This thread originates with cut-n-paste pics and text. But, I agree: Al was mythologically playing his heart out through Beach Boys/Wipeout drum solo when his brother came home one day after school. (Ed was the drummer of the two up until that moment. No doubt, that is why Ed quickly picked up Al's guitar. He knew he could never sound that good via percussion: must focus on guitar.) Thank the gods for that moment as far as Ed's future R&R contributions were concerned. As for Al? I believe Sammy said it best: (butchered quote follows) Bosefus. The World's Best Rock Drummer: 

Comparing AVH to Niel Peart is like comparing Einstein to Steven Hawking. Al is mostly natural talent supported by a little rudimental study. NP is the exact opposite. Both are kick ass drummers in their own right, but Al takes the cake when it comes to balls-out rock drumming. His soul takes control when VH is onstage! Best drummer alive, in my opinion.

Vary Solid drummer. Not as Good as N.Pert from Rush though

Very strong, solid, commanding style. Doesn't try to push past the limits of his technique. Has a good sense of how a drummer and drumming should fit into a band and its sound. Fits well with the bass player as a rhythm section. I like him a lot for what he does and the type of band Van Halen is. Good, solid backbone for his flashy brother!

ALEX VAN HALEN WITH OUT ANY DOUBT IS ONE OF GREATEST DRUMMERS THAT EVER LIVED HE PUTS SO MANY STYLES INTO HIS PLAYING HE'S ONE OF MOST CREATIVE DRUMMERS IN ROCKN ROLL HISTORY HES FAST AND HAS PERFECT TIMEING THE MAN IS A TRUE DRUMMING LEGEND.

AVH is the best drummer alive, and the best that there ever will be!!