I’ve heard many, many drum solos and “exhibition” performers who are as tasteful as dirt. This guy however…I can listen to him all day. More than a drummer, he’s an artist and pure musician. Keep it up mate.
Wow! Virgil’s abilities are absolutely incredible! There is so much going on here! His technique, accuracy, independence, and power is undeniable! He is most definitely far beyond the “ next level” of any drummer!
@@treefrog3560 yea I am, he can’t groove to save his life they said as they say there and no one danced, he could come out on fire literally and the stunt would be parallel
Virgil is an animal!! I saw him at the Baked Potato in North Hollywood CA years ago was beyond amazing . Like at the end of this video he is starts to go nuts, he just kept going faster and faster. Just when I thought it could not get any faster, he just pours it on....
Doubles Donati. 💪 I swear his sound and vibe changed when he left Pearl and went D Dubs. This is peak Virgil right here. How the drums are mic'd.. 🤌 His sound engineer also gets a gold 🏆.
One of my absolute favorite drummers of ALL time. His solo project of Ruination and his older album are absolute masterpieces. The only other band I hold in such high regard is Tribal Tech. VD is an absolute maestro not just as a drummer but an overall musician.
I’ve seen a number of his videos and also am a drummer although it’s been some time since I’ve played. Still can’t figure out exactly what he’s doing. Meaning I couldn’t articulate the phrasing or sticking/rudiments he’s doing half the time lol. He’s amazing
Only one reason Virgil Donati didn't replace Mike Portnoy and play for Dream Theatre is HE'S JUST TO FXXKING GOOD!!! Can't have a new drummer upstaging the rest of the band!
Man, a lot of people have claimed that for various musicians best ever and I’m a connoisseur of drummers and a 35 year veteran myself and I’ve got to tell you that I won hundred percent agree with you. This is the best freaking solo I have ever heard him play hands-down one of the best solos I’ve ever heard you nailed it and I’m really shocked that you did. I’m so used to it not going that way but I’m telling you this solo is freaking amazing off the chain. I’ve never heard him play more refined and precise, precision, aggressive, cutting edge, powerful incredible solo. Thank you for posting this, my friend you have my vote easily the best so I’ve ever heard virgil play maybe anyone play ever maybe
Thank you so much, Craig, for your kind words. Even at 36 years old, I still get emotional watching this video. He is truly a one-of-a-kind drummer, and it's always amazing to see him play. I really appreciate you taking the time to leave your thoughts here! 👊🙌
Seriously man I have seen Virgil in the 90's doing a clinic in New Orleans from 15 feet away, even his big solo on youtube with the toms suspended in mid air, that solo is amazing but bro this is incredible performance. Man than you I have sent it to like ten people today. Take care and thanks again for turning me on to it.
If aliens ever came to earth and were musicians… Donati would surely be one 😅. So glad i got to meet him in #laredo a few years back at a gig. Awesome guy!
I had the incredible privilege of seeing Virgil with his band last night at Bird's Basement in Melbourne (his hometown). He was every bit as impressive as this video demonstrates. Seeing it live added to the sound experience in that I could make out some of the ideas more distinctly. Also met Virgil after the show. A lovely, humble fella.
Yeah I love the guy and think he is without parallel on the instrument, but I'm the same! I remember seeing him doing a clinic back in the 90s and I had to leave before it had finished- it was like total 'sensory overload!!'
Rarely do top-level "technical" drummers have THIS MUCH to distinguish themselves from the others. Guys like Donati, Bozzio and Keith Carlock who have "their own thing" are a pleasure to listen to. Donati is especially interesting because he's not a "Steely Dan" or a "Zappa" or a "Sting" drummer.
The words that come to mind when I listen to Thomas Lang are things like "smoothness" and "fluency". On the other hand, when I listen to Virgil Donati, words like "strong torque" and "thick trunk" come to mind. By the way, if this is a performance from 2023, why is he using Pearl? Of course, it still sounds good.
