Performing live music isn’t just about playing notes and singing lyrics—it’s about creating an unforgettable experience for the audience. A strong stage presence can make or break a performance, transforming a good musician into a compelling entertainer. Whether you’re a solo artist or part of a band, mastering stage presence can elevate your shows, engage your audience, and build your reputation as a performer. In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips to help you improve your stage presence and leave a lasting impression.

1. Understand Your Unique Performance Style

Every artist has a unique personality and style. Some musicians thrive on high-energy movements, while others captivate audiences with a mysterious and brooding aura. The key to great stage presence is understanding what works for you and leaning into it authentically.

Identify Your Strengths

• Are you naturally energetic and dynamic? Play into that with bold movements and interactions.
• Do you have a compelling voice and expressive face? Focus on emotive facial expressions and eye contact.
• Are you skilled at storytelling? Engage your audience with anecdotes between songs.

Watch and Learn

Observe performances by artists you admire and analyze what makes them compelling. Do they move a lot? Do they engage in crowd interaction? Take note of what resonates with you and adapt it to your style.

2. Develop Strong Body Language

Body language communicates just as much as your music. A confident stance, purposeful movement, and expressive gestures can captivate an audience and make your performance more engaging.

Maintain Good Posture

• Stand tall with an open stance to exude confidence.
• Avoid crossing your arms or turning away from the audience, as it can create a disconnect.
• If playing an instrument, keep an engaged posture rather than hunching over.

Move with Purpose

• Avoid standing in one place for too long unless it fits the mood of the song.
• Use the stage space to create energy and movement.
• Engage with band members dynamically, making the performance feel cohesive.

3. Engage the Audience

Connecting with the audience is crucial for stage presence. An engaged crowd is more likely to remember your performance and become loyal fans.

Make Eye Contact

Looking at your audience, rather than staring at your instrument or the floor, builds connection. If making direct eye contact feels intimidating, look just above their heads—it will still give the illusion of engagement.

Speak to Your Audience

• Introduce yourself and talk between songs to create a personal connection.
• Share stories about your music or the inspiration behind a song.
• Ask the audience questions or encourage them to sing along.

Encourage Participation

• Use call-and-response sections to get the audience involved.
• Invite crowd clapping or singing during specific parts.
• Point out enthusiastic fans and acknowledge them.

4. Master the Art of Expression

Your facial expressions and gestures should match the emotion of your music. If your lyrics are heartfelt, show vulnerability. If your song is high-energy, let your excitement show.

Match Your Expression to the Mood

• Smile during upbeat songs to project joy and excitement.
• Show intensity and passion in rock or blues performances.
• Keep a relaxed but engaged demeanor during mellow songs.

Use Hand and Arm Gestures

• Point, wave, or reach out to the audience.
• Use exaggerated strumming or drumming movements to enhance the musical energy.
• Gesture toward bandmates to highlight solos or transitions.

5. Overcome Stage Fright

Even experienced performers get nervous, but confidence can be built over time.

Prepare Thoroughly

• Rehearse regularly, practicing as if you’re performing live.
• Record yourself and analyze areas for improvement.
• Familiarize yourself with the venue setup before the show.

Use Relaxation Techniques

• Take deep breaths to calm your nerves.
• Stretch before going on stage to release tension.
• Channel nervous energy into performance energy.

Start Small

• Perform at open mics or small gigs to build comfort.
• Practice in front of friends and family before taking on larger crowds.

6. Dress for the Occasion

Your stage outfit is an extension of your performance. It should complement your music style and help you stand out.

Consider the Genre

• Rock and punk musicians often wear edgy, dark clothing.
• Pop and indie artists may opt for trendy, expressive outfits.
• Folk and acoustic performers might choose a more laid-back, earthy look.

Prioritize Comfort

• Wear something that allows freedom of movement.
• Ensure footwear is comfortable for long performances.
• Test outfits beforehand to avoid wardrobe malfunctions.

7. Interact with Your Bandmates

If you’re performing with a band, chemistry on stage is vital. A band that interacts with each other looks more unified and exciting.

Communicate Non-Verbally

• Use nods and glances to signal transitions.
• Move toward bandmates during instrumental breaks for visual engagement.

Share the Spotlight

• Highlight solos by stepping back and gesturing toward the soloist.
• Avoid over-dominating the stage unless you’re the lead focus.

