Notes on the solos

Solo #1
A 6/8 solo that focuses on a 2:3 polyrhythm and sixteenth “double beats.” The groove at letter D is usually exciting for young players, but many don’t know how to notate it or play perfectly with a metronome!

Solo #2
Thrilling fills for the drummers who are sick of going straight down the drums. This solo offers some exciting hi-hat interplay in the main groove as well. The half-time beat at letter E uses up-beat ride bell.

Solo #3
My primary intention with this straightforward solo is to prep the drummer to play for a steel band. Soca and Songo grooves are played for the majority of the solo. The Soca groove in particular has risen in popularity in mainstream music, so players will likely recognize it quickly.

Solo #4
Any drummer playing pop music should master the dot-dot-8th rhythm throughout this solo. Letter D in this solo will require the most practice. Players should be dramatic with the long pause at the end!

Solo #5
Funky and fun, this solo utilizes a central groove and lots of tasty fills. The player is required to manage several syncopated rhythms, some wide open rests, and surprising hits.

Solo #6
A swing solo with creative “comping” patterns. The patterns cover a great deal of coordination skills while still feeling like a tune. The fast swing section is a reference to Benny Goodman’s “Sing! Sing! Sing!”

Solo #7
A short journey through some essential latin grooves. The piece starts in strict time with a Brazilian “Partito Alto” rhythm, then some standard cha cha and samba grooves. The piece opens up to more of a “lilt” when the style goes to the Afro-Cuban Mozambique. Most players only scratch the surface with these styles/genres and I hope that drummers can use this as a jumping off point to dive deeper into this sort of music.

Solo #8
It is unwise for the drum set player to neglect their rudimental chops. This march-style solo is inspired by the N.A.R.D. drum solos. Playing the snare part alone is a worthy challenge. Once it is in the players hands, they can add the kick and the (campy) Coda.

Solo #9
Very aggressive mixed meter solo. Exposing the player to grooves and fills in meters with both compound and simple beats. The high tempo and constant meter change is a guaranteed challenge and thrill.

Solo #10
I based the tenth solo on trap music. It starts with an open swing feel that f ills in gradually, then transitions with a sudden tempo change into the more recognizable trap feel with fast Hi-Hat patterns and constant metric switches. Drummers will likely find learning this solo awkward at first, that is ok! Not all music will feel good in that hands, drummers should learn to overcome that.