Customer Reviews

Keith Carlock The Big Picture Phrasing, Improvisation, Style & Technique

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

As a drum admirer, I was extremely interested in watching one of the top drummers on the planet, Keith Carlock, and to hear his philosophies about his art. He sits with a group of very knowledgeable drummers/students, including one who tells him exactly what he plays in a particular place - "it's a paradiddle diddle diddle." Keith responds, "Ok, you win." As an added treat, Keith drums along with tunes by Oz Noy and Rudder and then is joined by guitarist virtuoso Wayne Krantz and bassist extraordinaire Tim Lefebvre. The trio discuss their group interactions and how they have melded through the years they have been playing together. This is great watching for anyone who loves drummers.

Being a drum enthusiast( and a BIG fan of Keith's already!)-I purchased this dvd immediately upon it's release. For one, Keith is an extreme talent--and for him to let us into his mind/thoughts as a player is even more of a gift! Face it, none of us will EVER be able to play like Keith!! That being said, for him to explain his approach and technique in the no-nonsense, easy going demeanor that is Keith, makes this dvd attainable. Most of the intructional dvd's on the market today--kind of speak over the heads of the target audience. While Keith (and Wayne and Tim ) explain what BAND interaction is all about--where most other dvd's focus on the "look at me-- and what I can play" aspect. I wish more videos would take this same small audience Q & A approach, almost like being at a clinic. There have been so many times in the past that I wish I could have recorded a drum clinic--and with this dvd--my wish was granted for once! The icing on the cake was being able to see up close and personal, Keith simply KILLING IT on the OZ Noy and Wayne Krantz Trio tunes!!! My recommendation is actually 5 PLUS stars.....Seek it out now!

This double DVD set featuring Keith Carlock gives great value for money - when you live a long way away in Australia like I do, you hope when you buy something from overseas that you're getting your money's worth.

I bought the DVD as I had heard his playing with Steely Dan on record and wanted to know more about where he was coming from musically. There is something strange about seeing someone who is obviously well schooled reduced to playing very simple beats like a machine - to me it's like saying 'I can play more complicated stuff, but I choose to play simply' .

Keith then goes on (on Disc 2) to play 'more complicated stuff'. As for Keith playing the instrumental music (definitely music for certain types of musicians - it doesn't appeal to me)- I suppose the idea behind it was to show that Keith can play in both styles - simple and complicated.
He covers his set up , hand and foot technique, New Orleans influences, applying jazz technique to groove based music, his drumline background and its influences on his playing, how he thinks in phrases, his interesting foot techniques with the hi hat pedal (which I particularly liked) and many other topics.

Overall, in terms of sound and approach, to me he comes across as a looser, jazz influenced John Bonham.

These DVD's are advertisements for the musicians as well - not merely educational. It's good marketing.
Keith also comes across very well and I must say that I am glad to see how many drummers on these instructional DVD's are well spoken, considering the potential worldwide audience.
They further the cause and perception of drummers being seen as musicians which, of course, they are.

I have a gripe about the DVD though, similar to other Hudson Music DVD's - THERE ARE NO SUBTITLES.
I don't need them personally - Hudson, why not increase the amount of people who can benefit from this material?
Make a difference and include them, as you're probably making a good deal of money from these DVD's - some of it mine.

Sometimes I have a hard time finding some inspiration to elevate my rehearsal standards, and breaking into new territory. This DVD did the trick for me. It gave me a variety of things to work on that were fun, and actually attainable. Keith is such a mellow character that speaks softly, but plays like a monster! I would recommend this to any drummer looking to advance their groove styles. Younger drummers especially. You gotta remember its all about the groove! Keith helps you get there in a fun, productive way!!

I bought this for a gift for my son who is a drummer. I asked him about it and he said it's a great DVD.