What does the best drummer in the world look like.

[@mathewreed818]

The greatest in the world tends to wear tie die, has long hair and a beard and probably benches 4 bills.

[@drummurdroid]

I knew there had to be someone 😆

[@soundscapes3993]

I think your on to something

[@jake.walker.official]

"What does he look like?" Stares directly into camera for 28 minutes. The answer was in front of us all along.

[@JonLombana]

S U M M A R Y 0:32 - Chops 0:40 - Pocket/groove/feel 2:32 - Double bass 3:40 - Swing 5:30 - Odd times/odd groupings 6:05 - Improvisation 6:55 - Memorising/playing parts 7:32 - Composing (drum parts) 7:43-13:50 Food for thought (being subjective vs being objective) 14:28-17:52 Tone/dynamics/finesse 17:53 - Composing (in band settings) 19:56 - Phrasing/vocabulary 20:15 - Identity (distinctive sound) 22:36 - Significant contribution to the drumming world Things I would add to the list: - Impecable timing/accuracy/precision seen in every execution (obviously playing to a click is a nonnegotiable at this level) - Able to play (and more so “perform”) live in front of small/medium/large/giant audiences as confidently and comfortably as when practicing at home. - Stamina: having plenty of evidence of being able to cope well both physically & mentally with playing 2-3 hr sets; a nonnegotiable for any touring/session drummer. - Coordination: mastering 4-way independence to unimaginable levels (AKA @pambifunk ) also speaks HUGE volumes of a drummer’s overall mastery. Examples of combining unreal coordination with a mastery of all other attributes include modern drummers like El Estepario Siberiano or legends like Thomas Lang. - Reading music: although not necessarily a requirement for being considered among the “best in the world”, this certainly adds weight/credibility to a drummer’s life journey of reaching mastery. It also grants the ability to access and/or create resources for the drumming world, e.g. books/written exercises.

[@infinitydrumming]

Interesting points. Also musical empathy and sensitivity to the musical intent, communication and emotional/spiritual connection to music and through the instrument. This includes excellent decision making in creative part writing as well as improvisationally. You could argue this comes under feel, but I believe it deserves specific dedicated attention... And many overlook it. Even though it is one of the most fundamental attributes of charismatic performances and creative parts. Also, I think Matt was right on odd times, but could go even further. I think odd times are an essential ingredient, including 16th note and 32nd note based time signatures. As well as the ability to adapt to continuously flowing time signatures of any kind. And of course polyrhythms, metric modulation and super imposition of meter etc. And also ability to use nontuplets and beyond. There are drummers out there who can and have played 21 tuplets on the fly. This attribute of complete command of tuplets and time flexibility is one of the marks of mastery. And that includes rudimental applications to these tuplets with both hands and feet including interplay. A final point would be character attributes. Courage, and boldness to play out on the edge in public when needed, but humility to sit back too when it serves the tune... Etc.

[@JonLombana]

@@infinitydrumming great points, I Agree 100% Competency in time signatures like 13/16 , 19/16 etc. Understanding and executing metric modulation, polyrhythms, etc. definitely contributes towards what mastering the art of drumming should look like... I supposed one could also narrow a lot of the performance/engagement aspects to 'showmanship skills'... If you're a teacher, this video of Matt opens a very good topic to use with students; it can be hated by many (if approached the wrong way) but also embraced by many when approaching it in a healthy/educational/inspirational way.

[@NeCtRiCkS]

Glad to see you here, Jon! I follow you since those Cobus times. You're a freakin' good drummer!

[@JonLombana]

@@NeCtRiCkS wow! Thank you so much. Means a lot 🙏

[@flowerlandofjohn]

Thanks for the summary 👍🏻 … the answer to those questions is most likely Billy Cobham ✌🏻🤩

[@TheItalianDrummer]

Sitting here listening to Matt basically describe himself lol This is a thing I think of a lot, objectively the greatest of all time, and Matt is definitely in the running for the greatest overall modern drummer. So versatile, precise, clean, powerful, and amazing work ethic. I think I’ll make a video responding to this video.

[@mojocktv1437]

I'm halfway through the video and I think it's really funny how he never ever consider himself as number one 😂

[@saulvera5469]

He mentioned himself without knowing it, he covers every aspect of the "best drummer" ,I put it top 5 easily

[@Emma_Z1]

Well there is a reason he is asking this question, he is clearly putting the work to be one of the answers

[@DeanThomson]

For me I find Gavin Harrison has pocket, chops, musicality, creativity and double kick chops :)

[@walterrserrano]

Gavin Harrison is simply PERFECT in every aspect related to drums and druming.

[@uncommon_scents]

He is too repetative IMO.

[@walterrserrano]

@@uncommon_scents In fact, one of his greatest talents is to deliver exactly what the music asks for on the drums, with nuances, subtleties and colors that only a great (great) drummer is capable of expressing. I would recommend you listen to Gavin's diverse work, as he is not repetitive at all.

