this book is a great learning tool from semi-pro to professional drummers that want to refine and improve their jazz and drumming skills. The audio cd that comes with the book offers great examples of the charts and exercises listed. It also lists other recommended listening and reading material. In my opinion, this is even better than the first book from John Riley. Anyone who buys this book will not be disappointed.

I am just about finished with Riley's other book, "The Art of Bop Drumming." I wasn't sure whether to move on into this book, or continue working on mastering the material in the first book. I decided to order "Beyond Bop Drumming" and I'm glad that I did. It addresses a number of things in more detail such as uptempo playing, and begins to get you into comping with your hi-hat foot.

This is a great follow up to his "bop drumming" book. It helps expand your versatility on the drums by adding more comping that utilizes the hi hat as part of your comping figures. The section on "implied time" is amazing. A must have for drummers who want to become a truley "musical" drummer.

John Riley has scored once again. When I met him last year, I asked him about a tune he wrote called "Speed Bumps Ahead" which is in the book. All he said was "(long pause)but of course I did (long pause)." This describes the book alone. It is long, dark, deep and sophisticated, yet playful, while incorporating rhythmic challenges and creative ideas all at the same time. It is a drum education masterpiece. It is an advanced book, but John also has a lot to offer in terms of stylistic playing. From his versions of the tunes, one can learn so much from his sound alone. It is truly one of the best educational and music minus one books of all time.