Melness is defined in the drummers dictionary as sounds and feelings associated with Mel Lewis. It is a very interesting affliction since I and many other drummers have gotten these flashes while playing. Peter Erskine actually coined the term after playing with the Vanguard band using Mel's drums.
Mel needed music in order for his particular magic to emerge. His technical skills were nothing to write home about and you certainly wouldn't want to listen to him playing a solo snare drum etude or rudiments. His chops were internal and they were considerable once the music started.
I spoke earlier of flashes of "Melness" and I have had them from time to time. I subbed with a great big band recently and I had the flash. As I played a Bill Holman chart. I began to hear more and more of his voice coming through me. I studied with him, but I never, except for these rare occasions, sounded like him. What I did have in me was the musical knowledge that he imparted and the many hours I spent listening to him.
Other drummers have reported these flashes as well especially when playing his drums as they subbed for him. I know that I did. He was one of those rare people whose sound was in his instrument no matter who was playing and believe me, it was a broad group of players. Many people have tried to copy him and failed. You simply cannot copy response and inspiration.
I have always had a problem writing about him because he was so much more than the drums. I often got the sense that he was hearing music at a higher level. When I think about it that's what "Melness" is all about.
The Groove Continues
Mel needed music in order for his particular magic to emerge. His technical skills were nothing to write home about and you certainly wouldn't want to listen to him playing a solo snare drum etude or rudiments. His chops were internal and they were considerable once the music started.
I spoke earlier of flashes of "Melness" and I have had them from time to time. I subbed with a great big band recently and I had the flash. As I played a Bill Holman chart. I began to hear more and more of his voice coming through me. I studied with him, but I never, except for these rare occasions, sounded like him. What I did have in me was the musical knowledge that he imparted and the many hours I spent listening to him.
Other drummers have reported these flashes as well especially when playing his drums as they subbed for him. I know that I did. He was one of those rare people whose sound was in his instrument no matter who was playing and believe me, it was a broad group of players. Many people have tried to copy him and failed. You simply cannot copy response and inspiration.
I have always had a problem writing about him because he was so much more than the drums. I often got the sense that he was hearing music at a higher level. When I think about it that's what "Melness" is all about.
The Groove Continues
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