Count Us In

This weeks episode was recorded at the UK Drum Show in Liverpool, and we were joined by special guests Rich Nolan (@richnolandrums) and Kim Lee (@musicworkshopbath). We discuss our highlights from our first day at the show, biggest takeaways and purchases. We also discuss our excitement for the following day and how excited we were to dine at Wagamamas that evening.  If you didn't make it to...

Its that time of year again, and we're heading to the UK Drum show! We talk all about the line up for this year's show, our plans whilst at the show and of course any purchases we'e hoping to make. If you're planning to head down to the show and listen to the show and spot us, please come and say hi! We cant wait for a weekend all about drums!  Buy Me A Coffee Link: https://buy...

In this weeks episode we take a deep dive into what makes Jamie Joiner tick! We talk about some of his drumming approaches and influences, how we approaches playing and writing with his band Muriel and we hear all about how their debut tour is going! Jamie also weighs in on Oasis or Blur... at last!  Buy Us A Coffee Link: https://buymeacoffee.com/countusinpodcast?l=uk Instagram:  Matt: @matt_lacey...

This weeks episode is all about practice pad exercises that help you work on both hands as well as training you to be comfortable going over the bar line. We strongly recommend working on these with a click to help with subdivision and timing. You can find transcriptions of all of the exercises on our Instagram - @countusinpodcast releasing between now and the next episode, as well as us demonstra...

In this episode we tackle the endless mountain that is technique. We discuss teaching it, when to use it, when to introduce it, what is it, what techniques we use and so on...  Needless to say this is probably the beginning of more technique related episodes to come as it truly is an endless conversation and mountain to climb.  What techniques do you use for your drumming, and which have helped yo...

In this episode we discuss our favourite things about being a drummer. From playing in bands, recording in the studio, having that lightbulb moment with a student, or simply looking at how beautiful the instrument can be.  What is your favourite thing about being a drummer? Let us know on Instagram - @coutusinpodcast Buy Me A Coffee Link: https://buymeacoffee.com/countusinpodcast Matt: @matt_lacey...

In this episode we catch up on how everyones gigs have been over the summer so far and discuss the fear of missing out. Often as musicians there is a feeling of missing out on the better gig, missing seeing a favourite band, missing out on friends and family gatherings etc. We discuss our thoughts on it and how it impacts us.  If you enjoy the podcast and want to support it, please feel free to us...

In this episode, we talk about the idea of being okay not to practice and how it can benefit you in ways you may not expect. We also talk about ways in which you can practice without a pair of sticks or even in sight of a drum set.  What helps you progress without actually practicing? Let us know on our Instagram - @countusinpodcast Buy Us A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/countusinpodcast Matt:...

In this episode, we talk about all of the things we pack into our gig bags. From obvious choices like drum sticks, brushes and mallets, hi-hat clutches, IEM'S and moon gels, to unlikely suspects like butterfly clips, rags, pens, and various types of tape. Whats in your gig bag? and what is one thing we're really missing out? Let us know on our Instagram - @countusinpodcast Buy Me A Coffe...

In this episode we take a deep dive and get to know Matt a little more. We find out his favourite biscuit, preference on bass drum sizes and all the in-between. Matt also gives some great advice on learning and practicing, as well which piece of gear he owns that he couldn't live without.  We've loved the response to the new artwork and theme music, so thank you to anyone who's reac...

We've made it to Episode 30! Thank you to everyone who's listened, shared the podcast, messaged us or gotten something from the episodes. We really appreciate it! We've made a few changes as we sail into our second year, but we wanted to use this episode to talk about new music that we've discovered. We'd love to hear what your listening to, so let us know on Instagram - @...

in this episode, we talk about those special gigs that are beyond just the playing. All of the prep with the venue, band members,  promotion, song learning, rehearsals etc. Those gigs where the playing is the last thing on your mind. We hear about Jamie's recent sold out 2-night stint with his band Muriel, Matts Jazz trio gig and how he got his recent gig, and Harrys upcoming gig that isnt yo...

