No, The Guy From Blink Is Not The World’s Best Drummer!

A recent conversation with friends lead Sharp Notes to debate against current +44 / former blink-182 stickman Travis Barker as the best living?drum?soloist.?While Barker is?definitely a god among punks and great as a stable,?fast resource, it is safe to say that many others trump his improvisational techniques.?And as we maintain a music blog, it seemed appropriate to support our argument with visual analysis of the best living legends in action.

5) Carter Beauford (Dave Matthews Band) - Utilizing a uniquely-styled kit to create a comprehensive world-music sound, Beauford’s avant-garde stylings switch on a dime from Afrobeat to contemporary rock. On this solo culled from a live performance of DMB staple “Two Step,” listen to the speed and control Beauford exhibits, as well as his knack for rhythmic timing:

4) Stevie Wonder - Even though this songwriting genius is blind, he is able to play just about any musical instrument with ease. This early-career performance is astounding in?how much better Wonder navigates four senses than most of us handle five:

3) Chris Adler (Lamb Of God) - Fighting about metal drummers is usually a no-win situation, as most are incredibly gifted in terms of speed as well as multi-limb ability. But none compare to LOG’s Adler, who creates jazzy backdrops for the most savage jams.?By frequently shifting phrasing to create unique and challenging rhythms, Adler even dizzies industry?veterans with blazing skill married to?his?melodic technique.?Check this incredible footage from?the 2005?Modern Drummer Awards ceremony to analyze Adler’s thunder:

2) Neil Peart (Rush) - Say what you will about prog-rockers Rush (their exhaustive fantasy metal epics can be an exercise in patience), but drummer Peart is among the best of his generation. With a knack for melodic, daring solos, his unconventional crosses and tonal control raise him head and shoulders above the rest.?As it is uneasy to list all of his technical triumphs, take a look at this wild video from a Buddy Rich tribute concert to experience the genius Peart has to offer:

1)A Seven Year Old Kid -This YouTube sensation hit the web last year, but is no less astounding to hear now.?This kid’s no Neil Peart, but?his solo innovation and control is a sight to behold. And, lest you forget, he is seven:

Travis Barker pounds out a solo (as a point of reference):

Posted October 6, 2007 at 12:48 pm by Wild Bill | Share on Facebook
Categories: Freestyle Weekend, Intense Videos

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