An Offering From Drumeo | Sleep Token II

This is the first recorded video interview that any member of Sleep Token has ever done. We are honored that II has decided to do this with Drumeo.
II is a founding member and the drummer for the anonymous band Sleep Token. Join II and Brandon as they discuss the band's recent album 'Take Me Back to Eden' and the evolution of his drumming style across their three albums. He gives us a unique glimpse into his drumming techniques, how he creates his drum parts with Sleep Token, and vocabulary that defines his drumming style.
This is an offering from Drumeo.
Worship.
Try 7 Days Of Drumeo FREE
► www.drumeo.com/trial
_______________
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:06 - “Vore” by Sleep Token (Performance)
05:29 - Welcome
06:37 - "The Night Does Not Belong To God" by Sleep Token (Performance)
09:16 - Influences
09:51 - "Chokehold" by Sleep Token (Performance)
12:48 - The Evolution of II's Drumming
14:15 - "Gods" by Sleep Token (Performance)
17:55 - "Dark Signs" by Sleep Token (Performance)
21:47 - Developing Drum Parts
23:36 - "The Apparition" by Sleep Token (Performance)
26:53 - Drumming Style
28:30 - "Atlantic" by Sleep Token (Performance)
29:59 - Favorite Rudiments
30:25 - "Alkaline" by Sleep Token (Performance)
32:58 - "Like That" by Sleep Token (Performance)
36:15 - Creative Liberties
38:19 - "Rain" by Sleep Token (Performance)
41:27 - Favorite Drummers
41:58 - "Take Me Back To Eden" by Sleep Token (Performance)
47:52 - Favorite Songs To Perform Live
49:01 - Final Thoughts
49:16 - "Higher" by Sleep Token (Performance)
53:00 - Outro
_______________
Follow II:
►Instagram: / ii_sleeptoken
►Facebook: / ii.sleeptoken
►Twitter: / ii_sleeptoken
Follow @Sleep-Token
►Instagram: / sleep_token
►Facebook: / sleeptoken
►Twitter: / sleep_token
►Website: www.sleep-token.com/
Follow @BrandonToews
►Instagram: / brandon.toews
►Facebook: / brandon.toews
►TikTok: / brandon.toews
Follow us:
►The Drumeo Beat: www.drumeo.com/beat/
►Facebook: / drumeo
►Instagram: / drumeoofficial
►TikTok: / drumeoofficial
_______________
#Drumeo #SleepToken #II

[@DrumeoOfficial]

This is the first recorded video interview that any member of Sleep Token has ever done. We are honored that II has decided to do this with Drumeo. 🎬 If you want to try this and many other Sleep Token drumless songs, get a 7-Day Free trial to check out Drumeo! 👉🏼 www.drumeo.com/trial

[@akisstat]

That’s beyond amazing !

[@Sharononp]

Awesome!!!

[@victorfolcke]

So excited 🤩

[@ChadGrattanMusic]

Let's goooooooo

[@echelonangel98]

That's amazing 🎉

[@CAPTAINCHAOS_]

I am not surprised II chose Drumeo for this. They are nothing but professional, respectful, and passionate about the craft.

[@kaylawagner8141]

He’s been working with them since before he was in Sleep Token, so of course he’s going to do it.

[@KaleEmAll]

@@kaylawagner8141 ok now i just have questions

[@ddevil4980]

​@@kaylawagner8141 exactly, if you know you know. 😉

[@Mari000]

@@kaylawagner8141yup

[@alessandrovandersluis8915]

And it’s solely about the music!

[@dannysparrow]

This was really cool. I showed it to my kid (who I'm about to teach drums to) and told her nobody knows who the band is, she said "not even their mothers?"

[@ar053x]

except or their passports n hotels n stuff but u know...

[@lxw6657]

Hotels usually check in famous people under another name, ​because someone else does it for them. @@ar053x

[@darkallyrecordings4931]

😂😂Gotta love kids man. Sounds like something my daughter would say. Too smart for their own good....😂😂

[@km_72]

This was the most wholesome and earnest response ever. Lol. Love it.

[@JCamCline]

People know who they are. They’ve been revealed a few times

[@chaoticeloquence1004]

I love that Sleep Token's first interview consisted of questions about their music, not about their life. I'm so glad Drumeo is all about the music. Respect.

[@lily117j4]

ong

[@hattarapilvi]

its not their first interview. first in video form sure but vessel has done interviews for kerrang.

[@noahmoore6513]

It’s probably because his face is hidden but imo he looks so damn comfortable behind the kit. Like the body language is so chill and relaxed. Seems like he’s genuinely having fun playing and that’s the best thing you could ask for as a musician.

[@jaydee1101]

Absolutely. Alot of these amazing drummers look like this. Look at Austin from Lorna Shore, it looks like he’s going to fall asleep at times. Lol. I think it’s just pure focus.

[@mortisure4081]

Oh for sure. He makes it look easy and graceful. But you know it’s not. I’ve watched other videos of guys playing their stuff and they’re sweating.

[@d0rkmau180]

I was sweating trying to learn hypnosis

[@stardustjustlikeyou]

The man plays with sprezzatura. He looks careless while doing something that would make the rest of us fumble.

[@charliekruse5590]

Guy has no idea how many potential drummers he's just inspired

[@MadMan123654]

28 years old, currently poor man soundproofing my room for the electric kit i set up

[@JannikBork]

I‘m a drummer and Vessel inspired me to play piano. 6 month in and writing my own piano/drums music. 🙏🏼

[@Gesa1991]

I started playing because I saw II play

[@bufordteejustice1119]

​@Gesa1991 no you didn't.

[@ElliSchmitz-cj2hh]

​@@bufordteejustice1119 dude how would you know that? 😭

[@sainzfab]

Well done to Drumeo for filming this in a way that preserves the Sleep Token lore

[@DrummerBoi181]

This is such an awesome thing!

