One thing I think makes Nate stand out: he's got a very fat/warm sound and pocket reminiscent of a top-notch pop/rock studio guy but with jazz and gospel sensibilities. It's a very unique and wonderful combination. Just saw him with his group Kinfolk, which draws on his diverse musical influences, a...

Definitely when I was young, I discounted groove players, not having the maturity to recognize they bring something to the table that many drummers with more facility don't (and vice versa). Granted this is not the fairest comparison, but check Antonio Sanchez the other day, undoubtedly a modern dru...

The quick and short of it is that Becker and Fagen mastered songwriting, and then they did it justice by bringing in musicians who had mastered playing. It's a combination that's never been matched IMO. Huge loss and eternally grateful for their music.

Man, Justin is a monster. He's got it all, but IMO few people can complement a solo like he can with his phrasing/comping. Ie:

Man that's crazy Rodge - I always thought that!

Dave really offers some fresh, fun, and musically applicable practice concepts.

Phrasing is just awesome.

For the Simon era, I'd recommend that 'Livefields' album I posted a song from. Monstrous rock playing, amazing sound.

sound and felt great chris! didn't listen to all, but great right hand on the sublime tune and groove felt great on the tool track!

It doesn't get me in knots, but I just disagree with this characterization of Simon, and I wonder if it's biased by his drum kit appearance, recording history, etc. Simon's pocket and groove is huge. Sure, he pulls out the chops more often, but he does so in an extremely musical manner and the time ...