S
Want to send Todd a letter? You can write him here Send Todd a Question
and his response will be posted along with your question. Please do not request
backstage passes, ask to meet the band, request autographed items, ask for rides
to the airport, free stuff, stock tips, drumheads, secret recipes, bail bonds, etc. as
Todd is unable to fulfill them. Any request asking for special favors, autographs,
meet and greets with Styx will not be met with any response. Please keep your
questions to a musical/drumming nature. Thank you!
June 2009
Hey Todd,
Just got your DVD and I'm enjoying it very much. I have a question. What is the rectangle shaped object inside all
of your shells? Looking forward to seeing you guys in June at The Wharf in Orange Beach.
Thanks,
Gary
Mobile, AL.
-------------------------------------
Hi Gary,
Thanks for getting the dvd. The objects in question are simply the paper badges in the shells, like a certificate saying
"Custom Hand Made Masterworks." They do not add or subtract anything that has to do with the sound of the drums.
Simple as that!
Cheers,
Todd
Hi Todd
I've been playing drums for 37 years now and bought your dvd set in the fall of 2008, loved it for all the cool licks
that you demonstrated. I just finished watching you on the MD festival from 2008 and you are truly my new favorite
drummer not just because of your expertise on the kit but for your genuine honest personality and a true love for
wanting to pass on to all the younger and us older players what you have learned in your journey with playing the drums.
Thank you so much Todd. If your ever up here in Canada please make sure you do a clinic in Winnipeg,Manitoba.I know
you just did some in the east and west but for some reason you missed us here right smack dab in the middle of
north America. Thanks again for all the newfound inspiration that i have for the drums. Terry Urbanski,Winnipeg,Manitoba ,
Canada
------------------------------------------
Hi Terry,
Thanks for your kind words and I'm flattered you are digging the dvds. Thank you for sharing your feedback with me!
I'd loveto do a clinic in Winnipeg, but I don't choose where I do them. Your local drum shop has to invite me through
my drum andcymbal companies. That's how it works!
OK. Hope to see you up there sometime soon, and thanks again.
Take care,
Todd
Hi Todd!
Jon Rotman here...you were kind enough to answer my letter back in September '08, which was very cool of you, and inspiring as
well. This time it's a techy question! I have been a Remo guy forever. My constant is the Ambassador Batter on the snare
(top side- coated), and I have always been happy with that choice.
I have been going back and forth over the last 5 years between Coated Pinstripes on top and Clear Ambassadors on bottoms
(toms), or, Clear Ambassadors on top with the Clear Ambassadors on bottoms. FYI - my drums are Gretsch USA Custom Maple.
What happens to me is, I end up feeling really happy with either choice/combo initially, thinking "yes - now I've got just the right
sound", and then, over time, start wondering if what I had prior to the latest set up was better. This scenario ends up fostering my
decision to change back.I know - I am a little psycho, right?!
After 33 years of drumming, I totally understand that no one has the perfect answer, 'cause we are all different players, using different
types of drums. But, since I love your tom(s) sounds on your DVD/Cd's, and the facility with which you play around them, I just wanted
to see if you have any general ideas about coated vs. clear, different plys, top vs. bottom head choices, etc.?
By the way, I have always prescribed to your QUICK TIP method of tuning, so we are on the same page regarding head set-up/tension.
Thanks for your time Todd - any thoughts would be fantastic. Hope things are rockin' on your end!!
Take Care
Jon Rotman
------------------------
Hi Jon,
Heads are such a personal choice. There are a lot of "flavors" out there so your not nuts for entertaining the notion of checking
her things out that are available. I've used the same heads choices since I was in high school. Clear Ambs on the toms, top and
bottom, is just what I want to hear and feel out of the drums. A coated Amb on the snare is a must. Nothing else sounds or
feels the same to me, period the end. I do like the 2 ply clear Powerstroke 3 on the bass drum. I'm not sure how much more
into detail I can get---hopefully my choices speak for themselves!
I wish you luck in finding your voice on the kit. Have fun exploring the different sounds. Thanks again for writing and take care!
Todd
Hey Todd,
We just met at your clinic in Edmonton April 29th, and I must say I was completely inspired by your chops and tips that you revealed to us.
I'm now going to really delve into the jazz world to try to and pick up some new ideas as per your recommendation.