8. Rehearse Performance Aspects

Practicing music alone isn’t enough—incorporate stage presence into rehearsals.

Perform Like It’s Live

• Run through sets with full energy as if an audience is watching.
• Experiment with movement and interaction during practice.

Film Yourself

• Record performances to spot awkward movements or lack of engagement.
• Identify what’s working and refine your approach.

9. Handle Mistakes Gracefully

Mistakes happen, but how you recover is what matters.

Keep Playing

• If you hit a wrong note, keep going—most people won’t notice.
• Avoid making facial expressions that acknowledge mistakes.

Turn It into a Moment

• Laugh it off if it’s noticeable—it makes you relatable.
• Improvise if you forget lyrics or chords.

10. End with a Bang

A strong closing leaves a lasting impression. Plan a memorable ending to your set.

Build Toward a Climax

• Save an energetic or well-known song for last.
• Engage the crowd for one final singalong.
• Exit the stage confidently, acknowledging the audience.

Final Thoughts

Stage presence isn’t about being the most flamboyant performer—it’s about being engaging, confident, and connected with your audience. By practicing body language, audience interaction, and performance techniques, you can turn a simple set into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft, these tips will help you develop a magnetic stage presence that keeps fans coming back for more. So step onto that stage with confidence, embrace your unique style, and give your audience a performance they won’t forget!

Learning to play the drums can be an exciting and rewarding journey. Whether you want to rock out in a band, play for fun, or develop a solid musical foundation, getting started with drum lessons is the first step. Here’s a beginner’s guide to help you get started.

1. Understand the Basics of Drumming

Before you start, it’s important to understand the fundamental elements of drumming:

• Rhythm & Timing – Drumming is all about keeping a steady beat. Practicing with a metronome will help you develop a strong sense of timing.
• Basic Drum Kit Components – A standard drum kit consists of a snare drum, bass drum, hi-hat, toms, and cymbals. Familiarizing yourself with each component will help you feel comfortable behind the kit.

2. Get the Right Equipment

To start drumming, you’ll need some basic equipment:

• Drumsticks – Choose a pair of sticks suited for beginners, such as 5A or 7A.
• Practice Pad – A great tool for practicing rudiments quietly.
• Drum Kit (Acoustic or Electronic) – While an acoustic kit provides a traditional feel, electronic drums are great for quieter practice.

3. Find a Good Drum Teacher or Online Course

A structured lesson plan is crucial for progress. You can:

• Take in-person lessons with a local drum teacher.
• Enroll in online courses or use video tutorials from platforms like YouTube, Drumeo, or Udemy.
• Follow drum method books that provide structured learning paths.

4. Learn Basic Drum Rudiments

Rudiments are the building blocks of drumming. Start with these essential ones:

• Single Stroke Roll (R L R L…)
• Double Stroke Roll (R R L L…)
• Paradiddles (R L R R L R L L…)

5. Develop a Practice Routine

Consistency is key to improving your drumming skills. A good practice routine includes:

• Warm-ups – Start with simple stick control exercises.
• Rudiments Practice – Work on different rudiments daily.
• Grooves & Beats – Learn basic rock, pop, or funk beats.
• Playing Along with Music – Helps with timing and feel.

6. Play Along with Songs

Choose beginner-friendly songs to play along with, such as:

• “Seven Nation Army” – The White Stripes
• “We Will Rock You” – Queen
• “Smoke on the Water” – Deep Purple

7. Stay Motivated and Have Fun

Drumming should be enjoyable! Set goals, track progress, and experiment with different styles to keep things interesting.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident drummer. Keep practicing, stay patient, and most importantly—have fun! 🥁

Performing in front of an audience can be one of the most exciting yet nerve-wracking experiences for music students. Even seasoned musicians experience stage fright, but with preparation and the right mindset, anyone can manage their nerves and deliver a performance they’re proud of. Here are practical tips to help nervous music students shine on stage.

1. Understand and Embrace Nervousness

Feeling nervous before a performance is normal and even beneficial. Nervousness often means you care about doing well. The key is channeling that energy into focus and enthusiasm rather than letting it overwhelm you. Recognize the physical signs of nervousness—like a racing heart or sweaty palms—as natural responses that can be managed.

