levee Breaks, but I know I SHOULD know more.” I don’t think we’re a small group, so that's why I wanted to have Terry on. Anyways, we immediately started talking like old friends so I put all my notes away and just pushed record. It ended being an almost-2 hr conversation about what makes Bonzo Bonzo, why people are obsessed with his gear as much as his playing (sometimes more), and just tons of anecdotes/fun pieces of trivia that only a Bonzo aficionado would know. I was gonna try to edit it down, but Terry is super fun to listen to so I basically kept the whole thing running. This might take a few listens, but this ended up being one of my favorite drumming conversations in the past few years. Thank you Terry for being so generous with your time and enthusiasm for all that is Bonzo. Alright, shutting up….cheers!

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    Joe Plummer's (Cold War Kids, Modest Mouse, The Shins) Top Influences Dec 22, 2021

    This week’s guest is Mr. Joe Plummer. Joe has played drums for Modest Mouse, Cold War Kids, The Shins, The Black Heart Procession and so many more in addition to releasing his own album, Hew Time, with Dale Crover and Coady Willis. Basically, he’s a really cool dude. He’s the epitome of a working drummer and I love the personality he brings to any band he signs on with. He’s also the host of his own podcast called Tour Stories, which we discuss towards the end of the episode. Please enjoy my conversation with Joe about the main influences that shaped him into the very-sought-after drummer he is today. Cheers! And Happy Holidays! Relax for a damn second.

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    How Riz Ahmed Learned To Play Drums For 'Sound of Metal' Dec 15, 2021

    This is part 2 of my conversation with Guy Licata. While we kept to the traditional format in the first half of our chat, I think the topic of today’s episode deserved its own place in the sun. Guy prepared Emmy Award-winning actor Riz Ahmed for his role as a drummer in Amazon Studios’ film ‘Sound of Metal’. He was tasked with all aspects of the drum set instruction and preparation for the role over a seven-month period. To crudely sum it up, the movie tells the story of Reuben, a touring metal drummer who experiences sudden and permanent hearing loss and how he has to deal with the life-altering consequences that diagnosis entails. I wanted to hear all about that process and how it most-certainly differs from normal instruction.

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    Guy Licata's (Museum of Love, Reflexx Practice Pads) Top 5 Influences Dec 08, 2021

    This week’s guest is Guy Licata. Guy is most recently known as the founder of Reflexx Practice Pads (now the Zildjian Reflexx Conditioning Pad), but Guy is more than just a business owner; he’s a master player himself. While he’s a very-sought after teacher himself, Guy has studied with the greats including Jim Chapin and Jojo Mayer, which we get into during the episode. He’s played with countless artists over the years including Museum of Love (fronted by LCD Soundsystem’s Pat Mahoney), Santigold, Head Automatica, Shakira, RAC, Fischerspooner and many, many more. He’s a fountain of energy with a passion for talking drums that makes my job as a host very easy. He also prepared Emmy Award-winning actor Riz Ahmed for his role as a drummer in Amazon Studios film ‘Sound of Metal’ where he was tasked with all aspects of the drum set instruction and preparation for the role over an intensive seven-month period, with Riz having no formal experience as a drummer. We discussed that experience for a ‘Part 2’ of our conversation coming out at a later date, but for the time being, please enjoy my conversation with Guy Licata as he dissects the top 5 influences that shaped the way he approaches the instrument. We talked for a while prior to pushing record, so you’re jumping into a moving train right off the bat. Cheers!

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    Jason McGerr's (Death Cab For Cutie) Top 5 Influences and much, much more... Dec 01, 2021

    This weeks guest is Mr. Jason McGerr. What can you say about Jason?...wellllllll, he’s the drummer for Death Cab For Cutie and one hell of a drum educator. It seems like everything he says is carefully thought out and this conversation is no exception. Yes, we get into the top 5 influences that shaped the player he is today, but it’s the little pockets of wisdom throughout that made this one of the most fruitful conversations we’ve had on this podcast. I look up to Jason a whole hell of a lot and his perspectives on technique, finding your own voice and ultimately protecting that voice with a vengeance are something we should all subscribe to. I hope you enjoy this chat as much as I did, and if you haven’t already, please rate and review. Unless you hate it…just have a great day! Cheers.

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    Darshan Doshi's Top 5 Influences Nov 24, 2021

    This week’s guest is Darshan Doshi. Darshan is a prolific Indian drummer and composer based in Mumbai. He’s recorded a million Bollywood movie soundtracks and is one of the busiest drummers in India for the studio / tv / live stage...basically anywhere you’d need a drummer, Darshan is your guy. I’ve known him for a few years now and his passion for both bringing Indian rhythms to the international stage AND bringing more Western style drumming / drummers to India is very inspiring to say the least. He’s the epitome of a drumming ambassador and I had a blast learning about the influences that made Darshan Darshan. Cheers!

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    Jonny Scott's (CHVRCHES, The Kills) Top 5 Influences Nov 17, 2021

    This week’s guest is Jonny Scott. Jonny is a badass session drummer for both the studio and stage who’s played with two of my favorite artists The Kills and CHVRCHES (among many others). He’s one of the go-to drummers when a band is looking to start adding the live drummer element after years without. You can trust him to do the job and bring the song to life in the most musical way. I look up to him in a lot of ways and it was an honor to chat with him. Please enjoy learning about what made Jonny Jonny. Cheers!

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    Michael Benjamin Lerner (Telekinesis): His Top Influences, The State of the Music Industry, and How To Be A Successful Band Member Nov 10, 2021

    This week’s guest is Michael Benjamin Lerner…drummer, singer, and primary songwriter for the band Telekinesis. I love having songwriters on the show because, as we discuss in this episode, they usually have more of a birds-eye-view-approach to writing drum parts. I was made aware of Michael’s drumming in a really fun way (which we discuss) and, while I never got to meet him when we were both living up in Seattle, this chat is long overdue…at least for me. Michael’s drumming is powerful, deliberate and just fun. We chatted for a long time and a lot our conversation didn’t make the episode, but I made sure to keep in Michael’s perspective on the current state of the music industry and his spot-advice for how to be a successful band member. We, of course, sprinkle in some influences throughout. It got a little rushed at the end, which I do regret, but we’re both busy guys and sometimes it do be like that. He is such a sweetheart and I hope you enjoy this episode. Cheers!