This is not really drum related, but, what hobbies do you have other than drumming, and what do you do on the road in a typical,
travelling/playing day??
See you in Edmonton on Sept 9th at the River Cree...can't wait!!!
Kris
----------------
Hi Kris,
Thanks for making it out to the clinic in Edmonton, and thanks for letting me know that you enjoyed it.
Hmmmm, so I feel a bit boring trying to answer your question about hobbies, being that I really don't have any. Music consumes
me. I strive to be a better musician, and not just working on the "technical aspects of drumming." But things I enjoy.....reading,
movies, good wine, good cognac, good food, good watches, cars, and really spending time at home with my wife. Now that my
studio is now a working recording studio, I really should learn how to work all of that stuff!
OK, Kris. See you in September.
Cheers!
Todd
Hey Todd,
I first saw you when I was nine and I was dragged to a Styx concert by my mom who has probably been to more Styx concerts than some
members of the band. At the time, I really only liked Mr. Roboto. Something about seeing a live show makes you appreciate the music even
more. I've been seeing shows ever since and have even graced one of your facebook pictures. Haha.
Anyway, I'm drumming in a band in Columbus, OH now and after buying your DVD have been borderline obsessed with drumming even more
so than usual. Been trying to convince the band to do a Styx cover as well. So after the praise comes the questions. We play an 8 minute
cover of House of the Rising Sun as our closer and I have a two verse long drum solo. At that length I'm having trouble not getting repetitive.
I try to keep a driving 6/8 beat going on with heavy snare and effect cymbals, I was wondering if you have any tips for long in song solos.
My other question was if you knew about coming to Columbus pro percussion again any time this year? I missed you last time and would
love to supplement the knowledge I gained from your DVD.
Thanks for listening,
Kyle
-----------------------------------
Hi Kyle,
A solo is like telling a story. It should have a beginning, middle and an end. Build your ideas slowly--especially in a slow 6/8. You
can't have both barrels blazing at a slow tempo when you have 2 verses of time to fill. Listen how Max Roach tells stories when he
solos, like on "The Drum Also Waltzes." That's 3/4 time. Hopefully you can hear what I'm talking about when you hear him play,
and that it gives you some ideas for your own playing.
As far as coming back to Columbus, I'm afraid it's normally a few years before a player comes back to a shop he just played. Sorry
you missed it. I'm sure I'll be back at some point but it might be awhile.
OK, Kyle. I hope I've given you some things to think about and I wish you luck!
Todd
Todd,
About three years ago, I sent you a question about making an instructional DVD. At that time, no company had approached you. Three years
later, I bought your DVD. I had an idea you were influenced somewhere along the line by Steve Smith by your similar technique. All I can say
is ditto on Journey Captured. It changed my playing too.
Your DVD is outstanding. The various teachings, solos, songs and quick tips will be very helpful. Congratulations on the making of this DVD
and hope there is more to come.
Best Regards,
Jeff Gregg
---------------------------
Hey Jeff,
Thanks for the kind words and for picking up the dvd. I really appreciate it! I hope there's more to come down the line too. Thanks
for the support!
Happy drumming to you-
Todd
Hi Todd,
Just a line from sunny England (well it is at the moment) got your dvd last week and really enjoyed watching it- the teaching section
on the pad was worth the money alone - my double stroke playing has improved already! I've been playing over forty years and its nice to prove
that you can teach an old(ish) dog new tricks! Just one question; will you be coming to the UK any time soon?
regards
Chris Love Cambridgeshire England
-----------------
Hi Chris,
That's great feedback---I'm really glad to hear the dvd is helping your playing. Well, that's the whole point I suppose! Thanks again and I wish
you continued good things behind the kit.
Sorry to say there's no talk of any UK dates. I think we should hit Europe every year, but I'm hoping we make it over there next year. Let's
hope for that!
See you then-
Cheers,
Todd
Hi Todd-
Picked up your Methods and Mechanics DVD last weekend and have watched it every day since (watching it now in fact-double bass
section). Really amazing stuff and a great balance between instruction and performance. Plus, you seem like a pretty cool guy.
I'm particularly interested in your comments on swing and jazz. I just picked up the sticks again after about a 15 year break and I really
want to improve my jazz/swing playing (which should be pretty easy cause it's horrible right now- and actually was horrible back then). You
mention getting some great jazz cymbals to help get the right feel but I don't know what kind of cymbals I should look for (not brand but style).