Pro Tip:

Practice mindfulness or deep-breathing exercises to calm your body and mind. For example, inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. Repeat this a few times before stepping on stage.

2. Prepare Thoroughly

Confidence stems from preparation. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll feel with your material. Break your practice sessions into manageable chunks, focusing on tricky passages and gradually integrating them into the piece.

Actionable Steps:

• Record yourself practicing to identify areas that need improvement.
• Rehearse in front of family or friends to simulate a performance setting.
• Practice walking on and off stage as part of your routine to build familiarity.

3. Visualize Success

Visualization is a powerful tool for building confidence. Imagine yourself performing flawlessly in front of an appreciative audience. This mental rehearsal can help reduce anxiety and reinforce a positive mindset.

How to Visualize:

• Find a quiet space to close your eyes and picture every detail of your performance.
• Focus on the sound of your music, the supportive audience, and the satisfaction you’ll feel afterward.

4. Develop a Pre-Performance Routine

Having a consistent routine can help calm your nerves and signal to your brain that it’s time to perform. Your routine might include warming up, stretching, or listening to calming music.

Example Routine:

• Arrive at the venue early to acclimate to the space.
• Do light stretches to relax your muscles.
• Play a few scales or a simple piece to warm up your fingers and voice.

5. Shift Your Focus

Instead of dwelling on what could go wrong, focus on the music and the story you want to share with your audience. Remember, most people are there to enjoy your performance, not to scrutinize it.

Perspective Shift:

Think of your performance as a gift to your audience. Concentrate on expressing emotions and connecting with listeners rather than achieving perfection.

6. Address Physical Symptoms

Nervousness can manifest physically, making it harder to perform. To counteract these effects, take steps to calm your body.

Tips for Physical Relaxation:

• Stretch your arms, neck, and shoulders to release tension.
• Avoid caffeine or sugar before a performance, as they can increase jitteriness.
• Stay hydrated and eat a light, balanced meal beforehand.

7. Leverage Small Performances

Gradually building up to larger audiences can desensitize you to performance anxiety. Start with informal performances for friends or at small gatherings before taking on bigger stages.

Practice Opportunities:

• Join a local open mic night or community event.
• Volunteer to play at a school assembly or a senior center.
• Record yourself and share the video with a supportive group for feedback.

8. Focus on the Present

Anxiety often stems from worrying about past mistakes or potential future slip-ups. During your performance, concentrate on each note and phrase as it comes.

How to Stay Present:

• Use mental anchors, such as focusing on your breathing or the feel of your instrument.
• If you make a mistake, let it go and keep moving forward. Most audiences won’t notice.

9. Post-Performance Reflection

After your performance, take time to reflect on what went well and what you can improve. Use this as a learning experience to grow as a musician.

Reflective Questions:

• What aspects of your performance felt strong?
• How did you handle moments of nervousness?
• What will you do differently next time?

10. Seek Support and Encouragement

Having a strong support system can make a world of difference. Share your goals and challenges with your teacher, family, and friends.

Build a Support Network:

• Attend performances by your peers to gain inspiration and camaraderie.
• Discuss your feelings with your music teacher; they’ve likely experienced similar nerves.
• Surround yourself with positive people who encourage your growth.

Conclusion

Performance anxiety is a common hurdle for music students, but it can be managed with preparation, practice, and a shift in mindset. By embracing your nerves and focusing on the joy of sharing music, you can transform anxiety into a powerful tool for connecting with your audience. Remember, every performance is a step toward becoming a more confident and expressive musician.

In the world of drumming, technology has become a game-changer, transforming the way drummers learn, practice, and perform. Gone are the days of tedious practice sessions spent struggling to read sheet music or decipher complex rhythms on their own when a teacher can’t be present. Modern technology has made it easier than ever for drummers to hone their skills, expand their musical knowledge, and take their craft to new heights.

A revolutionary development is the advent of smart drumming apps. Apps like Drummer’s Helper, Rhythm Lab, and Time Trainer provide access to a vast library of songs, exercises, and rudiments, all at the drummer’s fingertips. These apps enable drummers to practice along with their favorite songs, develop their skills, and even connect with other drummers worldwide. Most notably in this article, I’ll be highlighting a new app called Beatnote available in the apple store. (Coming to Android soon)

Technology has made it easier for drummers to learn, read, and write music. Software like Beatnote, Finale, Sibelius, Sound Slice, and MuseScore enable drummers to create, edit, and print sheet music with ease. These programs also offer tools for notation, transcription, and analysis, making it simpler for drummers to understand complex rhythms and time signatures.

