Atlanta Rhythm Section

This concept of implicit time led directly to a major characteristic of the West Coast Sound - the elimination of the drummer. This required a change from all working in the Rhythm Section - especially the drum function within the Cool School. The Drummer had to change his entire approach to the elements in his ‘Kit’: 1. The Bass Drum was used infrequently but accurately to propel the soloist 2. The rhythmic center shifted from the bass drum to the Ride Cymbal 3. The snare provided accents tied to the melodic rhythm. The Piano/Bass/Guitar: 1. The Bass assumed the responsibility for defining the pulse - again, it is NOT stated but truly defined 2. Enabled the Pianist to free the left hand for chordal punctuations and the right hand for a fast and complicated melodic or improvisation line (Basie’s style gives ample precedence for this) 3. Bass and guitar become solo instruments in their own right - with the introduction of the Amplifier 4. The Bass was freed from the Root-5th line and able to weave freely through the complex harmonies 5. (Jimmy Blanton is credited with this development) ...»