e-MusicLab presents an analysis of the drumset solo performed by Dave Weckl on the song "Island Magic" from his recording, Master Plan on GRP (click the CDNOW logo to buy the album)

This material is taken from the Warner Brothers Publication, Dave Weckl, Contemporary Drummer + One in which Dave demonstrates his approach to playing with a band. This publication includes entire drum parts for each song examples of rhythm patterns and fills he plays and transcriptions of solos.

There are several features in this analysis of Dave's performance on "Island Magic" including:

• Play The Solo
  There is a MIDI file of the solo along with the transcription of the solo. Using the control buttons, you can PLAY the MIDI file, change the TEMPO (which will make it easier to follow along -- while NOT changing the pitch!), and change the VOLUME. Use the 'VCR' buttons under the drum part to advance to the second and third page of the solo part.

• Study Each Measure
  Once you have determined to learn the solo you can study and practice/play along with a MIDI file of each measure. Again, the MIDI file allows you to change the TEMPO without changing the pitch (the sound) of the drums. You will find the whole solo on this page. Click on any measure (starting AFTER the introduction) and a small screen will pop-up with the measure you clicked and the controls to play the MIDI file of the measure. Once you have begun to master the measure you can speed it up.

• Rhythm Patterns Explained
  Dave has provided written examples of the patterns he uses in various areas of the recording. Cycle through the notation graphics of the patterns and select one. Then click the MIDI file link that corresponds to the notation graphic. Click the 'Play' button and you're off!!

Don't forget to use the ISLAND MAGIC link in the navbar to the left to navigate in the interior pages!!