Coattail Ridin'

What's it with Dave Grohl and drumming? Whatever band he's in, regardless of the instrument he chooses to play, the drummer is the secret weapon. I always felt that his powerful drumming and beautiful harmonies was the glue in later-era Nirvana. His amazing chops on QOTSA's "Songs For The Deaf" made that record. Tight production mixed with his precise skill propelled that record and in the eyes of the masses, the band in general. However in his own band, it's Dave Grohl that takes the backseat to Taylor Hawkins, a drummer of more finesse and skill than himself. It's pretty awesome that Dave realizes this. It's also pretty awesome how awesome Taylor is and how he pulls a Dave by being the anchor of the Foo Fighters. Same deal: Powerful drumming, amazing backing (and sometimes lead) vocals and very solid songwriting.

A lot of people are unaware of his solo record, Taylor Hawkins & The Coattail Riders, one of the best-named bands/records ever. It's a great 70's rock revival album. Think parts Thin Lizzy, The Who, Rush, a bit of FF and his own personal touches thrown in for good measure. In fact, I dig this record way more the the last two Foo Fighters albums (three if you include the boring Skin & Bones live record). There's a killer element of accesible prog flowing through the album, really letting his talents shine through.

Of course it's a great record so it sold for shit. Go get it. Bargain bin it up! Beyond being attached to Dave Grohl at the hip, Taylor is an amazing talent on his own and this record clearly shows it.

"Louise" (notice the Taylor head cake!):