[@ancho-31337]

I love Gavin's drumming and musicality, but his chops aren't really up there compared to other great drummers. His "bag of tricks" is also somewhat limited, you hear a lot of the same fills and concepts repeated throughout his work.

[@walterrserrano]

@@ancho-31337 Okay, but one thing to keep in mind is that drumming should be in service of the music, and unfortunately it happens that some really skilled drummers use their repertoire of chops more for show than for something that actually contributes to the music itself. As a result, drummers like Gavin end up being much more interesting and exciting to listen to. And I say that as a drummer myself.

[@seanhorihan9280]

That's the first time I heard someone say Nate Smith doesn't have chops. Nate has more recently settled on his own style that maybe only calls for certain things. However, if you look back on his whole career he definitely played circles around all styles with crazy chops. Part of what defines a voice is limiting what you play. That usually comes later in any artists career. Nate has simply matured as an artist.

[@jamessssssssssssss]

right wild statement lmao

[@Gehenna7]

Thought i was the only one who went 'huh???' when I heard that lol

[@zoohuman]

Nate is amazing, I thought it was a weird statement too.

[@bksgames9891]

He does have chops but compared to who? I think he only said it because the topic of the video is the best drummer in the world, like ever. Nate has chops compared to most drummers but compared to the greats of all time like Vinny, or let's be honest, obviously Matt himself? It's not even really close, that doesn't mean Nate isn't great though. It's interesting to talk about and in my mind there's actually less ego in just objectively being able to say, yeah this guy is clearly better than this guy in this specific regard. The only reason not to say that would be to protect someone's ego if it's a true fact.

[@SeraphimBlount]

Nooooo he says that?! I guess he means metal? must be different from his qualified perspective than most lol

[@michaelflorczyk5495]

Being the best drummer in the world was my goal when I was young, now my goal is to be the most versatile drummer I can be. The ability to play any style of music without hesitation with having the chops, pocket, and timing to pull it off. That's what I wanna do. I want to be fast but I want to have soul and groove.

[@gutorov362]

Not only a drummer, but also a philosopher

[@morganneher8643]

Matt Gartska is 100% in the conversation, I would say he’s defining the conversation in modern times. The ideas executed per second in Animals is unlike anything heard before. The music is creating new horizons previously unknown. I’m not bogged down by technicality when listening. Even though I don’t understand much of the advanced ideas, I’m never stopped by unmusical chops. It all flows. It sounds programmed it is so brilliant and precise. Matt can displace and hit that Meshuggah nerve so fluidly that it’s like champagne for the brain when I really focus hard on what they are doing. Euphoria. I’m hard pressed to see how anyone is playing at his level musically. It’s not a competition but we do need to keep an eye on the “Overton Window” (so to speak) of the current state of drumming, I think Matt is the guy at current.

[@clamstermcwinkle2514]

Simon Phillips pretty much has everything.

[@dodeka]

His name is severely lacking in these comments. Dude does dbl bass over crazy smooth Jazz!!! Listen to his work w/ Hiromi n Anthony Jackson!

[@scpk2246]

@@dodeka TOP MUSICIANS in the industry surely mention that name

[@riyadhlodewyk502]

Agreed...A complete drummer.

[@TheBritomart]

A master with taste & feel.

[@ClihtYeastwood]

Ugh no, he’s definitely not even top 10. Pass whatever you guys are smoking, in the other direction.

[@KirkpatrickSounds]

First drummer to blow my mind when I was young and getting into prog was Bobby Jarzombek. No idea who I would pick today...

[@chloe4587]

I always say that the best drummer alive is someone who is the strongest engine of expression , someone who keeps expanding the skill and vocabulary but also is humble and spreads the knowledge. Garstka clears when it comes to taking ideas out of mathematical ether and delivering it musically while charting all his parts for public consumption

[@walterrserrano]

In my honest opinion, this guy you're referring to is none other than GAVIN HARRISON.

[@morquach64]

25 minute flex video lol I love it

[@jsgotrhythm]

😂

[@filipkasprzyk9564]

Any vids with Matt playing swing?

[@morquach64]

@@filipkasprzyk9564 kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHupdGmZfrCYfZYsi=X98YpwOaOZqPZZmQ

[@smoked-old-fashioned-hh7lo]

@@filipkasprzyk9564 there's a clinic i've seen of him playing swing. it's on youtube somewhere.

[@smoked-old-fashioned-hh7lo]

@@filipkasprzyk9564 there's a clinic of him playing swing. it's on youtube somewhere.

[@Kylink]

The versatility to go from AAL to Victoria and be fully robust in both respects, the depth of pocket, the painstakingly thorough vocabulary, the precision, power, fluidity, dynamics, control, style, phrasing and feel, not to mention the brains and patience to transcribe even one of the beautifully composed songs that encompass all of these things? I mean the answer is obvious... it's Lars Ulrich.

[@swarthygiant1463]

Napster bad Tshirts good

[@joerassaby281]

👏👏👏

[@GergoBorlaiOfficial]

What a great and important video!