I first heard him in the 90's & late 90's when he went on tour with Tina Arena (the whole band was excellent, but he almost seemed overqualified), then he did Planet X. The rest is history. He's constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the drumset. I wouldn't call it easy listening; it's not background music.
The only thing that is impossible is to play like other people play. That is IMO the richness of these solos, if anything, not the comparison of chops itself
Obviously very very good, to of his game, but I'm afraid No1 for me is still Dylan Elise. If anyone is not familiar with him go and check him out. INSANE!!!!
I'm trying to figure out a drummer that could get the closest to this solo. I'd say Dave Dicenso is the only one I could think of that could get close.
![Virgil Donati - 7/16 + Improv [Dresden Drumfestival 2023]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EbpTk7wg5-Y/mqdefault.jpg)
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Are you sure it‘s from 2023? He is with DW for some years now.
This is what a life dedicated to your art looks like.
The best comment - and compliment conferred on someone - I think I've ever heard! That's superbly said.
I’ve heard many, many drum solos and “exhibition” performers who are as tasteful as dirt. This guy however…I can listen to him all day. More than a drummer, he’s an artist and pure musician. Keep it up mate.
You think this guy is good, check out Tony Royster Jr.
His solos are so musical and complex at the same time! One of the best in the world!
Wow!
Virgil’s abilities are absolutely incredible!
There is so much going on here!
His technique, accuracy, independence, and power is undeniable!
He is most definitely far beyond the “ next level” of any drummer!
Almost, but not quite. VC plays on a level not matched by anyone else.
Heard of Gergo Borlai?
@@raylombardo4186agreed
@@raylombardo4186 Vinnie is clearly one of the GOATs but he can't do what Donati does, no one can.
@kent-oveprestberg3578 he is a DC clone, or tries to be.
VD's got it all: dexterity, creativity, control, punch, craftsmanship, sound, musicality... fill in what I've forgotten!
What you forgot was his love of overplaying.
@@machinebeard1639 sure, but I love the way he does it!
@@machinebeard1639 No one is perfect. Not even the master himself :)
To overplay you need a context, you can't really 'overplay' in a drum solo- that's a bit of an oxymoron@@machinebeard1639
Awesome drumming Virgil! Those Pearl's sound real good too.👍
Incredible skills and clean execution. It takes a lot of hard work to be able to play like that!!!!!!! Insane solo 🔥
What an athlete! Virgil is beyond this world.....
Exactly, not a musician, an athlete
@@bonzology322you can’t be serious.
@@treefrog3560 yea I am, he can’t groove to save his life they said as they say there and no one danced, he could come out on fire literally and the stunt would be parallel
A very unique and expressive solo incorporating time keeping. You keep watching because he keeps you guessing what he’s going to do next.
Exactly. I love that unpredictability in drummers. And it's hard to do it too, so you don't see it in a lot of drummers
He's the drummer's version of a Jeff Beck. Nobody but him can do that shit. He owns it.👍
You got SHIT part right
@@scor440 Show us on the picture where the drum instructor touched you.
Mangini totally can and more!
yup and also Lang
@@MikeSmith-xj6jc
@@MikeSmith-xj6jcbeing a fan doesn’t make this a fact 😅
A master at work!
Virgil is an animal!! I saw him at the Baked Potato in North Hollywood CA years ago was beyond amazing . Like at the end of this video he is starts to go nuts, he just kept going faster and faster. Just when I thought it could not get any faster, he just pours it on....
Insanely great!!!! Fantastic drummer!!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Welcome to Asia, Virgil!!
His playing actually scares me.. It's nicely unsettling..
Wow. I can’t think of ANYONE else who’s doing this.
This is just so ridiculously good.
I totally agree man!!! 😅
It's almost impossibly good
He can't be human.. right? I mean WTF 😂
This guy built his own style, I know that word gets thrown around alot but he really did
Doubles Donati. 💪
I swear his sound and vibe changed when he left Pearl and went D Dubs. This is peak Virgil right here. How the drums are mic'd.. 🤌 His sound engineer also gets a gold 🏆.
