Tool - Right In Two - Johnkew Drum Cover

This song was another outstanding journey for me trying to learn it on the drums, like every other Tool song I've played. I'm so impressed with the musicality on this one for the band as a whole. The vocals, guitars and bass, and drums are are a real piece of art. I love how they were able to incorporate the sitar and tabla tastefully in a song that rocks so hard it can melt your face. While they're not the first to use Indian musical elements in a rock song, that they were able to do so without losing their distinct Tool flavor, or sounding hippie-ish in any way is a testament to their originality.
I was debating playing the tabla solo on this one because I know that Carey worked hard to learn how to play them. But I'm not pretending to be anywhere close to Carey's skill level, even on the regular drums, and since he plays this part on the mandalas live (and possibly in the original recording if Wikipedia is correct), then I figured I'd give it a go on the Roland pads. And playing along with the tablas just really completed the song for me. So I gave it a shot, of course with no disrespect to Carey's drum mastery. As always, it was a humbling experience playing along with Carey's drumming.
I noticed that Carey's playing on this song evolved quite a bit since the original recording. If you watch the live recording from 2011, there are a lot of new elements, in contrast to other songs such as The Grudge where he keeps it pretty true to the original. So I incorporated some of the 'evolved' playing into this cover, and kept it closer to the original in other places where I really liked what was on the recording. The drums are harder to hear in the mix of this song than most of their others, so as I was learning I had to sometimes play what I thought sounded best without being able to hear exactly what Carey was playing. One example of using a live-version idea: starting at 0:45, I tried to play a melody on the pads similar to what Carey tapped on a synthesizer in the live version rather than his alternating patterns of three on the original recording. I used an Ultrabeat setting called "Space Bells", which I programmed for notes which harmonized with the guitar. It sounded good when tracking the drums, but while mixing it, the bell sounds just didn't quite seem to fit. So I turned them way down in the mix, and now I wish I would have just stuck to Carey's original pattern. And at 6:45, I rode the floor tom instead of the ride cymbal like in the original recording because I felt it provided good separation from the previous section (similar to how Carey changed it in the 2011 live show). I like how this sounds, but you can still hear Carey's ride cymbal behind the mix. Anyway, sorry to bore most of you with this overly technical talk, but I know there are many hardcore Tool fans out there who also enjoy peeling back the layers and might want to know that I did think deeply about how and what I played, and didn't just bang it out on the drums. I'm very happy with how the song turned out, and I hope you all also get some enjoyment out of this video.
Facebook: / johnkewdrums
Twitter: / johnkewdrums
Tool Right In Two drum cover recorded on Gretsch Catalina and Renown maple drums, DW Steel Performance Series 14 x 8 Snare, Evans EMAD bass drum head, Evans G2 batter drum heads Evans G1 resonant drum heads, Remo power stroke snare head, Sabian Paragon cymbals (20-inch crashe; 19 China; 22 ride), Sabian HHX Evolution 18-inch crash, Sabian AAX stage 18-inch crash, custom stacker with 14 inch Sabian AAX Xplosion crash on bottom and 12 inch Sabian AAX china on top; Hammerax Crash Course stacker; Paiste Novo 20-inch China, Paiste 3000-series 14-inch heavy hi-hats, Paiste 8 inch Dark Energy splash, DW 9000 double pedal, DW 3000 hi hat stand, Orange County drum throne, Pro Mark 747 sticks (Neil Peart Signature), Apex 435 overhead mics, Audix D-series mics on toms and kick, Audix i5 and Shure SM57 mic on snare, M-Audio Profire 2626 interface, Logic Express 9, Canon T2i, Canon Vixia HF M40, and GoPro HD Hero 2 cameras, Westone UM1 in-ear monitors.

[@mike-opsycho1938]

Finally a drummer who looks happy playing tool everyone else looks pissed I guess it's easy to this guy

[@lbboardingb3356]

Patience and passion. An extremely valuable combo.

[@luuull]

lol

[@crowpaw48]

The ease is just practice

[@KingAlobar21]

Right?!