[@filipkasprzyk9564]

As of today I take: elvin jones/Brian blade’s organic feel, tony Williams mind of pushin the drums, mike Mitchells chops, chris daves groove feel, clyde’s/purdie’s pocket, matt’s subdivisions, gilmores modern style of jazz, ed tighpen’s swing, jdillas time feel, Justin Brown’s posture behind the drums, Buddy’s showmanship, Art blakey skill as a band leader

[@AtaFerrari]

This guy gets it

[@utpr]

Dave Weckl truly shines when playing with a stripped-down drum kit for other bands or artists, rather than with his own group. Although in recent years he may have stopped innovating and started repeating himself, he still performs at an exceptionally high level. For many years, he was my favorite drummer. I find Matt's analysis remarkable as it pinpoints areas for improvement, which I wholeheartedly agree with. The concept of a 'total drummer' is truly profound.

[@PeterKluge]

I dont think there is one "best drummer" just like there is no "best human" .. but like you said, thinking about those qualitys is really helpful! Thanks for sharing these thoughts!

[@jonathankey6444]

I think you can take all fundamental categories of drum style, assign weights to them then rank folks in each style and the one with the most points is the best. That makes sense

[@StuFX]

Far too many artists I love and respect to pick from but I always come back to Blake Richardson - btbam's albums always blew me away, the ferocity, the calm, just a dynamic wave - then I saw them live and just whaaaat the absolute fuck man he's incredible in the room

[@Foxdie2117]

Blake Richardson is slept on 😎🤜 BTBAM is top tier! Thank you!

[@BradsGonnaPlay]

He’s still one of my absolute favorite drummers. Incredible chops, groove, feel, and composition. Seriously, his parts are so musical that you can tell what BTBAM song you’re listening to just by listening to the drums. It was an absolute pleasure to see him live. Side story: when I saw him live, some sort of technical difficulty happened where he fell off the click in an extremely complicated part in Extremophile Elite and he caught back on and it made me smile because it reminded me even these absolute machines can make a mistake live. Very humanizing.

[@ZeroCartin]

Awesome video. Your subjective vs objective truth starts to go towards the recognitin of truth and beauty, 2 of the trascendentals! Good job explaining Matt, and good to hear your thoughts.

[@drummusician]

I’ve been studying eastern philosophy in search of answers🙌

[@ZeroCartin]

@@drummusician Glad to hear! :)

[@JekDrummerTime]

​@@drummusiciantruth is found in a person. "I am the way, the TRUTH, and the life..." John 14:6. Interestingly beauty is found in him also. As the creator of everything, and the one who has designed us to crave and desire beauty he is the one that can truly be creative without referencing anything within his creation.

[@KoolDrMoney22]

Thomas Lang Absolute monster on the kit in every single aspect of the instrument and an exceptional composer/improviser. The guy is a true master of the instrument.

[@saulvera5469]

Definitely, he's playing super clean and dynamic, independence, timing, double bass, pocket, complex things,precision, Definitely top 20. What I don't like is one thing Matt mentioned, if I want to listen to Thomas I need to go to KZbin, no original music and his collaboration are hard to find

[@paulharris6605]

He has stick tricks too

[@Myriam-nk2fw]

​@@paulharris6605wow amazing😒

[@mcdcrss43]

Hi there from Ireland 🇮🇪. Well for me, (as s drummer myself) it's VERY hard to pick. What I have is NOT the best drummer... instead it's MY best DRUMMERS in the world. YOU, Mr. Gartska is DEFINITELY one of the best.

[@Mike_Isakov]

Matt! U are one of the best in the world right now. period.

[@libidooverdrive]

Certainly one of. I think Gergo has the best all around chops . You Got at least 10 you can mix and match . Virgil,Marco, Gergo, Matt, weckl, Vinnie, Coleman,larnell,. Me, Moore, and me again.

[@krenwregget7667]

the first two drummers that came to your mind were Vinnie and Virgil. Those are the correct answer as I believe they share the title. There are lots of guys just below them, including Matt himself, but those two are the top of the mountain. IMO.

[@LarryLondonDrummer]

Thanks Matt. Originality is up there for me as well. Great topic.

[@nickkcuevas]

I love the fact that you actually stand among lot of people and say what you think. This going from someone of your caliber to give us some wisdom in an era in which people who does not take the instrument seriously hides beneath "No ONe Is BetTer ThaN NoOne" and don't realize that there are Levels, period. Thank you Matt! I think this helps in having clarity about goals and to think in "what makes a Great Drummer?"

