Well, this is definitely a controversial statement.
Arin Ilejay, the relatively new drummer of Avenged Sevenfold recently spoke with UK's Rhythm magazine and was asked about his drumming influences:
"In so many ways, Lars really is the best metal drummer," Arin said. "He doesn't have the crazy shredding chops that a lot of drummers have, but he has the best stage presence of any drummer. He's out of his mind, but writes incredible parts for the music. He's the Ringo Starr of metal."
Wasn't Ringo Star always the punchline of The Beatles? Regardless, I think I understand what he's getting at, but I'll allow Arin to elaborate:
"I used to think drummers had to shred to get anywhere, but when you look at the music industry, it is saturated with incredible musicians and that doesn't mean that your band is going to make it. It's not enough to just shred.
"On Hail To The King, along with all of our fans, I thought I was going to be writing the craziest drum parts for that record, something to fill the shoes of The Rev. But the band wanted me to create my own sound and legacy. They wanted me to dumb it down and play caveman-like and spaced out, with big fills that support the music. I was bummed out about that at first, but it helped to have heard drummers like Lars. For the next album, we have kicked around the idea of having some crazy fills."
I can absolutely see his point. I can also see how I'm sure many of you will disagree with his sentiment. You can't deny that Lars influenced countless metal fans to pick up a pair of drumsticks and begin drumming, and there is something to be said for that.
Now, let's get your opinion… do you think Lars is the best metal drummer?