What he does is so amazing and not obvious. Genius!!!
A true master! Sticks are gliding smooth as could be! He has mastered the heavy light touch. Not many can say that! Very nice job
Love Virgil! Nobody can take anything from him! This man can really mix it up!
Vigil is the Einstein of Drummers…. That solo was astrological…
Insanely good 💥💥💥💥 the next Asia drummer!!
to my ears ..he's the best drummer ever.
You're forgetting VC !!!
Nowhere close to Colaiuta
@@RichardEllis-p7lVinnie for me is my favorite, Virgil is the most capable.
@@RichardEllis-p7l virgil is better imo
@@chepevc nowhere close
Wow, awesome👍
Not only is this monster playing but his kit sounds amazing!
Those double bass patterns are off the hook🤘
This is fantastic! 💜
The best drummer in the world.
I believe he is the most capable ever.
One of my absolute favorite drummers of ALL time. His solo project of Ruination and his older album are absolute masterpieces. The only other band I hold in such high regard is Tribal Tech. VD is an absolute maestro not just as a drummer but an overall musician.
Those Pearl's sound killer!
Virgil.. wtf. So much here.🔥🔥🔥
Grande!!!
This was awe inspiring. Truly appreciate this masterclass performance.
a total beast !!
Virgil is the best ever.
I’ve seen a number of his videos and also am a drummer although it’s been some time since I’ve played. Still can’t figure out exactly what he’s doing. Meaning I couldn’t articulate the phrasing or sticking/rudiments he’s doing half the time lol. He’s amazing
I know what you mean. Drummer myself
Che groove! Un grandissimo
I'm at a loss for words. Just, "WOW"! 😮
Great left hand!!
Woah! The fast rim clicks! Holy shit man! That's insane!
There are few that come close to what he is able to do wit that finesse and power.
Marco Minneman, Terry Bozzio, and Thomas Lang.
AMAZING MIRACLE
One of the bests !
just so beyond...
Only one reason Virgil Donati didn't replace Mike Portnoy and play for Dream Theatre is HE'S JUST TO FXXKING GOOD!!! Can't have a new drummer upstaging the rest of the band!
Excellent
Man, a lot of people have claimed that for various musicians best ever and I’m a connoisseur of drummers and a 35 year veteran myself and I’ve got to tell you that I won hundred percent agree with you. This is the best freaking solo I have ever heard him play hands-down one of the best solos I’ve ever heard you nailed it and I’m really shocked that you did. I’m so used to it not going that way but I’m telling you this solo is freaking amazing off the chain. I’ve never heard him play more refined and precise, precision, aggressive, cutting edge, powerful incredible solo. Thank you for posting this, my friend you have my vote easily the best so I’ve ever heard virgil play maybe anyone play ever maybe
Thank you so much, Craig, for your kind words. Even at 36 years old, I still get emotional watching this video. He is truly a one-of-a-kind drummer, and it's always amazing to see him play. I really appreciate you taking the time to leave your thoughts here! 👊🙌
Seriously man I have seen Virgil in the 90's doing a clinic in New Orleans from 15 feet away, even his big solo on youtube with the toms suspended in mid air, that solo is amazing but bro this is incredible performance. Man than you I have sent it to like ten people today. Take care and thanks again for turning me on to it.
@Craig Sweeden Thank YOU man!!! 👊
Absolutely right ! +1
Some of the most technical drumming i have ever seen. Amazing
Seems i m hearing perfect sounds of nature . Complex Structures but alive .. out standing quality
Amazing
Remember seeing him with Loose Change at the Grainstore in the 80s.
Βeyond amazing. Virgil is a drum wizard
those 4 16th notes at 5:33... perfect
He almost has some of Buddy Rich's speed. Awesome
Seeing him live with loose change at the Grainstore was LIFE CHANGING
Virgil is Back with Pearl ? I love doubles on the Bass drum
This was refreshing
Wow! 🤩
Oh my gosh, Donati is a monster!!?
