Watch Dennis Chambers play “Blue Matter” off John Scofield’s 1986 album of the same name (and stick around to the end where he breaks down the groove).
This performance features a laid back groove, ghost notes, double strokes on the kick, and the deepest pocket. It’s a lesson in control and discipline: you don’t need to be flashy to be a great drummer! Dennis Chambers is well known for playing exactly what the music needs.
Close your eyes and just listen to Dennis’ incredible touch and dynamics. What a great sounding drummer.
When John Scofield was first putting this track together, Dennis started playing a go-go beat at rehearsal, which was inspired by “We Need Some Money” by Chuck Brown & The Soul Searchers. Do you hear the similarities?
Dennis Chambers
is a legendary drummer who has recorded and performed with artists such as Santana, Steely Dan, Parliament/Funkadelic, John Scofield, Carl Filipiak, John McLaughlin, Niacin, Mike Stern, and many others.