[@BrandonToews]

❤

[@LandoPro49]

Yes, I loved how they did this! Although I'm sure Sleep Token's management probably made every single person present in the studio sign an NDA, it's still a really well-made Drumeo video!

[@Backingg]

@@LandoPro49lol

[@prestonmikel1]

@@LandoPro49🤣 way to be dramatic

[@sparkybat9177]

I’m an ex-pro classical violinist who left the profession a few years ago as I’d started to lose my love of music. Stumbled across this drumeo film and it has inspired me more than anything Ive seen or heard in the last few years. Impeccable, dedicated, truthful and technically incredibly polished playing. Feeling the love again for the first time in a long time. Thanks so much for this post

[@mudhamartin1162]

Greatness isn't built with motivation but with persistence, friend.

[@gustavofiorelli]

@@mudhamartin1162 While that may be a universal truth and/or common sense, everyone has a unique way of dealing with life's challenges, influenced by personal traits, environmental characteristics, and even neurobiological factors (after all, we wouldn't expect neurotypical individuals to have the same perspective on motivation and persistence as someone with ADHD, right?). Recognizing that each person faces their own struggles and navigates life in their own way can help them discover their path. But I understand what you meant by your comment and consider that to be friendly advice. Peace!

[@mudhamartin1162]

@@gustavofiorelli That's good because my advice wasn't for you specifically, buddy. It was a broad paint-stroke for OP. I'm glad you found something out of it anyway, though! Have a great day.

[@gustavofiorelli]

@@mudhamartin1162 I know it wasn't directed at me, but thanks for the clarification anyway! I appreciate the positive vibes. Wishing you a great day too!

[@CarlosCruz_cc]

@@gustavofiorelli That was one of the most clarifying and sensible comments for NDs (like myself) that i ever read on KZbin. Thank you for that. If i had to guess i'd say you're "one of us"! I understood and agree with mudhamartins1162 comment but, unfortunetly, it doesn't apply to all of us...... Wish a great day for both of you.

[@MrsKray]

Why is no one talking about the drums for Alkaline? Jesus fuck it's beyond insane? The way he controls the symbals whilst keeping a rhythm as well as going ham on the kit at the same time? It's just utter insanity. Mad respect for this Drumeo. Congrats II, you majorly deserved the drumeo award. Look forward to seeing you at the O2 in november 🙌

[@thanks4theinvite]

The way he plays is mesmerising. So tight. The fills, cymbal control, everything in Alkaline is mind blowing.

[@WeMissDimebag]

His work on that verse into chorus is filthy. If more of their songs had that level of energy I might like this band.

[@N3ON23]

I run Alkaline to sites 60 to 160 a day💪

[@lanceschultz7132]

Agreed. Awesome. One of my favorite songs from s.t.

[@lanceschultz7132]

​@thanks4theinvite yes. Pin point accuracy. Looks so clean especially watching overhead....sick.

[@yoiselmartinez]

This is the first time we will hear a member of the band speak, this is modern history.

[@arcadeeditsyt]

Vessel spoke on Saturday night

[@nicholashofbauer6880]

​@@arcadeeditsyt he did?

[@gitschieldar8941]

@@nicholashofbauer6880He kinda whispered „thank you“ at the beginning of Blood Sport. It‘s while he was crying so a bit hard to hear but definitely there

[@mattjones3696]

Vessel legit sings

[@krisward.]

@@mattjones3696not nearly the same as speaking. people can sound way different when they sing

[@JoeMACofNAC]

That snare should have its own fanpage. It's so damn iconic.

[@Sokka_Games]

so fucking good.

[@bendooley550]

Can i get one that sounds like this? Ill pay you in sweat and broken tips for it.

[@k.a.i1539]

His kit has the most haunting sound I've heard and I look for this sound in kits

[@aaronfisher7159]

Thing is TIGGGGGGHHHT

[@theaverageguy8540]

Oh man yes!!. Do you know what it is?.

[@auteur3779]

II is clearly professionally trained and likely a music school prodigy with the language he uses, influences and his narrative style. Blown away and massively impressed with his grace toward his craft. Doesn't matter the style he's playing, you don't even need to hear his playing, his ability to share his interpretive vision and technical appreciation is master craft level.

[@chelstar_]

II is probably one of the best drummers I’ve seen in a very long time. His technicality is mind-blowing.

[@kaizenregimen]

Who are the others?

[@0uad1utz]

@@kaizenregimentravis barker probably

[@brittonshupe]

I agree. There are plenty of incredible drummers out there, but something about his playing is just so different. I've been a drummer for half my life and seeing him play feels like I'm seeing drumming for the first time.

[@wavesinthe5112]

@@kaizenregimenI’d give that to Jamie Saint Merat from ulcerate

[@Ghostofeden]

​@@0uad1utz😂😂😂

[@5609Ali]

The way he doesn’t waste any movement is so impressive. He hits cymbals as though he’s conducting an orchestra.

[@jeffreymorris5815]

I'm not really of fan of this type of music, but I definitely can't stop watching this man drum! Not only is his setup wild, (only 3 toms and a butt load of cymbals that he uses extremely musically) but like you said... He is hitting those cymbals like a whip... Fascinating!

[@CarterEichenberg]

Weirdly reminds me of Blake Richardson of BTBAM, who also is very precise and wastes no movement. It's also interesting to compare ii with Mike Malian (Monuments), who hits VERY hard and has almost a wild economy of motion. Both band's newest albums also mixed by George Lever, so the drum comparison is right there.

[@xenomorphiia]

I wonder if he learned not to waste any movement also because of the mask, I imagine it's not always the easiest to breathe out of.

[@soulessshadow5356]

@@CarterEichenberg Rev was also like that where it was no wasted motion. There's videos here on youtube of him talking about how he drums and how he tries to make every movement count wasting little to no energy as he moves around the kit. Drummers like II, Rev, even El Estepario are just impressive with their ability to make every little thing count.

