Ghost Notes — Metal Drumming Technique | MetalForge
Learn ghost notes in metal drumming: Ghost notes are quiet, subtle snare drum hits played between the main backbeat accents, adding rhythmic complexity and g...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ghost Notes?
Ghost notes are quiet, subtle snare drum hits played between the main backbeat accents, adding rhythmic complexity and groove without altering the overall volume dynamic of a pattern. In metal drumming, ghost notes create the illusion of a busier, more intricate performance while the backbone groove remains locked in place. Mastering dynamic control between loud accents and near-silent ghost strokes separates mechanically precise drummers from those with true musicality and pocket.
How fast are ghost notess played?
Ghost Notes is typically played around Any.
Who is the best ghost notes drummer?
Chris Turner (Oceans Ate Alaska) is among the most cited Ghost Notes drummers, alongside John Otto, Matt Halpern. See the full list on MetalForge.
What are the different types of ghost notess?
Ghost Notes has 4 main variations: Single Ghost Note (One quiet snare hit inserted between backbeat accents); Ghost Note Flurries (Multiple consecutive ghost notes creating a rolling, syncopated texture); Cross-Stick Ghosting (Using a rim click instead of a full snare hit for a different ghost tone); Displaced Ghost Patterns (Shifting ghost note placement to create asymmetric, syncopated grooves).