Can you give me some ideas or recommendations?
Thanks for any reply and thanks again for the monster DVD. Truly inspiring.
Rem Nivens
Salem OR
-------------------------
Hi Rem,
Welcome back to the kit----and thank you so much for the kind words and for picking up the dvd. To get right to your question, jazz or "be-bop"
cymbals have a history and tradition of generally being dark and trashy. The old Turkish Ks are the quintessential 50's and 60's cymbals,
especially for rides. Every cymbal company makes "traditional jazz cymbals" which are usually hand hammered. For the small kit on the DVD
I used Sabian cymbals: 22" Legacy Heavy Ride, 20" HH Raw Dry Ride, 20" Encore Flat Ride, 14" Legacy Hi Hats. The Legacy line and some
cymbals from the HH line would fit the bill for swing time. I really love that 22" Legacy Heavy. I suggest checking those out and seeing if they
float your boat. If not, use your ears and find sounds that excite you.
Hope I've helped......
Thanks again, Rem!
Todd
Hello Todd!
I just viewed your DVD and I love it - congratulation. Looking forward your next stuff.
Greetings from Vienna, Austria
Manfred
-------------
Hi Manfred,
Thanks a lot! I appreciate your feedback.
Cheers from Texas,
Todd
Hi Todd,
I'm basically a classically trained percussionist and am getting back to my roots of rudimental drumming and drumset playing. Your DVD has
done a great deal to inspire me as well as give me concrete things I can apply to my practice sessions. I also love how you play to real tunes
in you DVD so we can see how you break down song sections and segment everything style-wise. REALLY helpful.
A couple of questions if I may?
I noticed your cymbal setup is pretty different to most players. How did you decide on placing the ride more 'centered' in front of you instead
of further on the right? Does it change how much energy you use and would you still do that if you were playing a scaled down 5-piece? Did
that proto-type ride you play on the dvd ever materialize? It sounds killer.
Thanks again for all of your help and information.
Best,
David
-----------------
Hi David,
Thanks for letting me know your thoughts on the dvd. Thanks for getting it and glad you are enjoying it!
OK. The ride isn't really as "centered" as it looks. Keith Carlock is a drummer who seems to place his ride really in the center of his kit.
You know, since filming the dvd I've raised and angled my ride a bit---like I had it in the 90s. (You can see this angle in the Modern Drummer
Festival '08 DVD.) I just try to set up my cymbals in a methodical way that makes musical sense (to me) and secondly what is physically
comfortable fro me to play. I've never really thought of my cymbal set up as anything that was unique, but it just makes sense to me when
I'm playing. Not sure how to describe it any more than that. As far as the Proto ride goes, there was nothing to materialize as I didn't play any
role in the design. I played that cymbal at Sabian's LA office where it was simply sitting on a cymbal tree with other various cymbals. I just
asked if I could "take that one home" and that was basically that!
OK, I wish you the best with your playing and thanks again for the note.
Take care,
Todd
Todd,
I picked up the July 2009 edition of Modern Drummer yesterday and saw the full page Congrats to you from your Styx Bandmates and extended
Styx family. What is so special about it is aside from the great shots of you, is there was no real advertisement of products. It was just a full
page photo spread dedicated to you.
After meeting and talking with some of your DVD crew and you for a while during last year's Modern Drummer Festival Weekend, I can see
how your friends would do that for you as you are a CLASS ACT! It also says a lot about them that they would make that effort.
Finally, your DVD is still excellent and fun. Thanks for the continued inspiration!!
All the Best,
Strick
--------------------
Hi Strick,
Thank you, man. I was really knocked out at the whole thing. I was bowled over that my Styx family took out that space----and I'm pretty
sure no band has done that for their drummer before. It's really special.
Thanks again for your note, kind words, and support.
My best to you!
Todd
Hey Todd,
I wanted to say congratulations for top honors (Rock and Educational DVD) in the new Modern Drummer Readers Poll. It is great to see someone
so deserving get the accolades they deserve! You are truly a master and I look forward to any project that bears your name.
Cheers,
Tim Davis
----------------------
Hey Time,
Thank you! I really appreciate your note. It's been a fantastic year and it just inspires me to work harder.
