DannyBritt.com DVD Review:
Bass Drum Techniques for Today's Drummer by Matt Ritter
Part I of The Review
Matt Ritter has really done his homework. I was so impressed with this DVD, especially because it has provided more specific educational information than any Drum DVD I can remember.
There is so much good and practical information that probably answers most of the questions you have on bass drum technique. I learned a lot
and also looked at some topics I had not thought about!
In a friendly, almost professor-like approach, Matt explains bass drum techniques in great detail and even incorporates Netwon's 3rd Law of Motion to explain a point. (It's amazing how much more fun learning physics can be when it pertains to your passion lol).
Matt approaches this vast topic like a detective -- determined to uncover the answers.
Heel Down
Matt explains the advantages and disadvantages of heels-down playing. He includes some of the following topics:
- Activation of Calf Muscles
- Jazz Drumming Featering
- Soft Playing
- Clean, Immediate, Auto Rebounds
- Challenges in Playing Fast & Loud
- Limitations of Heel-Rooting
- Drumhead Resonation
- Angle-Changing Challenges
- Toe v. Ball v. Full Surface
- Small Calf Muscles v. Large Leg Muscles
Heel Up
Matt explains the advantages and disadvantages of heels-down playing. He includes some of the following topics:
- Burying the Beater
- Relaxation of Upper Leg in Heel-Raising
- Hopping Motioin
- Advantage of Non-Anchoring of The Heel
- Full Leg Power (e.g., Quadriceps, Hip Muscles, etc)
- Freedom to Alter Angle
- Using Different Parts of The Foot
- Avoiding Drum Muting
- Cons of Heel Raised with Leg Weight
- Avoiding Reduction of Rich Sound & Sonic Capability
- Physical Comfort, Tense Muscles & Fatigue
Matt also cites Newton's 3rd Law of Motion: "For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.", and
that we cannot combat physics!
He also explains how the man-made force of the spring on the pedal needs to be taking into account.
Merging Heel Up and Heel Down Advantages
This is what we want to do and Matt talks about this.
Setting Up Yourself & Drumset
Matt discusses types of shoes that can be optimal for playing and how that can facilitate smooth motion and reduce friction.
He also demonstrates optimal angles between your lower legs, feet, knees and ankles. You will learn to optimize freedom of movement and put your foot
in a position of leverage to maximize use of the calf muscles and avoiding cramping.