IMO, drums are thee central component for which rock n roll is actually driven. On a personal note it was always the most natural instrument for me to play, yet like many, it unfortunately wasn't an option to own a kit while growing up. (Still, whenever I get a chance to bang on a set, I have a great time). This was the only reason I ever even picked up a guitar; I could lower the volume and play it through headphones if necessary. Years later when going to see bands live, I typically go to the side of the stage and watch what the drummer does with his feet.
Over the years I've noticed that a great drummer can really hold up a mediocre band, but the opposite is never true. To me, this speaks volumes about the vitality of such an instrument. The beat is the foundation for which a sound is built upon, and without a capable one, everything else falls to pieces. My short list of favorite drummers include: Martin Chambers (Pretenders), Terry Bozzio (Missing Persons/Frank Zappa), Clem Burke (Blondie), Stewart Copeland ( Police), Neil Peart (Rush), Budgie (Siouxsie & the Banshees), Topper Headon (the Clash), Gina Schock (the Go Go's), Casey Royer (the Adolescents) and of course typical standards like Charlie Watts (the Stones), John Bonham (Zepplin) and Keith Moon (the Who).