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    Ira Elliot (Nada Surf): Top 5 Influences Nov 03, 2021

    This week’s guest is Ira Elliot, drummer for the alternative rock band Nada Surf. Formed in the 90’s, Nada Surf has been going strong for multiple decades with no signs of stopping and Ira has been the backbone behind it all. Ira could be on a Mount Rushmore of drummers who know how to instill their own vibe while not taking anything away from a songwriter’s (in this case, Matthew Caws’) impactful words and melodies. While he definitely has fun behind the kit throughout the records, listening to Nada Surf takes you to school on how to just drum…cool. You know what mean? There’s a quiet confidence about his drum writing and you’ll see what I meannnnn in this episode. Please enjoy my conversation with Ira while we dissect a few songs from his career the top 5 shtuffs that made him into the drummer I wish I was. Cheers!

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    Patrick Hallahan's (My Morning Jacket) Top 5 Influences Oct 27, 2021

    This week’s guest is Patrick Hallahan, drummer for the rock band My Morning Jacket. Formed in 1998, My Morning Jacket leans heavily into rock and country, but they pride themselves in have no limitations. Patrick, while certainly not tame on MMJ’s records by any means, is a monster drummer live and provides the perfect foundation for a lot of the band’s experimentation. I loved this conversation and was grateful geek out about Levon Helm yet again! Patrick has a great story about meeting Levon so listen for that and be sure to check out My Morning Jacket’s new album which came out Oct 22nd of 2021…and have a great damn day. Cheers!

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    Adam Deitch's (Lettuce, Break Science, John Scofield) Top 5 Influences Oct 20, 2021

    This week’s guest is Adam Deitch. Adam is the Grammy-nominated drummer for the bands Lettuce and Break Science. He’s also played and / or collaborated with legends such as John Scofield, 50 Cent, Average White Band, DJ Quik, Matisyahu and many, many more. His power and intention behind the kit is one of the most inspiring things to watch and he seems to reinvent his career every few years by just choosing what project to focus on in that moment…because he trusts his instincts. The thru line, however, has always been his collaboration with Lettuce. Anyways, Adam has been on a few previous guest’s top and I hope you enjoy my conversation with Mr. Adam Deitch.

    Earth, Wind & Fire Concert (Oakland Coliseum 1981)

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    Dom Famularo's Top 5 Influences Oct 13, 2021

    This week’s guest is the Global Drumming Ambassador himself, Mr. Dom Famularo. I gush over Dom’s impact on my playing at the top of this episode because Dom is an incredible drummer / educator / author / motivational speaker / and lifter-upper-of-vibes based on Long Island. He’s an authority (to say the least!) and it was an honor to have him on the show. In this episode, Dom breaks down the top 5 influences that shaped his playing style. I could also just rename this the Steve Gadd appreciation episode, but Dom has a very thoughtful and unique reason for each of his choices. Please enjoy…Mr. Dom Famularo. Cheers!

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    The 5 Essential Charlie Watts Recordings Oct 06, 2021

    Today, we have Mike Edison (author of the book “Sympathy for the Drummer: Why Charlie Watts Matters”) on the show to discuss the quintessential recordings that showcase Charlie Watts’ progression as a player. Obviously, this is subjective, but thanks to Mike’s EXTENSIVE knowledge of both Charlie’s career and style, I knew he would nail it. Many people, including myself, take The Rolling Stones for granted and have yet to truly dive deep into the humble greatness that was Charlie Watts.

    I also must give a BIG FAT shoutout to our mutual friend Bart van der Zee of Drum Historypodcast for introducing me to Mike. And please go check out their interviews on the Drum History feed as those conversations tackle the treasure trove of Charlie’s career from a different angle.

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    Joe Seiders' (The New Pornographers) Top 5 Influences Sep 29, 2021

    Today’s guest is Mr. Joe Seiders of The New Pornographers…which I consider a supergroup of songwriters including A.C. Newman, Neko Case, Dan Bejar and, well...the rest of the band; they're all amazing. I’ve known Joe for a few years now after first meeting him backstage at a New Pornographers show, but I’ve always been a big fan of his drumming. As is the case with most of my favorite drummers, he’s a songwriter’s drummer…you know…the best kind?

    His advice on recording and writing drum parts is sprinkled all throughout this conversation pertaining to the top 5 influences that shaped his playing style. Cheers!

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    Carson Gant's (@oneupdrumvids) Top 5 Influences Sep 22, 2021

    This week’s episode is nothing but good vibes. We’ve got Carson Gant aka @oneupdrumvids on the show. Carson’s ability to recreate classic loops and drum breaks on the acoustic kit is unmatched, but not so much in the vein of Jojo Mayer, Adam Betts, or Richard Spaven (which I know I’ve described in a similar way), Carson focused more on the slower, hip-hop style grooves that might SEEM a little more approachable in comparison to the drummers I just mentioned, but ohhhhh no. Believe me, there are a lot of nuances within a groove that are only exposed at a slower tempo…at least in comparison to drum n bass. This has been a long time coming because Carson has been a busy little Canadian bee launching a website providing different take on the classic loop library system called oneupdrumvids.com which we also talk about during the show. Please enjoy my conversation with Carson Gant on all things groove and the top 5 influences that made him into the drummer he is today.

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    Jake Reed's Top 5 Influences Sep 15, 2021

    Today’s guest is Jake Reed. Jake is a Los Angeles-based session player / educator and the host of an incredible YouTube Channel breaking down recording techniques….(also, I must give a big shoutout to Blair Sinta for inspiring me to reach out to Jake after hearing him as a guest on the “Recording Drums with Blair Sinta” podcast). On top of knowing how to explain things in an extremely approachable way, Jake is simply an amazing drummer. He’s performed / recorded with trioKAIT, Bill Holman, Johnny Mandel, Bill Cunliffe, Bruce Forman, Cow Bop, Seth MacFarlane, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Matt Forbes, Larry Goldings, Anthony Wilson, Adam Levy, Bob Mintzer, Les McCann, Freda Payne, the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Synowiec, Mako, Ellis Hall, Tommy Torres, and Frenship.

