The music of the progressive rock band YES has been with me for over 50 years now. Ever since my big brother Norman introduced me to them (…and many other great bands/musicians) when I was still in single figures! This was their 2nd album ‘Fragile’. Their music still sounds fresh today and the drummer, Bill Bruford was a true prog-rock drumming pioneer interpreting his drum parts in varied and unique ways as the band created the music. I’ve spent many years trying to memorise the drumming from this section from ‘Roundabout’ to only get so far and then loose the thread…! However, a couple of months ago I finally found a very accurate drums transcription - and I hope I’ve done it justice. If you’ve never heard of YES let me encourage you to check them out. You will have to be happy to listen to some lengthy pieces - but trust me, it’s worth it!
*Channel Members can access a copy of this drum part if they want to have a go* (AND see where I might have gone wrong. I know there is one extra pair of 1/16th’s on the bass drum plus the last beat of one fill has been altered VERY slightly because I was struggling badly to play it as written…! But, hey…Bill’s playing is pretty incredible so I was generally pleased with my own attempt at this cover.)
Working on quality drum covers really is great way to develop many drumming skills and gain greater understanding of different musical genres. So, performer level and pro-level drummers give it a go…even short sections.
This drum cover was done in memory of my brother, Norman.