Modern Drummer (10 out of 10)

Rhythmic Perspectives is for the drummer who's got the time required to make big progress. Challenging? Yes. (Never have I been so glad that a book had an accompanying CD.) Worthwhile? Very.

These may not be the licks your bandmates will want you pulling out on the next gig without prior consultation. But nothing will make you feel more like Vinne Colaiuta than locking into some of these polyrhythm exercises.

Harrison looks at drumming in terms of "dimensions" and his goal is to get you to play four different polyrhythmic groupings at the same time. As he states in his introduction, it's not a chops-oriented approach as much as one that can open up creative options for drummers in musical ways. His method starts with ostinato patterns on the kick, adding each limb playing different polyrhythms over the top. Helping with this advanced technique are "tool boxes" at the beginning of some chapters, patterns to prime you for what's to come. Gavin's crash course of polyrhythmic theory is a long lesson in itself, as he subdivides measures of 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, and 7/4 by threes, fours, fives, and sevens. This is deep stuff, but it can be taken in slowly, enjoyed, and integrated as it makes musical sense to you.

Drums Etc Canada

This is an intensive study of the theory and perception of rhythm, laid out in conventional drum instructional book format. Harrison, who has published in Rhythm and Modern Drummer, is a good writer who has come up with refreshing practice routines that include singing and leading with the left hand. Even his more "outside" polyrhythm ideas seem to make musical sense - at least the way he demonstrates them on the CD (included) often accompanied by keyboards. Indeed, I think the thing that stands out is the musicality of Harrison's approach.

Forever Drumming

This very highly anticipated book/CD package is a necessary sequel to 'Rhythmic Illusions' released in 1996. While the cranium stretching 'Rhythmic Illusions' addressed beat displacement, subdivisions, rhythmic scales, and rhythmic modulations, this installment, aptly sub-titled 'A Multidimensional Study of Rhythmic Composition', is "a book on the very cutting edge of drum concepts and offers exercises to further develop the study of rhythmic illusions and multidimensional rhythm. These concepts are the "mind rudiments" for a unique way of thinking about rhythmic structure, rhythmic composition, and higher rhythmic awareness." HIGHLY recommended - especially to those familiar with the 'Rhythmic Illusions' predecessor.

Drummers Dominion

Some of the most difficult concepts to attempt, much less master to the degree Gavin has. These books will completely alter your perception of creative timekeeping.