In conclusion, modern technology has transformed the drumming landscape, offering a wealth of innovative tools where now, instructors and students can work together with these innovative apps to help students learn, absorb absorb information and put to good use the resources that enhance learning, practice, and performance. With the aid of digital software, smart apps, and music notation programs, drummers can now unlock their full potential, pushing the boundaries of rhythm and creativity. Embrace the beat of innovation and discover the exciting possibilities that technology has in store for drummers!

Enrolling kids in summer music programs can have a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond just learning to play an instrument. At Freeway Music, these programs offer a unique opportunity for children to explore their creativity, develop discipline, and enhance their cognitive abilities. Here are some key reasons why summer music programs are important for kids:

1. Creativity and self-expression: Music is a powerful form of self-expression, allowing children to convey emotions, thoughts, and feelings in a creative way. By enrolling in a music program, kids can tap into their creative potential and explore different genres and styles of music.
2. Cognitive development: Learning music has been shown to have a positive impact on cognitive development. It can improve memory, enhance mathematical skills, and increase spatial-temporal skills. Music also helps children develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
3. Discipline and perseverance: Mastering a musical instrument requires dedication, practice, and perseverance. By enrolling in a summer music program, kids learn the value of hard work, discipline, and patience. These qualities can transfer to other areas of their lives, helping them excel academically and professionally.
4. Social skills and teamwork: Many summer music programs involve group activities, such as playing in a band or orchestra. These experiences teach children valuable social skills, such as collaboration, communication, and teamwork. Kids learn to listen to each other, compromise, and work together towards a common goal.
5. Confidence and self-esteem: As children develop their musical skills and see their progress over the course of a music program, their confidence and self-esteem grow. Performing in front of an audience, whether it’s a small group of parents or a larger concert hall, can help kids overcome stage fright and build confidence in themselves.
6. Cultural appreciation: Music is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries. By enrolling in a music program, kids have the opportunity to explore music from different cultures and time periods. This can broaden their perspectives, foster appreciation for diversity, and spark a lifelong love of music.

Overall, enrolling kids in music programs, especially starting in the summer, when they have less on their plate, can have a lasting impact on their personal, social, and academic development. Whether they continue to pursue music as a career or simply enjoy it as a hobby, the benefits of music education are undeniable. If you have the chance to enroll your child in a summer music program, seize the opportunity to help them unlock their full potential and foster a lifelong passion for music.

A Jumpstart for Children’s Development

Music education has long been touted as a valuable tool for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. But just how impactful is it? In this article, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of music education for children, backed by credible studies and research.

Cognitive Benefits:

* Improved memory and spatial-temporal skills (Rauscher et al., 1998)

* Enhanced language development and literacy skills (Forgeard et al., 2008)

* Better math and reading skills (Hetland & Winner, 2001)

Social-Emotional Benefits:

* Improved social skills and teamwork (Hallam, 2010)

* Reduced stress and anxiety (Kruger & Schechter, 2017)

* Enhanced creativity and self-expression (Boden & Mayer, 2009)

Brain Development:

* Increased grey matter volume in auditory and motor areas (Schlaug et al., 2005)

* Stronger neural connections and plasticity (Kraus & Chandrasekaran, 2010)

Conclusion:

The evidence is clear: music education gives children a significant jumpstart in life. By introducing music education early on, parents and educators can help shape young minds, foster creativity, and set the stage for future success. At times, when you’re in the moment- it may feel as though progress is slower than you would expect, but it’s important to remember, music education like anything else, takes time to understand, master and produce results. If we allow ourselves opportunity to enjoy the process, the results will surprise you in such an amazing way.

Nurturing Musical Growth in Children

Learning to play a musical instrument is a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and, most importantly, patience. For children embarking on this adventure, the concept of patience might seem elusive amidst their eagerness to master the instrument quickly. However, understanding the importance of patience in this process is essential for both parents and educators alike.

Patience serves as the cornerstone of a child’s musical development, fostering a positive and enriching learning experience. Rather than focusing solely on achieving immediate results, cultivating patience allows children to embrace the journey of learning an instrument, nurturing their creativity, and building a lifelong passion for music.

