Beats Quote by Peter Erskine
“When it comes to certain kind of rhythm things, particularly like shaker or tambourine tracks. I like the way I can really lock up with my own Hi Hat or Ride Cymbal beat. So a lot of times in recording I'll be asked -- or even volunteer -- to put a shaker or tambourine track on. Just to give it something extra. And it always works great. I hate it when I'm in the studio and I don't have any shakers or tambourines with me. I've been on a few dates when we didn't have anything and tried to improvise shakers out of some uncooked rice in soda cans. It sounded horrible.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Modern Drummer, Peter Erskine, 2019
Adding simple percussive textures like shakers or tambourines can enhance a track’s rhythm, but improvising with unsuitable objects yields poor results.
In simple terms: Shakers enrich rhythm; makes objects sound bad.
Key Takeaway
Use proper percussion tools for better recordings.
Themes
music
creativity
production
instrumentation
Mood
enthusiastic
reflective
Type
technical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- studio sessions
- live gigs
- home recording
- band rehearsals
Key Concepts
audio engineering
arrangement
performance practice
Questions to Reflect On
- What alternatives can maintain quality?
- How does texture affect listener engagement?
A Different Perspective
Budget constraints may limit access to ideal instruments.
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