Bruce W. Becker

The Ultimate Guide to Syncopation

If you are in search of the most challenging advanced concepts for coordination, technique and rhythmic complexity in modern drum set playing, Extreme Polyrhythm Coordination & Speed Techniques is the book you have been waiting for. Alex Cohen and Ramon Montagner present concepts that will challenge even the most dedicated drummer.

Split into two halves, each writer presents their concepts separately, with reference to the other’s ideas. Ramon Montagner teaches groundbreaking hand techniques that allow him to play at incredible speeds while keeping a relaxed groove. He presents explanations and exercises (in both video and text) covering push-pull technique, slide technique and dual grip (which uses two sticks in one hand). Each of the movements is presented and then applied to coordinated exercises. Along the way, Montagner uses and explains many Brazilian styles including samba, maractu, and the Mangue beat (a modern style of maracatu). Also included are 4 pages of reading rhythms to use with the different exercises.

Alex Cohen picks up where he left off in his first book, Ultimate Progressive Drumming, to document where his explorations have taken him since then. Beginning with advanced weaker-side development and polyrhythm patterns, he delves into advanced material such as “Cohen Counting,” “Eldritch Rudiments,” “Cohen Motions” using polyrhythms, the “Clockwork Rhythmic Scale” and other concepts that will expand your mind and challenge every aspect of your drumming like never before. There are also different orchestration ideas, as well as thoughts for making the material musical and useful in musical situations. Particular attention is paid to advanced independence with polyrhythms, including different ostinatos. A full package of videos helps to explain and demonstrate the material.