Description
There are drum solos that show you how many notes someone can play. And then there are drum solos like this.
Keith Carlock has an incredible ability to make every note feel like it belongs exactly where he puts it. Groove, dynamics, touch, space, power—and that unmistakable Keith Carlock feel. This is a masterclass in making a drum solo musical.
The Gretsch Nashville Sessions
We went to the beautiful Ivy Hall Studios in Nashville, gathered some friends, and recorded a lot of great music.
Volume 1 features Van Romaine, Keith Carlock, Connor Denis, Peter Varnado, and Zach Dubay.
Featured drummer: Keith Carlock
Keith Carlock is one of the most respected and distinctive drummers of his generation. Known for his deep groove, incredible touch, and instantly recognizable feel, Keith has performed and recorded with artists including Steely Dan, Sting, Toto, James Taylor, John Mayer, and many more.
No matter the musical setting, Keith always sounds like Keith—and this solo is a perfect example.
Drums played in this video
Gretsch Brooklyn Series — Antique Oyster
7x10 Tom
8x12 Tom
14x14 Floor Tom
16x16 Floor Tom
16x22 Bass Drum
Snare Drums
Keith Carlock Signature Snare Drum — main
USA Custom 6.5x14 Vintage Oyster White Snare Drum — side
Studio - Ivy Hall Studios, Nashville TN
Microphones - DPA @DPAmicrophones
#thatgretschgreatsound #gretschdrums #keithcarlock #nashvillesessions #drumsolo #gretschbrooklyn #IvyHallStudios #dpaspor
Gretsch Drums has been shaping the sound of modern music for more than 140 years, with its roots firmly planted in American drum making.
But what truly defines Gretsch is not a single sound—it’s the remarkable range of voices the drums can deliver. From the warm, woody punch and controlled resonance that have become synonymous with jazz, to the powerful attack and projection demanded by rock, pop, funk, blues, and contemporary studio work, Gretsch drums adapt naturally to almost any musical setting.
The brand’s legendary sound has been heard in the hands of jazz greats such as Art Blakey, Elvin Jones, and Tony Williams, while rock and pop drummers including Taylor Hawkins, Charlie Watts, Steve Ferrone, and Vinnie Colaiuta have made Gretsch part of some of the most recognizable recordings and performances in music history.
Today, artists such as Mark Guiliana, Cindy Blackman-Santana, Ash Soan, Eric Moore, and Keith Carlock continue to demonstrate just how far that sonic versatility can reach—from intimate jazz and sophisticated pop music to hard-hitting rock, metal, and beyond.
Whether you are looking for warmth, articulation, depth, punch, or effortless musical response, Gretsch offers a voice that can become distinctly your own.