I have found it (at times) a little difficult to fully appreciate Bob’s drumming and artistic flair for the following reasons:

1. Drums are not my primary instrument 

2. The vocals and guitar(s) so fully dominate the soundscape of The Black Parade, the drums are maybe a little more challenging to pull out and highlight. 

3. Part of me, even just a small part, has always suspected that because Bob had the blessing AND unfair task of replacing Matt Pelissier he had to (possibly) conform his style to Matt’s. 

4. The “Personnel” of Danger Days had multiple drummers listed and he had left the band at the tour, so identifying the evolution of the drumming was a challenge. 

I realize how ridiculous this could sound to someone who is very very familiar with Bob’s unique touches, but I have come to really really appreciate Bob’s drumming by repeatedly listening to Conventional Weapons and then backing in to his choices on The Black Parade and Danger Days. 

Part of me also wonders if the choice to revamp Conventional Weapons into Danger Days had him say “enough is enough”. I suppose we’ll never know, but I wanted to use this post as an opportunity to celebrate his skills as musician and thank the band for giving us access to Conventional Weapons. What a gift. 

Bob Bryar Appreciation Post: Conventional Weapons