    He’s even been asked to sub for Peter Erskine soooooo there’s that. I love his overall energy and perspective on this often-too-serious world of drumming and I knew his choices would expand my own palate and (since I’m recording this after our conversion) I can confidently say I was rightt…just like always! Anyways….I have a feeling Jake will be a recurring guest on this podcast in many facets…so I hope you like this one. If you don’t. Just push PLAY while your phone is on mute because it’s all about those numbers baby. Cheers.

    Check out Jake’s online store HERE

    Check out trioKAIT’s online store HERE

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    Anika Nilles' Top 5 Influences Sep 01, 2021

    This week’s guest is Anika Nilles. She doesn’t really need an introduction because there’s not much to say that hasn’t already been said, but she’s a German drummer who took the drumming world by storm in 2013 and has solidified time and time again why she’s one of the best drummers in the world. I’m continuously blown away that I have the opportunity to chat with people that I admire every week and I can honestly say drummers are the best group of people. I love my job….so please enjoy the top 5 influences that shaped the playing style of Anika Nilles.

    P.S. I want to get to know you! Please email me at ben@bigfatsnaredrum.com or DM me on Instagram @benhilzinger and tell me a little bit about yourself! Cheers!

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    Justin Scott's (@jscottdrummer) Top 5 Influences Aug 25, 2021

    We’ve got Justin Scott aka @jscottdrummer on the show today dropping a whoooooole ton of knowledge. I’ve been obsessed with Justin’s drumming for years and I’m sure you have too. If not, you WILL BE after this episode. He is a monster player that can fit more notes in a 15-second clip than I can in a lifetime, but he always puts music first. He’s a great teacher and you can find all of his extremely affordable lesson plans on his website jscottdrummer.net. I have personally bought and used every single one and can’t recommend them enough. If you watch one video of his on Instagram, it might make you want to hang up your boots, but his lessons break down drumming in a really approachable way that will inspire you all over again and make even the fastest and most creative players seem a whole lot less intimidating. Please enjoy the top 5 happenings that made Justin Scott into the player he is today. Cheeeeeerrrssss.

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    Bart van der Zee's (Drum History Podcast) Top 5 Influences Aug 18, 2021

    This week’s guest is one of my good friends and host of the Drum History podcast, Bart van der Zee. Drum History was actually one of the first shows I reached out to when creating The Drum Click Podcast Network. I am a huge fan of the work that Bart does with Drum History, but I feel like people might not know the man behind the microphone as much as they should. While he DID do a special Drum History 100th episode where he was interviewed by his brother to tell a little bit about his backstory as a drummer and engineer, I was eager to get him on MY show to dissect the influences that shaped his playing style, because besides being an incredible host, Bart is an incredible drummer. Be sure to check out his podcast for all the geeky, drum nerdery stuff pertaining to the history of the best instrument ever AND check out all the other podcasts on The Drum Click. Cheers!

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    Philo Tsoungui's Top 5 Influences Aug 11, 2021

    Today’s guest is Philo Tsoungui…an independent drummer based in Berlin, Germany. If you don’t already know, one of my duties at Big Fat Snare Drum is Artist Relations. On one of my first days witht he company, Philo received my first endorsement offer. It was so immediately obvious to me that Philo was going to be a tastemaker for years to come and it’s still an honor to see our gear behind that kit. Philo has played with so many acts including Chefket, Mine, Fatoni, Mal Eleve, Elif, and Lxandra. I honestly can’t say enough about Philo’s playing; it just works. You can lump it into the Hip Hop category, but it’s so much more than any one genre…as you’ll find out in this episode. I have been looking forward to chatting Philo for a long time so this was definitely special. Please enjoy the top 5 influences that shaped the amazing, Philo Tsougnui. Cheers!

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    Lina Anderberg's Top 5 Influences Aug 04, 2021

    My name is Ben Hilzinger and this week’s guest is Lina Anderberg. I found out about Lina through her Instagram (@linaanderberg) and I was immediately blown away. She’s originally from Sweden, but moved to LA to attend Musicians Institute right before all of the world shut down. It was quite the frustrating story dealing with all that and she is currently in Stockholm waiting for her opportunity to get back to the states. In the meantime, I was really excited to pick her brain because she has an incredible pocket and, at the top of the show, I oogle over her hand technique. I actually had to cut some of it out because I just wouldn’t move on, but I guarantee Lina is going to be playing with some amazing artists in the future and I can’t wait to see her career continue to flourish. Please enjoy my conversation with Lina Anderberg on the top influences that made her into the drummer she is today. Cheeerrrssss.

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    Scott Mcpherson's (Sense Field, Elliot Smith, M. Ward) Top 5(+) Influences Jul 28, 2021

    Today’s guest is one of my favorite people, Scott McPherson. Scott founded Tackle Instrument Supply Company and was one of our first guests EVER on the podcast back when we had a different name and a different / no format. Back then, I did a series of episodes called “Behind The Company” and brought Scott on the show to tell the story of Tackle…soooo go check that out; it’s episode #12. In that conversation, we merely scratched the surface of Scott’s amazing drummer career (focusing mainly on his business), but Scott’s also written / performed with Sense Field, M. Ward, She and Him, Beck, Elliot Smith and many, many more. Please enjoy my conversation with Scott McPherson as we discuss the top 5 influences that made him into the drummer he is today.

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    Jojo Mayer: Clarity > Perfection Jul 21, 2021

    My guest this week is Mr. Jojo Mayer…a mind-blowing player who helped pioneer the drum n bass movement in New York City by “reverse engineering” programmed drum loops and applying them to the drum set. He is also revered for his exceptional technique, which he dissects in the wildly-popular instructional series titled “Secret Weapons For The Modern Drummer Parts 1 & 2”. He is also the leader of his own band, Nerve, which he founded back in 1997. We don’t necessarily stick to the normal format in this one; Jojo is a great storyteller. We start off with a few anecdotes about a cymbal once-owned by Billy Higgins that Jojo picked up by happenstance AND Jojo’s time spent “studying” with Freddy Gruber, but we certainly touch on a lot of Jojo’s opinions / perspectives regarding accepting influences, but knowing when they’re actually a detriment to your personal growth on the instrument. He’s a very philosophical man and he shares quite a few nuggets of slap-you-in-the-face style wisdom. Please go check out all of his projects and, if you’re interested, check out Nerve’s Patreon HERE. I hope you enjoy my talk with Jojo Mayer.