[@ATthemusician]

My personal favorite drummer will always been Copeland but you are what I would consider the best in the world, I genuinely can't think of anyone who is constantly breaking barriers and is as innovative or expressive

[@CloseUpLover]

Being "the best" is a mindset thing to me, being open to expand your musicianship in many usefull and different ways.. plus I think that youre a pretty solid contender for one of the all time greats Matt

[@untuchedRMX]

drummers who can concede and give space to the other instruments in a compositional sense is additionally important. the space between notes, and bringing out the best in fellow instrumentation-ers

[@RJTempo]

Super good point! And something I personally need to work on lol - I always overplay, but more is not always better

[@scottfielding6179]

Took me 40 years to learn that. I was all piss and vinegar when I was young and thought my measure was speed and precision. Feel and pocket came far after and it was not easy. My appreciation for Jeff Porcaro is immense.

[@justrbloke]

@@scottfielding6179 Surprised not to see the late and very great JP mentioned more here.

[@elevenAD]

I effin love this dude's honesty and agree with everything he just said.

[@CameronFleury]

This was really enjoyable Matt!

[@SaintMont]

Well, for me the best are: Chris Coleman, Larnell Lewis, Tony Royster Jr. as you mentioned and Thomas Pridgen, Sput Searight, Eloy Casagrande, of course you; I really like JP Bouvet, Luke Holland, Jojo Mayer, Anika Nilles (in terms of every quality you put in the table).

[@shemsuhor8763]

Man I didn't even think of Jojo, Eloy or Thomas. Ugh.

[@RJTempo]

Great list here 🤝

[@spenserphoenix]

Add Spencer Prewett as well and your list is complete

[@joshjones9749]

Robert Sput Searight doesn't get nearly enough credit for his ability to play every style with personality and feel

[@RJB_TV]

Coleman, Lewis and Searight definitely up there. Out of those three I'd Pick Coleman over the others. But I do think Lewis specifically has an insane ability to learn songs, retain the learned song and add his own flavor at a (learning and adaptive)speed and quality I've honestly not seen from anyone else. In that Regard I think he might currently be the best in that specifically. But Coleman has such an insane mastery of complexity, time, dynamics, and quality to his playing that I've not seen from others either. For example I absolutely loved seeing Eric Moore fangirling over seeing Coleman play, as if Eric Moore was legitimately in absolute awe over Coleman's playing. At the end of the day I don't think there is one drummer that maxes out in each respective drumming related discipline/skill. At the very top they all are absolute experts at everything, but tend to excel just a bit more in just a few aspects than another drummer at their level.

[@jpcolindesign517]

Cool video. This stuff really applies to all the arts, with different techniques applied. As a multidisciplinary artist myself, I think mastery of all the technical skills possible is a must to "make a contribution," but in the visual, written, performance, or specialized arts, there are specific innovations that need to happen. Sadly, a lot of the greatest innovators never get widely recognized, but people in the arts (the "experts") tend to know who they are. It's important for us to be inspired by great artists, but we also need to recognize where are limits are not miss that there will always be someone who challenges how good we think we are. Cool vid.

[@MegaPatlidzan]

Well... You my friend !!! Matt Garstka's way of playing metal its a proof that undeniable fits in all spots of the 'must have' list :) i describe your drumming as literaly floathing through infinity = definition of evolution in drumming

[@FisherBaker]

Honestly I love long talking videos like this dissecting and analyzing stuff so the longer the better pause

[@sebs2306live2]

Aric Improta- blur-lights in the videodrome, is an incredible 40 minute performance. Surprised no one has mentioned this.

[@davidfrankdrums]

Such a good talk Matt, listening to you talk about what the requirements are to be the best or one of the best drummers in the world, showed me that we have so much in common in this talk. One of my biggest things especially growing up studying musicians is who are the guys that the top guys are watching, so I can get where their foundation came from. That was such a major part in my growth and understanding the mindset of those top guys and where it came from. Great listen man. 🙏🏽

[@MusicProductionJS]

I think obviously the best is purely subjective - and there’s also two sides to it. There’s the emotional response you get while listening to the drummer, similar to the way nostalgia works when you hear your favourite song. And secondly, from a technical standpoint, who you admire technically. This also depends how much music education you have as to how much technically you can actually understand and perceive audibly. Great topic Matt!

[@shemsuhor8763]

Not subjective, it can definitely be quantified. The "final say" will be subjective, but there are quantitative things you can look for you that are *clearly* things people are better or worse at. A big one is "can you write/read sheet music" for example. The subjective part would be me saying "I think the best drummer ever has to be able to read and write sheet music." But I can quantify that criteria. Why do I think that's important? I don't think anyone who is "the best ever" could be "the best" without being able to communicate what they're doing or why. Could someone who can't read/write sheet music still make great parts or play great songs or have great performances? Absolutely. But we're not asking for "great players" we're looking for "the best ever" - the "IDEAL" drummer. For example I'd have Dirk V, Gil Sharone, Billy Rhymer really high up on my list. Guys that are flexible in styles, but also consummately professional musicians.

[@jonathankey6444]

“Best” refers to objective quality. Not to be confused with “favorite”

[@kirjian]

Where do you think Chris Coleman fits in the best living player right now? How about specialists like Horacio El Negro?

