660 – Gavin Harrison: Rhythm, King Crimson and the Ongoing Quest to Improve

Gavin Harrison is one of the most recognizable names in drumming. Whether you know his work with Porcupine Tree, King Crimson, or his many studio recordings, there’s little doubt that Gavin is one of the greatest drummers in the world. His playing speaks for itself, but he’s also been voted “Best Prog Drummer” by the readers of Modern Drummer Magazine and has appeared on David Letterman’s “drum solo week.

Gavin Harrison talks about:

• Getting stated playing drums
• Early influences, including his father
• Starting off as a dancer
• Why he plays open-handed
• The traditional / matched grip debate
• How he learns music
• Thoughts on reading music
• Porcupine Tree
• Getting the King Crimson Gig
• What it’s like playing with 2 other drummers
• The Dave Letterman Drum Solo week appearance
• Beat displacement
• Practice routines
• Much, much more

Resources / Links / People Mentioned:

• Contact Gavin Harrison: Website | Facebook
• King Crimson
• Porcupine Tree
• Rhythmic Illusions (book)
• Rhythmic Perspective (book)
• Pat Mastelotto
• Rob Wallis – Interview