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    Dan Bailey's (Father John Misty) Top 5 Influences Jul 14, 2021

    Today’s guest is returning champ..Dan Bailey! Dan is certainly a friend of the podcast and ever since we switched over to the new format, I’ve really wanted to have him back on the show. He’s a well-oiled engineer, studio owner and drummer…not necessarily in that order…currently the drumming and MD’ing for Father John Misty, but Dan’s also worked with Reignwolf, Pacific Air, First Aid Kit, Onerepublic, Christina Aguilera and yada yada yada. Be sure to check out his previous episodes on the podcast from 5000 years ago. But I hope you enjoy todays conversation about the top 6 (he’s an overachiever) influences that shaped his very-sought-after playing styled cheers!.

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    Tosh Peterson's (@tosh_thedrummer) Top 5 Influences Jul 07, 2021

    Today’s guest is Tosh Peterson aka @tosh_thedrummer. I’ve been following his playing for quite some time now and, while his professional career is relatively new, he’s accomplished a TON and seen more of the world than most players do in their entire lifetime. His showmanship is what grabbed my attention right away, but his finesse coupled with a deceptively controlled bombast is the reason he’s played and IS playing with some of the top players in the game right now including Machine Gun Kelly, Jaden Hossler, Nik Best, Carlie Hanson and many, many more. His is a name you’re gonna being hear a lot of in the coming years and he’s earned every damn bit of it. He’s incredible and approaches his craft with equal parts levity and intensity. Please enjoy the top 5 inspirations that help mold Mr. Tosh Peterson. Cheers!

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    What Makes Ringo...Ringo? Jun 30, 2021

    This week’s guest is producer, studio owner and drummer, Frankie Siragusa. We are switching up formats a little bit for this episode; I had initially planned for this conversation to be a BONUS episode, but I think it still falls into the traditional format in its own unique ways. We’ve all heard a producer or bandmate say “Hey…give me a Ringo vibe!” when suggesting drum parts for a new song, but what the hell does that ACTUALLY mean? Having recently released the album "Goodbye My Love (Lost Songs of The Beatles Covered and Rediscovered)", Frankie is THE guy to explain what that DOES and DOES NOT mean. This conversation is just two Beatle maniacs talking about one of the greatest to ever do it so please enjoy our chat on the 5 key elements that make Ringo Starr Ringo Starr. This is guaranteed to improve your drumming or you get your money back. Enjoy!

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    Ian Chang's (Son Lux, Landlady, Solo) Top 5 Influences Jun 23, 2021

    This week’s guest is Ian Chang. I love love love Ian’s playing. I first saw him live back in 2017 in Los Angeles following NAMM where he was performing and promoting his first solo effort, Spiritual Leader, utilizing his Sensory Percussion gear (which we do get into during this episode). In addition to being a MONSTER solo act, Ian mans the skins for Son Lux and Landlady (both have released new music recently btw) among many other projects. His timing within a groove is extremely fluid, but he never loses the essential pocket that makes it all work…and oh boy does it work!

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    Mark Stepro's (The Wallflowers, Butch Walker) Top 5 Influences Jun 16, 2021

    This week’s guest is Mark Stepro. Mark is the epitome of an LA-based working drummer with a resume that includes recording and/or performing with The Wallflowers, Ben Kweller, Courtney Love, Jackson Browne, Brett Dennen, Keith Urban, Dwight Yoakam, John Prine, Butch Walker, Leon Bridges…the list certainly goes on. Mark has an infectious energy and we actually shared lockouts across from each other in LA for about a year without ever realizing it. I always just heard this great drummer across the hall that reminded me how much I needed to work on my feel. So thanks Mark. We start the show with walk down memory lane before hopping into Mark’s top 5 influences that made him into the drummer he is today. Cheers!

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    Richard Spaven's Top 5 Influences Jun 09, 2021

    This week’s guest is Richard “Crave The Spave” Spaven. He’s been one of the most requested names as of late and ohhhhhh what a treat it was! Having played with Jose James, Flying Lotus, Gang Star, Cinematic Orchestra, Jameszoo (which I was hipped to via Ian Maciak on HIS episode) and many more, Richard’s career as a sideman alone is enough to put him in the legend category, but it’s his solo ventures that really showcase his unique ability to be a drummer’s drummer without being too drummy. These are, of course, all technical terms, but he respects both the craft and the audience at all times. His ability to finagle through complex patterns while maintaining a conscious level of listenability is second to none. He’s a proper English gentlemen and, in this episode, he dissects the 5 biggest influences that made him into the drummer he is today.

    Big Fat Five Podcast – Richard Spaven Playlist

    Source Direct - Secret Liaisons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=480Q_aZUcxw

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    Adam Betts' (Colossal Squid, Squarepusher, TTT, MYD, Jarvis Cocker, Squarepusher) Top 5 Influences Jun 02, 2021

    This week’s guest is Adam Betts. My brain does not move as fast as his hands can drum (which might not mean a lot these days), but Adam is a beast of a player with a list of collaborators including Squarepusher, Three Trapped Tigers, Heritage Orchestra, Goldie, Jarvis Cocker, Pete Tongand many more in addition to his solo project titled Colossal Squid which has new music coming out this year. Adam’s energy does not stop at the kit and this conversation about his top 5 influences is filled with a ton of insight from one of today’s most creative drummers.

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    Griffin Goldsmith's (Dawes) Top 5 Influences May 26, 2021

    This week’s guest is Griffin Goldsmith, drummer for the band Dawes. He has also worked with countless artists such as Jackson Browne, John Fogerty, Robbie Robertson, Jim Keltner, Elvis Costello, Sharon Von Etten, Angel Olson, Jenny Lewis, Bahamas and the list goes on and on. He’s recently added film scoring to his list of accomplishments. His delicate and deliberate touch is timeless and honors the gold standard of what it means to be a studio musician. Conversations like this are why I get so excited every week to talk to the best drummers of the day. Griffin’s choices are sourced from the apex of human artistry behind the kit and I know you will all be better drummers after hearing what he has to say. That being said, the audio on this one wasn’t the best. As a sign of the times, we had to resort to zoom audio for most of this. I pride myself in trying to get the best audio for you guys, but heyyyy…as Dawes says, “Things happen; that’s all they ever do”. Please enjoy my conversation with Griffin Goldsmith…also please go down a rabbit hole of his playing, not only throughout the entire Dawes catalogue, but all the artists I just mentioned. I can't stress enough how underrated he is.

