There is always a soundtrack to everyday life playing in my mind. And, unless I consciously make myself sit quite still, there is always a part of me keeping time with that music. Toes tapping, head and shoulders softly bopping, body sometimes gently swaying. Many times, the songs I write begin as specific beats that my fingers started thrumming on the car’s steering wheel, or a restaurant’s tabletop.
Time and tempo are such an important foundation in music and
the best drummers and bass players take us straight to that foundation, and
plant us down firmly. Once grounded in
that way, all the other musical elements and instruments can take us with them
wherever they travel. They can move in any direction they want and, no matter
where they go, we’ll always be brought back by a solid rhythm. The bass is
waiting to take center stage in another post. Today, it’s the drums that are up
front.
This brings me to the amazing Billy Kilson, a drummer whose
musicianship gives everyone the freedom to soar without fear of ever falling. Pianist Billy Childs, for one, knows he can
play with all the complexity and exploration he is known for, running like the
wind if he pleases, and Mr. Kilson will always keep the landing lights steady
for his and any other musician’s return.
But, Billy Kilson is also known for his own solo flights. He
produces beautiful percussive melodies when he solos. He incorporates a variety
of musical movements and places them within the most exciting rhythm plays. His
technique, musicality and performance style are a joy to hear and see, and I
hope you agree.
Watch and listen and let us know how didja feel this live
performance of Billy Kilson on the song, “Why Not.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lN3sunqCOic
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