[@Arrica101]

This is not easy for him, he pretty much had to write out the entire drum score for Rosetta Stoned to learn it

[@causeseffects6573]

i've been playing this song on my steering wheel for over a decade and i'm still not this good.

[@erikb8877]

Bought a new truck the day this album was released...I’m on my third steering wheel

[@tretre3892]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@VilenDNB]

😂😂😂

[@abledrummer]

Now that is hilarious

[@billiemack64]

Why the fuck is this me lol

[@joelrodrigues4354]

I know some people will always say Aenima was their crowning glory, but 10,000 days is their masterpiece for me.

[@Robisquick]

Fucking absolute facts. 10k is peak talent and execution from TOOL. I have never understood any criticisms for 10k apart from that they sounded a bit different than where they expected tool was goin. There’s hardly ever a criticism for any individual songs or the instrumentation or talent. So if you shuffle the order of the albums, I bet you’ll find a majority of people ctyally like 10k the most.

[@nicok509]

Fear Inoculum is by far the best, but the other ones are incredible too.

[@Turkey_Fart]

@@nicok509for me it’s a tie between 10,000 Days and Fear Inoculum. Everything else just sounds pedestrian outside of Lateralus.

[@nicok509]

@@Turkey_Fart since aenima i love every album

[@GeorgeTropicana]

Congrats on having an opinion

[@lonewanderer2287]

11 years later and still probably the best drum cover of this song.

[@johnkew]

Yes, it certainly took some concentration to play this one, I had my game face on, haha. Peart and Carey are very much 'thinking man' drummers.

[@uncleanon6445]

I have to ask, with songs going over 10 minutes how often do you have a clean run until the 9 minute mark and then fuck up? :3

[@MaynardLab]

My wife is going to be pissed when she gets home and has to clean bits and pieces of my brain matter that are now splattered all over my living room after watching this. You're amazing

[@benharris462]

I've never gotten chills while watching a cover of my favorite tool song. I applaud you for putting in the effort to cover Danny's craziest work, from one drummer to another that was awesome.

[@johnkew]

Ben Harris Many thanks friends, that means a lot to me.

[@danskpridehansen9191]

johnkew that was perfet! can u do a video cover of anything slayer?

[@alejandromayorga8614]

@@danskpridehansen9191 No thanks, I don't like satanic music

[@GabrielDiaz-nh1nt]

Craziest Works until a few months ago...

[@robertmiller4217]

during the ten k days of live shows "right in two" was a real gem to hear live. they rarely played this song -- when they did it replaced like "rosetta stoned".. i don't remember. i did get to see RIT live in council bluffs IA of all places.. and it was a MIRACLE of a song. now i think they have set this song next to eulogy and prison sex. Pushit was on the holy grail list for a long time then late in the ten k tour started playing it on the reg. anyway.. Nice job on that cover!!

[@KOKUAFILMSHAWAII]

THE BEST RIGHT IN TWO DRUM COVER ON YT! YES!

[@DBassistos]

nope... THE BEST F...ING DRUM COVER EVER!!!

[@acethemurderer]

Not taking away from his amazing talent but i like tbartles007 version better kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3jKc3xpgdOnbs0

[@setnomA]

Jacobpowell70 no offense but no

[@ivangallardo9389]

@@setnomA den who

[@seth8982]

Awesome!!!! Now all you need is long hair and a lakers jersey.

[@3232jrob]

Seth Kansas Jersey!

[@mgonzalez8880]

Lol!

[@Lilmacmcmo]

Spurs

[@almofo2237]

A few more inches in height too .

[@Robisquick]

Never reakized how utterly complicated Right In Two was??!! Holy cow. Although it’s complicated, it’s entirely purposeful and adds to the beauty as opposed to overwhelming or distracting from it. It comes across so naturally to the ears. That’s the genius of Carey is it doesn’t sound crazy when you’re just vibing. It sounds so necessary

[@lasvegasidpa1160]

All these years later this is still the best cover of this song hands down on the web. Put some headphones on and you might find yourself crying at the end of this song. Well done my friend!

[@jarrodsmith4405]

It’s not a cover bro! Wtf are you talking about?