    Griff Using an Arbiter Auto-Tune (as promised):

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhJYm1VDqMM

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    Mark Guiliana's Top 5 Influences May 19, 2021

    This week’s guest is Mark Guiliana. So so much to say. If you’re listening to this show, I’ll assume you are aware of the man but still, he’s a bandleader for his groups Beat Music, the Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet, and Heernt in addition to being a key collaborator with artists such as Brad Mehldau, Avishai Cohen, Dave Douglas, Matisyahu, Chris Morrissey, and the late, legendary David Bowie. Of course the list goes on and on. Mark’s blend of jazz with electronic music continues to set him apart and in this episode, we, as always, dive into the top 5 influences that shaped his playing style. I started off the show by picking a few songs from marks career and asked him to tell a little backstory surrounding each. This one meant a lot to me and I hope you enjoy listening as much as I did. Cheers!

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    Jesse Kongos' (KONGOS) Top 5 Influences May 12, 2021

    This week’s guest is Jesse Kongos of the band...Kongos. I had the pleasure of opening up for and sharing a bus with Kongos for two tours in 2019 and those memories are some of my favorite ever from being on the road. In this episode, Jesse (the drummer and one of the vocalists / singers for the band) breaks down the top 5 influences that shaped the player and writer he is today.

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    Ian Maciak’s (@ianhitsdrums) Top 5 Influences May 05, 2021

    This week’s guest is Ian Maciak…or as many of you might know him…@ianhitsdrums on instagram. His machine-like playing incorporates the proper pinch of humanity to pull you in and build a soundscape that only he can create. I’ve loved the finesse of his playing from afar for quite some time now and it’s certainly a direction I want my OWN playing to go. You can check him out on the track ‘Sleepy Pietro’ from the new Machinedrum album or relax to his drumming in the “Focus” and Lo-Fii Beats” playlists on the Headspace app…among many other projects that he’ll be announcing soonish. Also, go check out his Patreon where you can download his original drum grooves, loops, and one shots. And as always, you can check out all the songs referenced or played during this episode in a Spotify playlist. Just search for 'Big Fat Five Podcast - Ian Maciak'. Alright…enjoy my chat with Ian Maciak and the top 5 influences that shaped his amazing style. Cheers!

    As promised: Naji

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    *BONUS* Aaron Steele Breaks Down A Few Tracks From His Career Apr 29, 2021

    This is short little bonus clip that was cut from the main episode featuring Aaron Steele for the sake of time. In it, Aaron breaks down a few songs chosen by me from his prolific career that represent a few different periods of his life. Be sure to check out the main episode where Aaron breaks down the top influences that shaped his playing and writing style. Cheers!

    Podcast Artwork by Trevin Frame

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    Aaron Steele's Top 5 Influences Apr 28, 2021

    This week’s guest is Aaron Steele. Aaron is a melting pot of creativity who has a Rolodex of influences including everything from hardcore to jazz to singer-songwriter to r&b to electronica to funk to pop and back again. Don’t you dare put him in a box! Aaron’s resume includes Portugal. The Man. Hayley Williams of Paramore, Peter Bradley Adams, Chrome Sparks, Jose James and, of course, many more. Our chat went well over two hours, so I consolidated it just a bit. We’ll be jumping in right as we get into the topic of comparing yourself to other players (something that Aaron never does)…before eventually dissecting the top 5 influences that shaped Aaron’s style. As to be expected, Aarons’s choices are NOT expected, but they are very impactful and I’m really excited to dive deeper into all these artists.

    You can find all the songs referenced or played in this episode in a Spotify playlist. Just search ‘Big Fat Five Podcast - Aaron Steele’. Please enjoy my conversation with the ever-unique and talented Aaron Steele.

    Jameszoo: Against The Clock

    Hayley Willaims: Tiny Desk Concert

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    *BONUS* Dan Mayo's Top 5 Influences: Part 2 Apr 22, 2021

    This is Part 2 and essentially a bonus episode for my conversation with Dan Mayo. Today, Dan talks about the 5 specific records that shaped the way he tunes his drums (something that he is quite known for) and approaches writing in general. Cheers!

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    Dan Mayo's Top 5 Influences: Part 1 Apr 21, 2021

    Today’s guest is Dan Mayo. Dan is an Israeli drummer with one of the most distinct sounds of any player today…partly thanks to his A&F drum set, but mostly do to his personality behind the kit and background in a wide range of musical genres. His main project is the power trio, TATRAN, but Dan is also a prolific solo artist in addition to working with many other legends such as Ester Rada & Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park. We chatted for quite awhile and so I split our conversation into two parts. Part 1 starts off with me playing a bunch of song from Dan’s career followed by a discussion on each. We then get into some listener questions and eventually dive into a more general list of the top 5 influences that shaped him into the drummer he is today. Part 2 is the 5 specific records that shaped the way he tunes his drums and approaches writing in general. Not only is Dan a very generous human being, he’s funny and humble and I really hope these episodes turn you into a dan fan. Enjoy part 1 Cheers :)

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    Matt & Zack from Working Drummer Podcast's Top 5 Drumming Influences Apr 14, 2021

    This week’s episode is payback for the boys from the podcast Working Drummer forcing me to take time out of MY damn day a few weeks ago to bump up THEIR podcast numbers. Now I’m totally using them.

    All kidding aside, I absolutely love Matt and Zack. Their podcast (Working Drummer) highlights real stories of the every day “working drummer” and features guests, sometimes with a less recognizable name, but always with an impressive and distinct body of work. These conversations can help us all feel a little better about our own “path”. Please check it out. In this joint episode, I chatted with the boys about the top 5 influences that shaped their playing style. Aside from being amazing podcast hosts, Zack and Matt are incredibly accomplished drummers and VERY different players than me. I learned a s*$t ton in this episode and I know you will too.

    Also...I created a Spotify playlist for all the songs played and/or mentioned in this episode. Just search for 'Big Fat Five Podcast - Working Drummer'

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    Ash Soan's Top 5 Influences Apr 07, 2021

    This week’s guest is Ash Soan.

