Neil Peart - Anatomy Of A Drum Solo DVD

 Overpriced for it's purpose
Being a huge fan of Rush - especially of Mr. Peart, I had no problem with buying this DVD. I had read that in the past, Neil was against doing any kind of instructional videos and then, to the delight of many drummers (myself included)and Peart fans,he releases his very 1st instructional video entitled, "A Work in Progress", which shows us how he played the songs on "Test for Echo". It was filled with lots of good,instructional material. "Anatomy" is a DVD that covers Neil's drum solo that he performed on the band's 30th anniversary tour (featured on their concert DVD "R30"). Neil spends time talking about his beginnings as a drummer, who his influences were back in the day, and explains what soloing means to him. He rambles on a bit, sharing anecdotes and stuff - this really would have been better suited for an interview portion of the video on Disc 2. He even throws in a few shamless plugs for the makers of his WAY impressive drums and hardware. He explains how the 30th anniversary drum kit was created(a bit lengthy), then he eventually takes us through each facet of his solo dubbed "Der Trommler" and explains the influences, stories and inspirations behind each part. He states that the main purpose of the video is "not to show you how to play MY solo, but to inspire you to come up with our own sound...your own voice". This video is not really an instructional one. I agree, I don't want to learn how to play THAT solo, but he could have spent some time to show us some fills, drills and exercises to work on. The 2 disc set has some cool features plus interviews with his drum tech - we watch him putting the kit together - it's pretty lengthy and somewhat boring because he doesn't explain a whole lot as he's doing it. But still, kind of cool to watch. There are a couple of audio files and a few other bits and pieces throughout that make the DVD interesting enough, but the lack of instruction really hurts this production overall. On a more positive note, it was really nice to see Neil talking to the camera and enjoying himself, considering the personal tragedies he had experienced a few years ago. I was happy to see him look relaxed and jovial. I gave this DVD 3 stars because it is a well-made video. Any Neil Peart fan would love it (I do!), but again, I feel that the price is a bit too steep for it's purpose.
Submitted by srptcroozer (Atlanta, Georgia)
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 Neil Peart- A True Gentleman
I bought this DVD because I will purchase anything with Mr. Peart's name on it. He has long been an inspiration and (far-away) mentor. Long have I been writing songs in a Power Trio... I have learned from this man and Rush. To put his secrets and technics on DVD for all to see is a wonderful gift. I applaud Neil. He is, in the rock genre, if not at all, THE best drummer of all time... there are more flashy, more busy drummers in the biz, but no one makes each strike count, for the EXACT purpose for which he desires like Neil. He is a truly generous soul for sharing. To meet this man would be a dream come true... He is truly a "New World Man". Many thanks... By the way, "Cygnus" is just simply sick... I love it...!!!!! As is "Camera Eye". "Hemispheres". Need I say more? I just hope that young drummers will glean all they can from this video. As a die-hard Lifeson fan, I recommend this video. LEARN HOW TO PLAY IN A POWER TRIO. PERIOD. That's all you need. Take heed from Mr. Peart. He just simply... knows. Thanks. Travis King
Submitted by KingTG (Medford, OR) 
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