[@nicholasvallas9802]

No one care about rev dead ass

[@raulgullon]

The fact that this is COMPLETELY FREE on KZbin, blows my mind. What a performance. Wow.

[@YaKkO331]

thats what im saying....couldnt believe it lol

[@LateralKiki]

What blows my mind is that this blows your mind. Yes, the amount of resources needed to achieve this quality of content is considerable, but there are MANY other factors behind it that we are not considering, that we don't know. At best, I dare say that this is an excellent advertising tactic, and it is working.

[@darksu6947]

​@@LateralKikibut I'm not buying anything 😁

[@kbuss10]

what on earth are you talking about? why should we pay for PR a publicity for a band however good it is? how this even comes about????

[@raulgullon]

@@kbuss10 Back in the day, instructional videos like this were only available to purchase, not as a 4K video, and not may drummers have the opportunity to have one. That's the Earth I'm talking about: Stuff this amazing didn't use to be free. But today, we're accustomed to stuff being free out there. This is more than a PR stunt for both Drumeo and Sleep Token.

[@Melt3r996]

His playing is so unique and full of variety. His chops/fills are super tight and his overall playing is so hypnotic. Sleep token couldn’t have asked for a better drummer. This guy is Incredible

[@kevincucumber1118]

Sleep token couldn’t have asked for a better drummer lol he IS sleep token

[@borakayalar]

I'm so angry at myself for not discovering this band until now. They are truly magnificent and the summoning is an incredible song. I put it on loop and listened to it over and over, I don't know how many times.

[@jdejota1029]

Landed today! They are massive!

[@50ULL355_music_gaming]

Better late than never!

[@vforvasilis7994]

Please tell me we are gonna get a " II hears a band for the first time"

[@hellfirepictures]

That would be so awesome! I hope Brandon has heard you...

[@endlrls]

that would be amazing...

[@chrismachado3604]

PLEASE

[@dalatina911]

YES!!

[@1993novak]

Pleaaaase

[@JannikBork]

It‘s not the complexity that makes him an insane drummer. It‘s his tight playing with all of these little details. Very inspirational!

[@aturboford1]

Yeah, I think recently there’s been too heavy of a focus on crazy time signatures and prog rock when talking about great drummers. Don’t get me wrong, I love prog, but I feel like there’s so many great drummers like II who don’t get the same recognition even though his precision and cleanliness is absolutely next level

[@ChuckDgaming]

In the pocket!

[@user-fl7px4hz9d]

i was trying to write a comment to this exceptional drummer's play...) But yours seems to fit all things i wanted to say in a more concise way

[@sambassmanstoner]

Yeah, he's got finesse and gives his kit it's own "voice" in the mix rather than just being a really complicated beat the rest of the band plays over.

[@tjalsma]

It’s also the complexity.

[@ryngrady767]

I love how ii speaks. very calming and thoughtful, like hes choosing his words carefully. he clearly puts so much love into what he does

[@phips914]

more likely he's purposefully speaking slowly and methodically so as to not given even a hint as to he is by his speech cadence, style, etc

[@mortisure4081]

He speaks very eloquently. I’m sure this translates into their lyricism as well. Which is exactly what drew me to them.

[@justinjaime7327]

This truly was an offering. No giant interview, just a few thoughts to understand II’s process and inspiration and just watching all of these parts in a studio setting. He’s a freaking genius

[@Gooden_Eye]

the ease of which he describes what he's playing was definitely effortless! a great example of just how controlled the musical chaos can be...

[@madhumadhu-pb2yz]

Nice music

[@gmdragon117]

THE APPARITION! FINALLY SOMEONE ACTUALLY GAVE THIS SONG A CHANCE 🤣🤣🤘🏽

[@KidKat__]

Finally??? It's been my favorite song off TMBTE since I first heard it. It's been given plenty of chances. 😂

[@glenman16]

Such a good song and my favourite of theirs, was so cool watching him play it

[@shaunfleury]

Definitely in my top 3 on the new album, great song

[@Mozaec]

What u mean, i love this song so bad

[@HugoRodriguez-oe1rf]

I’ve been waiting so long for it to be brought up as well!!!! ❤ 🔥🔥

[@jblanken123]

Something that I absolutely love about Sleep Token is there dramatic tone changes in the songs.

[@datnip79]

I can’t stop watching this over and over, from start to finish. Who’s with me. 🙋🏼‍♂️

[@n_i_nx1743]

Same here. II is a monster

[@hardypahardypa1]

Same

[@devonbozeman8808]

I should have kept count but since this came out I've watched damn near every day when I get home from work, can't get enough Edit: Saturate me I can't get enough

[@datnip79]

@@devonbozeman8808 facts

[@0uad1utz]

this is so real

[@bwilliams2886]

Anyone else obsessed with how amazing his snare drum sounds?

[@zilla82]

Check out the head, where he had the rim shot wear on the outer ring and the standard wear in the center.. You can start to hear the different areas after a while. Dude is a beast

[@georgecortes853]

I thought the same thing!! Snare was so tight at first, this drummer is a beast, worship!​@zilla82

[@joeyjordgus]

Yes. It's incredible. In this video I think he is playing with a DW snare but he usually play with a PA LOVETONE snare, a little company of Australian. Every way, his sound of snare is amazing!

[@alexbakerman]

yeah me, SO CRISP AND POPPING

[@ngaugeblading9690]

@@joeyjordgus DW have made him his own snare now

[@ZrankFappaH]

Genuinely can’t believe we are getting an hour of II at drumeo. What a blessing.

[@morbidmanmusic]

blessing>? it is a video..

[@levoldunom]

It is

[@ellopuddin679]

@@morbidmanmusic be negative somewhere else

[@shukkle]

We might be witnessing one of the best drummers of our generation, and I am 100% that I am so happy to see it happening. This band in general has so much talent and ii is such a treat to watch and listen to.

[@CruiserweightChamp]

You aren't here for the first time. I get it. We aren't either. This video is hypnotic.