[@theultimategamer213]

This is such a perfected cover. Everything is so precise and specific compared to the original version of the song. These kinds of songs, tool songs, take a lot of effort and practice to nail down. And this is the truest I've seen someone play danny carey's style

[@johnkew]

Thanks man. Danny's original drums are still on this track, so I turn my drums up just enough in the mix to where you can't hear the original drums. For the most part anyway - for example you can faintly hear Danny's ride cymbal starting at 6:45 where I rode the floor tom instead.

[@finnishguy845]

Danny would be proud of ya!

[@lesflynn4455]

John's Tool covers are very impressive and hugely entertaining, especially in the absence of Danny Carey drum cams. Johnkew totally deserves YT views in the seven figures. I'd like to suggest that John consider re recording and shooting some of his early Tool covers on his newer kit. Stuff like Vicarious, The Pot and Lateralus. His playing is faultless, but it would be so cool to hear these tracks on snappier kit. He's clearly invested dollars into drum hardware, and it's something I'd love to see. I'm just an idiot viewer. I dont know how much work would be involved but first assumptions lead me to believe it's a shit ton. This is my christmas wish list. John Kew is fucking awesome.

[@elleline6046]

Third eye, Schim and stinkfist extended versions

[@thetruthhurtsu]

I listen to this version more than the Original. John's drums bring more life to this song. He doesn't miss a beat! AMAZING COVER.

[@flangmasterj]

That huge crescendo is one of my favourite parts of any TOOL track and you fucking nailed it John.

[@johnkew]

One of my favorites too...thanks man!

[@jeffowens8722]

The look on his face when he knows he is nailing it is priceless! Amazing!

[@valdazed888]

Haha I saw that too

[@HUBBABUBBADOOPYDOOP]

I really enjoy listening to Tool- but sometimes I enjoy *_watching_* how the music I love so much is actually played- and you and a very few others here on KZbin- fulfil that need beautifully. *Thank you* for all your dedication and hard work.

[@jonesy3663]

I believe you might be my favorite youtube drummer now. You have just the right amount of power, finesse, showmanship in your playing. Please keep it up!

[@kelpbeds]

Tool is one of the most unique bands around who can make interesting music without the use of lead guitars. They are absolutely brilliant in their use of odd time signatures and great lyrical sense. johnkew has mastered every nuance of Danny's playing style to perfection. I would love to see him guest on a live drum-off with Carey sometime that would be epic!

[@heshercats4737]

He should play with them on their current tour!!!

[@kelpbeds]

Robert Clarke Johnkew is spot on and I'm sure could easily hang w/Tool.

[@chrisyrulz893]

This video gives me goosebumps every time man.

[@johnkew]

Great feedback my friend, thanks! I will be adding more videos starting soon, and you can bet there will be more Tool.

[@chrisyrulz893]

Honestly, can't wait! Your stuff is absolutely sick!

[@pashaca69]

It shit man

[@kmarquize]

My 6 year old daughter watches this over and over again. You inspire her and she's determined to marry you lol! Great job!

[@gstvchacon]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@Avlis_music]

Who the hell would vote this down??? There should be zero dislikes. How can you dislike it? I dont understand the concept. This man deserves an award.

[@yungslim93]

John you killed this cover. And people, stop comparing him to Danny, that's just not fair haha

[@vegasmarc21]

Hi this is Maynard, Danny can't make our upcoming tour and we would like you to be our drummer for a couple of shows. Okay?

[@johnkew]

+Marc E Haha, I'm there. (Although my drumming pales in comparison to Danny's.) (And I don't wear basketball jerseys.)

[@ToddFraud]

+johnkew I will get you a Lakers jersey

[@obiplays5270]

+Marc E The Real Maynard eh?

[@DrumRoody]

+BassNBeards ....bass players....

[@obiplays5270]

DrumRoody But dude, were the rhythm section. We must stick together!

[@artantis019]

I don’t think people understand how hard it truly is to play this song. You did amazing

[@asthana.rishabh]

Please start covering Gavin Harrison from Porcupine Tree. Songs like The Sound Of Muzak, Anesthetize, Fear Of A Blank Planet, Hate Song etc. I've been following your work for almost 3 years now. In my opinion you're the only drummer who've come really close to Danny Carey's work and it is because of this reason that I've made this request. I know you'd do justice to those songs. My sister and I are your fans. Love from India.

