Thomas Lang - Using Different Bass Drum Techniques

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This is a sample lesson from Thomas Lang's Drum Universe! Thomas touches base on foundational foot techniques used to achieve different sounds and dynamics.
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[@Franciscohazel]

Finally... someone who recommends a combination of techniques. Instead of some who say that one is better than the other.

[@Youtube_Feed]

All great musicians play while combining

[@abheceshabemuskk3531]

Like the grip..use it dynamically..

[@danewing4658]

I am. DM drummer and I play with Metronome every time I play, just do what is comfortable for you. We are all different. You are right as far as he is commited to one technique.

[@midinerd]

practicing swivel strengthens/targets your heel-down technique, which is linked to the heel-up/ankle practicing heel/toe with the stomp & toe roll strengthens your tibia in ways that are different (but still beneficial) to other techniques. so if you practice the various ones, you round-out your leg and help other motions that might've had a small hurdle. heeltoe helps with the muscles needed for regular ankle doubles & slide technique. it's just generally badass to fuck around with all of them

[@Mari000]

I find myself using different techniques depending on what I’m playing..

[@blackwizards1692]

This is a gem of a lesson. Foot technique and the correct way of sitting on the throne are things not everyone talks about with this much detail.

[@mancuniancandidatem]

Yes. This is only the second video where I have learned about sitting on the very back of the throne whilst doing ankle strokes. I couldn't figure out how to balance. It's taken me years to happen upon this information.

[@alokbajaj6796]

Agreed 👍 I just learnt we can play dynamic paradiddles using our foot

[@mellowtron214]

*Me sitting on the toilet slapping my bare feet against the tile.*

[@franciscolorence8484]

Same

[@Meuracas]

Thanks for the tip buddy, I will use that excuse next time my girlfriend asks what I was doing in the toilet

[@hexagonsun33]

das how i learned.

[@vaughanxaviermusic]

Literally going the same thing

[@vacheque]

You mean sitting on the throne?

[@mika461983]

Thomas's face is something between Jean Claude Van Damme and Matt Damon)

[@tomdrumslikeshit]

No way! He's definitely MARK WAHLBERG

[@cowondeso]

I cudnt agree more with you both😂

[@paravervideos]

jajajajaja

[@musicfrommicksroom]

Jean Matt Van Damon?

[@dreamworks69]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@mirthumos]

Before i was exposed to Thomas Lang's videos, i never knew your feet could play like your hands. Love this guy.

[@julian.borisov]

His feet... :D

[@ockidocki]

You can see how much Thomas has built his stamina. At 4:54, the interviewer is (understandably) tired and breathing heavily. Meanwhile, Thomas is totally relaxed, despite having been talking through the whole exercise.

[@Vor_Tex_Sun]

Its all about practice and commitment and Thomas has done he´s fair share of that. Great observation BTW . Thomas is a master Drummer

[@drumtrainer]

what are you talking about ?!? ;-))) lol

[@hazardeur]

are you crazy? they are tapping their fucking feet. it's not a marathon or anything. that guy doesn't look gassed and if he is, he has some kind of medical condition. i can show this to literally anybody and they can do it for a long period of time. the muscles are gonna spasm out long before the stamine goes down. To have stamina as a problem here, you'd have to speed it up and play much harder and of course on a real kit.

[@koston7056]

Out of the dozens of bass drum technique videos I've seen over the years, this one has been by far the most helpful.

[@stevewade2535]

Anyone who doesn't see Thomas as being one of the greatest drummers of all time just doesn't understand drums. Observe, learn and enjoy people.

[@ronsmith8731]

I honestly can't think of anyone who touch him... there are a few close guys, but not touching.

[@Tanildes]

In terms of “physical achievements” maybe Thomás is just a clínic drummer VIRGIL ,VINNIE,GADD,BOZZIO....real legends in MUSIC.

[@Tanildes]

Ron Smith VIRGIL is everything Ahead of time since 1990’s Go search Beyond Speed chops techniques...

[@Tanildes]

Ron Smith hahaha “Not touching” VIRGIL is still untouchable. Besides the chops, being older, which makes it even more absurd. He has an incomparable musical work. that is, his skills are at the service of music, and not merely a display of circuses and sterile chops.

[@simaojoseph]

Lemans Mcgarley Bozzio.