[@ladiswashharum]

My Son died of Cancer last September and I discovered this band right after that, This band and their music got me out of a very deep place.

[@demonpigeon]

Sorry for your loss 🙏 Music is much needed at the hardest of times and I'm glad it helped you

[@ladiswashharum]

@@demonpigeon thanks brother.

[@jessicaturner2890]

Sorry for your loss. Geeze I hope you find peace and solice in your life. I can't imagine what you have been through.

[@TheRuimsR]

I'm sorry for your loss, it's a pain that I can't imagine. stay strong

[@sebasdrolet]

Very sorry for your loss brother. I wish you and your family much love, peace and healing. Big hug brother ❤

[@charleschi843]

This guy is a gift to Sleep Token. Seriously, they are so blessed to have such a versatile and dedicated musician as their spine on stage.

[@morbidmanmusic]

blessed...gift by who, lassie? Maybe they should have prayed for less of a cliche drummer,.

[@DrummerBoi181]

​@morbidmanmusic what dope are you smoking? This man is one of the best to ever do it.

[@TheCatalystOS]

ooo someone is a little jelly heheh@@morbidmanmusic

[@ericlucci2829]

sorry who the fuck are you?@@morbidmanmusic

[@urloserrrr]

go talk ur nonsense when you can do better than II. I NEVER pay close attention to instruments in songs too much but with sleep token their drums are so unique and noticeable. id like to see you do better. @@morbidmanmusic

[@saivateon]

This is the first time that Gods has ever been played in a manner that's live. A live debut for an absolutely killer song. One hell of a way to debut it live.

[@prahladlittle3532]

Definately a stand out song.

[@lanceschultz7132]

I love how his back beat stays continuously like hip hop instead of back and forth to different patterns. Not in a robot way but a keep your head noddin kinda way.

[@slash196]

The fact that Sleep Token would go for this shows how respected Drumeo is among pro musicians. And what a display of musicianship.

[@nicklevesque576]

Says a lot about the character of their band that their first video interview was for musical education purposes as well.

[@BuryTomorrow12]

​@@blightborn87 Ah, I see now why you insist on the "uncovering the identity" idiocy: You're just butthurt.

[@Wildkoala1]

@@nicklevesque576this, first time ever recorded and honestly all for the love and passion for drums and music, some real character and integrity on display

[@patrickgelder-ph5yd]

Listen to 12 Foot Ninja. Same guys. Same drummer for sure.

[@AcousticJamesSGP]

that's just not true@@patrickgelder-ph5yd

[@theskincareskinny5006]

The scream I scrumpt when I saw that he would be on Drumeo… and an actual INTERVIEW TOO? I have never been so psyched for something!!

[@Jo.mckenna]

Saaaame!! I stopped breathing for a second there.

[@elbeardothemagnifico]

I gave you the like for the word "scrumpt"

[@myyyles]

I scrumped as well-good choice of wording. 🖤

[@sahinlandman4667]

I follow his real account on IG lol, he does quite a few QnAs on his stories

[@morganneher8643]

Scrumpt, well done 👍

[@lovelxne]

definitely one of the most technical/attention to detail drummer’s i’ve seen in this genre. phenomenal

[@Tyr-Aus]

Check out Chris Turner from Oceans Ate Alaska, his solo project is absolutely mind blowing.

[@Xandoscritters]

almost as good as II😜😜 @@Tyr-Aus

[@Tyr-Aus]

@Xandoscritters 😂 I just can't agree. II's a phenomenonal drummer, but some of the stuff Chris pulls off is insane. He also doesn't use triggers or snap to grid which is ridiculous for what he is playing 😂

[@tylergorham7301]

This snare sound inspires me to be a better man.

[@v_kondenko]

When I grow up I wanna be this snare

[@palainanoctem-im1sh]

I gotta say it. Lars Ulrich lost his spot in my Top Ten Drummers largely due to his snare sound and his own statements of him using less double bass. The song One introduced me to double bass, so for him to consciously remove it made me remove him from my inspirations.

[@publicprofilename4273]

lmao.. You win best snare comment lol

[@publicprofilename4273]

It's completely obvious that Lars just does not give a shit, and NEVER practices smh... What a tool... Speaking of, Danny is older than Lars, so nobody come at me with that tired cop out. I'm old af too, and sound better than I did 20 years ago... still suck, but I suck, ummm better... damn unfortunate wording there. @@palainanoctem-im1sh

[@publicprofilename4273]

I forgot to mention that I did idolize that dude in the past. To this day, ..And Justice For All, is in my top 10 favorite albums of all time, and I've been chasing the kick sound off that album for decades. I finally nailed it, in Superior Drummer 3. Had to go E to get it lol @@palainanoctem-im1sh

[@edelwiess2306]

The fact that II included songs that aren’t even on a live set says something about his skill!

[@Bust3d_]

Man I wish Gods would be in the live set

[@hugostiglitz5798]

??? Skill for knowing his own songs??

[@alexiswashington3559]

Which is annoying because the live set could be better and I was disappointed by the set list

[@Todrick451]

@@hugostiglitz5798 his own songs he recorded years ago? Yes. There are many musicians who don't know how to play songs that aren't in their live set. Jim Root has said it's the reason they've never played Gematria live.... neither he nor Mick know how to play it.

[@edelwiess2306]

@@hugostiglitz5798 Considering Gods was written 3 albums ago, yes. A lot’s happened since then.

[@SirianXM]

Take Me Back to Eden is one of the great musical masterpieces of our time 🤘

[@weaponizedmemes3461]

Agree. Every time I listen I’m in awe at how original and perfect it is.

[@SirianXM]

@@weaponizedmemes3461 you said it, takes me back to eden every time I hear it

[@SirianXM]

YOU said it!

[@j0spor]

Totally deserved the Drummer of the Year award! Congrats II!!!! ❤❤

[@CarterEichenberg]

Man that cymbal choke during the chorus of Vore is SO clean.

