The Other Simple Phrase - Extensions

This is the final part of the series looking at the rhythmic figure consisting of an upbeat to a downbeat.

Here we are imposing it as a 3 bar phrase into a 4 bar cycle. Work through all the exercises slowly and remember this is a 2 over 3 (2:3) pattern which creates a very interesting tension.

Start by applying the pattern to the ride cymbal. Remember that the down beat in brackets in 1b & 1C is only played on the repeat. You can also play this as a comping figure on the snare, bass drum, hi-hat or any combination there of.

Work slowly, sing the phrases and listen to where it resolves, especially over the bar line.

Exercises 2 & 3 (in the PDF), apply the same pattern as accents in 8th notes and triplets. This provides a basis for many interesting solo and comping ideas especially when you start to voice the accents around the kit - on the toms or the ride cymbal for example.

These patterns have a lot of musical applications when played both swung and straight. Once you understand the basic figure try to be creative in it's application.

You'll find the full set of exercises in the PDF.

This was originally posted on "Jazz Drumming Blog" and in the "Ideas for Jazz Drumming" e-book (no longer available). This post has been revised from the original.