[@DonSandersonDrums]

Matt, I really enjoyed this episode. It gave me a lot of food for thought. I am turning 63 tomorrow. I have played professionally for 45 years now. Mostly Broadway style shows, Jazz, Big Band, and Gospel. I only discovered you a few months ago, and I was simply speechless. Your approach to the instrument, execution and technique, musicality are all breathtaking to watch and listen to. So, I compiled a list of my very favorite and influential guys in my 63 years. I'm no one world famous like you, but I have played a ton of music including a 30 year playing career for Walt Disney World. Here goes. I'd love to see what other guys say. : Vinnie Coliauta, Steve Gadd, Buddy Rich, Hal Blaine, Gavin Harrison, Mike Mangini, Bill Bruford, Dave Weckl, Peter Erskine, Todd Sucherman, Paul Leim, Andy Prado Jr., Billy Cobham, Tony Williams, Matt Garstka, Jeff Porcaro, Simon Phillips, Dennis Chambers, Mike Portnoy, Danny Carey, Danny Gottlieb, Sonny Payne, Dave Garibaldi, Sean McDaniels, Mark and John Hammond, and Thomas Lang. No particular order. If you aren't familiar with any of these guys, look them up. Thank you for the incredible inspiration you are to me, even though at my age I will likely never attain such a level.

[@erickdrumfreak]

Man Cobham has always been my hero . I so agree with you , you nailed it.

[@XENOX449]

Very informative video. Glad I stumbled across this!

[@felixthefearless1886]

I’d like to see this video spur on the conversation so that eventually we get another video with Matt and a whiteboard (or an excel sheet) with all the best drummers and stuff and moving them around until they get to the final result. That would be cool

[@portal432]

His name starts with V and his last name is C

[@Cosmic_Sunrise]

Vinnieeeee babbyyyyy

[@King-Gilamashur2758]

The more he talked about these requirements, the more I was like, yeah, that's Vinnie.

[@1dudecrush]

I’m not normally one to glaze over old drummer legends, but Vinnie legitimately fits the bill here, he immediately jumped to my mind before Matt was really getting into it.

[@davidh5891]

I agree, but his last name could start with D.

[@jonathankey6444]

Vatt Carstka

[@daydreamerb01]

My favourite 2 drummers are currently Thomas Lang and you (Matt Gartska). You both have unique voices on the drums and showcase different visions of the drums for the 21st century. You're both exciting and interesting in your own ways.

[@gph2193]

There are too many, you are definitely one of them. My favorite for decades has been Jack DeJohnette for so many of the right qualities, still plays in his 80's and retains a rythmic voice all his own to this day

[@Uvogin]

One of my favorite qualities of listening to drummers recordings and sessions/ live gigs etc, is surprising the ear. I love being able to be surprised every time I hear some of the greats play. It shows that they are putting in the work to craft ideas. And not just the same kind of chops over and over.

[@rapscallion52]

I like that speed came up. I always hear speed isn’t everything, which is totally correct, but everyone saying that seems to be forgetting that it is one of the things

[@kyleperez4212]

Thank you Matt for your detailed analysis of your criteria for the "best", And I agree Vinnie is the best

[@williamcardin3634]

Funny hearing one of my favorite pocket, groove bad ass smashers talk about needing to get better at double bass…. As if he and his buddy Luke aren’t already the envy of the drumming community…. We love ya man.. I’m just a nobody drummer from Memphis but I’ve followed you for many years Matt. You’ve really pushed me to expand my style, get better, try harder… and learn more. Always stay humble my friend… you are on your way to being one of the greats…. Buddy, Virgil, Dave, Luke…. Matt… Alex… Sam Applebaum and of course El Estepario…. …. I just keep going…. So many good drummers out there…. Sadly I’m suffering from a failing liver and sometimes I just want to quit… then I get to watching KZbin and watching you guys and this fire builds in me and I just want to start smashing down walls!!! Lol…. The drums have saved me on so many levels. Keep going brother. You are an inspiration to us all!

[@Bowl01986]

Composition-wise, nothing beats Tomas Haake with Meshuggah. The simple idea to put an odd meter over a 4/4 groove changed how I enjoy music forever. No doubt, the world of music wouldn't be the same without Meshuggah. And since you asked so nicely, I think you forgot to mention Marco Minnemann.

[@shemsuhor8763]

It's criminal that on their recent 100 best guitarists list, Thordendal didn't even make it. Guy has been writing incredible music for close to 40 years now. Meshuggah has arguably had more impact than Metallica or most of the other popular rock bands ever, or at least a very similar kind of influence. Pushing the bar in creativity, technicality for 40 years now. And unlike Metallica, still release banger albums. One day, "boomer dominance" of all things will fade away and we'll be able to have serious conversations about "objective bests" without their massive egos getting in the way. Of course "the best guitarist ever" was Jimmi Hendrix. Yeah, right. lol.

