Thanks for the input, guys.

I find that the kick in the preprogrammed EZ drummer libraries rarely lines up with where the accents need to be based on my bass lines. I don't have a huge problem with getting it to sound okay and I have pretty good rhythm.

The big problem is I am not sure how to approach a drum part that is both inventive and not just chasing the various accents on the instruments (guitar, bass, and keys). I realize it all does tie together but I would like to be able to DRIVE the song with the drums, not drive the drums with the song, if that makes sense.

kolstad: I will definitely check out those links, thanks man. You are right, I need to learn to think more like a drummer.

Michael: yeah, on my last song I quantize to 70% then fix a few other places to get it tight. I will be posting that soon. I do find that manually editing the position is more tedious but does pay off, too.

colin: I should try that; program in layers instead of trying to do it like I am. I am actually not bad at doing kick and snare, I just feel like I make many of the same rhythmic choices too often. I want to broaden my horizons and become as good at drum programming as I am at keys.

Thanks folks!

Peace,
TC

If it has strings I will find a way to play it!

You can hear my tunes at https://soundcloud.com/tc-gypsy