MR

That technically, Smitty is a VASTLY superior drummer than Deen Castronovo. Having watched the Escape DVD a number of times, Smitty amazes me more with every viewing....

No argument from me! I really miss Smitty. He brought something special to the bottom end!! Deen is a good "rock" drummer so he is a nice fit for what Neal is looking for. But I truly think Smitty was special.

At BT there is an update from Smitty talking about that 1981 DVD. In it he mentions how he has changed his style making it easier to play what he played back then. He is always learning and improving!!

I have a weakness for drummers.I could watch them "work" 24/7!
Don`t know about this Deen - Smitty comparison...Sure,Smith has written "unique" all over him.I think they`re both very good at what they do.I absolutely love Smitty`s touch and style;he is definately one of the greatest drummers of all times.I find it amazing that he can brilliantly play anything from jazz to hard rock.Plus I just love every drum solo he did with Journey.
As for Deen,he is so talented.I`ve been hearing he is one of the fastest double bass drumers in the world.To be honest,I found myself watching him all the time on the 2001 dvd.

jrnyman28 wrote:No argument from me! I really miss Smitty. He brought something special to the bottom end!! Deen is a good "rock" drummer so he is a nice fit for what Neal is looking for. But I truly think Smitty was special.

At BT there is an update from Smitty talking about that 1981 DVD. In it he mentions how he has changed his style making it easier to play what he played back then. He is always learning and improving!!

Hell, I think DEEN would agree that Smitty's a better drummer. I will never forget the show at the HOB last year when Smitty came on stage for a few songs -- he absolutely stole the show. The look on Deen's face was one of utter admiration -- he wasn't a member of the band anymore, he was a fan. Deen provides the right rock groove for the band, but Smitty is just an amazing talent -- he can play *anything*

They're both very good at what they do, but I like Deen because he's a rocker at heart. I doubt you'd find him playing on a Savage Garden record. But Smitty is amazing obviously.

I think we could probably also surmise that Deen's the better vocalist?

Both seem to be very humble - I like that.

As great as Smith is, I have never liked his Solos. Not very rhythmic. I have never heard Deen's.

Give me Neal Peart's YYZ off of Exit Stage Left. Best drummer in the business - period.

stacy.26 wrote:Both seem to be very humble - I like that.

As great as Smith is, I have never liked his Solos. Not very rhythmic. I have never heard Deen's.

Give me Neal Peart's YYZ off of Exit Stage Left. Best drummer in the business - period.

Well...duh. No kiddin. Peart is THE best. Hands down.

Smith is better. Constantly improving his style and art. All the greats of all time rarely do that, or even play anymore.

Fangora , I like Poppy Montgomery too. And Steve Smith is just an incredible drummer. Deen is good too,but S.S. has quite a lot of experience and years over Deen.

Steve Smith is the man! There's no comparison here
the masters always win

Steve Smith...was and is the man behind the skins. Probably the most underrated member of the band, everything else being equal.

brandonpfn wrote:Steve Smith...was and is the man behind the skins. Probably the most underrated member of the band, everything else being equal.

Yes, DEFINITELY!!! Underrated is the perfect word to describe Smitty. And he was never part of the ongoing "drama" of the band.

anonymousse wrote:Fangora , I like Poppy Montgomery too. And Steve Smith is just an incredible drummer. Deen is good too,but S.S. has quite a lot of experience and years over Deen.

Agree, Agree, Agree and....Agree....

Nope.
I prefer the speed, power, dexterity and vocal abilities, both lead and when giving Steve a blow, and bg (Higher Place bridge, Every Generation, In Self Defense anybody?) that Castronovo brings. Dunbar had crazy speed and power as well. Smitty I rate as decent.

Red13JoePa wrote:and when giving Steve a blow, and bg

Wha?
Deen gives Steve a blow and a bj?
Cum again?

That's a dirty post, Mr Clean.

Yeah, TNC's mind is always in the gutter. I prefer to stay clean and dry, electing to take the high road....and occasionally drop down to fire off some rounds on unsuspecting Loons, wandering aimless through the fields when not grazing.