[@Garage-1881]

I love this version of Matt the best. So happy he's so happy 🖤⚡️🖤

[@Eldrasildrummer]

Ken Bedene is the most complete drummer in the world in my opinion. The work he's done in Aborted is out of this world and he's been consistent. He has great fills, great cymbal work and plays super fast while still having control and meaning. Some of his recordings is played without click witch makes it hard to copy. Every cymbal hit, fill or whatever are perfectly thought off to make the song the best they can be. this is why I think Ken Bedene is the best Drummer in the World. And bro you are up there aswell man... your chops and stick control is just Alien! keep up the good work.

[@giampierofranco4046]

GREAT point!!..you are One of my 10 favorite .very difficult to find The One...i think we can count the best one with your critiria on only one Hand. Thank you for this nice stand point and thoughts.

[@VirgoKing89]

To answer your question, it’s YOU! Because you have all the attributes. ❤️

[@paulharris6605]

Yes you are top3 all time Matt!

[@oodings2561]

Matt so humble he doesn’t realise he spent 25 minutes describing himself :’). The greatest, ever.

[@justinrensel8518]

I kinda think he does realize it

[@HoraceTheLion]

You’re the man!!! I love your style!

[@ignamax08]

For me there are 2 amazing prog drummers out there that i love and i follow, and one is you and the other one is Baard Kolstad

[@flowerlandofjohn]

Given the criteria you mentioned of an all inclusive master. I have a hard time seeing anybody else than Billy Cobham. He ticks all the boxes - with flying colors! If anyone has a challenger (given the versatile criteria) please leave a comment ✌🏻😅 And for those who are not familiar with Billy Cobham: check out his album “Spectrum”. That album pretty much meets all criteria (and he also wrote all of the tracks). And to really drive it home combine that with his work on Mahavishnu Orchestra’s ”Birds of fire” and it’s a home-run! 🙏🏻🤩

[@benfigmusic]

Maybe the best articulated take on this subject I’ve heard! Great thought exercise for every player.

[@Fast_Jake]

I have the same maple DW snare. Love it. You and Neal Pert are G.O.A.T.S

[@ACLOCKWORKDRUMMER]

You're such a great musician...you know there is no best?? It's music bro..gadd.elvin..tony..vinnie...ginger...on and on...there is no criteria except the Ringo thing...❤

[@alejocore1995]

I think that you are the best in the world, i bought your transcriptions and i only practice that every single day

[@DEFKNIGHT]

I like what this Vlad Ulasevish of the Progressive Metal band Jinjer is doing. He is amazing! Has pocket, has chops, is fast, plays open handed, uses double bass, has a fairly unique set-up and has such a good sense of groove within the whole of the music the band is playing. Not saying he's the best, but Man is he good!

[@thenecessitarian]

Virgil feels pretty good to me. I have his entire discography most of which was composed exclusively by him. That's something I can't say for any other world class drummer. And I know all the names anyone can name including guys with only a few thousand subscribers in Israel or Greece or Brazil or whatever. I don't know how good Virgil's Brazilian Afro Cuban rhythms are but..... He can for sure swing on levels that guys that only ever swing can't reach. If he's not the best drummer in the world In most respected drumming minds then it's safe to say that no one is the best drummer in the world.

[@ScorpionF1RE_USA]

He's gotta have a futuristic flair, he's gotta be able to tell stories with the sticks. There's been one.

[@BenSamuelDrums]

I think other than the things you said, the drummer has to be really eloquent and tight. Not only playing incredibly dynamic, versatile, fast, creative and engaging original parts, he needs to be able to execute them flawlessly and cleanly. Hit every note he means to with the right tone and precision ,no matter how technical or crazy it may be. I always say you're the best drummer there is, and I aspire to reach your levels each and every day so thanks!

[@MDUBE5999]

Interesting! I look @ this way. We are all Great it's a matter of how much time to mold our craft? I listened to many drummers; then remembered what David W. said. What goes for the right goes for the left. Although I over thought it. In which gave me a new style then reinventing the self. Although the scene isn't what is used to be. I hear melodies in my head when I play. I hope we get a chance to talk online; some day!

[@SDMF71]

I'm not a drummer, but, this is a very insightful video from a great player whom I admire. I also feel that 'the best' is still about 10% totally subjective. Even someone who absolutely hates a certain band can pick up on the precision, groove, pocket, and depth of the excellent musicianship in those bands they dislike.

[@elbolegoya]

My no 1 on those would be compose/improvise. Because I think that is what we, as an audience, really remember or recognize over time. Like if the part makes you think "how the hell could he have come up with that" then it's good shit. Because chops can be repeated, but how you piece it just makes it unique.

[@sadunozer2241]

I think the pureness of a small kit, and players who have been playing small kits (most jazz cats) should still be in the conversation. As using the hihat with your foot is a valid progression (to some extent…)

[@julianlamb8489]

A huge extent..I think left foot hi hat work is the most underrated skill on drums

[@bishopoftroy]

When is the playthrough for the Tigran song gonna be out?

[@really_cool_IRL]

Can't wait to hear Matt's work with Tigran.

