Dave Lombardo, the renowned drummer for Slayer and Mr. Bungle, has just released his debut solo album, Rites of Percussion, on May 5th via Ipecac Recordings. Lombardo had been toying with the idea of a drum album since 1998 when his Mr. Bungle bandmate Mike Patton introduced him to Tito Puente’s Top Percussion album. He produced the entire project in his home studio during the pandemic while Mr. Bungle's touring was on hold. He used various percussive instruments, including a large concert bass drum, timpani, grand piano, and many more. The album’s lead single, “Journey of the Host,” is rhythmically dense and features Lombardo's masterful drumming skills. Lombardo described the experience of working on the album as one of the greatest he has ever had, and he is excited to share the results with the world.
What Worked
The most impressive aspect of Rites of Percussion is in its fullness. Lombardo is not only a masterful drummer with a wide array of influences and stylistic ability, but also understands arrangement and layering like a veteran songwriter and producer. Within each song, elements of jazz from around the world, plus funk, soul, and a variety of world music influences, are mixed to combine in exciting ways. "Journey of the Host" sounds like a monster movie set to the late 70s New York City hip-hop scene, while "Interfearium" adds ghostly piano notes to further the eerie backdrop that emerges from a number of tracks.
What Didn't Work
While you don't have to be a drum head to appreciate what Lombardo has done, fans of his more experimental work with folks like John Zorn might find this more interesting that those hoping for the mayhem of Slayer.
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