    I don’t even know where to begin; he’s a complete badass and unless you’ve gone OUT OF YOUR WAY to avoid him, you certainly know who he is. Ash has been one of the most in-demand session and live drummers in the UK for decades, but with his growing popularity on social media and the finishing of his Windmill Studio behind his home in Norfolk, England, he’s gone global with remote sessions. His resume includes live performances and/or recordings with Adele, Seal, James Morrison, Cee Lo Green, Robbie Williams, Stewart Copeland, Ronan Keating, The Trevon Horn Band, Cher, Billy Idol, Del Amitri and soooo many more. In this episode, we start of by dissecting a few clips from his career…curated by yours truly and unbeknownst to Ash beforehand…..then answer some listener questions and eventually jump into the top 5 influences that shaped Mr. Ash Soan. Getting to chat with him was such a pleasure and I hope you guys enjoy as I try to hold back my excitement and not interrupt him TOO much. I’ve created a Spotify playlist containing all the songs discussed and played in this show, just search for 'Big Fat Five Podcast - Ash Soan'. Also, go check out his new EP, titled 66991. Cheers.

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    **Takeover Episode** Premiere of Sarah Hagan Backstage w/ Gavin Harrison Mar 31, 2021

    This week’s episode is a premiere / takeover of a new podcast by our very good friend...Sarah Hagan. Sarah worked for many years as the Head of Zildjian Artist Relations Worldwide, but now runs her own media and consulting business for the music industry as a whole. Through the years, Sarah has mastered the art of creating, developing and maintaining genuine relationships with the world's greatest drummers. With her new podcast, titled Sarah Hagen Backstage, Sarah is able to pull something a little different from her guests because they aren’t talking to any old podcast host, they’re talking to their friend. This obviously gives her an advantage and I’m extremely jealous! That being said, we have some really exciting yet-to-be-announced...um...announcements involving Sarah, myself and a few people you just may know...but more on that later :) I hope you enjoy this week’s takeover episode of Sarah Hagan Backstage with her first guest Gavin Harrison. We’ll be back next week with our regularly scheduled programming. Be sure to subscribe to her feed wherever you listen to podcasts. Cheers!

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    Atom Willard's (Against Me!, Angels and Airwaves, Rocket From The Crypt) Top 5 Influences Mar 24, 2021

    This week's guest is Atom Willard. Atom played with some of my favorite bands growing up including Rocket From the Crypt, The Offspring, Social Distortion, and Angels and Airwaves, but he is the current drummer for Against Me! and Laura Jane Grace and The Devouring Mothers. As I often do in the days leading up to these chats, I went down a rabbit hole of Atom's drumming and I was blown away by how much of my OWN playing can be attributed to Mr. Willard...like...it's actually embarrassing. This one meant a lot to me and I hope you enjoy my conversation with Atom Willard as he dissects his biggest musical influences that made him into the drummer he is today. Cheers ya’ll.

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    Nate Morton (NBC's The Voice): Top 5 Influences Mar 10, 2021

    This week’s guest is the ever-energetic Nate Morton, drummer for NBC’s The Voice. His career spans multiple decades and performances with some pretty damn good artists such as Paul Stanley, Madonna, Chaka Kan, Natalie Cole, Vanessa Carlton, Miley Cyrus, Poe and many, many more. Nate is a monster player who knows exactly how to match the playing-for-the-song element with his own unique and powerful creative voice...no pun intended. This was such a fun conversation and we talked for HOURS so this is a very condensed version for the sake of focus, but I guarantee you will be hearing more of our chats in future episodes. Enjoy my hang with the one of my favorite humans…Nate Morton.

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    Madden Klass' Top 5 Influences Mar 03, 2021

    This week we have the returning champion Madden Klass on the show to discuss the Top 5 drumming influences that shaped her playing style. Currently a student at Berklee, Madden also plays with Raavi and the Houseplants, Space Junk is Forever, Mike Doughty, Wheatus, a newer band called Mæges and many more. She was one of the last guests before we switched over this newer format and I’ve wanted to get her back on ever since. Her first episode was a very interesting deep dive into her theories on technique and practicing…so go check that out. It’s chalk full of great advice from both Madden herself and teachers that have helped her along the way. She really is one of my favorite drummers and I can’t wait to see what her career becomes. I’m seriously having such a good time with these interviews and discovering drummers that have really started changing my own playing. Thank you for coming on this journey with me and enjoy my fruitful conversation with the great Madden Klass.

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    Liberty DeVitto (Billy Joel): Top 5 Influences Feb 24, 2021

    Today’s guest is Liberty DeVitto…the rhythmic powerhouse behind 22 of Billy Joel's 23 top 40 hits and all six of his Grammy Award-winning recordings. His ability to seamlessly switch between mature session musician and bombastic live showman should be a guiding light for a lot of players you and old (me) alike. I had a blast talking with Liberty as we broke down the top five influences that shaped his drumming style. Also…go buy his damn book…which we talk about throughout. Cheers!

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    Curt Bisquera: The 5 Career-Defining Moments Feb 17, 2021

    Today’s guest is Curt Bisquera…or as most people know him “Kirkee B”. He’s played with so many great artists such as Elton John, Mick Jagger, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Sarah Mclaughlin, Lana Del Ray, Johnny Cash and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. His pocket is deep and his stories are endless. I brought him on the show to break down the top 5 moments in his career that best represent his legacy as a player. From moving to LA to pursue a career in drumming at MI as a young kid who couldn’t read music to eventually playing the biggest stages in the world…Kirkee B is a man who takes opportunities and smashes them out of the park. His mixture of being at the right place at the right time (WITH the right information to stand out) is a common theme. Do your homework, play to the song, know the technology of the day and be more like Kirkee B. There…now you don’t even have to listen. But please do.

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    The 5 Essential Levon Helm Recordings Feb 10, 2021

    This could be the most important episode I’ve had the pleasure to record. Levon Helm of The Band was one of the greatest to ever do it. Thusly, everything I’ve typed / erased / retyped / and so on for this intro feels utterly contrived or underwhelming when trying to describe a musician of this magnitude. As Rolling Stone Magazine once wrote, “Levon Helm is the only drummer that can make you cry.”. He changed the game in so many ways and, to be honest, DOESN’T GET THE DAMN CREDIT HE DESERVES.

