Richard

Great place to archive this video.

Talking about sticks...do you think it makes much difference when playing on e-kit?

19 hours ago, Otis said:

I do know that I am the only one who is going to know if I don't play a fill just right, or use the HH instead of the ride, or use a simpler groove than the actual.  Not only no one in the audience will know, not even the band members would know.

Hi everyone! I feel what you say @Otis.  I will add though, that in my case not having ever played a live gig, I want to establish a benchmark of my playing and understanding of sheet/notation, and will shoot to play note per note as possible during my practice sessions. And after establishing that benchmark, in my case, it allows me to recognize my ability level for the techniques, sticking, dynamics of the song, etc. that might need work or study.  That also gives me the security level I need since I already know I am capable of playing "x" song note for note (or almost!).

In a live gig, whenever it happens, I think I would rely more on the feel of the moment (unless it's a hardcore tribute), because anyhow, as you say in your post (quoted above), "no one in the audience would know..."   and whatever you play will be your feel, your version of it, and it will sound unique.

Happy 🥁 all!! Thanks for sharing your post.