Keith Carlock – The Big Picture (2009)

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Keith Carlock – The Big Picture (2009)

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Keith Carlock – The Big Picture (2009)

Keith Carlock’s new two disc DVD set The Big Picture – Phrasing, Improvisation, Style, and Technique is an inside look at what makes this unique and in-demand drummer tick. It is set in a master class atmosphere, with a relaxed information exchange between Keith and the students. There are many topics covered in this package including: hand and foot combinations, playing over the bar line, technique, and his very unique concepts of tuning and setup among others. Disc two features a performance by the Wayne Krantz trio, and showcases the improvisational style of music they made famous at Manhattan’s 55 bar. While the playing examples are great, it is the opportunity to see how Keith thinks that makes this DVD something worth having in your library. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights and how they might help you and your students.

aabuynowlink-newGroove is the word of the day, and is the underlying principle in everything Keith plays and talks about. While there are some impressive solos and chops, it is all related to groove. Growing up in Mississippi, the influence of nearby New Orleans is very strong in Keith’s playing. Particularly useful from a teaching perspective are Keith’s definition of groove and his examples of the New Orleans second line style. His set up and unorthodox physical approach to the instrument are sure to start a discussion between you and your student. Check the “Sound and Setup” chapter for a discussion of how he developed these concepts. Keith continues with examples and discussions of very musical concepts, like drawing different sounds from cymbals and drums, and tension and release as they apply to drumming and music. He plays some songs from his band Rudder with explanations of the parts. The disc ends with Keith detailing his playing with Steely Dan. He played on two of their recordings, and is the only drummer to have played on an entire Steely Dan album. Here he explains his own original grooves and his approach to the Steely Dan classics.

The Wayne Krantz trio is featured on Disc 2. Their music is highly improvisational in nature, and relies on visual and musical cues to navigate through key changes, tempo changes and tricky forms. While the music can be difficult to digest on first listen, Keith’s explanations are very informative. In fact, I suggest watching the explanations first in some cases, then watching and listening to the band perform those songs. Along with the performance of the trio, Keith talks about some topics unique to his style, such as his open bass drum tuning and playing with his hands to create different sonic effects.

Keith is one of the most unique players on the scene today. His list of huge gigs stands as a testimony to how in-demand he is. While his concepts might not be applicable to everyone, I’m sure they will provide a good place for you and your student to explore these concepts further.

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Keith Carlock – The Big Picture (2009)

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Keith Carlock – The Big Picture (2009)

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Keith Carlock – The Big Picture (2009)

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