Saturday, November 21, 2009

Heel Up or Heel Down?

What are you views?  Drummer are always asking me "..what's the best technique for the bass drum?"

My answer would be whatever works best for you!  I've always played with my heel up but I've studied with some jazz guys who say "heel down, always heel down".  I just feel it lacks the power needed especially when you're playing in a club with no mic system at all.  But, even in the studio I play heel up and have never had a producer or engineer say anything remotely adverse to the sound of the bass drum.  I usually get complimented that my bass drum sounds so good, so go figure.
All in all I'd say it's a matter of personal comfort and taste, but I do have to admit when I am playing with a trio or in any combo setting I do notice I don't need to work that hard and guess what? Most of the time in that setting, my heel is down!!!

Weigh in and give your opinion guys, and thanks for joining!! Feel free to tell me about your experiences and share ideas if you're willing.
Have a great weekend!
Dan Dever

Monday, November 16, 2009

More Pics of Droitwich,Worcester and Stratford-upon-Avon



One of the best coffee shops I've had the pleasure of visiting in a very long time, excellent food and service right in Droitwich Spa,UK.

My new book

I have been trying to finish a book I've been working on for about 5 years now and from what I can see in the marketplace the likes of it do not exist so I know it will most likely be received well.  I have already torn up or deleted work on the first draft which took about 6 months to outline, research and sketch and have moved on to what I feel is a better outline with more concise content.  I am not going to release the name of the book as I am awaiting copyright status but, I was wondering if there was anyone who has some publishing experience as I have a million questions.  It will be a self published book but the process seems quite involved so any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated.
To be honest, I never thought it would get off the ground but now that I am close it's a great feeling to catch a glimpse of what the finished product might look like.
So, to all you cats in the ether...peace!
DD

Sunday, November 15, 2009

My trip to Rushok to pay my respects!



This was my second trip to Rushock to pay my respects to one of my biggest influences from a very young age, Mr. John Henry Bonham.  It was an unbelievable experience for me, but it was also a reminder of how this business can do that to you if you're not careful.  But all in all it was a beautiful part of England to see and I am hoping to return in the spring of 2010 if the fates are kind.

Mohawk Time


What can I say?  I was needing a change!

Gateway To Lisbon



A jam session at the Devon Arms in Teighnmouth,Devon,UK

A trip through the moors during my stay in England