Fusion: A Study in Contemporary Music for the Drums

Kim Plainfield

The genre Fusion, as the name implies, is a blend of many styles and influences. This book and CD use four tunes as a basis to show how this fusion-blending process can occur and expose you to new musical ideas. With unique step-by-step approaches to developing 'fused' feels that are not just superficial pasting-together styles, you'll discover how to create new grooves for yourself. In addition, there are many agility exercises to help you reach a high level of musicianship.

Each of the style-evolution and exercises is fully notated in the book and performed on the CD. These lessons culminate in a tune that incorporates what you have learned. The CD contains a demonstration performance of the tune, followed by a version of the tune without the drums so you can play along, using the drum chart and lead sheet in the book.

Each style section contains historical references and background, useful information and explanations about the styles, notated musical examples, alternative versions and exercises for the drumset, important performance tips, and a recommended discography.