[@neeksquez]

This is what drew me to start working on double bass and traditional grip.

[@denesisdelcorockschool3074]

I really enjoyed this. Very interesting. Matt,I believe you are among the best and may be the best in some. I think Vinnie is the deepest drummer alive but you are close man. Your improv is spectacular.

[@ronaldkamaal6115]

Bit late and probably too many parts to my Frankenstein but: Elvin’s swing, Maison’s phrasing, Shariq’s chops, RBJ’s energy, Mike’s exuberance, Eloy’s power, Gary Novak’s precision, Carlock’s tastiness, Steve Jordan’s backbeat, Justin’s versatility, Deantoni Parks’ innovativeness, Zach Hill’s relentlessness, Nate Wood’s equilibrium, Vinnie’s flow, Karriem Riggin’s swag, Louis Cole’s composition, Michael Olivera’s latin musicality.

[@tweakedsam]

According to your criteria, Marco Minnemann would be pretty high on the list.

[@joet81]

Not trying to kiss ass but I honestly and Truly think it is Matt. I believe that he has taken modern drumming to new heights and his Innovation, Progression and skill level is unrivaled. His music is going to be studied for many decades to come

[@sneakyfish8191]

Love the video. You invite some fascinating aesthetic questions, Matt. TL;DR - My two cents is that the objectively ultimate drummer is entirely theoretical and cannot exist in reality but can exist metaphysically (in the ideal Platonic sense). It serves as a theoretical maximum on the measuring stick. A maximum is necessary because if the stick is infinite then we all suck infinitely! Both the measuring stick and the concept of measurement are rendered useless. We aspire to the theoretical maximum of musicianship, while recognising it's physical impossibility. Generally the claim that one has arrived at an objective fact is dangerous ground. When comparing two players on specific aspects of their musicianship, for example their use of a particular technique, or their relative competence within a given style, I feel it is a simpler task to establish concrete metrics that produce definitive answers. Tempo, fluidity, reliability, contextual use, etc. "Player A is objectively superior to player B in X regard." "Player A is clearly more adept in the use of X technique than player B." However, when comparing two players in the totality of their musicianship, I feel it is either more difficult or impossible to arrive at concrete answers. Very often, that is where preferences are, at best, subjective. As a result, I think the most useful comparative question that can be asked remains pretty much unchanged, "Who is the best at what?" But with the formulation I've described, we're limited to asking it about specific elements of drumming, not about the whole discipline of drumming itself. Consider this, if everyone attained an equal degree of generalised skill at drumming, there would be nothing extraordinary about any of it. If everyone is equally skilled, then skill as an object and it's usefulness as a category, start to degrade. I've found that those with a generalised, high level of ability on the drums, tend to appreciate specific elements of different players that have specialised in particular areas. They have then weaved those various elements together (along with their own musical identity) to form the patchwork tapestry of their own drumming. Specialists often serve as the genesis of inspiration and development for others, this does not make them elite or superior in any way, simply another necessary part of the whole. They may lack in certain categories, but their inventiveness in specific areas is a major driving force in progressing both us as individual players and the entire discipline.

[@OTProd]

Blake Richardson’s intensity, diversity, and adaptability with Nick Crescenzo’s pocket and groove.

[@jarrod.ives92]

i’m SO stoked you brought double bass into the equation. tbh it’s a huge part of the reason i put you as the strongest contender for GOAT 🐐

[@gonzameza5198]

Best in the world? yes and no. In VF JAM i really enjoyed your participation and even though it is understood that you are more technical than Mark Guliana, I was glued to the ceiling with what he did in that jam. The topic is organic and subjective to some extent, good video, thank you!

[@DoktorAGD]

Vinnie 4 me top 3 U ever heard ho can play everything!! But U my friend allsaw play everything and probably the hardest crazyest things I heard! You are absolutely one of a kind and allsaw my top 3 favorite drummers ..🥰👊🎶

[@YouthDrummer]

Such a great vid. The best drummer topic will always be a personal taste for everyone. We also have to look at time period too, many of the greats were pioneers, no one heard these ways of playing before. The Buddy Rich’s and Tony Williams and old cats walked so we can run and the running generation build on these things and it keeps evolving. You are a Frankenstein of everyone that has had an influence on you.

[@nickpolich9477]

Marco Minnemann...just sitting in for a tour with Necrophagist. But also lars for his contributions with the St anger snare.

[@johnpaulondrums]

Have to agree that Marco is a great example of all those traits. Master of so many genres but also has his own voice on the kit. It’s remarkable.

[@lorenzopierson3818]

I certainly would have to agree that Marco is a strong contender. Without a doubt he falls into one of the top 3 drummers in the world.

