If you don’t do it already, playing along to music can prove to be one of the most productive forms of practice as part of a balanced regime – a useful way of learning to execute whatever ideas you’ve been drilling through but with important musical context.

Equally as useful is filming yourself to help assess what’s working and what needs work. So, here’s my attempt at this medium-fast swing chart, arranged by Laurence Cottle, recorded by Darren Williams and available among others from Ultimate Big Band, filmed at Tom Mitchener’s studio.

Big Band music has always been close to my heart right from the early days of learning the instrument. Working and playing mostly in the rock world for so many years has meant I’ve not been so active in some of these other areas of my playing, until 2020 came along and gifted me more practice time than I knew what to do with. Thanks to folk like Darren Williams (@darrenwilliamsmusic) and Laurence Cottle, there are some incredible resources available out there to help you develop these important contextual skills in your playing.

Follow the link here for more information on how to get hold of these ‘Ultimate Big Band’ charts, complete with useful tips on how to assimilate the style. If nothing else, they’re a lot of fun, but they truly are a whole lot more.

Enjoy.

Still coming to terms

Still coming to terms. RIP Taylor. This conversation was 90% about how much he loved Roger Taylor and 10% about how fit you have to be to slay 3hr sets night after night. 0% of it was ego, and 100% oozing with knowledge, laughs and smiles.

Our world is a minefield to traverse, but there can’t be a better way to reach the end of the Game Of Life than by leaving your mark, showing the people around you how kindness, passion and music can light up the world. In this quest, Taylor slayed the Final Boss hands down. Humbled to have had the chance to tour with him.

Much love still pouring for Taylor’s closest, alongside the whole @foofighters family. This weekend I shall drum my heart out in your memory. 🙌🏻

#taylorhawkins #thehawk #foofighters

📸 by the sublime @nicksuchak Xxx