On this episode of Big Fat Five, I’m joined by drummer Xavier Ware. He’s currently out on the road with Bilmuri, and his playing is UNREAL—able to blaze with the kind of intensity that feels like he’s getting paid by the note, then pivot into a dynamic, nuanced jazz approach with left-foot finesse that I honestly can’t wrap my head around. Both of those styles live so far outside my own playing, which made this conversation especially exciting.

We discuss where he learned the jazz language, how he breaks down the incredibly technical songs he’s known for, and his journey toward appreciating the small things. And ultimately, how you shouldn’t strive for perfect timing or playing, but that perfect feeling, for both you and the audience.

XAVIER'S BIG FAT FIVE:

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Artist – Nerve
Album – Prohibited Beats
Release Year – 2009
Key Track(s) – “Syncopath,” “Jabon,” “Far,” “7even”
Drummer – Jojo Mayer

Artist – Button Masher
Album – The 16bit.Wav
Release Year – 2020
Key Track(s) – “Siblings,” “Meta Knight's Revenge” (from Kirby Superstar)
Drummer – Midi

Artist – Louis Cole
Album – Quality Over Opinion
Release Year – 2022
Key Track(s) – “Laughing in Her Sleep,” “I’m Tight,” “Failing in a Cool Way”
Drummer – Louis Cole

Artist – Sonny Rollins
Album – East Broadway Rundown
Release Year – 1966
Key Track(s) – “Front to Back”
Drummer – Elvin Jones

Artist – Yellowjackets
Album – Blue Hats
Release Year – 1997
Key Track(s) – “CapeTown,” “Statue of Liberty,” “New Rochelle”
Drummer – Will Kennedy

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Drummers on Drumming (the book) takes you inside the stories, records, and moments that shaped some of the world’s greatest drummers. Built on the Big Fat Five format of digging into top influences, it’s packed with candid interviews and personal insights. Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years, this book is here to inspire you to sharpen your skills and find your own voice behind the kit.

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