    I invited one of my new favorite people (and fellow Levon enthusiast), Steve from Junkdrummer TV, on the show to dissect the top 5 recordings that best represent Levon’s legacy as a player. I couldn’t have been happier with how this came out and I hope this episode introduces a bunch of people to their new favorite drummer.

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    Tim Baltes: Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Playing Style Feb 03, 2021

    Our guest this week is Tim Baltes or, to many, @timbofromkeno on Instagram. He’s known as a funny man, but a big reason why his schtick works is because he’s a monster player as well. We break down the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his style and, in true form, Tim was authentic and blazed his own trail with his picks…which aren’t the traditional choices. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Tim Baltes.

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    Myths Our Drum Teachers Told Us w/ Dimitri Fantini Jan 27, 2021

    Today’s guest is Dimitri Fantini…a great drummer and instructor based in Maryland. I personally subscribe to his Patreon and I suggest you do the same thing. Since Dimitri is technically one of my online instructors, I thought I’d invite him on to discuss some myths that we hear being taught that are just wrong. We had a great time, but tended to agree on almost everything…BORING! Anyways, we dissect the following myths:

    1) Only practice what you're bad at/If you sound good, you're not practicing.

    2) There is one correct way to hold a stick.

    3) Learning more "stuff" or patterns will make me a better drummer

    4) Drums sound best when hit in the center (rimshots or toms).

    Dimitri & Tim Baltes mock drum lesson video HERE

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    'Save it for the Pod!" Ep. 3 - Where's The Beat?! Jan 13, 2021

    Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Big Data, Bruce Springsteen) and I were ODDLY excited about recording this one. We each brought on 5 songs that best represent that feeling of, “um…I can’t find the one....guys?!....I CANT FIND THE ONE!!”. It’s happened to all of us and it’s a feeling we both LOVE. Many songs are easily heard (and perhaps meant to be easily heard) with multiple different pulses, while some just go out of their way to have a “gotcha!” moment. Either way, this was the most fun I’ve had with the podcast so far and both Gunnar & myself are really excited for you to have a listen.

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    Big Fat Progress Jan 06, 2021

    I invited Kris back on the show to discuss how difficult this last year has been for us (Big Fat Snare Drum) as a small business and what we’ve done to keep the doors open. I’m calling it, “Big Fat Progress”, because I really don’t see this year as much of a setback for us as it was an uncomfortably-forced pivot. After that, I asked Kris some of my favorite questions about his ethos on business in general. Kris is almost always right when it comes to what will resonate with people on a large scale. I guarantee you will take something away from this.

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    Best of 2020: Part 2 Dec 30, 2020

    LAST EPISODE OF 2020! This is Part 2 of the “Best of 2020” where I put together a show of my favorite clips from the past year. Enjoy! See you (or hear me) in the new year!

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    Best of 2020: Part 1 Dec 23, 2020

    The next few episodes are gonna be a very self indulgent “Best of 2020”. I’ve put together some of my favorite clips of the podcast so far with a little backstory for each. If any of my previous guests are listening and you don’t hear your clips, it's cause I thought you were really boring and I don’t like you at all. Cheers!

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    'Save it for the Pod!' Ep. 2 - Ben and Gunnar’s Top 5 Dance Drummers Dec 16, 2020

    I’m back with Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Big Data, Bruce Springsteen) for another segment of ‘Save It For The Pod’ where we pause our private conversations about various musical topics until we can record it for the MASSES (that’s you). This week’s episode has us dissecting each of our ‘Top 5 Dance Music Bands That Feature Live Drummers’.

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    Tucker Rule (Thursday): Top 5 Influences Dec 09, 2020

    We’ve got Tucker Rule, drummer for Thursday, on this week’s episode of the ‘Big Fat Five’ pod breaking down the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his playing style…and it’s a damn fun playing style. Not only is Tucker a rhythmic powerhouse, he’s quite possibly the nicest guy in the world (sorry to ‘out’ you Tucker). We had a really fun conversation that went well beyond his influences including lessons learned from working with Dave Elitch, perspectives on practicing, and how each of us deal with the frustrations, yet needed patience, of always wanted to become better players.

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    Yuri Ruley's (MxPx): Top 5 Influences Dec 02, 2020

    Today’s guest is, Yuri Ruley…drummer for the iconic punk band, MxPx. His speed, creativity and disciple were a huge influence on me growing up, and if ever need a good a$# whippin', I’ll put on 'Life In General' and sweat my way through a barrage of beats at tempos that make me question Yuri’s sanity. We discuss the top 5 songs that best represent his influences when he first started playing drums. Please enjoy my podcast with The Legend, Yuri Ruley.

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    "Save it for the Pod!" Ep. 1 - Dissecting the Playing of Phil Selway (Radiohead) Nov 25, 2020

    Continuing with the theme of keeping things fresh, Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer, Big Data, Bruce Springsteen) and I have started a new segment of the show called “Save it for the Pod” or "S.I.F.T.P" where we pause our private conversations about a particular musical topic until we can record it for the MASSES.

    This week’s topic is the timeless and seemingly underrated drummer of Radiohead, Phil Selway. Gunnar and I each choose our top 5 Phil beats and go a dissectin’!

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Sarah Thawer's Top 5 Influences Nov 11, 2020

    Today’s guest is Sarah Thawer…a Toronto-based, freelance drummer, percussionist, pianist and overall badass with a style consisting of a unique blend of jazz, Indian, world and funk style drumming. She is one of my favorite drummers to watch, literally, because you can’t help but notice the enjoyment on her face and her love of improvisation is a true testament to her capabilities behind the kit. Her playing blows my mind and I was really excited to have her on the show to dissect the top 5 drumming moments that shaped her style. Her positivity and approach to navigating a career in the music industry is something I’ve admired for quite a long time. Please enjoy my conversation with the incredibly talented, Sarah Thawer.

