Sick Drummer Magazine

Just wondering what method fellow Sick Drummers are using.

So the question is are you using the new school single stroke system like progressive drummers are using like Virgil Donati & Marco Minnemann where you play alternating R L no matter where the beat lies or are you using the assigned foot method where 8th note downbeats (1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &) are played with the right and the 16th note upbeats ( e's and a's) are played with the left foot?

I currently play the old school method of the assigned foot method and just started looking at the new progressive way but I am not proficient at it yet, but it seems to me that playing extreme speeds the new progressive way seems to be the way to go.

Cheers,
Evil E

Personally I use both depending on the beat I'm playing, and I'd have to agree with you that the "new school" style as you put it is better suited for speed I find. Although I find some beats with complex bass work it's much easier for me to go with the "old school" method, I find it helps me with counting the beat.

It wasn't until a year ago that I trully started expanding my kick technique. I feel that the "progressive drummer" way that you describe has so many advantages and I wish I would have started using it long ago. Even though it's extremely awkward at first (because your non-dominant foot is taking on a more active role), it's worth it. I'm saving energy because I've delegated the work more evenly to both of my feet. I can also play louder and with more clarity. Even though I'm not a master at it, I'm working toward making it my primary technique.

Its really a toss up for me - its great to know both ways to keep your options open. I bought a couple books when i was learning double bass, and some were clearly laid out in the old style, using different lines/spaces on the staff for left and right foot, while others have one bass drum line and expect you to work it out your own way by any means necessary. I think i mostly use the new way though - saves energy in your dominant foot. I guess as music progresses to using crazier and more syncopated rhythms, the new school becomes more adaptive and suited for it. That being said, its called your "dominant" foot for a reason - you're more comfortable with it, so maybe i'd say the more straight-ahead or slower/easier the rhythm, the old school might feel a little more natural? Just some initial thoughts on it. Good topic!

Is anyone familiar with Dom Famularo's bass drum technique? Its about using different parts of your leg for different tempos and dynamics - leg vs ankle. I think this happens almost subconsciously for the most part (more power with your full leg, but not as fast as ankles), but he really lays it out clearly and uses it well.

I am not familiar with his technique, but I am certainly interested to look into it. Thanks!