Leland Sklar and Russ Kunkel of The Immediate Family Featured in Three-Part Video Series |

Available Free Through Sunday, February 14 on DrumChannel.com

Russ Kunkel (drums) and Leland Sklar (bass) – two-fifths of Quarto Valley Records (QVR) recording artist The Immediate Family – are the featured guests in a three-part video series on DrumChannel.com, hosted by Don Lombardi (CEO of DrumChannel.com and founder of Drum Workshop Inc.). The series was originally posted on January 18, 2021, and is available free on the Drum Channel YouTube channel through the end of the week, ending Sunday, February 14. After that, it will be available exclusively for members on the DrumChannel.com website.

**Pictured L-R: Russ Kunkel, Don Lombardi and Leland Sklar**

Lombardi states, “Join Russ Kunkel and Lee Sklar as they discuss their roles as the heartbeat of The Immediate Family band. The interview is a great lesson on feel, pocket, groove, musicality and their life experiences. It was an honor to host this interview with these two legends, and I know you will enjoy it as much as I do.”

Where to buy:

Episode summary:

Part 1: https://youtu.be/uzBdVmgZwws

An in-depth discussion on pocket, which also brings up a profound moment for Lee Sklar about body motion when playing. They discuss their experiences in the studio and on the road. Lee tells a story of when he was with Toto and how important it is for the bass player to be there on the downbeat of every song.

Part 2: https://youtu.be/9Px13AHsKIE

They discuss the importance of playing in a band and learning to write a chart. You will also hear from the legendary band members of The Immediate Family about what they look for in a drummer. They discuss the importance of playing “time” together, whether pushing or pulling back, and the importance of breathing. Also, how important it is for the bass and drummer to lock in together.

Part 3: https://youtu.be/WLhDysQZr30

An interesting conversation about playing electric bass versus upright bass. Lee talks about a new book he has out that has been years in the making. A unique “fingering system” that is definitely not what you would expect. As we say on Drum Channel, we want you to learn and have fun.

About DrumChannel.com:

Celebrating 12 years of supporting the international drumming community, Drum Channel offers exclusive content plus an extensive archive of over 550 lessons and 400 shows featuring Terry Bozzio, Chad Smith, Mick Fleetwood, Charlie Watts, Neil Peart, Sheila E., Chad Wackerman, Gregg Bissonette, Virgil Donati, Eric Moore, Luke Holland and many more of the world’s best drummers. Players of all ages, abilities and styles can choose from Drum Channel’s multi-level, sequential lesson plans designed to help them play better or enjoy a variety of DC performances, interviews and panel discussions that will entertain and inspire them.

Visit The Immediate Family online:

Band home page: https://www.immediatefamilyband.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImmedFamily

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheImmedFamily

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theimmedfamily/

Immediate Family documentary Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/immediatefamilyfilm/

Visit DrumChannel.com at https://www.drumchannel.com/

Drum Channel YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-vQ0o1-FxwJAJGOgGu0bBQ

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About The Author

Michael DiMattio

Michael is a singer/songwriter, bass and guitar player, and marketing and graphic design professional in Huntington Beach. Editor of MikesGig.com, he also contributes video and stories on musicians, instrument builders and concerts.

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