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    For more information on Big Fat Snare Drum, check out www.bigfatsnaredrum.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

    Eric Slick (Dr. Dog): 5 Songs That Shaped His Playing Style Nov 04, 2020

    Today’s guest is Eric Slick, drummer for Dr. Dog. Eric is a great player with a modern-day Ringo-esque approach to serving the song…which is an obvious focus when you hear his drum parts...parts that are deceivingly hard to execute well. His effortless technique is something I’ve admired from afar and I was really anxious to hear about the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his style. In addition to his tenure in Dr. Dog and working as a drummer for many other artists, Eric is a prolific songwriter himself. His most recent album, “Wiseacre”, came out this year…and it rulezz. Please enjoy my conversation with Eric Slick. Cheers!

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    Daru Jones: 5 Songs That Shaped His Playing Style Oct 28, 2020

    Today’s guest is Daru Jones. My God I love Daru. While he definitely puts focus on appearances, as you can see if you’ve ever seen his drum set, Daru has certain sway to his feel that makes it impossible to sit or stand still when you hear his groove. He’s two-time Grammy Award winning player who’s worked with Jack White, Gloria Gaynor, Pete Rock, Slum Village, Jamie Lidell, Talib Kweli, Dwight Yoakam and many many more. I’m sure you picked up on the diversity of that list. Cheers.

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    Steve Goold (Matt Kearney, Ben Rector, Sara Bareilles): The Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Playing Style Oct 21, 2020

    This week’s guest is Steve Goold…a.k.a the “Steve” of Steve’s Donut. Steve tells the story of working with Kris (BFSD owner) and how the donut came to be before breaking down the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his playing. Steve has recorded and/or toured with countless big hitters such as Sara Bareilles, Matt Kearney, Owl City, Ben Rector, Cory Wong and many more. His respect for the "song" and crafting the perfect drum part is very evident in the choices he made for this episode. I gained a lot and I hope you will too.

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    Raghav Mehrotra (Broadway's School of Rock): The Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Playing Style Oct 14, 2020

    The guest this week is Raghav Mehrotra. This young man started playing drums when he was three and by 5 years old (IMO) was already better than most lifelong players. He starred in Broadway's "School of Rock" while still physically going to school full-time. He just an insane player and I know he's gonna be on some killer records in the future. He's also an old soul. You think you're talking to a veteran of the craft, but honestly with how much he's already accomplished...he kinda is. Raghav breaks down the top 8 moments that made him the drummer he is today.

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    Randy Cooke (Ringo Starr, Mick Jagger, Alanis Morissette, Dave Stewart, Kelly Clarkson) - Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Style Sep 23, 2020

    This week’s guest is Randy Cooke. I certainly fluff him up at the beginning of our interview, but Rand just has everything you’d want in a drummer playing behind you. He is SO song focused and, as he states, “…It’s not about playing more things; it’s about playing the right thing”. His resume includes playing for Ringo Starr, Mick Jagger, Alanis Morissette, Dave Stewart, Kelly Clarkson…and believe me…many many more. Keeping with the theme of this season, Randy breaks down the top drumming moments that shaped his style. Cheeeeers.

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    Mike Dawson (Managing Editor of Modern Drummer Magazine / Podcast Host) - Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Style Sep 16, 2020

    Today’s guest is Mike Dawson, managing editor of Modern Drummer Magazine and co-host of the Modern Drummer Podcast w/ Mike and Mike (the other Mike being Mike Johnston). They have exactly 250 archived episodes so go check that out…after you binge all of our episodes. Mike is an insanely artful player who exemplifies the idea of building creativity out of giving yourself limitations. He posts a lot of his weirdisms on his Instagram at @mikedawsondrums. You can also check out his website here. This episode is a reminder of how little I know when it comes to great drumming and it only reinforced my decision to continue with this format. Mike breaks down the drumming moments that shaped his playing. Cheers!

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    Ben Barter (Lorde) - Top Drumming Moments That Formed His Drumming Style Sep 09, 2020

    This week’s guest is Ben Barter…an Auckland-born, Los Angeles-based drummer/producer/storyteller and ex-dishwasher to the STARS. Ben has one of my favorite pockets and tastes in 'groove' so I was SUPER pumped to get him on the show. He’s played every major festival you can think of and has done all the talk shows. He’s the nicest bloke in the world and I know you’ll be smiling the whole time you listen to this one. Cheers!

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    Bryan De Leon (Albert Hammond Jr, The Drums, The Shaking Hands) - Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Style Aug 26, 2020

    Today’s guest is Bryan De Leon and we break down the top 5 drumming moments that shaped his playing styles. Bryan’s powerful, rigid, and syncopated drum parts are infectious, to say the least, and it's the reason he drums for power-hitters like Albert Hammond Jr of The Strokes, The Drums (a band...a very good band), The Shaking Hands and many more. I’m currently on a road trip right now, so I’m recording from an Airbnb…a tiny closet inside my Airbnb actually, but this episode finally introduced me to New Order and it’s basically all I’ve been listening to. So, thank you, Bryan. Also, I need to mention...I almost edited out my initial question of how asking Bryan how his pandemic is going. It's a lazy question, and I hated it the second it came out, but it ended up pulling a great response from Bryan and touched on points I really wanted to keep it…so I kept it in. I just want you to know that I know and alright....shutting up...cheers!

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    Brody Simpson - Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped His Style Aug 19, 2020

    Today’s guest is Brody Simpson and we talk about the top 5 drumming moments that played a huge part in the development of his sound. Brody’s feel and sense of pocket within a pocket are unmatched in my opinion and I don’t think I’m comfortable making it public how much time I’ve spent looping Brody’s videos. Needless to say, if you don’t know him, I’m so excited that you stumbled across this episode. His perspectives on groove and creating parts is a masterclass in many ways. Please enjoy.

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    Kris Mazzarisi (BFSD Founder) and Ben Hilzinger (Cannons, Eve 6) - Top 5 Drumming Moments That Shaped Their Style Aug 05, 2020

    Hello hello...today's show features the Big Fat Man himself, Kris Mazzarisi and myself, Ben Hilzinger, discussing the top 5 specific moments in either a recording or a performance that helped form us into the drummers we are today. We are all sponges for inspiration until the day we die, but some sponge-worthy moments are more remarkable than others. All of the little flourishes in our playing combine to give us a unique voice, but many of these derive from something we've heard or seen outside of our beautiful little creative minds. This is the first installment of a series we're dubbing "The Big Fat 5" where I talk with my favorite players about the 5 instances that changed and/or formed their playing.

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