The technique of playing two consecutive bass drum hits is commonly known as “double kick” or “double action.”
It is one of the challenging techniques for beginners to master, similar to the double stroke on the hands. However, once you master it, your drumming skills will significantly improve.
Here are some tips for mastering the double kick technique:
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Understand the concept of rebound
The foot technique for the bass drum is closely related to the stroke of your hands. Just like the rebound on your hands, the foot technique relies on utilizing rebound as well.
Hand rebound
When learning the double stroke on your hands, the first step is to understand “rebound.” It refers to the technique where the stick hits the drumhead and bounces back.
Foot rebound
The foot technique also involves utilizing rebound, but in this case, you’ll use the spring tension of the pedal to generate rebound. Mastering the rebound with your foot is the preparation stage for double kick.
Learn the basics of rebound
Place your foot in the center of the pedal, similar to throwing a dart. Avoid pressing the pedal against the drumhead or pushing too hard. Utilize the centrifugal force generated by the rebounding beater to perform consecutive hits.
Practice the technique
Once you grasp the concept of rebound, practice performing 1 hit, 2 hits, 3 hits, and 4 hits, gradually increasing the speed.
For the second hit, slightly squeeze or control it, similar to the technique used in the double stroke on hands.
After each hit, place your heel back on the floor to stop the pedal. The final key point is to lower your heel to the floor at the end.
Apply the technique to rhythm patterns
Double kick alone is not enough to improve your skills. Combine it with various rhythm patterns and four-way coordination exercises to develop a sense of rhythm and coordination.
Remember that mastering the double kick technique takes time and consistent practice.
Start with a tempo that you’re comfortable with and gradually increase the speed.
Practice the same phrase daily, and over time, your foot strength and technique will improve. Don’t worry, with patience and dedication, you’ll be able to master it.
Once you’ve mastered the double kick with your right foot, you can apply it to double bass drum pedals.
Applying the double kick technique to triplets or sixteenth-note patterns on double bass drum pedals is easier than alternating single hits.
Other foot techniques
Slide technique
The slide technique involves sliding your foot smoothly on the footboard to play the bass drum.
By adjusting the position of your foot on the footboard, you can perform consecutive hits.
Down-Up technique
The down-up technique, demonstrated by Steve Gadd, involves using a heel-down position and adding an upstroke with the heel-up position.
This technique utilizes the muscles in your shin and the back of your thigh. It provides better endurance but requires time to master for sound control.
It’s important to note that double kick is not possible on the hi-hat pedal, as it would result in a “splash” sound due to the connection between the first and second hits.
For double hits with your left foot, it’s recommended to use a double bass drum pedal or twin pedals.