Customer Reviews

The Way of the Drum

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This book is a "sequel" to Helm's previous work, Drumming the Spirit to Life and offers more of Helm's philosophy about life and his experiences as a professional musician, and what ultimately led him to teach others his thoughts on drumming. It also offers some instructions on basic drumming rhythms, including a CD that contains samples of the basic drum rhythms Helm talks about.

As with his other book, there lots of stories. For example, the one about the old Marvin Gaye song "Inner City Blues," and the interesting drum rhythm used on that song. It's a song I've always enjoyed for its lyrics and now one I can enjoy for its unusual drum rhythm as well.

Helm also stresses the point throughout the book that it's "finding your own groove" that's important. As he puts it, so many feel the need to "bang hard" on the drum, or "fill every possible space with notes," when at times the exact opposite is what works best. The temptation of course is there to play hard and fill every note (and most likely drive the drummers around you nuts) in a drumming circle.

I found myself nodding in agreement with almost all of what Helm had to say and found the book uplifting and entertaining.

This book is just plain fun. It's written in a casual manner, and reads like a talk with an older, wiser, friend about his experiences in a life lived around the drum.
From a story of a fire in a crowded theatre presided over by Wolfman Jack, to talk of Conjure Drumming, Buddy lays down a mellow beat that is a pleasure to spend time with. And interesting pictures, too.
The accompanying cd is well recorded and FUN!
Buy this book and relax. Drum and be happy; insights will come as they come! Good book, Buddy! :-)