[@aHS-ow3fq]

RIGHT? So satisfying

[@the_vespertine7195]

Came here to say the same thing

[@tootsmcgee8912]

The frequency and sharpness of the back to back chokes in Alkaline give it a run for its money though

[@the_vespertine7195]

@@tootsmcgee8912 TRUTH

[@jonneritari7828]

Lars ulrich made that way better

[@BerndosMusic]

One thing I noticed about his playing immediately is his "flow". Even though the sections might be busy, his playing is like a dance. I really like that

[@bloodblitzowns11]

Yeah i noticed that on his first offering video. The way he physically plays the drums is unique.

[@ljl1680]

Goodness… His drumming on “Like That” was downright SENSUAL.

[@acacia_w]

🤤

[@robbyreyna5527]

Never heard of this band before today and I instantly became a fan! The music is absolutely phenomenal

[@angelamiller2577]

I love seeing new Sleep Token fans. 😁💕

[@weaponizedmemes3461]

Been listening to their albums on repeat over the last few weeks. I think they’re the best artist out there right now. Take Me Back to Eden is the best album of 2023, if not this decade so far.

[@c_carolina]

Fucken SAME! 🖤

[@HailSpikeHayden]

@@weaponizedmemes3461I think Periphery V was better, but Take Me Back to Eden was definitely good

[@senile_in_denial]

II is disgustingly talented, this is spectacular. Thank you to everyone who made this possible

[@sentientcardboarddumpster7900]

So calculated

[@mathaisxiong2613]

@@Repent-and-believe-in-JesusI worship the one true god of sleep

[@SimpleArt93]

@@mathaisxiong2613 I too am a Morpheus enjoyer and worshiper! lol

[@wilsonhsubmth]

II is not just a drummer, he is absolutely one DAMN GOOD artist.

[@acason4]

This is my introduction to Sleep Token & just let me say thank you. I'm a huge fan of prog, metal, pop, hard rock, r&b, etc. & I really love the musical style they mesh together. Heavy atmospheric music that keeps a focus on song & melody while also having a heavy tonal quality is sorely missing from the metal scene. II's drumming is technically brilliant, but it's what & where he chooses to play that's really interesting. I'm an instant fan...

[@mortisure4081]

Oh… enjoy this rabbit hole. I’ve been a fan of theirs since 2018 or 19… I can’t recall exactly. It’s been so awesome to watch their fanbase explode with the release of TMBTE. They deserve this so much. Best band I’ve ever seen live, ever. The lyricism is incredible. Just all of it.

[@majinmatt9481]

I guarantee you at some point in every great band's progression they realize that they need to step up to their drummer's level. Great bands start with gifted drummers.

[@austinkoble]

We are blessed by this sacred offering.

[@clevername1349]

worship

[@brittanythomas8961]

Worship🖤🛐

[@galetinm]

lol

[@gziggy]

said like blessid

[@leegriffiths8910]

Cringe everywhere

[@mattmedic83]

Dark Signs is an absolute masterpiece. At about 21:05, II’s transition from the electronic kit to the drums is an emotional experience. He is just so unbelievably clean, talented, and attentive to details that it’s impossible to leave him out of the list of great drummers.

[@loganpergola8280]

I personally can't believe more people are not talking about his absolute god tier skills on the electric kit in the second verse. His precision, speed and control of the sticks on a pad is unreal and gives me literal chills. This is no man, this is a machine with feeling and flow

[@elliotrc]

Thanks Drumeo, I just discovered Sleep Token cause of this video. I’m going to dream with that snare sound. This is simply amazing. Instant fan.

[@Alan-oc7tg]

Dude that snare tone is the 5th member of the band. I hope by now you've gotten to go back and listen to their entire catalog. Especially "The Offering." The snare in that song is sensual.

[@amandamcwilliams673]

II is the reason I decided to start drumming. I’m 43 and just started The emotions I get from watching and listening to II and the rest of ST fills my soul.

[@qroxxy]

I’ve always wanted to learn but this man is who finally got me to get up off my ass, pick my sticks up, and get down to learning for real.

[@ddodarell]

45 here and these guys got me to buy an 8 string guitar and a baritone guitar so I could start playing again after 25 years

[@arimewillow4278]

I'm 45, I stopped playing piano and drums years ago because of some personal issues and Sleep Token has me back on them. I didn't know how much I missed it. 🙌

[@Mari000]

I’m 78 and II has inspired me to learn drums

[@ngaugeblading9690]

This whole thread is so good. I hope everything finds joy in their instruments.

[@mishcabarr1521]

who else just keeps coming back to this video? this is epic!

[@mcvicar69]

me, sometimes twice a day!

[@Jackson_stixzz]

On my 5th viewing.

[@darranschnepf8076]

So often,it's so capitulating with the mysterious effect added,not to mention the sheer skill ll has,an absolute joy to watch and listen to.

[@juste96669]

Like 5ftth too, every second is a lesson ! One day mama, i'll play 1% as good as 2 ;-)

[@rockapartyjd]

75 times in 3 weeks

[@mdavis6457]

I’m 36 and I was pretty disconnected from music for the past 15 years. Lorna Shore and Sleep Token have reignited my connection to music. I’ve been listening to way less podcasts and exploring what feels like a golden age in metal.

[@simonhaines7301]

Snap! 36 too and loving the genre right now. Can I also suggest Loathe ("I let it in and it took everything" is brilliant). Heriot are completely brutal and Fleshwater on the more shoegazy/heavy side.

[@derekgreathouse1967]

Shit I'm 38 and feel the same fucking way. And it's came at a time in my life when I really needed to feel that love for music again. Just bought my first drum kit in 14 years!

[@Jackson_stixzz]

What an amazing and tasteful drummer!! That snare is legendary!! My 15 year old daughter loves Sleep Token and I stumbled upon one of the videos on Facebook, I was blown away by the musicianship. My daughter was running errands in town with her mom, and I called her and said I AM HOOKED! See y'all in May in Austin!!

