T.T.

Named in reference to the USA Series “Psych” episode “American Duos,” this exercise was inspired by the song “Shout” by Tears for Fears. It’s meant to feel very comfortable in the hands and work its way through all muscle groups and “levers,” starting with some natural decay basic strokes then heading into some quick, twitch-motion accent-tap and Moeller passages. The score emphasizes clean alternating strokes in a moderate-to-fast tempo range, gradually layering accents into flowing passagework. Players will also encounter extended groupings of three and four that transition smoothly into accented check patterns, giving the exercise both a relaxed flow and bursts of intensity.

Hollywoodland

This exercise is a pretty straightforward double and triple beat that also features the bass drums in a few different areas. It works the players through both high- and low-level double and triple strokes, both isolated and in combination. That, along with a few hockets and backbeats, ensures that this exercise will excite both the player and the listener. Much of the material is presented at a bright tempo, with tightly interlocked figures between snares and tenors. Basses are written with clear splits and rhythmic layering, while accent patterns cut through the texture, creating a full battery chorale. Repeated measures with consistent pulse also build stamina and dynamic clarity.

Lucky Strike

This one is sort of a cousin to the previously released “The Daily Bugle”. It covers different variations of paradiddle stickings and double strokes, and continues on with the already-established groove theme. “Lucky Strike” confirms its character as a paradiddle-driven workout, with numerous alternating sticking patterns written across the snares and tenors. Players are challenged to maintain consistency through mixed groupings, with layered accents and backbeats providing groove-oriented drive. The bass drums reinforce this by anchoring key rhythmic cells, ensuring the exercise not only builds chops but also teaches subdivision awareness in a groove-based context.

Totem

This exercise serves firstly as a triplet roll builder. It covers every single triplet roll partial and combination in a typical check-part sequence, which then leads to a section focused on full roll dynamics and phrasing (something that’s commonly found in our writing). The first variation emphasizes single-drum rolls before moving into around-the-drums patterns. “Totem” clearly cycles through all triplet roll placements, giving players a systematic approach to triplet-based roll vocabulary. Later sections explore dynamic shaping with crescendos and controlled releases, simulating the phrasing demands in competitive material. The ensemble textures also highlight voice-leading between sections, making this exercise valuable both technically and musically.