In this episode, we discuss how to talk to those more advanced students. The students that are starting to explore the possibilities of drumming and are finding drummers that they are inspired by.  Sometimes these inspirations can be exciting but other times they can be challenging if they are players that have a different approach to you. Instagram: @countusinpodcast Matt: @matt_lacey_drummer Jam...

In this episode, we discuss the topic of rudiments and our thoughts on if you should prioritise them in your practice. We talk about when we were first introduced to rudiments and how we have worked them into our playing, and if its the necessity that some teachers say they are.  What are your favourite rudiments, and which ones have you found to be most useful in your playing? Let us know on Inst...

In this episode, we discuss some recent changes in our preference of drum sticks and drum heads. All of us have had our preferences, but sometimes its good to change things up and explore other options to hone your sound. We also hear all about Matts recent masterclass he attended and dream up what our signature drum sticks would look like.. Have you changed the model and make of stick you play re...

In this week’s episode we share our thoughts on taking Grades as a drummer - what are the benefits, and whether we think it is important or essential for progression.  We also touch on 5 drumming ‘pillars’, shared with us by the great Mike Dolbear at The Drummers Oddysey, and we even might have even come up with a 6th… listen in to find out! Please share the podcast and leave a rating if you are e...

In this episode, we discuss honouring the drum part on a gig, and what does "to the record" really mean? We dicsuss gigging situations where perhaps we may have been told to learn it "to the record".. but actually you end up playing an obscure live version instead. We talk about how sometimes there is so much going in a drum part, that you may need to adapt and be creative with...

In this episode, we have a deep dive discussion with Harry and get to know a little bit more. He answers some quick fire questions as well as some deeper questions about drumming heroes and playing styles. This is a mini series that we'll be doing with the 3 of us, so keep an eye out to see who's next! Follow us on Instagram to keep up with new episodes releasing and other drumming goodn...

In this episode, we discuss the topic of promotion and self promotion. Whilst there is no golden rule or guide to success, there are some do's and don'ts that we have all picked up along our drumming journey that we thought would be good discuss. How do you go about promoting yourself? And what encounters have you had with getting work by promoting yourself, or maybe be not? Let us know...

In this weeks episode... what even is a ruff?! We discuss we we think it is and what it is made up of, but more importantly we share a few more practice pad exercises to help with your hands and technique. Any ideas on what a ruff is or some useful practice pad workouts? Share them with us on Instagram - @countusinpodcast  Matt: @matt_lacey_drummer Jamie: @jamiejoinermusic Harry: @harryplaysdrums...

In Episode 20, we wrap up 2023 by discussing what we feel proudest of, our biggest accomplishments and this we'd like to continue in the new year, as well as things we'd like to be better at in 2024. We also end the episode with a little quiz of drumming knowledge! What were your proudest moments of 2023? and how many of the quiz questions did you get right? Let us know on our Instagram...

In this weeks episode, we discuss some Christmas present ideas for drummers. With the big day quickly approaching, we've got you covered for finding that last minute Christmas gift for your favourite drummer.  Whats your favourite drum-related Christmas gift you've received? Let us know on Instagram - @countusinpodcast Remo Hi-Hat Clutch - https://www.gear4music.com/Drums-and-Percussion/...

In this weeks episode, we take some time to catch up and talk about what we have all been up to in the last month or so. We also take some time to discuss the projects we are working on or involved in and potential plans for the end of the year, and look ahead to 2024. What's your calendar been like in the last month or so and what projects are you involved in? Join the conversation and let u...

In this weeks episode we discuss the idea of swapping out our entire equipment rig with completely different companies and products, a question that was posed to us by one of our listeners (sorry we cant remember who, but thank you!). We talk about what we currently use in terms of drum shells, snare drums, cymbals, sticks, heads and hardware. Then we discuss what we would use if we couldnt play w...

In this weeks episode we discuss some of our drumming influences. Ones that helped shape our playing and inspire us from the very beginning, to ones that have had inspired us more recently. What artists or albums have inspired you on your journey so far? Let us on know on our instagram - @countusinpodcast and join the conversation.  Matt: @matt_lacey_drummer Jamie: @jamiejoinermusic Harry: @harryp...