I’m a drummer, percussionist, composer, and music producer based in Budapest. This is my drum blog, a collection of sheet music, transcriptions, exercises, books, and other stuff related to the drums.
In the first lesson of this new series, we’ll explore groups of 3 notes using various combinations around the drumset. I created the following 44 combinations to involve a linear approach (no unisons) between the snare, bass drum, hi-hat, and toms. These combinations are written in 16th notes but could be conceived and played in … More Rhythmic Patterns: 3-Note Combinations
“Cissy Strut” is an influential funk instrumental tune by The Meters, released in 1969 as part of their self-titled debut album. This track showcases the band’s unique blend of New Orleans musical influences, characterized by tight rhythmic guitar riffs and syncopated grooves, that helped define the funk genre. It features the outstanding drumming of Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste … More Drum Shorts: The Meters – Cissy Strut (Drum Grooves Transcription)
Here are two comprehensive drum transcription bundles for drummers looking to study the work of renowned artists. The Neil Peart – Rush Drum Transcriptions Collection includes a book on Peart’s drumming style along with 9 transcriptions of classic Rush songs. The Complete Drum Transcriptions Collection features over 100 transcriptions and eBooks (all the products from … More Drum Transcription Bundles
“Jellybelly” by The Smashing Pumpkins is an unpredictable episode of energy and raw intensity from the band’s celebrated double album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995). With its crushing riffs, relentless drumming, and existential lyrics, the song is a powerful example of the band’s ability to blend heaviness with introspection. Jimmy Chamberlin’s drumming … More Jimmy Chamberlin: Smashing Pumpkins – Jellybelly (Drum Analysis + Full Transcription)
“Jellybelly” by The Smashing Pumpkins, from the album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995), is a blast of raw power and precision, standing as the most complex track of the band. The song showcases the explosive energy and intricate drumming of Jimmy Chamberlin. Known for his fusion-influenced style and technical proficiency, Chamberlin delivers a … More Smashing Pumpkins – Jellybelly (Drum Sheet Music)
I’m thrilled to share with you my new release—a bright arrangement of Charlie Parker’s classic tune “Yardbird Suite.” The recording took place back in the day at the Saint Louis College of Music in Rome, in the summer of 2017, arranging the piece for a quintet and playing the drums. “Yardbird Suite” marks a completely … More Francis V – Yardbird Suite (Available Now)
The live performance of Joshua Redman, Brad Mehldau, Christian McBride, and Brian Blade at the Falcon (in New York’s Hudson Valley) is the finest example of jazz at its pinnacle. This live version of the show-opener tune “Long Gone” showcases the quartet’s divine musical chemistry, with a free-flowing interplay between subtle introspection and dynamic intensity. … More Redman, Mehldau, McBride, Blade – Long Gone (Live at The Falcon) – Drum Sheet Music
The Drum Shorts series, dedicated to the most iconic drum grooves and fills, returns to the blog and social media every quarter! This time, we will analyze a memorable and influential drum beat that shaped the history of modern drumming. “Come Together” is the opening track from The Beatles’ iconic album Abbey Road (1969). … More Drum Shorts: The Beatles – Come Together (Drum Groove Transcription)
Today we discover the classical Egyptian rhythm known as Zarafat (also spelled Dharafat), commonly performed in Arabic muwashahat music. While specific details about Zarafat might be scarce, Egyptian music is deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Arab world, which emphasizes melodic complexity and rhythmic nuance. Traditionally Arabic music … More Rhythms From the World #4 – Zarafat
My latest two books, Steely Dan: 5 Drum Transcriptions and Stone Temple Pilots: 5 Drum Transcriptions, are now available in paperback format on Amazon. Each transcription is accurately transcribed note-for-note with an easy and clear notation, including a comprehensive notation key. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced drummer, these collections are your gateway to understanding Steely Dan and … More Steely Dan: 5 Drum Transcriptions & Stone Temple Pilots: 5 Drum Transcriptions – Now Available in Paperback
Francis' Drumming Blog 