Behind the Player: Shannon Larkin: Drum DVD

This DVD captures a working professional drummer in his element, showing the real techniques and decision-making that drive songs heard in arenas worldwide. Students get rare access to how a major-label rock drummer approaches both composition and performance, with detailed breakdowns of actual Godsmack tracks rather than generic exercises.

Raw, energetic, and unfiltered. The footage captures the intensity and focus required to maintain Godsmack's driving, heavy sound night after night, with Larkin's distinctive style showcased both in isolation and alongside a professional rhythm section.

Intermediate to advanced drummers interested in rock and hard rock styles will find concrete, high-level material here. This works well for students pursuing a career path in professional music or those serious about understanding how major-label drummers approach their craft.

• Study the footwork patterns in "Straight Out of Line" frame by frame. The kick drum details reveal how Larkin builds intensity without overplaying.
• Isolate the snare work from "Voodoo" and practice the ghost notes at the recorded tempo before speeding up. The pocket depends on precision with the snare ghost note placement.
• Watch how Larkin uses dynamics across the drum kit in the jam footage with Robbie Merrill. Notice where he pulls back rather than pushes harder.

Use this as supplemental material for advanced drummers studying contemporary rock repertoire or exploring professional musicianship. The jam sessions demonstrate real ensemble playing and how a drummer locks in with a bass player in a working band context.

• Double bass drum technique and endurance in hard rock contexts
• Ghost note control and snare articulation
• Dynamic range and intensity management across a full performance
• Locking with a bass player in heavy rock styles
• Practical studio and live performance strategies