DAVID WHITE
Lead singer with American thrash band Heathen details his lifelong passion for drumming icon Bill Bruford.
“My foundation in music began with the drums. Through my dad, a lover of jazz music, I gravitated to jazz, but my early rock influences were guys like Ringo Starr, John Bonham, Aynsley Dunbar, Neil Peart and, of course Bill Bruford. In 1975 I started my first rock band, which became Blind Illusion and went on a progressive path – John McLaughlin, King Crimson, Yes, Jethro Tull…
“My first Yes album was Fragile, and in that first moment I had to know, ‘Who is that guy on the drums?’ I’m still blown away by Bill’s work on that record. At first I almost couldn’t comprehend what was happening, but it didn’t matter – it was musical bliss. I soon started collecting everything Yes and everything Bruford.
“One of my favourite Yes tunes is Heart Of The Sunrise – it captures so many aspects of Bill’s signature style, starting with a driving intro into a syncopated funky beat and then above the clouds.
“Bill’s contribution to King Crimson was incredible, Red being my favourite. One More Red Night is so heavy and ominous. And later with
UK – what a special group. Exploration at its finest, and Bill’s work on the debut record is flawless. I only got to see them in concert one time and it was unfortunate Bill didn’t stay long enough to see the group flourish.
“He’d already left Yes once I became aware of him, and I missed the reunion tours because of my own touring schedule. But his supreme talent unquestionably drove the music, wherever he was. His stickwork was impeccable. To this day I’m captured by his rhythmical beats and odd time signatures through intertwining connections to fluidity. This to me is his signature, and all of it stands the test of time.
“He’s still out there contributing to the scene and a new generation of musicians. His approach to playing was very unique, his groove feels like floating! Tasteful, masterful, guaranteed uplifting excellence with style, swagger and grace! I consider him to be one of the greatest drummers of our time.” MK
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“I consider him to be one of the greatest drummers of our time.”