[@officialsumo6192]

My vote is fear of a blank planet. Preferably the whole album but I'd settle for just the song ;)

[@SneedChuck100]

John is the only person I actually like doing tool covers

[@ushio1087]

"trusted tool covers"

[@aeonbeyrz]

Angels on the sidelines... puzzled and amused with your cover. Good job man! Awesome.

[@pauloviegas7957]

To say that you nailed it it's just a fact. As a drummer myself I find it amazing that you were able to blend in the tabla percursion as in the original. I haven't played drums for quite a while and I miss it a lot. When I used to play along with some Tool songs I used the darbuka as fill in for those parts, and although not as complete as your roland stuff it made me feel I was a little bit closer to Danny's original sound. Kudos for you my friend and keep them covers coming. i'm sure that drumers like myself will always be on the lookout for pinsharp covers like yours!

[@johnkew]

11/4 it is...one of the more esoteric of Tool's already-strange time signatures.

[@victorsaenger9401]

Danny Carey. Warm and powerful at the same time. Genius. Absolutely fantastic cover. It is very clear to me that you study and practice with passion, which makes the difference. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@XavieRibeiro25]

I don't know how anyone can't say danny is the best drummer in the world right now. Just look at this guy, he's amazing behind the kit and still can't sound as good as danny. Unbelievable.

[@MaynardOwns]

Danny would tell you he isn't. But he's humble as fuck.

[@sunnydexter12]

OMG!! Somebody please give him a medal.. this cover is just amazing!!!!!!!! Thanks for uploading this!!

[@Thomas-tq1wz]

Who are the 15 that down-voted this cover? Insane? Anyways....come back here daily for my fix. Thanks, Johnkew. This simply ROCKS. BRILLIANT!

[@namesurname7172]

Dave Grohl and Travis Barker fanboys and fangirls.

[@ashwinganesan347]

Thomas Nemec downvoted? you're a 9gagger aren't you? lol :)

[@drummaboy2346]

Seriously can't get enough of this cover man. I'm so blown away every time

[@go2rakin]

Dude you’ve embodied Danny Carey with your absolute artistic soul.

[@solariis1762]

One of the sickest and most talented drum covers I think I have ever seen or known. Absolutely fucking mental. Cheers

[@germanantonio2822]

Massive shout-out to the drummer in this video, tremendous musicianship is required to execute such a sophisticated piece. Nevertheless, when i watch this, I can't help but think just how talented you have to be in order to be able to come up with this. What the hell happens inside that composing brain of Danny Carey. Best drummer in history imho.

[@shanewinspear8298]

Watching this definitely makes me appreciate tool so much more, another an amazing video! Thank you!!

[@pappachook]

That was a mesmerizing performance. The kit sounded amazing and played with such authority. Best cover ever!!

[@MrJnasty41]

This is simply amazing and it gives a true look at the level of skill required to play these songs. After watching this again and again I still have no idea how or why people think that Neil Peart is a better drummer than Danny Carey.

[@UnioMystica94]

apples and oranges man, both are immense drummers, but with very different styles

[@egoceanic]

Amazing song, amazing band, and amazing video mate. You are a Legend

[@terraflops]

another KILLER job man, you are a beast. Rock on!

[@TarekWriter]

Second time watching. Amazing. Fucking amazing.

[@TarekWriter]

Now it's like my 30th time... Addicted to your Tool covers and that Bat country cover.

[@austincampbell1762]

Simply beautiful, a flawless cover

[@MateroDelCaos]

Speachless. The quality and the performance in this video is amazing!!!

[@johnkew]

Thanks man, I've been playing since I was a kid, but not straight through. I had a 10 year hiatus while in grad school and started again in earnest two years ago. I've found that any and all rudiments really helps with playing in general. Paradiddles, 5-stroke rolls, doubles, etc.

[@ghosty3863]

This is by far one of the most amazing covers on youtube.. Its sad that you have so less subscribers. Excellent job my friend!

