Richard Spaven

Richard Spaven lyrics

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    Forging his own path into the future With roots in the U.K. club and hip-hop scenes, the drummer brings a fresh approach to the instrument that’s at once modern and traditional. Combining machine-like accuracy with jazz-influenced improvisational sensibilities, Richard Spaven’s drumming has landed him gigs with vastly varied artists such the late Guru of the hip-hop duo Gang Starr, producer Flying Lotus, electronica/jazz group the Cinematic Orchestra, jazz/hip-hop vocalist José James and Brainfeeder artist Jameszoo. Spaven’s brilliance is evident beyond his world-class performance abilities; he’s equally impressive in production and compositional territories. And most recently, the drummer released his fourth solo album, Real Time, which once again showcases his multifaceted talent. Spaven’s signature drum sound often sees him combine high-pitched, crisp snares; round, jazzy toms; and small, punchy bass drums. His cymbal choices are a sonic contrast of dry, lower-pitched hi-hats, rides, and crashes. Altogether, the drummer’s tone could be described as a nod to the past while keeping an ear toward the future. Much like his compositions, Spaven’s drumming is elusive and genre-defying. He often avoids conventional downbeats and cadences in favor of sneaky syncopations and the types of sonic glitches you might hear from a deejay. No 16th note is left unturned within some of his drum ’n’ bass–and dubstep–influenced explorations. Words by Terry Branam / Modern Drummer 2019