X8 Drums Blog

There is a vocabulary to music and drumming that remains a mystery to those who have not been indoctrinated into the society. Drummers and musicians in general talk about the different fills, licks and riffs to a rhythm, there’s the groove, and of course, the solo. This list is not exhaustive, however, but, it is a great start to beginning to not only sound like a drummer when playing a beat, but, to sound like a drummer when explaining your quest for rhythmic greatness. Fills, licks, riffs: Wh …

People think of music in a variety of ways; some merely enjoy the experience of listening to a favorite song, while others love the challenge of mastering an instrument or playing composer with friends. For anyone who has a familiarity with listening to, playing, or composing music, there is a certain sense that leads us to our favorite types of music that has no real definition. Music has an unspeakable pull with dimensions, aspects and elements that touch our minds, hearts and even our souls. …

Cymbals are a great way to customize your drum set and personal sound as a drummer. These instruments are available in a wide range of styles, with different materials used in their construction, a variety of cymbal finishes and, of course different sizes. All of these factors go into how each cymbal sounds when played, making certain cymbal types better for different genres of music or playing styles, or even to get a message across in a song.A common question that is asked when searching for n …

Each winter, millions of people around the world grabs snacks, drinks and friends to watch the greatest football game of the year: the Superbowl. DC 101 reports that this year's Superbowl will not only show of the prowess of great athletes and a visual array of competitive commercials, but that the halftime show will be one nobody should miss. With a nod to Bruno Mars, Chad Smith followed up the announcement of Red Hot Chili Peppers joining the game by posting his epic Superbowl-theme drum set a …

The djembe drum has made a substantial impact on the world of music, from professional to hobby to the drumming of a community drum jam. These drums are as varied as the people who first played them, as well as modern djembefolas who continue to find new ways to include the unique sound and style of the djembe into the music we hear each day. Djembe drums are West African, hailing from places like Senegal, Guinea, Mali and Ghana, and each “style” of djembe has its own unique style and …

No matter what type of band you may play in, there is a good chance that you may need another member or two for vocals, drums or to pick up the bass. Music Radar reports that a new social network for musicians has just launched that promises to help those in search of band mates can find each other, find a place to record your music or even keep your playlist and tour dates organized. Other artists are organized by instrument, genre and location, and can add sound and video clips to their profil …

If you love playing music, then you know that NAMM is the place to be for all of the latest innovations in drums and gear. This year, according to Music Radar, NAMM Winter 2014 promises to not disappoint with its technology-driven offerings from all of the biggest music merchants, as well as up-and-coming instrument and recording manufacturers. For anyone interested in learning about all of the new sounds and styles of instruments, recording equipment, software and more, head out to NAMM for an …

Jazz drumming is no simple feat, particularly when you understand the nuances and vibe needed to master the beat that makes jazz music so unforgettable. Jazz24.org recently wrote a tribute to the "father" of modern jazz drumming, Kenny Clarke, a man who not only understood these nuances, but, who is attributed with creating the "sprang a lang," and "klook," that any and all jazz musician feel in their very soul. Happy birthday, Mr. Clarke, and thank you for the rhythms that keep us in the groove …

For any drummer, the ability to keep energy up can be a constant reminder of just how physical, mental and even spiritual drumming really is. As a reflection of the drummer's personality, perhaps the most important question is, "which beat is the most important to play?" In a full-versed lesson on drumming technique, Drum Magazine has explored this dynamic within drumming through various scenarios, with insight and advice for any drummer who may be questioning his or her place in the rhythm play …

There is a creative force that lives within any drummer; one that is pragmatic, yet, defies the rules of structure. This natural inclination for rhythm is alive in our heartbeats and in the cycles of nature, the planet and the daily ticking of the clock. Drum circles are a true example of how easy it is learn more about ourselves through community drumming, bringing methods of mindfulness within a group setting. It is this stillness within sound that can create some powerful insights for persona …