Thanks again,
Todd
Hello Todd,
I was sorry to have missed your performance at Axe music in Edmonton last week as I couldn't make it. I did however buy the drums you used
and I will enjoy them for a long time to come. Everyone I talked to who was there said you were amazing on the drums, but it was the all the
other stuff that I heard that proves to me that not only are you great drummer but that you are a great person. Keep up the great work and you
have inspired me to want to be a better player, thanks.
Jeff Weeks
Bonnyville, Alberta, Canada
--------------------------
Hi Jeff,
Sorry you missed the clinic but it seems like you have some fun new toys to inspire you! Thanks for getting the kit, 'cause it makes me look
good to all the store and equipment folks!
Thanks again for your note and I wish you all the best with your playing---and please give my regards to the fine staff at Axe.
Todd
Dear Todd,
Saw the show in Billings and just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your playing. My wife, son, daughter and I went to the show. Jill and I
got seats from Larry Junstrom but the kids were up in the nosebleed seats. We had the opportunity to see the concert on VH1 where you
guys were back by the kids and it was awesome. I told Forrest at the time that he needed to pay attention to what you were doing. Of course
kids and 30 year old music, you know, he didn't really tap in too well, 18 and college coming up makes for a short attention span.
But at the concert he was amazed as was I. Your playing is just phenomenal. It was truly amazing to me. I used to love John's playing on
the albums back in the day but what really surprised me was how much you were able to pack into the music within the natural from of its
original intent and still fit perfectly. To add the power and accent that you did and still remain true to the original tracks feel and flow was really
surprising to me. It is not only due to your facility but to your feel as well. I am sure that I am not explaining it well but you are an absolutely
perfect drummer for this music. What you bring to Styx music is a really exciting style that made all those old songs brand new for me. It
makes me want to restudy Styx music with you behind it. I could sit and listen to your playing all day.
I have seen Rush 5 times and Tool 3 times and those two guys are my favorite. I saw Neil the first time in 1980 with 38 Special. I was 18
then and I started to play a little more intently after that. Daney Carey has been one of the only drummers recently that has surprised me,
that is until now. I will search out your stuff and get your DVD. Thanks for your work. GREAT, GREAT show!!. I have to say, you steal the
show. At least with drummers like me.
All the best to you
Craig Lugar
----------------------
Hi Craig,
Glad you made it out to the gig in Billings. Thanks for the compliments--- I'm happy that you enjoyed the show and flattered that you enjoyed
my playing so much. Thanks! Yeah, I think the DVD is a good place to start if you want to check out more of my playing. I appreciate you
picking it up (in advance).
Thanks again for your feedback, Craig. See you next time we swing through town,
Todd
Hi Todd,
What a fantastic dvd, there is so much information to use not only for myself but as a teacher as well. Your playing is so clean and precise
and it has inspired me to practice even more. I have been playing drums from the age of 6/7 I to was lucky enough to be born into a musical
family, my Mom was a singer and both my Grandfathers were musicians.
Once again thanks for the inspiration and good luck for the future for you and Taylor.
Regards,
Mike Wright (Drumsense Teacher)
-----------------------------------------
Hi Mike,
Thanks for the positive feedback. I really appreciate it! It's gratifying to know that drummers are really enjoying the dvd and notes like yours
really make me feel like my efforts are worthwhile. Thanks.
My best to you, Mike!
Todd
Congratulations on your recent Modern Drummer readers poll wins (Rock drummer/Instructional video). It is awesome to see your rise and
well deserved accolades in the drumming community in recent years. I know you have been working for years to get to this point. It is nice
to see good people get the recognition and acclaim you have earned.
It is always good being mentioned in the same breath with Neil Peart, Steve Smith and Vinnie Colaiuta in the drumming community. I wanted
to take the time to wish you well and give you a huge shoutout....You rock Todd. I recently purchased your DVD and have a greater appreciation
for you talents and the knowledge you share with the rest of the drumming community.
Are you planning on doing a follow-up DVD in the future??
Regards and much respect
Chuck Herbert
------------------------------
Hi Chuck,
Thank you very much for the nice note. It's been a great year and the whole MD thing is really wonderful---I'm very flattered and it just makes
me want to work harder. As far as another DVD goes, I have some ideas for one but it might take some time to put together. I'm hoping to do
another but it will be a bit different from "Methods and Mechanics."
Thanks again, Chuck.
Cheers!