[@json_bourne3812]

I don't know whether it's II, the mixing of the songs, or just the style in general that Sleep Token brings, but they're the first band that's really got me to start actually noticing and paying attention to the drums more, just naturally with their music. I've begun appreciating the drums more in all my listening now!

[@gh0strayyy]

for me it was ghost, I seperate each instrument on accident but drums stand out so much in sleep token and ghost

[@metramaks]

For me it was Deep Purple. Listening to drum parts on Fireball or Pictures of Home is such a joy and Ian Paice is probably my favorite drummer.

[@emogambino295]

It bewilders me that a year ago, people were saying II's drumming was fake because of gates and camera cuts. Now he's on Drumeo, killing it from beginning to end. I love this band and the drumming has given me inspiration on my own drumming journey. Thank you II for your contributions to music! A goddamn artist.

[@Drew2ub]

Why would he be faking anything? I love sleep token but nothing he's doing is unbelievable.

[@emogambino295]

@@Drew2ub my thoughts exactly! But for some reason people were dead set on him using triggers for some of his fills

[@heretech7025]

I cant remember the last time a drummer captivated me the way II does. I love that he enjoys playing Higher so much. Always been a favorite of mine. Theres just something about the tone of that song that makes me feel a certain way

[@Devin1986]

I can't stop watching this. I keep coming back over and over. It's incredible. 2 will never see this comment, but you are amazing. Thank you and drumeo so much for doing this. It is art. It is permanently in history. It is legend. I'm in awe and worship

[@hardypahardypa1]

I agree!!

[@camilacurly]

The band would not sound the same if it were not for II, their various influences are evident in their composition, their creative work and their art are another level. We are in the presence of one of the best drummers. Blessings II

[@jessicaturner2890]

I really do believe this band especially II will go into the hall of fame

[@DangerDMA]

II is the reason I fell in love with the band. That opening fill in The Offering got me hooked immediately.

[@devcor]

The drums are BIG in the groove that Sleep Token create, and one of the reasons I love them. With more... straightforward drumming, they wouldn't have been the same.

[@jonneritari7828]

You mean Adam pedder?

[@camilacurly]

It's not because we saw II without a shirt and he doesn't have tattoos.🤣🤣 @@jonneritari7828

[@SquawkMonk]

Dude is just starting to get the recognition he deserves. Monster drummer, very slick, picks his spots, and most importantly, he brings something different and original to the table.

[@forthector7188]

the whole point of sleep token's mystique is to eschew the idea of credit entirely and focus purely on the music.

[@SquawkMonk]

@@forthector7188 he didn't seem apprehensive about sharing his thoughts and feelings about his craft. Like I've said elsewhere, it's inevitable for their identities to be revealed, and I think they're taking it in stride very well.

[@taylormorrison3595]

does he? this sounds like every other new-metal band. Long songs full of nothing memorable.

[@SquawkMonk]

@@taylormorrison3595 all due respect, it sounds like you haven't listened to a whole lot of their songs. Summoning and Take Me Back to Eden are probably their most famous songs, and yeah, those two are pretty long...not like Metallica long, but still, definitely long for a radio song...but most of my favorites, like Sugar, Mine, The Love You Want, Chokehold, Dark Signs...those are 4-5 minute songs. But I think the stuff to listen for is the diversity. There aren't a lot of groups who can successfully navigate pop, indie rock, R & B, metal, and other genres too, weave them together, make good music AND still maintain a coherent "sound." They aren't a metal band trying to do something else with their new album. This is a fully formed vision, and it's damn well made. Of course, that's just my opinion.

[@SquawkMonk]

​@@taylormorrison3595I'm also curious who you'd recommend for ppl to listen to

[@montanavet5219]

I can’t stop watching Token. It’s something I’ve never heard or seen before. Love it!!!!! Also I’m in my 40’s so age doesn’t discriminate.

[@TimeBucks]

He's an absolutely amazing artist

[@nihaakter4040]

Nc

[@Riaz977]

Nice

[@alikhan-ul6nb]

Good

[@user-om1tu8ur3m]

Good

[@finaltemptation3558]

The man who has made my 7 year old start learning drums! 🖤

[@theskincareskinny5006]

Loooove this 🥰🥹

[@finaltemptation3558]

Not even mad, it was me playing the hyponosis playthrough loads that made him want to drum 😂🙈

[@edelwiess2306]

Amazing!! 🥰

[@xScazza]

I'm 30, never played a musical instrument in my life and this man makes me want to learn drums!

[@CaesarP]

@@xScazzago for it, im 35 and just started in December, never played any instrument before, amazing journey

[@rayhaanf]

Speechless, this is once in a generation mastery we are thankfully able to witness. Thank you ii

[@merpinallday]

This video made me a fan of Sleep Token. Been pouring into all of their albums since seeing this. I came back to watch this again now that I'm familiar with all of their songs here.

[@fjelwick]

Did not expect to get the first footage of Gods being played live (in any capacity) in this video... such a treat!

[@jctheii]

Fucking same, absolutely incredible

[@zilla82]

Gods fucks dude

[@TheDimpledDarling2023]

That and Higher at the end?! Fucking masterful drumming 🖤🖤🖤

[@Gilescowdemdem]

At their recent Wembley arena show Sleep Token had Burial playing over the speakers whilst they were getting the stage ready. Burial was an anonymous UK producer/dj during the dnb/bass/dubstep era, hearing ii mention that scene as an influence makes SO much sense. Burial was famous for his ethereal multi-layered music and for bringing influence from other genres. So stoked the boys took inspiration from him and created their own unique and completely original sound.

[@GainDamage]

Burial has inspired so many of today's dubstep/future garage producers, it's just insane. super underrated artist!

[@Gilescowdemdem]

@@GainDamage Absolutely. He's literally the definition of "your favourite artist's favourite artist."

