In case you missed these posts, let me mention them again. I am working on making an indexed page where they can reside. Oddly enough the post on the Maxon tube screamer is the most visited of all our posts.

• Maxon OD808 = Ibanez Tube Screamer 808
  A post on how these pedals are the same, but you will save a chunk of change going with the Maxon.
• How to add a header image to your myspace
  It’s easier than it seems, though you could spend days looking for the myspace code for it.
• Downloadable tab files
• Sell your CD at your local record shop
  How to distribute an album yourself!
• The right way to grow your friends list on Myspace
  A downloadable PDF we put together that details some methods for (legally) adding tons of friends and keeping them up to date on all your shows.

If you’re a drummer, you know how much more difficult it is to practice than a guitarist or bassist. They can just fire up a practice amp almost anywhere, but there is really no equivalent for a drummer.

Nevertheless, don’t underestimate the usefulness of a good practice pad! Building up muscle memory is a vital part of drumming and a practice pad will allow you to do that and it is portable.

Check out these examples or see a list of options.

Ahead Double Sided Mountable Practice Pad - This practice pad is mountable so you can put it on a cymbal stand if you want. Otherwise, just set it on a table and practice. Also, and probably most importantly, it has a snare-like side as well as a regular side for snare-like practicing.

Kaces Knee Practice Pad - The Kaces Knee Practice Pad is made for on-the-go practicing. You can use it on a table or you can strap it to your knee and practice. The drawback is that it is only 6″.

Sabian Quiet Tone Pack - If you want to splurge, go for this awesome package which includes the 14 inch Quiet Tone Drum, Mute/Practice Pad with Remo Ebony Head, 1 Pair Jojo Mayer Vic Firth Sticks and a good DVD, “Secret Weapons for the Modern Drummer.” The DVD will be great for all the punk, emo, and hardcore drummers out there.

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Practice is a series of blogs devoted to helping you get the most out of your practice times, either individually or as a band.

Your ears are the most important instrument you have. Before you go to practice and rawk, be smart about how to preserve your hearing. We encourage you to read the awesome Are You At Risk? article over at H.E.A.R’s website. Better safe than deaf!

One great thing the article notes is that conventional earplugs will cut highs but let too much bass through, making things sound muddy. The best solution is to get custom-molded earplugs. Many struggling musicians can’t afford the cost, though, and if that’s you, check out these great earplugs over at zZounds. Both of these earplugs will provide an even cut of sound over all frequencies, meaning you can practice safely while still hearing everything.

Hearos High Fidelity Ear Plugs

Vater Safe and Sound Ear Plugs

Practice is a series of blogs devoted to helping you get the most out of your practice times, either individually or as a band.