"Rattlehead" is a thrash metal track from Megadeth's debut album Killing Is My Business... And Business Is Good, released in 1985 during the formative years of the thrash metal genre. The song helped establish Megadeth as a key force in the Big Four of thrash metal alongside Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax.
The drum performance drives the track at a relentless 187 BPM, delivering the tight, aggressive rhythmic foundation that defines early thrash metal drumming. The playing is straightforward and punchy, making it an accessible entry point into the genre while still demanding precision and endurance at speed.
Unique Drumming Characteristics
- Driving straight eighth-note hi-hat patterns maintaining momentum at 187 BPM
- Thrash metal snare backbeats on beats 2 and 4 with consistent hard-hitting attack
- Kick drum patterns that lock tightly with the rhythm guitar riffs
- Straightforward 4/4 groove with minimal syncopation, emphasizing forward momentum
Skills You'll Develop
- Building stamina and consistency playing at high tempos on the hi-hat
- Developing a tight, controlled snare backbeat in a thrash metal context
- Coordinating kick drum patterns with heavy guitar riff accents
- Maintaining a steady, driving 4/4 groove at speed without rushing
- Foundational thrash metal drumming technique and feel
Drumscore
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