With all the technology today, having to play along with all of today’s loops and sequenced drums demands a certain level of perfection. However, nowadays there are many software applications that can fix and clean up sloppy performances.

I wonder if all this attention to “playing to the grid” or “replacing the programmed drums” takes focus away from developing an original style. I am a fan of all the drummers over the years who had the capability to nail a studio drum take, but also maintained a distinct personal style. Steve Gadd, Jeff Porcaro, Hal Blaine, Al Jackson Jr, Bernard Purdie, and on and on.

I do not think that I have a preference between playing in the studio and playing live. They stimulate and satisfy two different interests. Live playing is more of a “performance” in front of an audience. How well can you rehearse and execute a song or a show? Studio recording is about “creation.” How well can you make an interesting and functional drum part? I prefer to have a healthy balance of both!