"I first used a click-track in the studio on our 'Permanent Waves' album, in 1979. Right away, the click became my 'friend,' a guide that kept me nailed to the tempo, and gave me more freedom, in a way - one less thing to think about. Over time I learned to work with the click - pushing and pulling against it deliberately, to make certain passages more urgent, or more relaxed."
- Neil Peart
To some drummers, using a click track is a negative thing. Needing a metronome to help you keep time is somehow "cheating" . This is a horrible attitude to have.
The top drummers in the world understand the truth about the Click Track, it is an important tool and a drummers best friend. Having a constant reminder of the tempo can open up endless possibilities when it comes to your performance. It may take some practice, or re-training, but it is a skill every serious drummer should pride themselves on having.
Modern recording techniques require perfect time. Setting a BPM at the beginning of the session serves everyone in the band. When re-cutting any takes, adding lead parts, and doing vocal compiling, it is vital that the rhythm section is on time.
Did you know you can also have a click track sound like any percussive sound? It can be a tambourine, a rim shot, or even a kick drum. A good engineer will make sure the click track is comfortable for you. Once you find a sound that works for you, let the click guide you to better drum performances and recordings.
If Neil F'in Peart uses a click, why don't you?
I can see the positives of using a "click track", and I'd say do what makes you the most comfortable. And in the studio I think it has the greatest justification of it's use. I guess live though I'd like to think not needing a click is kinda the designation of being a "professional drummer". However since I haven't played any arena's lately lol - maybe it's necessary simply because the acoustics are not that good, and it's easier to hear the click track than the full mix. I look at it that using a click track means you are using your "mind" to play your instrument. And I've always felt that music (or at least the good stuff) al…