The sign of a great musician is the ability to progress, adapt, innovate, and explore as many avenues as possible in order to express his or her message. Add to this a drive to better one's self, the will to control one's playing, and an eagerness to expand the boundaries of music, and you have Derek Roddy.

Derek is most widely known as a premier drummer in the death metal community. His blazing hand technique and almost superhuman footspeed has brought him to the fore with such bands as Hate Eternal, Malevolent Creation, Nile, Divine Empire, Aurora Borealis, and Council Of The Fallen. This is, however, nowhere near the extent of his talent.

Derek developed an interest in music at an early age, becoming a dedicated fan before diving headlong into the musical world as a performer. In addition to his phenomenal drumming skills Derek is capable of playing many other instruments. And beyond the speed, thrash, and death metal music that has made him famous, he's equally at home performing jazz, blues, rock, and a variety of other styles.

Derek has also carved a niche for himself as an educator. To that end he's released his own book (The Evolution Of Blast Beats) and DVD (Blast Beats Evolved), and he shares tips and lessons on his own web site (www.derekroddy.com). And who can forget the way he wowed everyone with his performance at the 2008 Modern Drummer Festival Weekend.

Get ready to be wowed again, as we welcome Derek Roddy to Drum Road Trip 2010.