I was going to do it this year. I was going to book the airfare and fly to New Jersey to catch the Modern Drummer Festival this weekend.

But I didn't make it. However, I can experience the festival virtually thanks to Hudson Music. They're be posting regular updates, including pictures and video, from the festival throughout the weekend.

The line up this year is impressive to say the least. It includes:

• Thomas Pridgen (The Mars Volta)
• Billy Ward (Joan Osborne/Ace Frehley/B. B. King)
• Will Calhoun (Living Color)
• Ndugu Chancler (Michael Jackson/Santana/Weather Report)
• Simon Phillips & Protocol (Toto/The Who/Jeff Beck)
• Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree/King Crimson)
• Todd Sucherman (Styx/Brian Wilson)
• Dafnis Prieto (Michel Camilo)
• Derek Roddy (Serpents Rise/Traumedy)

Hell, I would have made the trip alone to listen to Billy Ward and Will Calhoun alone, but to see the rest of these phenomenal drummers. Wow!

If you want to tune in and following all the action and performances this weekend, you can see it on Hudon's web site. Check it out and enjoy.