Double bass drumming is a drumming technique used in various genres of music that involves using both feet to play two bass drums or a bass drum and a pedal-operated percussion instrument simultaneously. The technique is particularly associated with heavy metal, progressive metal, and extreme metal, and it is used to create complex rhythms and fast tempos.
The Origins of Double Bass Drumming
The origins of double bass drumming can be traced back to the early 20th century, when jazz drummers started experimenting with two bass drums. In the 1950s and 1960s, rock drummers such as Ginger Baker and Keith Moon used double bass drums to create powerful, driving rhythms.
Double Bass Drumming in Heavy Metal
Double bass drumming became an important part of heavy metal in the 1980s, with drummers such as Lars Ulrich of Metallica and Dave Lombardo of Slayer using the technique to play at fast tempos with complex rhythms. In the following decades, many other metal drummers adopted the technique and pushed its boundaries, leading to the development of subgenres such as death metal and black metal.
How to Learn Double Bass Drumming
Learning double bass drumming requires a lot of practice and patience. It is important to start slowly and focus on building coordination and control before attempting faster tempos. There are many resources available for learning double bass drumming, including instructional books and videos, online tutorials and courses, and private lessons with a qualified drum teacher.
The Future of Double Bass Drumming
Double bass drumming continues to evolve and be used in new and creative ways in various genres of music. As technology advances, new tools such as sample triggers and electronic pedals are being developed to further expand the possibilities of the technique. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced drummer, double bass drumming offers a challenging and rewarding avenue of musical expression.
