How To Play Avenging The Fallen On The Drums – Andy Gillion
If you’re a drummer looking to tackle an exhilarating and challenging piece, look no further than “Avenging The Fallen” by Andy Gillion. This melodeath masterpiece featuring the incredible Dave Haley on drums has taken the music world by storm. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the intricate drum parts and provide you with the tools you need to conquer this epic track. So, grab your sticks, set up your kit, and let’s dive into the world of “Avenging The Fallen”!
Introduction: How To Play Avenging The Fallen On The Drums
What is Avenging The Fallen?
“Avenging The Fallen” is a blistering melodic death metal track by guitarist and composer Andy Gillion. Released as part of his project Exilium, this song has garnered significant attention in the metal community. The track showcases intricate guitar work, intense rhythms, and powerful drumming that pushes the boundaries of technical proficiency. Many fans have eagerly sought out tabs and video tutorials to learn this challenging piece, with YouTube being a popular platform for sharing and discovering content related to the song.
The song’s complexity and emotional depth have made it a favorite among musicians and listeners alike. Its blend of aggressive riffs, melodic passages, and dynamic shifts creates a captivating musical journey that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. The interplay between the instruments, particularly the synergy between the guitar and drums, demonstrates the high level of musicianship present in “Avenging The Fallen”. This track has become a benchmark for aspiring metal drummers looking to test their skills and push their limits.
Who is Andy Gillion?
Andy Gillion is a renowned guitarist, composer, and producer in the melodic death metal scene. Known for his work with the band Mors Principium Est, Gillion has established himself as a formidable force in the genre. His solo project, Exilium, showcases his exceptional songwriting and instrumental skills. Gillion’s music often features intricate guitar work, soaring melodies, and complex arrangements that challenge and inspire fellow musicians.
Many fans support Gillion through platforms like Patreon, allowing him to continue creating innovative music. His YouTube channel has become a hub for guitar enthusiasts, featuring playthroughs, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes content. Gillion’s dedication to his craft and engagement with his audience have earned him a loyal following in the metal community. His collaborations with other talented musicians, such as Dave Haley on drums for “Avenging The Fallen”, further demonstrate his commitment to pushing the boundaries of melodic death metal.
Why is this song significant for drummers?
“Avenging The Fallen” presents a significant challenge for drummers due to its technical complexity and dynamic range. The song’s intricate rhythms, blast beats, and rapid-fire double bass work make it a true test of a drummer’s skill and endurance. Many drummers have taken to social media and online forums to comment on the difficulty and impressiveness of the drum parts in this track. The song’s popularity has led to numerous drum cover videos on YouTube, with aspiring drummers showcasing their interpretations of Dave Haley’s performance.
For many drummers, mastering “Avenging The Fallen” is seen as a milestone in their musical journey. The song’s demanding nature pushes players to improve their speed, precision, and stamina. It also requires a deep understanding of complex time signatures and the ability to seamlessly transition between different rhythmic patterns. As a result, many drummers use this song as a benchmark for their progress and a goal to work towards in their practice routines. The challenge presented by “Avenging The Fallen” has made it a favorite among drum teachers and students alike, often featured in lessons and drum clinics.
Understanding the Song Structure
What are the main sections of the song?
“Avenging The Fallen” follows a sophisticated structure that incorporates various elements of melodic death metal composition. The song begins with an intense intro that immediately grabs the listener’s attention, featuring a combination of guitar riffs and explosive drum work. This leads into the first verse, where the drums maintain a driving rhythm while supporting the guitar melodies. The chorus section typically showcases a more open feel, allowing the melodic elements to shine through while the drums provide a powerful foundation.
As the song progresses, it includes several bridge sections that offer contrast and build tension. These parts often feature intricate interplay between the guitar and drums, with complex rhythmic patterns and time signature changes. The solo section is a highlight of the track, demanding extreme precision and energy from the drummer to complement the virtuosic guitar work. Throughout the song, there are also breakdown sections that emphasize heavy, syncopated rhythms. Understanding these different sections is crucial for drummers looking to navigate the song’s structure and deliver a cohesive performance.
How does the tempo affect your playing?
The tempo of “Avenging The Fallen” plays a crucial role in the overall feel and difficulty of the drum parts. The song maintains a relentless pace throughout, with minimal let-up in intensity. This high-tempo approach requires drummers to have exceptional stamina and control to maintain consistency over the course of the entire track. The fast tempo also amplifies the technical challenges, as even small timing discrepancies become more noticeable at higher speeds.
Adapting to the song’s tempo requires careful practice and gradual speed building. Many drummers find it helpful to start by practicing sections at a slower tempo and gradually increasing the speed as they become more comfortable with the patterns. The use of a metronome is essential in this process, helping to develop rock-solid timing and the ability to lock in with the guitar parts. The song’s tempo also affects the approach to dynamics, as playing with nuance and control becomes more challenging at higher speeds. Mastering the ability to play cleanly and expressively at this tempo is a key aspect of conquering “Avenging The Fallen” on the drums.
