Deep Trouble: Understanding Deep Purple

This lesson focuses on a band called Deep Purple. If you haven't heard of them, they are an iconic rock band from the 70s, known for their guitar-heavy riffs. One of their most famous songs is "Smoke on the Water," which has a sound you might recognize.

Key Elements of the Piece

• Character of the Piece:

  • This classic rock piece requires more attitude.
  • It's essential to dig in a little harder when playing.

• Rhythm Structure:

  • Concentrate on counting your crotchets (quarter notes) and quavers (eighth notes).
  • Think: 1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and 1 and 2.
  • Ensure the "and" is strong; otherwise, the whole tune will sound weak.

Focus on Dynamics

• Technique:

  • Playing with more weight means being in control, not going wild.
  • Practice three dynamics: quiet, medium, and loud, always returning back to quiet.

• Single Stroke Rolls:

  • Focus on how you strike the surface, varying between quiet, medium, and loud while staying in control.

Rim Shots and Bass Drum Technique

• Using rim shots on the snare drum can help increase volume.
• When playing, keep your beater close to the drumhead for quick impacts.
• Avoid big movements; they can lead to fatigue.

Staying Steady with Loud Instruments

• As things get louder, don't rush!
  • Try using your arm a bit more to maintain control of the tempo.
  • For example, in Bar 15, there's syncopation; always count the crotchet strongly.

Offbeat Playing

• A recommended exercise:

  • Play a bar of quavers on offbeats using a bass drum and crash cymbal together.
  • Example count: 1 and 2 and 3 and 4.

• Always start by counting in with a strong bar: 1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and 1.

Syncopation and Energy Management

• In this piece, there's a fill that uses the snare drum playing quavers.
• I prefer to play it with one hand to maintain energy.
  • While you could alternate hands, one hand often feels more fluid and energetic.

Bar 20 Breakdown

• In Bar 20, you'll find:
  • Half a bar of groove
  • Half a bar of the snare drum figure.
• Here's how I like to play it, but feel free to choose what feels best for you.

Listening for Inspiration

70s rock is fundamentally about the drums. Notable drummers to listen to include:

• John Bonham (Led Zeppelin)
• Ian Pace (Deep Purple)

Final Thoughts

Listening to the original tracks will deepen your understanding and improve your performance. I hope you enjoy this music; it has been a significant inspiration for me!