[@CarswithMiles]

Akira Jimbo has it all :)

[@jeremyreed7210]

I'm at the Neil Peart moment of the video and I just want to comment that Neil spoke extensively about creating space with a through composed solo for improvisation and that he worked very hard on his facility to both improvise freely and improvise over ostinato patterns (i.e. the drum also waltzes). I'd also add that Neil essentially went back to school (regardless of whether you think Gruber is a guru or a grifter) late in his career, which is an admirable trait for any musician/artist. I'm not going to argue that NP is in the running for all-time GOAT , but there's quite a bit to learn from him as an example vis-a-vis the traits that you're describing. Good mental exercise and food for thought though. Vinnie is definitely who's being described here (IMO), though you (Matt) will be on our lists for years to come!

[@saulvera5469]

Glad you put this video, honestly ,those are my criteria (I thought you weren't going to mention dynamics, I also would add reading music) .I think Vinnie(I know,I know) always check all those boxes,he can play any style like he's an expert of the style in terms of vocabulary, he can swing, hell he can chop, play double bass, play super loud,soft, fast, slow, incredible timing and technique, his sound regardless if is a Gretsch,Ludwig or Yamaha. And honestly other way that have what Vinnie have and more is Garstka in terms of the prog-metal which I haven't heard Vinnie playing but I don't doubt he'll crush some Animals as leaders songs

[@peternicholas3719]

15:30 Damn, I feel that lol. I kinda hate when bandmates tell me to play louder, as if the drums aren't already loud as fuck (so loud I need ear protection) and as if they don't have microphones pointing at them.

[@SublimeAudio4Life]

“Posing this question is akin to inquiring, ‘Who is the most beautiful woman in the world?’ The answer, inevitably, is subjective, hinging on individual perception.” "If someone had posed this question to me in my teenage years, I would have undoubtedly responded with ‘Neil Peart’. In my mind, he was an untouchable figure in the drumming community. However, fast forward 30 years, and my perspective has broadened. Now, I would mention drummers like Steve Gadd, Kenny Aronoff, Dennis Chambers, and others. These musicians understand how to play MUSIC. They are not merely performing on stage for visibility, but rather contributing to a much larger and more significant endeavor. I feel that today’s musicians, not just drummers, often strive too hard to be recognized as the best. This pursuit sometimes overshadows the essence of simply having fun and creating music."

[@mmus321]

Versatility is a big thing for me. When I hear you play, I’m like, that guy can play literally anything. Your style is very technical, rudimentary, Berkeley chops type playing. Very pocket too. But the style stays pretty consistent in all the music you choose to play. I wish you would do some playthrough videos of you absolutely dominating some popular mainstream metal and metalcore songs, while making it your own (the way Eloy did with Slipknot and other stuff). Even mainstream pop and rock demos would be great to see. When I see drummers play as technical as you, and then cross over to jazz 😲, AND prove that they can absolutely dominate mainstream metal, rock, and pop, all while maintaining the CLEANEST pocket 🤯 for me, that makes a drummer “the best” or at least one of the best.

[@jonashellborg8320]

That was such a nice topic, and I agree it’s important to think about. And I’m torn, sometimes I value the odd time, double bass, multi genre octopus. And then I hear Elvin Jones play a ride cymbal and feather the bass drum. and my head is bobbing. I think I’m kind of more into Elvin, at least on more days than I’m into the octopus.

[@loganmoyer1548]

I couldn’t agree more about, not everyone’s opinion has the same weight. My mom can tell me I’m a great drummer but until I hear something from even my drum teacher, I don’t take my mom’s opinion seriously. Of course she’s gonna say that and support me, but my drum teacher knows more than me and is better than me. Another drummer that I feel gets overlooked a TON is Brooks Wackerman. He has such tasteful playing and meets a lot of the criteria talked about. I think he’s close, he’s a very underrated drummer and not that talked about in the drumming world.

[@jadonruby3998]

I hope you see this because when I think of who the best drummer is you are always on top for me. Whether you feel the same way about yourself or not, if some one asked me my answer, I’d say Matt Garstka. (Also Danny Carey)

[@Machado1328]

Yeah..thjs dude is thee best drummer alive noe currently in this moment in time

[@NetherNoTwisting]

Im not high on this kind of topic in music and yet I really liked your video, I think you brought solid points. For me if I had to choose the best drummer I would definitely choose the most versatile one, which means, somebody who can maintain a high level of composition & phrasing no matter what the music genre is. And I think from there, you can pretty much say with confidence that at least 90% of drummers are removed from the equation.

[@BadMilkhotel]

What a round-about way of saying " Here I am"

[@tylerdombrowski6847]

Though art is never a contest there's something supernatural about Danny Carey... his synthesizer work combined with his otherworldly drum solos (that we never get recorded... lmao) are something I crave. Danny is a monster especially live. Matt is incredible for too many reasons to list... AAL is an insane force. PLEASE TOUR WITH TOOL BRO PRETTY PLEASE

[@Andrew-c2d6w]

I just went to an Animals As Leaders concert, and I wasn’t able to catch a drumstick, but I stayed after the show and met him.

[@chrisfranklin4061]

Great discussion topic! Subjective...but how have I not seen Thomas Lang mentioned in these comments? haha