[@chrisg1772]

I always love watching these drum covers as it shows how nuts the patterns are. Great job, you nailed it as always

[@jvoynar5826]

I love your TOOL covers - just amazing work man!

[@DRUM]

Tight.

[@mrinmoynath1770]

make a cover for anaesthetize by porcupine tree

[@cacacenazo]

Cover the whole Fear of a blank planet without resting.

[@mrinmoynath1770]

at least anaesthetize and way out of here!

[@gopalbarman5783]

Only Mtv, code philosophy

[@alekisighl7599]

@@gopalbarman5783 * empTV

[@alekisighl7599]

@@gopalbarman5783 * cod philosophy

[@marioherrerosiles727]

Sick cover, probably one of the best i've ever seen of Tool, Great work, thanks for sharing.

[@rbeforme]

Words can't express how much I appreciate this. If only the world as a collective knew what actual music was. You'd have a helluva lot more than 50.3k subscribers, that's for sure.

[@NooDLES411911]

Everything after 5:40 was giving me chills

[@jimpossidente5004]

I can't believe I was able to log on and watch this for free. Thanks for sharing that!!

[@johnkew]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@zsoltorban]

Always a pleasure to watch this cover. Awesome drummer and a really nice gear.

[@gekkehenkie5314]

Just incredible, really loved it, thank you for the upload !

[@o.steinman3855]

The description was quite a read lol

[@SonOfAHerbert]

Awesome i love tools drums!

[@henkfisser8369]

dam i love tools everything^^

[@CoversWithCare]

No one can do it like Danny. You my friend are easily the closest I've seen. Bravo. Never stop bringing the heat!

[@TheCudiKush]

amazing man! hit every note to perfection! keep it up and please more tool covers!

[@MrAnimal1971]

Incredible.

[@tjblackmore7863]

The sheer amount of hours that it takes to learn a song like this really shines through in your playing. Only thing I heard that was off was some of those sixteenths on the ride, sounded like they were flamming a bit. Might be able to fix that by loosening up your grip and letting the stick bounce more... Not easy to do on a song like this!

[@connorschrauben5593]

Hours? Hours? Try days. Weeks.

[@ayekaye8055]

Hours better sums up the sheer dedication.

[@tjblackmore7863]

Hours. Hundreds of hours.

[@d5dirt600]

Also please post a link to your cover of this song with the “stick bounce maneuver “

[@jackbho6594]

Connor Schrauben 10,000 Days, perhaps?

[@jarredondo1222]

Incredible! Enjoyed watching every second

[@laurentfamily491]

Really enjoy this song and watching all the work you have put into it. Well done!

[@Luke-ofStoke-Factor]

watching this guy drum makes me realize i have no skills in Life whatsoever.

[@Norkixx]

WOW. Are you self-taught? I only ask because I feel an instructor would have corrected your grip years ago (at least, mine would have XD) Nonetheless, your coordination is impeccable! I love the passion you put into your playing; I can really tell by your expressions and your body language that you're having fun doing this, and that's what music should really be all about. Incredible job, man! You've earned a subscriber!

[@johnkew]

Thanks man, yes, I'm self-taught, and you definitely spotted my biggest weakness, ha. My grip has always been strange. I just hold the stick how it feels comfortable. But I've noticed that the grip has improved since my earlier videos, even since this video.

[@PyramidSkemes]

johnkew bro I just want you to know that you played this song to perfection👌, I watch this video all the time.

[@dirtyd1122]

That was spot on perfect! Like all your videos!

[@carlmanu]

Amazing cover! I didn't know Ewan McGregor could play the drums this good.

[@bigpauliep6992]

Absolute proof that Danny Carey isn't just writing music, he's signalling his Mothership for aid.

[@GeorgeTropicana]

Cringe

[@bigpauliep6992]

@@GeorgeTropicana Thanks for your response, two year old troll account. 👍

[@GeorgeTropicana]

@@bigpauliep6992 things nerd virgin losers say

[@ggeer3734]

So badass. You're the man. So much fun to watch...keep 'em coming!

[@mboser04]

Wow. Excellent job! Everything from the playing to the production quality. Love this song. Great work!

