Drummers, drum enthusiasts, and even those seeking a drummer are advised to head to The Wiltern in Los Angeles on Saturday (1/8) for Guitar Center’s Drum-Off Grand Finals. So says Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins [ tickets ], who’ll be hosting the event for the third year.

Perkins, who’s been attending the Drum-Off since the ’80s, back when it was held in the parking lot of the Guitar Center in Sherman Oaks, CA, says the event isn’t just a competitive showcase for the best amateur drummers, but a meeting of the musical minds for all of those interested in rhythm and beats. “It brings the drum community together and it brings people’s chops to the top,” he says. “If you want to show off, this is the day. Everyone is rubbing shoulders and everyone wants to show off, not just the amateur guys competing, but everyone there is bringing their best.” 

Among the drumming elite scheduled to appear are Motley Crue’s Tommy Lee with Street Drum Corps’ Frank Zummo in Bezerk, an all-star project featuring Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Matt Sorum (Guns N’ Roses, Velvet Revolver), Jose Pasillas (Incubus), and others. Also on tap is a tribute to the late great Led Zeppelin skinsman John Bonham by his son, Jason, and a collaboration between Tool’s Danny Carey and Mastodon’s Brann Dailor. The late Bonham and jazz-fusion legend Billy Cobham, known for his work with Miles Davis and the Mahavishnu Orchestra, will also be inducted into the Guitar Center’s Drum Legends.

The latter event is of particular interest to Perkins. “As a young drummer, looking at Billy Cobham and hearing him on Mahavishnu and Miles Davis records, it was next-level drumming that I never thought was possible. He has the power of the rock drummer with the understanding of jazz phrasing.”

Perkins is also looking forward to seeing what his former Methods of Mayhem mate Lee has cooked up. “I worked with the guy for a few years,” says Perkins. “He never looks back as far as pushing the envelope. He opens the envelope, rips it up and throws it away. And Jason representing his dad and Zeppelin, he’s part of the legacy. That’s awesome.”

Aside from the pros, the top five amateur drummers–determined by a series of regional competitions–will square off for a prize package worth more than $40,000 and the title of Guitar Center Drum-Off Champion. Previous winners have gone on to acclaim. Last year’s champ, 22-year-old Jerome Flood II, appeared on “Last Call with Carson Daly” following his triumph. Other previous winners Cora Coleman-Dunham and Tony Royster went on to high-profile professional gigs working with Prince and Jay-Z, respectively.

Even the pros in attendance can be inspired by the inventive amateurs competing at this level, Perkins says. “I don’t watch a whole year of basketball, but when it comes down to the finals, I’m watching, because all the best players are there playing their best game,” he adds. “That’s kind of what happens at the Drum- Off.”

Even non-drummers are welcome at the event. “Don’t be afraid to come beat off with the bands at the Wiltern,” Perkins said. “The best drummers will be there. If you’re a guitar player or a singer and you’re looking for a drummer, that’s the place to go. Not only are the guys onstage available possibly, but there will be thousands of guys in the crowd. It’s a good place to put a band together.”  [Source]