Rhythm Section 101:

Jazz Drum Set 101

Building a Swing Feel Part 3: The 2-Feel

The 2-feel is often overlooked among young drummers. However, when played correctly, it can create a distinctive feeling that serves as an effective contrast to the 4-feel that we discussed in Part 2 of this series. More importantly, playing a correct 2-feel is important when the bass is playing in 2, with half notes on 1 and 3.

Tips:

• The hi-hat rhythm is the same as the ride cymbal we learned in Part 2, but in this case, it requires that we open the hi-hats with the foot. Open the hi-hat on 1, close on 2, then re-open on the and of 2, then repeat the same pattern beginning on beat three. Have your drummer spend some time becoming comfortable with the hi-hat pattern and the coordination between the hand and foot on the hi-hat. Play the bass drum on beats 1 and 3, and be sure to avoid the tendency to play all four quarter notes of the measure, which conflicts with the 2-feel of the bass!

• Once you can comfortably play the coordinated rhythms between the hi-hat and bass drum, you can explore the snare drum comping patterns from Part 2 along with this 2-feel.

• Practice transitioning between a 2-feel and a 4-feel for 4 measures each, and be sure to maintain a consistent time feel and evenness between the limbs.

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