I was first introduced to Peter Erskine, like many people, by listening to Weather Report’s self-titled 1982 release. I’ve always admired Erskine as a player, band leader and and teacher (he currently serves as a member of the percussion faculty at the University of Southern California.

So this week’s Friday Drum Launch features Peter playing one of the most tasteful drum solos I’ve ever heard. Recorded at PASIC 2004, this is a shining example of playing a truly interesting solo without it all being about how fast he can play. Certainly he uses his impressive chops in this clip, but only to serve the melodic aspects of what he’s playing. Yeah, I said “melodic.” I think that particular adjective is very suited to Erskine’s playing here.

Enjoy!