Drum Pad Practice Question

Hi all,

I got drum lessons years ago and learnt the basics of playing, but nothing really complicated. My main instrument is guitar, and I play a bit of piano and bass as well.

I'd love to be able to able to play drums to a competent level so that I can record and be my own backing band (not looking to be the next Mike Portnoy or Danny Carrey or anything), as well as improve my rhythm.

In terms of style, I really like jazzy trip hop and 60s rock inspired drums - artists like Tame Impala, The Beatles and Radiohead – fairly simple, but complimentary to the song with tonnes of groove and cool fills – have included some examples at the bottom of this post.

Problem is I don't have a drum kit to practice on, however I just recently rediscovered my old drum pad. Will practicing rudiments on this help me for the time being until I get access to a drum kit? If so what exercises/routine do you think would benefit me the most? What will I be missing out on by not having a drum kit to practice on initially? I don't have a huge amount time to dedicate to it, but would like to fit it in when I can.

Would appreciate any help!

Examples:

Tame Impala - Not Meant to Be: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9C7ZVFDfa0

Radiohead - High and Dry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6KMwLdCssw

The Beatles - Rain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liJbriVSn9o