Todd
Hey Todd
I wanted to drop you a note after watching your new DVD. I can sum it all up with one word…. “amazing”. I love how you made it personal. In
that I mean it seemed like you were only talking to me. I like all the tech stuff and the solos, but I also appreciate more the quick tips, the
songs you play along to, and the trip into your drum room and on the road clips. You are indeed an amazing drummer and you sit on the top
of my list of drummers of influence, along side Buddy Rich, John Bonham, and Steve Smith. I really love “Thanks Mr. Smith”. I share your
thoughts on Steve too. Although my kit setup is way scaled down compared to yours ( I play a John Bonham / Buddy Rich type set up), I can
relate to your techniques and style. I have been playing drums for 30 years and I am no where close to your level of playing and that is really
discouraging for me. All I can do is keep working on my chops, keep that DVD playing all the time, and hope and pray for the chance to be where you are someday.
I have many questions for you, but I will keep it to just one. On your DVD you touch on warm-up exercises and techniques, but are there things
that you do in your everyday life to keep yourself in shape and in good health, like exercising and diet? Drumming is very demanding on the body
and I find that after a night of playing for 3-4 hours, I’m exhausted and out of shape. Thanks for putting out the DVD. It was the best thing I
could have bought with my money. Take care Todd and hope to catch you on tour this summer.
Corey Pithan
South Sioux City, NE
-----------------------------
Hi Corey,
Thanks for the great compliments. I'm happy that you picked up the dvd and that you are getting good stuff out of it.
I'm kinda the wrong guy to talk about diet and exercise. I really do nothing physical except playing the drums. As far as diet goes, well, I'm
better than I used to be. I'm getting on in my years and I need to pay better attention to that! But physically demanding playing is a serious
cardio work out. I still feel strong and at the top of my game thankfully.
Hope you catch a show this summer too, and thanks for dropping me a note.
Cheers!
Todd
One of my favorite songs and video’s. You have become one of my favorite drummers with your playing. My question is will Tears Of Joy
ever be available in a MP3 format? I would love to load it on my iTouch! Thanks and keep up your phenomenal drumming Todd!
--------------------
Dear____,
Glad you like the tune. My version will not be available as an mp3, though you could always "rip" it from the dvd.
Thanks for the kind words--
Todd
Hey Todd,
Any plans on recording a new Styx cd in the near future? I think the “new” lineup is Styx at it’s best and Cyclorama was fantastic. The new
songs on CYO are new classics in my opinion...
Chris
Dear Todd,
You probably don't remember me but I've written to you a few times before over the past few years. I'm a huge Styx fan, I've seen Styx live
twice and I have as many CDs and DVDs as I could get my hands on. Styx is, above all, my all-time favorite band. I'm glad you guys are
heading back to Washington soon, I'm not so sure I'll be able to attend the show this time, but I'm going to try. I just have one question for
you Todd, do you have any idea when Styx might be starting a new album? And I mean a brand-new, all new material album, not a live
album or cover songs. The last album you guys did was Cyclorama and it was awesome but I think its time for more, don't you?
Take care,
Kirisa.
------------------------------------
Hi Chris and Kirisa,
I thought I'd address you both, and let you know that you're barking up the wrong tree with me. We should get to work, but I don't drive the
bus around here. One could argue that why do an album when no one's buying them........but I just love nothing more than recording, so I'm
up for it all the time.
Hope you guys hang in there with us. It might be a while.
Cheers,
Todd
ANA-MOL, I'm so proud of you my old friend. I knew you were playing in Styx, and just saw the show with the con. youth orch. and it reminded
me so much of when we were kids in band and everyone was looking at Todd { or animal {muppets}, we called him back then } rockin' out on
the drums. I recently got back into drumming along with my son . I got my 4 year old boy 3 first act kits put together to make a nice little 9
piece set with 3 basses . He rocks. He reminded me of a little Todd.Then I started looking in to what you had been doing. I was so proud to
see that you have become the recognized drummer I knew you were even when we were just kids. From the first time I saw you play in our
kindergarten Mickey mouse play, you rocked the house . You were always a leader and inspiration to others in all of the band and in school .