[@oneforall549]

Thomas Lang is a Legend!! Ive looked up to him for years 1 of the greatest for sure! Among the GOATs, plus he is always eager to share and teach!! Thomas Lang for President!!!! Lol

[@xman666soad]

7:17 this is Lang’s most difficult training technique because it requires precision muscle control and power constantly otherwise your stool begins to swivel because of the inconsistency of one or both control and power. You can’t use your heel to anchor yourself down like normal in which case the slight difference doesn’t affect your playing much but by doing this training technique it makes you sharpen your control to a fine fine edge. Wow, this mans thinking is amazing.

[@mellowtron214]

Somehow, Lang is the first person I ever saw who played ghost notes with his bass pedals. He wasn’t playing alternating, he had a dominant foot and the other was doing the equivalent of ghost notes.

[@the6ig6adwolf]

His performance of "Mallory" demonstrates this technique very well.

[@gregdes1385]

Thomas Lang is just a beast. showing the amount of time and thought involved to play at his level, just floored by the amount of time he has invested in his craft. great stuff!

[@Chiroman527]

Thomas, Fantastic Video. Much appreciated by this 69 YO, Retired, Recreational Player. Your emphasis on posture & throne height / angle is Spot On. Personally, with the spinal issues I have, the speed you demonstrate is a "dream" for me. But I will practice these methodologies. You appear in great shape physically, and that definitely helps to be able to play this instrument. I returned to playing drums after a 50 Year Hiatus in 2019. My wife gave me a cheapo Kit for Xmas in 2018, so I could play again in retirement which actually occurred this year. Boy, am I glad she did that. I play along to My Music: CCR, Petty, Clapton, Stones, Beatles, Mellencamp, Springsteen, Eagles, etc.,, Basic Rock and Roll. Moral to my story is Take Care of Yourself, watch your Posture and Position. Over 45 years of daily Commuting (80% by driving 2-3 hours a day), Ruined my Posture and together with a physical disability of a 1 inch shorter right leg, has wreaked Havoc with my Spine / Well Being. It is Important !!! Be well all.

[@flatgroundtv7097]

These exercises are masterpiece. It's like playing snare with hands. All the combinations are endless. The possibility is infinity. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@HAMMERFOOT1]

Extremely valuable leg, ankle, sitting position techniques Thomas. Many gracious thanks!

[@rgsouza]

After watching this video, I'm playing the double pedal much better. Thank you very much Thomas Lang and Drum Channel.

[@bradlloyd6261]

He explains things better in English than native speakers! Its insane I wish he taught all my subjects of study! Master teacher and player!!!!!!!

[@StephanEmigMusic]

One of the best videos on foot-technique out there. Awesome job, Dirk & Thomas!

[@dagostinoification]

Magnifique travail évolutif ! Et un Monsieur très sympathique ! Super souvenir de ma rencontre avec Thomas !

[@william__cash]

Great lesson! I typically don’t make it to the end of drumming instructional videos . . . didn’t want this one to end. Thomas is a great teacher. Reminds me of my mentor Jeff.

[@felipebispo642]

Que aula incrível.... esperei muito tempo para poder ver essa verdadeira enciclopédia de técnica 👏👏👏👏👏...

[@bmartin1470]

Fantastic tips from a drumming MONSTER!! I absolutely luv watching both his training videos and solo work. Several different techniques and some great body position tips.👍👍👍 Thank you Mr Lang

[@spastheghost]

This was some of the best tips and advice that I've seen on these bass drum techniques, it's amazing how if you just adjust these little things in your technique you can play so much better

[@alexhm8609]

This is absolute amazing, thanks for share it!

[@christophm.9131]

Best and easiest explanation of the most important techniques so far. Thanks Thomas.

[@40deluxe]

Getting to level of "happy feet" when you are left side weak for 50 years is a monumental challenge- amazing metal drummers like Mike Smith f'n blow my mind ! Great exercises Thomas !

[@federicocorazzini4689]

I really enjoy the way in which thomas explains himself. He is a great educator... and an incredible drummer.

[@JirkaMichalik]

Thank you very much for this video! ❤️

[@milnermusic4019]

Thank you Mr. Lang, I learned more from this video compared to others covering the same topics, very thorough and eye opening, great instructional skills and demo, thanks a million

[@eugeniopolo1297]

One of the best videos about pedals ever.Priceless!