One of the key aspects of fostering patience in children learning a new instrument is encouraging them to “play” rather than “practice.” This subtle shift in language can have a profound impact on a child’s perception of the learning process. By framing their musical exploration as play, children are invited to approach the instrument with curiosity, imagination, and a sense of freedom. This mindset shift empowers children to explore the instrument at their own pace, experiment with different sounds, and express themselves creatively without the pressure of perfection.

Here are some practical tips for suggesting children to “play” rather than “practice” when learning a new instrument:

1. Create a Playful Environment: Set the stage for musical exploration by creating a playful and supportive environment. Encourage children to view their instrument as a tool for creative expression rather than a daunting challenge.
2. Embrace Mistakes as Learning Opportunities: Help children understand that making mistakes is an integral part of the learning process. Encourage them to embrace their mistakes, learn from them, and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
3. Encourage Creativity: Foster a spirit of creativity by encouraging children to experiment with the sounds and techniques of their instrument. Provide them with opportunities to improvise, compose their own melodies, and explore different genres of music.
4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Shift the focus from achieving perfection to celebrating progress. Recognize and celebrate each small milestone along the way, whether it’s mastering a new chord, playing a simple melody, or improvising a short tune.
5. Be Patient and Supportive: Above all, be patient and supportive throughout the learning process. Encourage children to enjoy the journey of learning an instrument and reassure them that progress takes time.

By encouraging children to “play” rather than “practice,” we empower them to take ownership of their musical journey, make it their own, and develop a lifelong love for music. Through patience, encouragement, and a playful approach, we can nurture the next generation of musicians and inspire them to unlock their full potential.

Introduction:

In the symphony of a child’s development, music education plays a pivotal role, harmonizing cognitive, emotional, and social growth. As we delve into the orchestration of academic studies, it becomes evident that the influence of music on young minds goes far beyond the notes on a page. Let’s explore the symphonic journey of why music education is not merely a supplemental class but an essential element in the composition of a child’s holistic learning experience.

The Cognitive Crescendo:

Research from renowned institutions such as Harvard and Johns Hopkins has been tuning into the cognitive benefits of music education for years. The brain, akin to a musical instrument, undergoes a transformative tune-up when exposed to the intricacies of music. Studies suggest that children engaged in music education demonstrate enhanced cognitive skills, including improved memory, attention span, and problem-solving abilities.

One notable study, conducted at the University of California, found that children involved in music education showed accelerated development in the areas of language processing and mathematical reasoning. The rhythm and patterns inherent in music seem to create a neural symphony, fine-tuning the brain for more efficient cognitive processing.

The Emotional Overture:

Beyond the realms of academia, music education orchestrates a powerful emotional overture in the lives of children. It serves as a melodic refuge, providing an outlet for self-expression and emotional regulation. Music becomes the soundtrack to a child’s emotional journey, helping them navigate the complex tapestry of feelings.

A study published in the Journal of Research in Music Education discovered that children engaged in music education exhibited higher levels of empathy and emotional intelligence. The collaborative nature of playing in an ensemble cultivates a sense of camaraderie, teaching children the art of listening and responding to the emotions conveyed through music.

The Social Symphony:

In the grand performance of life, the ability to collaborate and communicate is key. Music education, with its emphasis on ensemble playing and group dynamics, becomes the rehearsal ground for these essential social skills. You will find resonance in the transformative power of music education to tip the scales in favor of positive social development.

Research from the National Association for Music Education highlights the social benefits of music education, noting that children engaged in musical activities develop a strong sense of teamwork, discipline, and leadership. The shared pursuit of musical excellence cultivates a sense of belonging, transforming classrooms into harmonious communities.

Conclusion:

In the symphony of a child’s education, music is not merely an optional chord but a fundamental note that resonates across the cognitive, emotional, and social dimensions. Let us acknowledge that the true crescendo of a child’s potential is orchestrated by the transformative power of music education. It’s not just about creating musicians; it is about sculpting minds that resonate with the harmonies of lifelong learning and emotional intelligence. The importance of music education, when understood in this comprehensive light, becomes a powerful testament to the enduring melody that shapes the future of our young minds.

