Billy Martin's Life on Drums: Drumset DVD

From the ears, eyes, and hands of renowned percussionist and educator Billy Martin (Medeski Martin & Wood), Life on Drums is a striking examination of the drummer's art, captivatingly rendered with cinematic grace and intrigue. Equally relevant to newcomers as it is to experienced musicians, this DVD combines candid, wide-ranging conversations with Martin's first drum teacher, Allen Herman, and beautifully filmed performances of Martin's compositions for percussion ensemble and improvised trap set solos and duets. The film's distinct elements work together to impart a refreshing approach to instruction that prizes the creative and the intuitive over the merely technical. The resulting film---fiery and passionate yet practical and insightful---is a riveting extension of Martin's open-ended approach to percussion, improvisation, and music.

"A welcome respite from the super-chops technique showcase, Life on Drums solidifies Martin's outsider status and reminds us that there's room for all kinds."

- Modern Drummer magazine


2011 Park City Film Music Festival Award Winner
"Silver Medal for Excellence in a Music Documentary"