Here it is the first Friday in August. It's been far too long since we've had an R&R Drum Solo Friday post, so I hope you enjoy this one.

The late 60's and early 70's gave birth to something phenomenal and totally unique. Perhaps due to all the strung-out losers trippin' with nothing better to do than play music or because the world of music demanded the greatness of Mozart, Bach or Chopin to live again, but whatever the reason, Progressive ROCK took over in a big way. Some of the most successful acts of the day were Genesis, King Crimson, Yes and ELP to name a few and of which Bill Bruford was a member of 3/4ths of them.

Probably most remembered for his astounding musicianship on Fragile and Close to the Edge, (arguably two of Yes' best albums) Bill Bruford has been responsible for moving an army of drummers to think and set the pace of time in a new way.

Working around his weaknesses, Bruford refers to himself as having the "classic amateurs technique," acquiring his skill as a solution to a particular problem rather than for the sake of it. He's pragmatic but in my opinion he's the epitome of right place, right time drumming, putting the right timing in a place you'd never expect it, and it's totally right!

Bill Bruford - w/Yes - "Heart of the Sunrise" - Video
Unfortunately there is not a good quality video of Bill playing "Heart of the Sunrise," but the song is likely one the most important contributions to the world of music made by any artist.

Bill Bruford - "Beelzebub" - Video

The Bill Bruford Band - Video

Bill Bruford w/Genesis - "Supper's Ready"- Video

Bill Bruford w/UK - "Presto Vivace" / "In The Dead Of Night" - Video

Visit BillBruford.com
Find more on Bill Bruford at DrummerWorld.com