What are the key time signatures used in the song?
“Avenging The Fallen” incorporates a variety of time signatures that contribute to its complex rhythmic structure. The majority of the song is in 4/4 time, which serves as the foundation for many of the verses and choruses. However, Andy Gillion’s composition frequently introduces changes and variations that keep both the listener and the performer on their toes. Sections of the song may shift into odd time signatures such as 7/8 or 5/4, adding an extra layer of complexity to the drumming.
These time signature changes often occur during bridge sections or transitions between major parts of the song. For drummers, mastering these shifts is crucial to maintaining the flow and groove of the track. It requires a strong sense of internal timing and the ability to feel these different rhythmic subdivisions naturally. Practice with a metronome set to emphasize these time signatures can be incredibly beneficial. Additionally, counting out loud while playing can help internalize these rhythmic changes. Understanding and executing these various time signatures fluently is what sets apart a truly proficient performance of “Avenging The Fallen” on the drums.
Essential Drumming Techniques for the Song
What techniques should you master before starting?
Before attempting to play “Avenging The Fallen,” there are several crucial drumming techniques that you should have in your arsenal. First and foremost, solid double bass drum technique is essential, as the song features extensive use of fast and intricate double bass patterns. Blast beats are another fundamental technique heavily utilized throughout the track, requiring both speed and endurance. Hand techniques such as the Moeller method can greatly enhance your ability to play fast and efficiently, especially during the more intense sections of the song.
Mastery of various rudiments, particularly single and double stroke rolls, paradiddles, and their variations, will significantly improve your ability to navigate the complex fills and patterns in “Avenging The Fallen.” Additionally, developing your ghost note technique will add depth and texture to your playing, allowing you to replicate the nuanced dynamics present in Dave Haley’s performance. Lastly, working on your limb independence is crucial, as many parts of the song require simultaneous execution of different rhythms between your hands and feet. Regular practice of these techniques will lay a solid foundation for tackling this challenging piece.
How can you improve your speed and precision?
Improving speed and precision for “Avenging The Fallen” requires a dedicated and structured practice approach. Start by breaking down the most challenging sections of the song and practicing them at a slower tempo. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable, always prioritizing accuracy over speed. Utilize a metronome consistently in your practice sessions to develop a rock-solid internal clock. This will help you maintain timing precision even during the fastest and most complex parts of the song.
Incorporate exercises specifically designed to build speed and endurance, such as single stroke rolls, double stroke rolls, and paradiddle variations at increasing tempos. For double bass work, practice with ankle technique and heel-toe method to develop speed and control. Video tutorials and drum tabs can be valuable resources for breaking down the exact patterns used in the song. Remember to practice regularly and consistently, as building speed and precision takes time and patience. Recording yourself and analyzing your playing can also help identify areas for improvement. By focusing on these elements, you’ll steadily enhance your ability to play “Avenging The Fallen” with the speed and precision it demands.
What role does dynamics play in your performance?
Dynamics play a crucial role in bringing “Avenging The Fallen” to life on the drums. While the song is known for its intensity, there are subtle variations in volume and emphasis that add depth and emotion to the performance. Understanding and executing these dynamic shifts is key to capturing the essence of Dave Haley’s original drumming. Pay close attention to the interplay between loud and soft passages, as well as the use of accents to highlight specific beats or phrases within the song.
Developing control over your dynamics allows you to create contrast between different sections of the song, such as building intensity from a verse into a powerful chorus. Practice playing ghost notes on the snare drum to add texture and groove to your performance. Additionally, work on controlling the volume of your cymbal work, especially during blast beat sections, to ensure a balanced sound. By mastering dynamics, you’ll be able to bring nuance and expression to your drumming, elevating your performance of “Avenging The Fallen” beyond mere technical execution to a truly musical interpretation of this challenging piece.
Breaking Down the Drum Parts
How do you approach the intro section?
The intro section of “Avenging The Fallen” sets the tone for the entire song, demanding immediate intensity and precision from the drummer. Begin by focusing on the explosive double bass patterns that drive the intro forward. Practice these patterns slowly at first, ensuring each note is clear and articulate. Pay close attention to the interplay between the kick drums and the snare, as this creates the foundation of the intro’s rhythm. The cymbal work in this section is crucial for adding energy and brightness to the sound, so practice controlling your hi-hat and crash cymbal techniques to achieve the right balance.
As you become more comfortable with the basic pattern, start incorporating the fills and transitions that punctuate the intro. These often involve quick bursts of tom work or intricate snare patterns. Break these down into smaller segments and practice them separately before integrating them into the full intro. Remember to maintain consistent time throughout, as the intro sets the pace for the rest of the song. Use a metronome to ensure your timing is spot-on, gradually increasing the tempo as you master each element. By approaching the intro with focus and patience, you’ll build the foundation for a powerful performance of “Avenging The Fallen.”