[@Fernando.Vivanco]

If you were a girl you would would probably have 4.6 million views. A little unfair, isn't it? But such is human nature my man. In any case, WOW!! it was Incredible. You paid all due respect to this song. Loved the moving cam. We are doing a similar type of cover for Lateralus, check it out on my channel when you have a chance brother.

[@armandocarlos3805]

ColoredFusion, if he was a girl, he wouldn’t be able to play this. Haha! But yes you’re 100% correct, these girls are put on a pedestal for playing Enter Sandman. Peace.

[@chikakumask4693]

Armando Carlos honestly female professional musicians are so rare outside of singing and piano

[@leviathan3630]

Cuz girls can't play drums amirite

[@Grantopolis1996]

Mismatched socks FTW

[@stockman214]

Fantastic video, John. You're videos are a blast to watch. Keep it up!!!

[@nattsvermere]

That song is such a master piece! You nailed it.

[@KOKUAFILMSHAWAII]

John - are you still playing? No videos in some months - hope all is well - Hawaii invitation still open - Boda

[@johnkew]

Hey Boda, good to hear from you. With the move and our new boy, it's been super busy for me. But I do plan to record again. Thanks for sticking around.

[@KOKUAFILMSHAWAII]

johnkew Well let me be one of many I'm sure to say CONGRATULATIONS! Wow that is something! My guess, he will grow up to be just as talented as his father is. Sorry to hear you had to move, I believe again? Seems like you were moving not too long ago. Well there is something to be said about consistency, lol.. Shoot me an email using my channel name all one word at gmail and I will drop you a line and some great pics from time to time that I have been getting out here. Glad to hear you are well and have a healthy bundle of joy to look forward to raising! Aloha, Boda - KFH

[@tool0loot]

One of my favorite Tool songs. Awesome job!

[@666finnegan]

I F'N love this. Especially the tabla work. Amazing!

[@Quadragon4444]

Last thing we see is how exhausting the song can be on a very talented and skilled drummer. Danny is amazing, and this cover is spectacular. Keep doin you

[@Blogisirgeris]

You are astounding, I can't believe you only have 66 videos released? Are you an alien? Tool drum covers you made are.. out of this world... I probably have watched your drumming more than Danny Carry's.. Unbelievable.

[@dunnford777]

Great job. Your covers are awesome and even better when you add your own touch to it.

[@eddarell9474]

Speachless simply amazing execution!!! 👍👍👍👌👏 such passion and energy in that session!! Awesome!

[@ikem555]

Blew my mind, absolutely awesome and really detailed on the drum effects this song has :)

[@i.c.y.]

You are a true KZbin treasure! Thank you for posting these videos. To be able to watch these all these years later, read, learn - this treasure of knowledge. Bless your heart!

[@ryanhicks942]

This melted my brain! Absolutely nailed it!!!

[@10GOLDENWOOD20]

INTENSE! Again, you've nailed it, sir!

[@ryanhicks942]

This.was.amazing!! Love it love it

[@fufaaa33]

For this perfect video to have dislikes is a proof that no matter how good you are in life there’s always a hater out there .. SO JUST DO WHAT YOU LOVE ANYWAYS ALWAYS

[@RayMurberg]

You make the world a better place, thank you.

[@alejandrov444]

No words. Just perfect. I really appreciate the perfectionism

[@andrewwheeldon3957]

Excellent, good job my man!!!!!!! And it was nice to see total concentration on what you were doing, no vacuous smiles to the camera, choreographed to the inch, no giving of speeches and then pissing yourself laughing for no apparent reason apart from trying to look cute. It was a damn good Drum cover - end of.

[@RandyHaveson]

Wow! That was awesome! Great job!

[@skyempook1482]

Yup I got the goosebumps wave over my body, wicked man, will be sure to watch your other Tool vids, your kit is awesome 👌🤩💯🙌🌀✌️

[@kevinmoore3193]

Well done, John. Great work as always.

[@kikurass322]

LEGEND!....OMG you so nailed that, just excellent.

[@J7C3B]

Brilliant idea to light inside the kick. Really allows people to follow along. Great cover!