Guys, I think I know what I am talking about here, I AM the resident GLP drummer dude.

I have played pro for years, all styles and genres.

There is no "best" period. All drummers (and all musicians for that matter) hear music interpreted differently. That is the beauty of it.

Now, don't get me wrong. I worked for Drum magazine in the mid 90's and I remember all the mail we got in care of Neil due to the double tragedies he had endured. I love him for all his creativity. But Neil is not the best. Even he would wholeheartedly agree there. A very humble guy.

For my money, the pro's here on GLP will agree that cats like Steve Gadd, Vinnie Coluaita, Dennis Chambers, Steve Smith, and the more fusion-based guys are "the best" or "most proficient" at their instruments.

My actual favorite of all time? JEFFREY PORCARO. The man with the golden groove. Jeff had chops for days, but played for the song mostly - simple but SOLID. His playing made the music FEEL good. That is what is missing today so much in music. That feel.

Too much autotune, too much digital editing shit.

Anyways, that is my two cents. It is tough to rank guys or judge creative talent in my opinion - so let's just appreciate all drummers and what they bring to the table.