My Top Drummers, Pt. 1

So far here on Pretzel Logic, I’ve covered my all time favorite bassists (and instrument I play proficiently) and guitarists (an instrument I dabble around with). Therefore, it’s time to move on to an instrument I can’t even attempt to play well: drums! This month, I’m showcasing ten of my favorite drummers, drawn from a wide range of diverse musical styles. Now, as a non-drummer, I’m not really in a position to say how these drummers match up from a technical standpoint. All I know is that these ten men (female drummers seem few and far between) have managed to stick out in my mind over the years. While you won’t find any John Bonhams or Keith Moons here, these are the drummers who’ve lifted themselves beyond simple rhythm to become an integral part in my musical enjoyment of their bands.

#10
Name: Levon Helm
Associated Bands: The Band

While I may not nessicarily agree with Levon Helm’s hilariously stereotypical, “the south shall rise again” politics, there’s no denying that the man can absolutely make drums sing. Of course, he also sings himself on many of the band’s songs, but it’s his expressive flourishes and tendency to fall behind the count ever-so-slightly that really gives his patterns and drum riffs character. The Band thrived on their rural, curled-in-front-of-the-fire vibe and Helm’s charmingly simplistic drumming really added to that atmosphere.

Required Listening: “The Night The Drove Old Dixie Down”, “Up On Cripple Creek”, “Jawbone”

#9
Name: Mac McNeilly
Associated Bands: The Jesus Lizard

In the early part of their career, the Jesus Lizard depended on a drum machine to supply rhythm*. Then Mac McNeilly arrived and catapulted the band into the stratosphere. Heavy-hitting and muscular, McNeilly’s tight, virtually lockstep rhythms are integral in holding the Lizard’s chaotic music together. His pummeling snare hits and cacophonous cymbal crashes also give the band’s music a violent, powerful edge, hitting you hard in your chest while the rest of the band attacks your ears and better judgment.

Required Listening: “Nub”, “Puss”, “Destroy Before Reading”

*A sidenote: Big Black’s Roland, a drum machine credited as a full member of the band in press material, was #11 on this list.