"Yesterdays" is a 1933 song about nostalgia composed by Jerome Kern (lyrics by Otto Harbach), and written for the musical “Roberta.”

This rather rambunctious and “no fear” rendition features my new leather mallets. I’m gradually moving forward on finding a way to make this unique design available to the masses and believe that interest is growing, yes?

Spending time with and learning how to play this beautiful instrument today with the classic "The Nearness of You" by the great composer Hoagy Carmichael. The first chorus is a slow, rubato ballad and then I thought I would try something different for a few choruses in 3/4.

Sharing a little bit of some very early morning practice time today. Here's what's up with this:

One of the things that has always mystified me a little bit, is the blues. I've sat on the drums in small group settings for years - admiring a horn player or singer's ability to express themselves in this unique art form.

Over the last couple of weeks, I've started listening more....and also getting into some of the lessons on this site. Going through Behn's comping lessons...and John's lesson which he shared, and some of the others.

Here is week 1 for the Practice Club. I really enjoyed working on this etude. It allowed me to work on my reading and learn some new voicing’s that I can now start implementing into my playing. Then taking those voicing’s and putting them through the keys.

Comping has never been my strong suit but I’m hoping that working through these rootless voicing lessons for the next few weeks is going to help. Let me know what you think!

This is Giant Steps stuff!

Here is my new travel vibraphone.
Now I finally get no more trouble with the cottage neighbors or my wife.

As my summer toy doesn't create a great sound I have taken the wonderful recording from Maciej Afanasjew for background. I love the sound of the bass vibraphone.
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHqtlA3E_0g)

Check out Gene. Great vibe player, lived in LA and played with everyone out there! Great Drummer!

If you know anything about Gene Estes please share it!

Click here for more info
Soft, quiet, but articulate

Super soft, nearly silent, slurring articulation

So, I need to share this amazing fusion tune from 1976. The band "Gong" and this tune, in particular, transformed my life when I was in high school. There is loads of mallet playing on all of their music. Esnuria is an epic that kicks into many gears and is a virtual percussion extravaganza. The ending in 7 is what I would call "Awesome!" I'll shut up and let the music speak for itself...