Helping me with my drumming even loaning me drums till my parents would get me some. Thanks buddy. The only negative about playing
drums in school band with Todd was that I got stuck playing a bass drum for all of those years, it was like having Neil P., jr.. at school. Growing
up with you from pre K to High School, you said your whole life you wanted to be a drummer, and you've done a damn good job. I don't know
anyone who can say that they have become what they had always dreamed. You are truly an inspirational person. I recently got a used set
from a guy that had your dvd and the modern drummer with you on the cover . He was raving about your teaching technics and great positive
attitude , after we talked a bit, he also gave me the magizine . I have to say I'm just a little jealous of the drum shed. Anyway GOOD JOB Todd,
keep up the good work. I hope that someday we will cross paths again, till then keep rockin' out. Much love to you and your family, Al Sybert .
------------------------
Hey Al,
Long time indeed. Thanks for that great note. I have fond memories of our years in Jr. high band together. There's really not much I can say
other than it's so cool to hear from you and I appreciate your kind words very much!
Love and regards to your family as well, my man.
Glad you (and your boy) are still playing!
Cheers-
Todd
Hi Todd,
I am a proud customer of Pearl Drums and have been for almost 7 years, ever since I became a drummer. I noticed on your Masterworks
Series drums that your smallest rack tom is 8"x7". This is the size of my smallest tom, and I was wondering if you could give me some tips
on how to tune it correctly to the right pitch, since it is such a small drum. I am looking for a pitch where sustain is paramount, and will go well
with my second smallest tom (10"x8", and tuned to approx. a D# in the treble/bass pitch). Also, I would like to know what foot exercises you
use when playing double bass. Please let me know, and I must say, your solo with the Demon Drive pedal was phenomenal. Long live Pearl
Drums!
Best Regards,
Scott
--------------------------
Hi Scott,
I have my 8x8 tuned for "normal sustain" and I have my 8x7 cranked up for more of an attack sound. Like the Phil Collins "bark" or "gock".
It's more of an effect. But try tuning the top head just a bit up from loose, just about at medium and then tune the bottom head slightly higher.
I have no definite pitches I tune to--it's juts done by ear.
As far as double bass drum examples go, I recommend picking up my DVD "Methods and Mechanics" at Altitudedigital.com -- It will be a
million times more thorough than I could ever explain it here!
Thanks for the note and I wish you luck with you playing-
Todd
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hi Todd,
The show was nice hearing some classics that i haven't seen you guys play before! Seeing Chuck appear to play bass on stage was a first
as well. My Girlfriend was in awe of your playing on the kit! She was lucky enough to dive after a stick you passed up on the upper level of
the room!
So now I finally see what your talking about with the sticks and how they are made to your specs. I'm gonna order up prolly like 4 pairs.
They are thick but not heavy, and the tips are or look like they will sound like a nylon tip. I really like how the sticks aren't heavy like those
sizes where you'll get tendenitus playin with tree trunks! Kinda took a stick being thrown at us to finally order some of these! (just kidding).
Your side stick approach is awesome where in your solo your going with 8th notes with your left while bangin out quarter notes with your right.
My girlfriend see's now that with the big boom you achieve with the bass drum mounted up on your left, I get that with that roland spd-6 pad
electronic drum, mounted just under my high hats. I really can't wait to save the cake to get the DVD you've produced so i can incorporate
some rudiments into my solo's/playin with tracks with the band here.
Thanks for the show, and hope to catch you guys out by yourselves again. Looking forward to prolly seeing you guys on the REO/STYX tour.
I like that belterra casino show room, it's intimate but big enough to hold a show. I was glad the crowd was alive, they weren't that alive at the
foriegner show. Those guys had a good show.
Thanks for the throw of that stick, Looks like those mike portnoy sticks i've talked about will be gathering dust!
Jeff in Louisville/Connecticut
-----------------------
Hey Jeff,
Glad you both enjoyed the show!
Cheers!
Todd
Hey Todd,
Just picked up the 2008 Modern Drummer Festival and I have to say your playing is incredible (Simon is also amazing, as usual). Another
favorite of mine is the Styx/CYO concert, it is always a pleasure to watch this show and has been on my top 10 concert DVD list for a while
now. Having two daughters in our school band makes me appreciate this performance even more because I know how much time and effort
those kids must have put in preparing for the show. Tommy and JY looked like they had a great time working with Liza and CYO, the
excitement and reaction from the kids are just priceless!
We were a bit disappointed that Styx didn't play Fraze in Kettering last summer with Boston, but Nelson still put on a good show. What
was it like on the road with Boston, do you have any stories to share? We did catch the Styx set two years ago at Riverbend with Def
Leppard/Foreigner and look forward to seeing you again Saturday night at Belterra. Can you share the setlist? Any chance of hearing Just
Be or Borrowed Time?