If there’s anything to know about drummers, it’s that we’re loud, both behind and away from the kit. But there’s a time and place for noise, and a thin-walled apartment is not one of them. RTOM’s Black Hole mesh practice set is perfect for musicians who want to avoid a complaint for their neighbors and still jam out in the comfort of their own home. 

These muted pads maintain the stiff feel of a drum set while producing a fraction of the sound. It’s so quiet that your neighbors wouldn’t even know you were playing unless they saw you. The tension of the mesh pad is adjustable, just like tuning a regular drum, so it can be looser or tighter depending on your preference. They’re also easy to install; you just pop them on top of your kit and start playing, no assembly required. 

Of course, the high price will deter many, especially college-aged drummers on a budget. For professionals and anyone playing long-term, though, the investment will pay off in the long run. While they dampen noise, other cheap brands lie directly on the drums heads, meaning they still create more sound than some might be comfortable with. The Black Hole hovers above the drum pads themselves, holding on from the metal rim, meaning there’s no chance for any resonance to shake the drums and make more noise than necessary. 

On top of that, the mesh maintains a greater surface tension that allows drumsticks to bounce off the same way they do a regular drumhead. Other mute pads made of foam or plastic tend to cushion them, slowing you down while you play and taking away the stick’s essential rebound that allows you to play faster. These foam pads also can tear easily with use over time, while a few tightening fixes any lost tension the mesh pads have.

However, there is the glaring issue of no cymbal pads. This set is often suggested to be paired with a set of quiet cymbals, which can ramp up the cost an uncomfortable amount. The mesh pads can also be temperamental if you’re a heavy hitter. The kick drum, in particular, is susceptible to collapsing, eating up your time having to tighten the mesh every now and then.

Despite this, their high quality and longevity make the price well worth it if you’re interested in investing in these mesh pads. Once you buy them, they’re with you for the long run. 

Every musician loves overcoming a challenge, and with drumming, a challenge is more than a sore throat or blisters from plucking strings. It takes a toll on your entire body—legs for the kick and hi hat, arms for the snare, cymbals, and toms, neck for headbanging—which means a challenge is as broad as music genres. 

Here are five songs to challenge your skills and push your limits as a drummer in a fun, exciting way. 

Brianstorm by Arctic Monkeys

Brianstorm is a powerful opener to Arctic Monkey’s album Favourite Worst Nightmare with a quick and heavy drum beat in the beginning that flies around the kit, transitioning swiftly into the first verse with a rapidfire hi hat that is dizzying to follow. This 2:50 minute song never never slows down, so it can be a great way to test out your arm and wrist strength. Although it seems like a simple enough beat, it’s the speed that truly makes it a fun challenge to tackle. 

Hot for Teacher by Van Halen

Starting strong with some double pedal action, this Van Halen song takes funky, offbeat rhythms and meshes them into a high energy classic that is sure to rile up any crowd. Hot for Teacher takes a lot of energy, physically and mentally, in order to power through. Although it might take some time to adjust to two pedals, once you’ve memorized all the stops and pattern changes, it’ll be smooth sailing for you there. 

Moby Dick by Led Zeppelin

Moby Dick is misleadingly easy at first, with a simple, jazzy tone at the beginning, but its simplicity is what makes it so challenging. It consists almost entirely of drumming, which means you get the spotlight. With sudden, fast movements that are sure to make you trip up during every listen, this Led Zeppelin song gives plenty of breathing room to be creative with your own fills—which in and of itself is a challenge—but also grants you bragging rights if you manage to memorize it. 

Goliath by The Mars Volta

This Mars Voltas song is bound to make any intermediate drummer have a heart attack out of pure intimidation. A loud, eccentric banger with lots of stops, it becomes simpler in the verse, but maintains that fast-faced energy all the way through. Not to mention Goliath is also over seven minutes long, no doubt testing any experienced drummer’s energy levels with just one playthrough, but is also a satisfying beast to tame. 

Ticks & Leeches by Tool

Another song that leans less on speed and more on disorienting beats that are hard to keep up with, Ticks & Leeches is 8 minutes of rock and metal ups and downs, giving pauses in between verses to grant you a break every now and then before diving straight into another fast, harsh chorus. If you’re a huge Tool fan with enough time to dedicate to learning every second of this, it’s a great song to push yourself to your drumming limits.