What are the key patterns in the verse and chorus?
The verse sections of “Avenging The Fallen” typically feature intricate blast beat patterns combined with syncopated double bass work. Focus on developing your blast beat technique, ensuring you can maintain speed and consistency throughout the verses. The snare work often alternates between driving beats and more complex fill patterns, so practice transitioning smoothly between these elements. Pay attention to how the drum patterns complement the guitar riffs, as this interaction is crucial to capturing the essence of the song.
In the chorus sections, the drumming often opens up to create a more expansive feel. This usually involves a shift to a more straightforward beat with powerful, accented cymbal work. However, don’t be fooled by the apparent simplicity – maintaining the intensity and precision during these sections is key. Practice the transitions between verses and choruses, as these often involve quick changes in rhythm and intensity. Work on your dynamic control to ensure you can deliver the power needed for the chorus while still maintaining clarity in your playing. By mastering these key patterns, you’ll be able to navigate the core structure of “Avenging The Fallen” with confidence and skill.
How do you tackle the bridge and solo sections?
The bridge and solo sections of “Avenging The Fallen” often present the most challenging drum parts in the entire song. These sections frequently feature complex time signature changes, intricate fill patterns, and dynamic shifts that require careful attention and practice. Start by breaking down these sections into smaller, manageable chunks. Focus on understanding the underlying rhythm and how it relates to the guitar parts. Practice each segment slowly, gradually building up speed as you become more comfortable with the patterns.
During the solo sections, your role as a drummer is to provide a solid foundation while also complementing the virtuosic guitar work. This often involves maintaining intense double bass patterns while executing precise cymbal accents and fills. Work on your stamina and control to ensure you can maintain the energy throughout these demanding sections. Pay special attention to any unusual rhythmic figures or polyrhythms that may appear in these parts. By methodically working through these challenging sections, you’ll develop the skills and confidence needed to perform “Avenging The Fallen” in its entirety, showcasing your technical prowess and musicality.
Practice Tips and Tricks
What is the best way to practice complex rhythms?
When tackling the complex rhythms in “Avenging The Fallen,” a systematic approach is key. Start by isolating the most challenging rhythmic patterns and breaking them down into smaller, manageable parts. Practice these segments slowly, focusing on accuracy rather than speed. Use a metronome to ensure your timing is precise, and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. It can be helpful to count out loud or use verbal cues to internalize the rhythms. For particularly tricky sections, try writing out the rhythms using standard notation or a system of your own devising to visualize the patterns.
Incorporate limb independence exercises into your practice routine to improve your ability to execute different rhythms simultaneously. This is especially important for sections of the song that require complex coordination between your hands and feet. Experiment with different sticking patterns and orchestrations around the drum kit to find the most efficient way to play each rhythm. Don’t be afraid to slow down difficult passages to a crawl – this deliberate practice will pay off in the long run. Remember, consistency is key when learning complex rhythms, so aim for regular, focused practice sessions rather than sporadic, lengthy ones. With patience and persistence, you’ll find yourself mastering even the most intricate rhythms in “Avenging The Fallen.”
How can you use a metronome effectively?
Using a metronome effectively is crucial when practicing “Avenging The Fallen.” Start by setting the metronome to a slower tempo than the original song, allowing yourself to play the parts accurately without rushing. As you practice, focus on aligning every note precisely with the metronome’s click. This attention to detail will help you develop rock-solid timing. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable, but always return to slower speeds if you find your accuracy slipping. Remember, it’s better to play slowly and correctly than to rush and make mistakes.
Experiment with different metronome settings to challenge yourself. Try setting the click to only mark certain beats in the bar, forcing you to internalize the timing. For complex time signatures, use a metronome that can accent specific beats to help you feel the pulse of unusual rhythms. When practicing blast beats or fast double bass sections, set the metronome to half or quarter time to avoid sonic clutter while still maintaining a steady pulse. Don’t forget to practice transitions between different sections of the song with the metronome, as these can often be tricky to execute smoothly.
What exercises can help you build endurance for this song?
Building endurance for “Avenging The Fallen” requires targeted exercises that focus on stamina and control. Start with single stroke rolls on the practice pad or snare drum, gradually increasing your speed and duration. This will help develop the arm strength and technique needed for extended blast beat sections. For double bass work, practice alternating single strokes on the bass drums, starting slowly and increasing speed over time. Incorporate exercises that work on your heel-toe technique to improve efficiency and reduce fatigue during fast passages.
Implement interval training into your practice routine by alternating between periods of high-intensity playing and short rests. This mimics the structure of the song and helps build both physical and mental endurance. Work on full-kit exercises that combine elements from different parts of the song, focusing on maintaining consistency and power throughout. Remember to pay attention to your posture and technique to prevent injury and maximize efficiency. Gradually increase the duration of your practice sessions to build up your overall stamina. By consistently working on these endurance-building exercises, you’ll develop the stamina needed to power through “Avenging The Fallen” from start to finish with energy and precision.