[@itiswhatitis141]

this guy explains things in such detail. very amazing teacher

[@sejuyz]

thomas is a great teacher. that was really nice.

[@lastsnare]

I think this is the most informative double bass video I've ever seen, answered many of my questions about how to balance weight on the throne (sitting back a bit so legs are suspended) without constantly engaging the abs or holding the whole weight of your legs in the air. my throne had a back rest on it, and from years of woodwind and brass playing I'm too used to sitting on the front edge of any chair I sit on, which of course doesn't work here too well. So now I'm going to practice those paradiddles now with the stomp-accent and heel-down unaccented notes.... thanks very much ! :D

[@SpencerDrummer]

Getting comfortable with multiple techniques has been the best approach to my drumming. I play a lot of metal drumming too so it’s been nice switching between techniques to increase endurance. Lately, using a lot of ankle technique for fast double kick

[@TomMendoladrums]

An EXCELLENT presentation. I teach a similar approach that was taught to me 50 years ago. Well done!

[@JasonBrown033]

Dude, super cool. Thanks for sharing Thomas!

[@palpatinerex2753]

An incredible video for correct posture and foot technique ty!

[@myozawwin100]

Thank you drum Chanel and thanks to Thomas Lang .very simple and very useful your lesson for me.

[@jimfarey]

Very clear instruction. Very good, very useful in all playin and development. 👍🏼

[@leedsdrumstudio553]

Mega lesson, thanks 🙏

[@ashrasmun1]

Thanks a lot for the video :) It's great!

[@YMETALXDRUMMER]

Thanks for this lesson! 😎👏

[@mrbobcr]

From now on, consider this video an absolute Master Class

[@chad-tacular]

This video is 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Thank you so much for this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@DrummerBoy233]

This was fantastic. The posturing on the throne gave some great tips.

[@federicocermaria1515]

Thank you so much Thomas!

[@FanPhys]

Really interesting comments re. drum thrones. I've been using a saddle throne for two decades, and what Thomas says is absolutely spot on: there's no support under the thighs and it's very difficult to execute certain techniques on double pedal because the saddle naturally has your centre of mass nearer the front of the stool. Also, don't be fooled by how easy he makes this look: getting that kind of control with ankle strokes takes YEARS of dedicated practice.

[@dinospumoni5611]

The insight of many great drummers being tap dancers is really interesting and insightful. Much of the foot motion is very similar.

[@100roberthenry]

best lesson without playing a drum ever... cool.

[@domssantoro]

Thanks for sharing!!! Amazing \m/

[@jonhattanrai]

One of the best videos I've ever seen.

[@beyond_barriers_pro]

Reminds me of tap dancing. I love the way he explains sitting position for ankle stroke

[@marcelopacheco6574]

Aula alto nível sensacional demais 👏👏👏🥁🥁🥁

[@flatgroundtv7097]

This video still relevant. Great exercises with helpful tips.

[@BrendrumJones]

That was great, thank you

[@ElcioCafaro]

Great video, thank you!!!!

[@kolverhenrriquezavaleta6451]

Que fácil lo haces parecer todo, grande maestro Lang, éxitos y bendiciones desde Perú 🇵🇪

[@RedCymbals]

Great tips from the master!

[@Genessis001]

This literally one of the best videos EVER! Lacing techniques for beginners...even advancees...pros.....anyone whoooosah got them loves tha chopps!!! Great video 🙏👏👏 EDIT: First started playing, First started using a double pedal, First technique was ankle...had no idea what I was doing lol... Did everything such ass backwards 😂😂🥱🥱

[@h.u7197]

What an awesome teacher;!! The lesson was explained and demonstrated so clearly!!!

[@abisoorrishi2888]

yes buddy

[@drs-Rigo-Reus]

that was educational, very good!

[@emp5352]

I have a copy of Creative Control. It is the most fun-to-watch and instructional drum DVD I have. Thomas Lang is a legend.

[@inlasttonowhere4459]

What a treat, thank you.

[@luvmedrums4057]

Great instructions 👍

[@gokomets77]

Alot of keeping in shape is shown here and I don't mean just heavy weights in the gym either! Great tips too! Keep learning the ropes!

[@sageof6paths1]

This man is just a monster... amazing technique.

