Eric Willie
Review in April 2009 edition of
Percussive Notes Magazine
“This is a collection of drumline cadences of varying lengths. According to Reeves, “Though the book lends itself to a band-in-the-bleachers or parade scenario, these works can be used in any setting where a drumline is called on to perform or even just as fun study pieces to work on the battery section’s timing and groove skills. Some of these works are fairly straightforward and technically simple while others require a little more preparation and technical prowess.”
The book includes ten stadium grooves and four cadences. Scored for snares, tenors (quints), bass drums, and cymbals, Reeves provides alternatives for varying number of performers (e.g., 4-6 bass drums) as well as a legend for various effects on all instruments (“skank,” stick-shot, short and long buzzes, muffled sounds, et al.) Every piece is given a detailed musical description and performance notes as well as an approximate performance time. The accompanying CD provides play-along tracks as well as a pdf file from which to print the parts.
This is a must-have for every band director, drumline instructor, and drumline member. With every groove or cadence having a different style for its foundation (samba, techno, Latin, etc.), there are plenty of variations to keep the percussion section active in the bleachers or in a parade. Reeves’ professional presentation of the material as well as the accompanying musical descriptions provide performers with an approach to drumline composition that makes it musical as well as fun.”