Music Lesson: "Standard" by Stormzy

Introduction to the Track

Let's take a look at the track "Standard" by the great Stormzy. This is a grime track featuring a programmed drum machine on the original. However, live versions might showcase a slightly different arrangement.

Key Features

• Rock School Arrangement: We've put together an interesting piece that's different from both the original recording and live performances.
• Bespoke Arrangement: This version embodies the grime style.

Playing the Intro

Right from the off, we've got a big snare drum intro. Here's how I would approach it:

• Rim Shot Technique: Play rim shots to achieve an almost machine-like sound.
• Bars Structure: Finish off the last half bar (the fourth bar) with a center snare.

The rhythm should feel like:

Ba ba ba ba ba ba ba ba ba ba

Try to maintain a heavy sound, transitioning to the center snare for the last hit.

Transition Count

Get that count in your head: 1, 2, 1, 2. It's crucial to nail that introduction from the start.

Understanding the B Section

The B section has no hi-hat or ride line; it relies solely on the bass drum and snare. This makes it quite unusual, so feel the absence of the hi-hat.

• Eighth Notes: At this tempo, think in eighth notes to help you feel the time, rather than just relying on the bass drum and snare.

The Fill Leading into C Section

Coming out of the B section, we have an important fill:

• Fill Elements: Mid tom to floor tom, then crash cymbal, leading into a heavy eighth note groove.

Executing the C Section

In the C section, aim for a very machine-like groove.

• Crossing Over: I would recommend crossing to the right-hand side for the crash, as this allows for a more fluid transition back to the hi-hat.

Final Bar Rhythm

• Good Flam: Ensure a solid flam when transitioning into the C section.

C Section Groove

The groove in this section features:

• Hi-Hat: Play consistent eighth notes with inflections for a dynamic feel.
• Rim Shots: Use big rim shots for emphasis.

Tips for Playing the Hi-Hat Section

• Keep sticks close to the hi-hat for a crisp sound.
• Maintain energy and conviction throughout.

Hi-Hat Only Breakdown

As the tune breaks down into a hi-hat-only section:

• Play Lightly: Avoid a thick sound; aim for a nice thin sound right on top of the hi-hat.

• Unison Bar: Be cautious here; the rhythmic importance lies in playing tightly with the bass drum to avoid flamming.

Transitioning to the F Section

The D section continues with a heavy groove on the hi-hat, while the F section introduces:

• Rhythmic Motif: Found in the bass drum (1, 2, 3, 4) with a backbeat on beat three.

Dynamics on Right Cymbal

• Dynamic Playing: Employ dynamics in your playing without making it too washy.

Ending Sections

At the end of the E section, you have the liberty to create a two-bar fill:

• Simple Fill: Something straightforward, keeping it simple to transition back into the bass drum and snare feel.

Final Thoughts

As the track concludes with tight unison:

• Avoid Flamming: Work on ensuring that the sound remains tight and precise.

Conclusion

There's a lot going on in this track. Anticipation and understanding of movement are key.

• Practice Tips:
  • Read the walkthrough in your package to familiarize yourself with the track.
  • Focus on dynamic changes and timekeeping, as the tune has a lot of movement.

Enjoy playing "Standard" by Stormzy! It's quite challenging yet a great groove track to master. Play with energy and conviction. See you soon!