Jake Reed was born and raised in Kansas City and went on to study drumset under two of the great educators of our time: John Von Ohlen at University of Cincinnati and Peter Erskine at USC. While in grad school at USC, Jake gradually worked his way into the LA scene doing live dates and recording sessions with colleagues and mentors alike. He has performed or recorded with Bill Bolman, Johnny Mandel, Lisa Loeb, Bob Mintzer, and many others. His most active current project is drumming in TrioKait, led by his wife, pianist and composer Kait Dunton. The group has just recorded their second record. Jake has also just released his first book, “Jazz Drumset Etudes, Vol. I,” which takes a new approach to developing jazz vocabulary.
In this podcast, Jake talks about:
His early years in Kansas City
The differences in the teaching styles of Von Ohlen and Erskine
Learning to “pay attention” when listening and playing to absorb and convey more information quicker
A couple of the more unique projects he’s been part of, including Cow Bop and The Vibrometers
His new book, and how its approach differs from other jazz method books
Using melodies, not rudiments, to develop your drum language
Being married to a fellow musician who is also his boss
His relationship with TrioKait bassist Cooper Appelt

Jake Reed endorses Gretsch Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, and Remo Drumheads.