Gigging with a drum machine?

[Davy]

Evening all.

 

I currently play in a classic rock covers band with 2 guitarists but I'm looking for a new project next year.

 

I was thinking about a three piece band(definitely not 2 guitarists again) but I've wondered what it would be like to play with a good quality drum machine.

 

Has anyone on here ever tried it and if so, how did you get on?

 

Cheers

[Beedster]

Politics are wrong, a bassist needs a drummer to offset the egos/madness of the guitarists and singer

 

I've done it, once, never again 👍

[Cat Burrito]

We use drum and keys that we played ourselves in my goth duo. It's a different type of challenge and tracks are unforgiving as they can't cover mistakes (or creative interpretations, for those who don't make errors!).

 

Getting a drum machine is one thing, having someone who can programme it is another. We use GarageBand and we're both pretty good at writing drum tracks.... Now! It's like learning another instrument. My bandmate uses GarageBand for work, whereas I have really had to up my game.

 

And I can't really argue with the "there's no substitute for a real drummer" argument. We're playing with our original drummer from 35yrs ago tomorrow and it's a nice occasional treat that we enjoy. I do think I have become a better musician for playing to drum tracks.