If aliens ever came to earth and were musicians… Donati would surely be one 😅. So glad i got to meet him in #laredo a few years back at a gig. Awesome guy!
his the greatest drummer in history this man cannot be touched
I had the incredible privilege of seeing Virgil with his band last night at Bird's Basement in Melbourne (his hometown).
He was every bit as impressive as this video demonstrates. Seeing it live added to the sound experience in that I could make out some of the ideas more distinctly.
Also met Virgil after the show. A lovely, humble fella.
A Leonardo Da Vinci mixed with Michelangelo on Drums!....Not even Colaiuta can match this guy! .....Simply Unbelievable!
C.A.☺👍
Go listen to Holdsworth… “Secrets”. Then eat those words that just dribbled out your mouth.
Hot damn, Virgil!
Technically, one of the best drummers, for sure. But I don't know how much I can actually listen to. I feel exhausted after 5 or 10 minutes...
Yeah I love the guy and think he is without parallel on the instrument, but I'm the same! I remember seeing him doing a clinic back in the 90s and I had to leave before it had finished- it was like total 'sensory overload!!'
Amen....Praise tha Lord.
C.A.🤪
That drummer w 3 Million subs, needs to listen and learn from this guy and VC.
Rarely do top-level "technical" drummers have THIS MUCH to distinguish themselves from the others. Guys like Donati, Bozzio and Keith Carlock who have "their own thing" are a pleasure to listen to. Donati is especially interesting because he's not a "Steely Dan" or a "Zappa" or a "Sting" drummer.
0:52… bass drum pattern sounds like Bleed with Meshuggah 👍
He was in southern sounds aussie band in the 90s
The words that come to mind when I listen to Thomas Lang are things like "smoothness" and "fluency".
On the other hand, when I listen to Virgil Donati, words like "strong torque" and "thick trunk" come to mind.
By the way, if this is a performance from 2023, why is he using Pearl?
Of course, it still sounds good.
Boss Donati
Incredible! Doesn’t Virgil play DW though?
Wow
You got to be Italian to play that great!
Crazy accuracy 😅
Yes
Not as good quality as the original but definitely The BEST Drum Solo of any year !!!!!!
This video says Vigil Donati best impossible drum solo 2023. It should say 2013, because in 2014, Virgil went to DW.
His play is too sick and so musical... As if watching Jeff Pocaro's play in today!
A m b I d e x t r o u s!
GOAT
A whole lotta really fast notes
Stupid Comparison Generation! Grow Up, Kids! Music Isn't A Competition And No One Is Better Than The Other! Every Musician Has His Own Voice!
Thats WILD....
Does this guy play in a band? I've heard his name often a lot
I first heard him in the 90's & late 90's when he went on tour with Tina Arena (the whole band was excellent, but he almost seemed overqualified), then he did Planet X. The rest is history. He's constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the drumset. I wouldn't call it easy listening; it's not background music.
Vigil is the king of "dig me" licks!
No- I don't think that that's what he's about
THEM FEET!
Ok.... Not even the most insane modern younger drummers can do this... Alien..
The only thing that is impossible is to play like other people play. That is IMO the richness of these solos, if anything, not the comparison of chops itself
Obviously very very good, to of his game, but I'm afraid No1 for me is still Dylan Elise. If anyone is not familiar with him go and check him out. INSANE!!!!
BEST EVER 😂😂🙏🙏
6:35: another tasty groove
Holy freaking polyrhythms batman!
Hilarious that DreamTheatre passed on this titan...
Their loss!
DT should have taken him !
he plays DW Drums. this is super old
That makes sense, he is in his prime here, not quite at this level now but still ridiculous
When people tell me how amazing Peter Criss was. 😂
I'm trying to figure out a drummer that could get the closest to this solo. I'd say Dave Dicenso is the only one I could think of that could get close.
Dave weckel
Thomas Lang is Virgil's idol
Matt Garska comes pretty damn close.
Derek Roddy
Rubbish!@@kearneydillon4803
Snare!!!!!!!!!