[@FritoBanditoMusicVideos]

This is the best foot technique instructional video ever... If the drum thang doesn't' pan out Thomas you could always become a fantastic tap dancer/instructor.... Rock On!!🤘🤩🤘Frito

[@jeffreyappezzato3432]

Thomas is a great practitioner of technique, especially foot technique.

[@DanyMeyer]

Great insight into Thomas techniques =)

[@tomthomas9910]

This is a great video we're most drummers really don't touch on the subject as far as comfort and sitting posture thrown height" and butt placement on the throne

[@scottyarbrough7279]

Awesome, I will use these three styles for alternate bass drum patterns. I don't know if i will ever do the swivel technique I can also alternate with the heel toe technique too, but the swivel isn't working for me yet.

[@mr.social4360]

Thomas you're impressive man. Very intelligent and really know a lot of things on drums. just great

[@MTBTexasBikeRider]

Great technique awesome video great job 👍🥁😎

[@Drumde]

This is probably the best double bass drum video I’ve seen and not one drum was used. Thankyou.

[@LenoxVeleno]

YES I NEEDED THIS

[@playcold1248]

So good!

[@hthtomcat3]

Thomas Lang mechanics in step by step ways incredible

[@tomthomas9910]

Love my DW suspension throne with the office chair type lift" instead of adjusting your height and twisting a wing nut to lock it in I love the lift on the fly type with the DW even way better than the spiral gear spin lift

[@SteffenSeagull]

2:44 I’m the Alternator! btw very useful amd practical lesson, thanks for sharing!

[@AbbyMarmionMusic]

This is great!

[@davidklepic6642]

This helps a lot although it is really challenging. Awsome.

[@drummerguy332]

Cool, Thanks DrumChannel.com & Thomas

[@brucerandall7032]

Every time I watch Thomas I feel like such a beginner, the guy is amazing.

[@sergiozdrums]

amazing video1 IM GONNA PRACTICE THOSE DRILLS from now on

[@johnkrummrich4948]

He is going the third technique you are killing me I can’t breathe. And posture is so important. Great lesson thanks

[@zachwbehr1767]

I googled “anterior tibialis muscle drumming” and this came up. Thumbs up.

[@nathanyazzie9044]

Thank you 👍😊

[@arnoldplacencio9140]

Just one show with Rush! Who's with me? Really GREAT lesson. Thank you so much.

[@gonzalodominguez229]

great...thanks!

[@Visuvh]

great teacher he is

[@BrainlessBarbarian]

such a good teacher as well as a monster player

[@cristianflores184]

Gracias por compartir tus conocimientos

[@Drumsholic]

First time i see an average advanced drummer shows the heel down technic that used only at slow music and to achieve low volumes but without attack and punch as the heel up technic that is i believe the best choice with the most uses in every genre.Also heel down needs very exercised legs and with great pre work at gym to build the wanted muscle power and memory.Very amazing lesson mr .Thomas to let aside ways as swivel or ankle motion needed at high speeds only.

[@sully_drummer8513]

Thomas Lang is one the best drummers in the world! I remember hearing him back in 07. A drumming friend of mine showed me him with complete awe and respect back then. And granted we were in our early 20’s then so you’re always looking for the next best thing, but this guy blew my mind. Any way, during watching this Thomas Lang instructional vid he turned to me says “yeah but he’s no Gavin Harrison”. Watch out for this man folks. He’s a damn monster!!

[@nathanielkintner3053]

Gavin Harrison looks like Ringo Starr compared to Lang. LOL

[@paulbaldadig4071]

THOMAS, THANKS VERY MUCH FOR THE BASS TECHNIQUES!!! THANKS FOR SHARING THIS WITH US....WILL BE VERY HELPFUL.

[@jordanvincenzo464]

As informative as the actual foot technique demonstrations were, his concept about correct positioning on the throne is something I could’ve used 30 years ago, and that not enough people talk about. Great information.

[@gho5t504]

8:07 I just had to burst into laughter. I don't know why. lol

I made a great "throne" from a garden tractor seat. Welded a base plate with the acme thread nut from the circular base and voila! You can get creative when you ain't got a ton of money.

[@aarondrumm2814]

Monster lang, this is why Thomas plays like a monster, one of the greats

[@jcourchesne420]

Very helpful