Take Care.
Kevin (Fairfield, OH)
-------------------------------
Hi Kevin,
Hope you enjoyed the gig at Belterra!
No real "stories" I can share from last year's run with Boston except that they were all very nice. Sorry to be boring.
Hope we swing through your area again soon.
Thanks for the note---and thanks for your kind words on the MD and CYO DVDs!
Todd
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hey Todd,
I'm from Germany and I love playing the drums!! Your playing is fantastic (you connect technical and musical drumming,
that's what I'm trying too)
My question is, where can I see one of your concerts (Europe), or do you give a workshop in august (in America)??
And which china-cymbal do you play at this video?? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adYhepu5SL8
You don't have to answer, but I would be very happy, if I could get an e-mail from Todd Sucherman!!!
Best regards,
Clemens Lotz
-----------------
Hi Clemens,
Thank you for your compliments!
There are no European dates on the books now but it's my hope that we make it over there sometime next year. I'll be on
the road with Styx all through the summer so clinics are put on hold for now. The Chinas that I used on the dvd were a 17"
Sabian AAXtreme and a Sabian 19" Paragon.
OK, my best to you and hope we make it to Germany again soon.
Cheers!
Todd
Hey Todd
I am only 11 years old and I am a huge fan of you and Styx. I play drums and I am in a band. I really want to follow in your
footsteps. I have some Tama drums at home. It doesn't even come close to your Pearl's, those are awesome!
Also I was at your concert in Ontario, California with REO and 38 Special. You guys ROCKED!!!! And I caught one of your sticks
at the end of the show. I worship that stick. I know that is a little weird, but you are really cool!
I love to play Styx songs on the drums. I play One With Everything, Rockin' the Paradise, Blue Collar Man, and Queen of Spades.
I like One With Everything the best. I am trying to get new drum parts. It is really hard to convince your parents to got a new pair of
high - hats, a new tom, and a new bass pedal.
Thanks,
Lucas
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Hey Lucas,
I'm glad you enjoyed the show and my playing. Thanks! Just keep playing, working and studying. And don't forget to have fun with it too.....
See you next time-
Todd
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saw ya with cyo at blossom music im 46 been to a million and 1 concerts and styx was amazing seen them before though but you todd
was the show your drumming skills was way to sikkk your the greatest oh the chester ride to amazing god bless, dan w/ a247locksmith.com
oh im also a drummer of 30 great rocking years ,see ya todd
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Thanks, Dan!
Cheers-
Todd
Hey, Todd --
Just a quick note on a couple of things --
1) Caught you with Styx at The Woodlands, TX last night (6/7) -- WOW! Styx is great, and has been rocking it for years -- and, you're
not exactly a newbie with them at this point, huh... I truly hope you're not sick of this kind of comment... So much Styx music is just so
'classic'. I grew up learning John Panozzo's parts, and I once thought I had them down pretty good -- of course, I'm older now ;-) ... But --
my point -- WOW! I think it's amazing how you've taken those parts and given them new life. You've absolutely respected what was already
there, and have totally made it your own as well... You took a few opportunities to show a bit of your explosive chops to really push a big
section, but you also took the opportunity to just sit there and drive, too. Very cool -- nice job!
2) Your ride cymbal was amazing -- such a strong ping, and an awesome bell tone. Was it the Chester Thompson? Not sure it would fit
my church gig, but I'd love to check one out sometime.
Congratulations on your awards, too! After last night's concert, I'm even more anxious to check out your DVD. Here's hoping for a clinic
in the Houston area...!
-Mike
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Hi Mike,
Thanks for the great compliments! The Houston show was a god one indeed and I had a lot of fun that night.
The ride you saw was the Chester Thompson PRECISION Ride (not the Chester Liquid Ride). I think they are now all in the Vault line,
so it would be the Vault Precision Ride in the catalogue. It might be to much for your gig unless it's a really high volume situation. I use
a few different rides in my DVD, which I hope you pick up directly from us at Altitudedigital.com. If you liked the show, well, the dvd is
over 5 hours of my playing...so hopefully you'll dig it!
Thanks again, and I wish you the best with your playing.
Take care!
Todd
April 2009 Letters