[@GainDamage]

@@Gilescowdemdem May I suggest Vacant then? Veeeery similar :)

[@OffsetDetailingUK]

I was there and wondered who that was as I thought it was awesome! So thanks for this!!

[@Gilescowdemdem]

Oooft yes, very similar and very cool. Great suggestion. ❤ ​@@GainDamage

[@itsme915]

Every time I watch this I find another new respect for II. Incredible is an understatement. Watching your hands is poetry in motion.

[@shawnpresley6139]

Dude every time "take me back to Eden" plays it's like my soul transcends to another universe. II, is an artist.

[@Luke-ih1oc]

What stands out to me about his playing is that it’s so musical; he doesn’t overdo it with complexity and he defies expectations and keeps you guessing when he’s gonna hit that snare. Good shit

[@robbledot7290]

the 3 of every bar

[@boysothebog]

😂

[@rebelcthulhu1395]

It’s insane to me hearing him speak for the first time he puts things so eloquently that even as someone with almost ZERO musical background I can still grasp what he’s meaning. This truly was a beautiful offering and I couldn’t be more ecstatic that I got to watch it! Also that transition in Apparition?! 🫠😵 Worship ii! 🙌🏻🖤

[@JesusFriedChrist]

I find myself on the flip side musical background perspective: having grown up playing piano from age 4, singing in church choir in primary school, playing keyboard in a youth gospel band in middle school, having 2 years of violin lessons and teaching myself guitar in my teens, having a drum kit in our music room my whole childhood, casually getting up to RCM Grade 6 for piano when I was 16/17, and learning a lot about music theory-I grasp what he’s saying, I understand what he’s doing when he plays, and it’s absolutely sublime. I am completely convinced that Sleep Token shall go down as one of the greatest bands of all time. _An offering tantamount to Prometheus._

[@frostfang1]

​@@JesusFriedChrist yes! They give us a fire in our souls and dreams, stolen from the gods, rather than only a physical fire. A challenging dance on the edge of destruction and creation.

[@Mikki247]

Same with the addition thaf English isn't even my native language, while I never heard some of the words he used I still understood

[@vern4538]

man this guy is probably my fav drummer atm. so smooth

[@ahammertime96]

wish i could see his smile!

[@Tooldruid]

Love that he mentions Abe Cunningham from Deftones as a huge influence. Abe might be the most underrated drummer in all of mainstream rock so it's great to see him get a shout out. He definitely deserves it!!

[@lawncrew9886]

Where?

[@justalostneko]

​@@lawncrew9886Starts the sentence at 44:18 "These days I would describe my playing style as a mixture of that signature abe cunningham deftones inspired... "

[@lawncrew9886]

@@justalostneko thank you

[@paulh1918]

Dude when he said Abe Cunningham I said yep! Definitely hear the influence Abe’s grooves have had on II. Spectacular drummer.

[@Mikey_mau5]

I love their anonymity and lore they build with their posts and out of public image. But I won’t lie, it was awesome to hear one of them talk about their craft. It’s always cool to hear from the people that craft the music I love. And I can’t get over hooow British he sounds even with the voice distorted lol

[@elboof8484]

aggressively british

[@hollybreaux8856]

I love it!

[@JesusFriedChrist]

Aggressively English, and southern English to be more specific. Britain has a lot of different accents, and he’s most definitely not Welsh, Scottish, or from the English North or Midlands. I would put him and the rest of the band being either from London, or not too far from London. No further west than Wiltshire, for sure.

[@tonefrog]

No other band is even close to where this band is at. Truly one of a kind. A gem is this world of unraveling adventures. Beyond this realm even id have to say.

[@robbie154]

Hardcore metal fans will continue to hate and say sleep token isn't metal. To each their own but you can't deny this dude's talent. Also elevates vocals with his cymbal work like no other. That part of his playing doesn't get talked about enough.

[@levilively8643]

What's funny is the drummer for sleep token is a former black metal drummer lol. Named Adam Pedder

[@martinmees878]

I'm 47 years old and not been this excited about a band for years! The whole combination is perfect and II's drumming and sound are heavenly.

[@gh0strayyy]

I'm 15, I get excited over music because it's what I absolutely love but sleep token? jesus Christ they're like nothing ive heard before

[@jonmanau1921]

I'm 52... And cannot get enough of these guys. Mind blowing

[@brydykes1537]

57 years young. The last time I got this excited about a band was Porcupine Tree and before than, King's X. Sleep Token is just on another level.

[@JGotti777]

I feel seen by these comments❤ Worship

[@dontbemessin11]

They turned the rock game on its head

[@d9_1056]

We're witnessing history. These boys are going to be listed amongst the greats, mark my words.

[@DWatters-kp9wz]

I agree!

[@OhBooD]

Lmao. Nope.

[@JiggyGnorrus]

Generic

[@MinoElFaris]

Goddamn right

[@moko2584]

@@JiggyGnorrus 1 bad that sounds like Sleep Token, name one.

[@anna-cm8kx]

i love that you can see his emotion when he plays. he enjoys it. dedication to his craft at its finest.

[@johnnychavez]

The snare sounds amazing

[@ThatOneGuy-gd6zr]

I’m not a drummer or the biggest sleep token fan but you know artistry when you see it .

[@bernifitzsimmons176]

Same here man. They’re not super my cup of tea but they have some pretty cool songs and I love their style. Their fans are annoying af 🤣

[@iamcodywilliams]

@@bernifitzsimmons176 their "stans" are annoying as fuck. i consider myself a huge fan and when somebody asked who the people was behind the mask and i said their real names they all jumped on me like i committed murder. I will never get that about them.

