Notwithstanding, to put practice into good use, I started practicing a series of tracks from musicians who have shaped and influenced my taste in music and drumming style. Mostly from the Progressive Rock / Progressive Metal whereabouts. Of course I had to start with Opeth – whose dynamic music range and ability to weave meandering musical narratives has always been been a point of reference in music projects I’ve been involved with. Both Martin Lopez and Martin Axenroth have their own distinctive and intricate drumming style that deserves an in-depth exploration that goes beyond a youtube description. But in essence I think “Beneath the Mire” exemplifies Lopez’s ability to execute tasteful rhythmic decisions that range from aggressive death-metal-oriented drumming to subtle, more groove-oriented rhythms.
