Rattlesnake: An Indie Pop Rock Approach

Welcome to the lesson on "Rattlesnake," which features an indie pop rock feel influenced by the likes of:

• The Hives
• The Datsuns
• The Strokes

Understanding the Groove

This piece is crafted in an eighth note feel, consistent with all debut pieces. There are no 16th notes or big tom fills, so our focus is on:

• Sound of the groove
• Consistent time and flow
• Balanced sounds

Setting Up the Count

Before you dive in, give yourself a counting session.

When practicing with the track, you should be already mentally and physically prepared before you hear the count:

• Count: 1, 2, 3, 4

You need to be ready to jump into that first groove on the drums as soon as you hear the count:

• 1, 2, start counting 1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and bam, bam, bam, you're in!

This helps establish the feel right from the start. A great trick I learned many years ago and still use today!

Sound Considerations

Hi-Hat Technique

• You can play this reasonably trashy on the hi-hat, just not too open.
• I like to balance it somewhere in between: not too open, not too tight.

Technique:

• Play on the shoulder of the stick for more energy, avoiding a huge accent but enough to provide that groovy feel.
• A tighter hi-hat doesn't feel as good for this tune.

Rim Shot Technique

Rim shots are a fantastic technique that many drummers use. I often choose to:

• Use rim shots for the backbeat unless instructed otherwise.

Why use rim shots?

• They create a new texture to the backbeat, resulting in a thicker, definite sound that records well and projects nicely in live situations.

Note:

• I sometimes leave the stick in the head after hitting to achieve a tight, definite sound, a tip I picked up from great drummers like Vinnie Colaiuta and Jeff Porcaro.

Maintaining a Consistent Feel

• Aim for a steady dynamic throughout, with just enough energy and conviction to keep it moving.
• Maintain good consistent time and a balance of sounds.

Breaking Down Sections

It's crucial to break the sections down in your practice.

• Take separate sections (like A, B, C) and work through them.
• Don't hesitate to focus on just the hi-hat or backbeat if needed.

General Practice Tip:

• Spend three minutes focusing just on backbeats to isolate particular parts of the song.

Pay Attention to Unison Sections

Unison sections often occur where the bass drum, snare, and hi-hats fall together.

• Be mindful of maintaining precision, avoid flams or any noticeable discrepancies.
• It might be a little looser, but keep it as tight as possible.

Final Thoughts

To summarize:

• You don't have to use rim shots, just get through the tune.
• Enjoy the music and listen to the track while playing along.
• Consider experimenting with a trashier sound if you feel inclined.

Remember:

• Play with energy and conviction.
• Communicate with your teacher and practice with both the track and the metronome.
• Break everything down, and most importantly, have fun with "Rattlesnake!"

I'll see you soon!