[@maynarddrivesfast804]

​@@iamcodywilliamssame here. I LOVE this band, but the fan base can be obnoxiously annoying with their cries of "Worship!", and "don't ruin the mystery!". It's ALMOST to the level of The Swifties as far as sheer "cultiness" is concerned. I didn't think any fan base could be more pretentious than Tools is (I'm a lifelong Tool fan BTW), but Sleep Tokens "Worshippers" have taken that mantle and will not hesitate to come down on anyone who even slightly criticizes the band. Again, I'm a huge fan and am bummed I missed the US leg of their last tour, but if the fans at the shows are anything like their online personas, I'd rather enjoy ST from afar.

[@beatriznemoto9303]

​@@iamcodywilliams and who are they? 😅

[@iamcodywilliams]

@beatriznemoto9303 Leo Faulkner, Adam Pedder, Rhys Griffith and Dave Ball... you could have done that yourself in a matter of minutes though.

[@AyyFuji]

I love that he thinks of his drumming as if it’s his voice, talking about his ‘vocabulary, phrases’, it’s a great way to look at drumming

[@johnmallory3690]

I have no doubt II enjoyed every moment of this. He’s definitely all smiles under that mask.

[@matthewschmitt3117]

This video got me into Sleep Token. The whole band is incredibly talented. ❤

[@douglasboylan3477]

I never understand when people say ST is boring. I could watch this for hours (and will)

[@ryancrane4209]

Who is saying that. Where do they live.

[@MiikeyLawless]

If youve been into metal for any long period of time, nothing they do is really new or original. They basically pull from many sources and compose it together really well.

[@Movie_Games]

@@MiikeyLawless The bands they are similar to, that i've listened to, cross over from metal and sound way too emo. ST seems to ride the line perfectly.

[@IJustSkitMyPants]

I’ve yet to actually listen to the band itself. The drummer is enough for me. Dude is super clean. Plays everything perfectly without overdoing it. Very professional and amazing writing.

[@KnightmareSenpai]

Sleep Token makes god like music

[@maynarddrivesfast804]

Not sure what genres of music you're into, but chances are there will be at least one Sleep Token song that will speak to you. They are so diverse, yet are anchored by a central sound/theme that is uniquely Sleep Token. I'm a (former) gigging prog metal guitarist myself, who listens and plays everything from metal, alternative, folk, country, and classical music to r&b, rap, dance, and d&b/electronic music. There are elements in Sleep Tokens music that draw from almost every single one of those genres, and they somehow blend them all seamlessly. Amazing band, with amazing individual musicians and songwriters. I'd recommend checking out their entire catalogue.

[@SquawkMonk]

The the most rabid portion of the fan base is pretty annoying, but hey, when is that not the case... I think the two main guys in ST (Vessel and II) have really put together an interesting body of work that's truly worth a listen. The first two shorter albums are pretty damn solid too, even though they obviously hadn't quite gotten the sound down. The Love You Want, Atlantis, Dark Signs, Sugar, Mine, and High Water are some of my favs

[@BasedGamerX]

The band is incredible.

[@joerotindo7477]

Had no idea who these guys were up until about 2 years ago. I got hooked by an instrumental version of The Night Does Not Belong to God. The rest is history lol

[@yunyunnie]

Every movement II does has purpose. I dont know how else to describe it. Its mesmerizing.

[@mangafreak923]

In the course of my life I have been introduced to artists that have completely changed me on a musical level. Pink Floyd, Eloy, Dream Theater, Opeth, The Dear Hunter, and now Sleep Token. My god what a time to be alive.

[@n_i_nx1743]

Whoever tuned those drums deserves a Nobel prize. Drumming is unbelievably good too. Worship.

[@MinecraftGamer-dq7fk]

wouldnt suprise me if it was II cos it sounds just like their albums. Its so good

[@JacaboBlanco]

​@@MinecraftGamer-dq7fk 10:00 that not a trigger on the snare?

[@kjplaysdrums2]

Snare weight.

[@ColeT_43]

​@@MinecraftGamer-dq7fk i believe its actually his stage kit. Or at least a spare. It has the same synth pads and the dimples in the symbals are almost identical

[@STEM2049]

Probably tuned by II himself or Sam the drum tech

[@BryanMonaghan]

This feels like Drumeo hosted an entirely different species of being for 53 minutes. I love it.

[@kryzzb9810]

Right?!

[@ericaok580]

The fact that ii loves “Like That” just as much as I do makes me want to spontaneously combust I love them😭

[@shcramlyfaction8984]

I really like the idea of a totally anonymous band. It's all about the music and their personal identities have nothing to do with that. I respect it. This man is incredibly talented.

[@JakeTheViking]

This is incredible

[@netrozygus3843]

Oh dang Jake, I didnt expect you too be a sleeptoken fan thats awesome!

[@Kitsss500BC]

HEY JAKE! Didn’t expect seeing you here. Didn’t know you liked Sleep Token

[@dougcronkhite2113]

II is just a beast. LOVE his playing!

[@user-ke3dg4yd1u]

It’s the mr beast bloke!

[@thatweirdkid420]

Am I The Only One Who Didnt Know The Guy From Mr Beast Liked Metal?

[@tingkagol]

That snare.. protect it at all costs!

[@mikefearon3577]

His snare needs to be studied by scientists and theologians... It's out of this world.

[@joeyjordgus]

😂. Totally agree. By the way, DW snare in this video but he usually play a PA LOVETONE snare.

[@CookilyOfficial]

Ah so it's just him and his tuning ear we have to protect! Lol@@joeyjordgus

[@tbthtrsr]

That snare is basically the 5th member of sleep token

[@yfitzmorris]

i just love how eloquently II explains the way they approach their craft. brilliant

[@Valentin_Soulard]

A huge thank you to Sleep Token and Drumeo, for this offering.

[@jordyninja]

The way this edit has been arranged to show the influences/ playing examples in an order that progressively aligns with II's responses is very much appreciated. Well done to the entire production team on this.

[@levisalvini4110]

And now he became one of my favorite drummers... He is astonishing ❤

[@idn]

"Take Me Back to Eden" has such a nice groove. Absolutely beautiful song. Especially live with the 3x backing vocalists adding their parts.