Joel is a really good friend of mine, so I don't want to seem biased, but, if you have not heard him play you absolutely need to. I've seen him several times and he is truly amazing. In all the times I've seen him I actually never got to see him drive a big band until about three weeks ago. He's been playing drums for Steve March Torme (Mel Torme's son) and they have had a number of gigs in the area. Might still be going on. Not sure. Anyhow, Joel drove that train like it was a bullet. Held everything together, swung like crazy, compensated for a bit of weakness in the horn section, and cut every chart perfectly. Really amazing. Go see him. You won't be sorry!

[QUOTE=Joel Spencer]To David

Hey Dave, congratulations on your new "Vintage Drum Guide Forum" web site ...outstanding work!!

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Hello everyone, my name is Joel Spencer and I perform as a professional jazz and studio recording drummer in Chicago and throughout the country. Also, I currently serve as a full-time Lecturer in the Jazz Studies Program at Northwestern University and teach privately at my home studio in Wilmette, IL.

You may want to visit my new Web Site, at: spencerdrums.com

Here you will find a comprehensive background on my professional career along with a number of feature sections which can be found in the menu bar.

If you wish to reach me, please click on the "Contact" button in the menu bar. I am currently taking on new students for the Fall season, so please do not hesitate to contact me if you are interested in private study.

All the best with your career as a professional drummer!

Sincerely,

Joel Spencer

"So, you want to become a successful drummer? Develop your Time Feel. Everything is about the beat. Your professional success will rely on the musical success of your feel...your beat. Believe me, you can go to the bank with that!"