Student Recording Highlights: New Drum Performances from the Studio
- Josh Kastleman
- Dec 4, 2025
- 3 min read
One of the most exciting parts of drum lessons at Josh Kastleman Drum Lessons is watching students grow through real recording experiences. Over the past several weeks, several students stepped into the studio to record full drum tracks of the songs they’ve been working on. Each recording represents hours of focused practice, improved technique, and the confidence that comes from learning music students genuinely enjoy.
Below is a look at the latest performances, along with a bit of history behind each song and the drummers who made them famous.
Aiden Performs “The Call of Ktulu” by Metallica
Aiden recently tackled “The Call of Ktulu”, an instrumental masterpiece from Metallica’s 1984 album Ride the Lightning. The song is known for its dramatic, cinematic feel and complex rhythms. Lars Ulrich, Metallica’s original drummer, brings a mix of driving beats and nuanced dynamics that make the track a favorite among drummers and metal fans alike.
Recording this song in the studio allows Aiden to refine timing, control, and stamina, all while learning to interpret challenging musical arrangements. You can see all of Aiden’s performances here: Aiden’s Performances.
Blaine Performs “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons
Blaine also recently recorded “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons, one of the band’s most recognizable hits. Released in 2012, the song features uplifting rhythms and melodies that are driven by Daniel Platzman’s precise and energetic drumming. Blaine’s performance demonstrates strong timing, clean fills, and musical expression, showing how students grow while working on real songs they love.
Camden – All the Small Things by Blink-182
Camden returned to the studio with a clean and energetic recording of All the Small Things, a pop-punk classic released in 1999 on Blink-182’s Enema of the State. The original track was played by the legendary Travis Barker, whose explosive drumming helped define the band’s sound.
Camden continues to build an impressive list of recorded songs, and each new recording shows his steady progress behind the kit.
See all of Camden’s performances:https://www.joshkastlemandrumlessons.com/camden
Carter – Welcome to the Jungle by Guns N’ Roses
Carter brought serious intensity to his recording of Welcome to the Jungle, one of the most recognizable rock songs of the 1980s. Steven Adler’s drumming on the original track blends rock groove with controlled aggression, giving the song its signature drive.
Carter handled the fast transitions and high-energy sections with confidence and solid technique.
Kohler – The Take Over, The Breaks Over by Fall Out Boy
Kohler tackled one of Fall Out Boy’s standout tracks from their Infinity on High album. The song features Andy Hurley’s tight, intricate drumming—full of sharp hi-hat patterns and quick transitions.
It’s a challenging piece for any drummer, and Kohler approached it with focus and precision, showing big improvements in both timing and consistency.
Ryker – My Own Summer (Shove It) by Deftones
Ryker stepped into a heavier style with his recording of My Own Summer from Deftones’ 1997 album Around the Fur. Abe Cunningham’s drumming is known for its atmospheric feel, groove-based patterns, and explosive attacks.
Ryker captured the dark, moody energy of the song with strong control and steady timing throughout the track.
Sage – I Just Wanna Live by Good Charlotte
Sage recorded I Just Wanna Live, a high-energy rock song from Good Charlotte’s 2004 album The Chronicles of Life and Death. Drummer Chris Wilson brought crisp, upbeat rhythms to the original track, and Sage delivered a confident performance that matched the vibe well.
His timing, transitions, and consistency continue to improve with each new recording.
Why We Record Songs in the Studio
Recording is one of the best tools for learning. Students gain:
Real performance experience
Greater confidence behind the drum kit
A clear sense of progress over time
Motivation to complete songs and master new skills
These recordings are included at no extra cost for all drum students.
Learning Drums with Drums In Color
Many students also benefit from the Drums In Color system, a visual rhythm-learning method that helps drummers of all ages—especially beginners and visual learners—pick up rhythms faster and stay motivated.Learn more: https://www.drumsincolor.com
Enroll in Drum Lessons
If you or your child is interested in learning drums, this is a great time to get started. Lessons are available in Tooele, Stansbury Park, Erda, Grantsville, and surrounding areas.
Learn more:https://www.joshkastlemandrumlessons.com
Sign up directly:https://www.joshkastlemandrumlessons.com/sign-up
As always, each of these students should be proud of the work they’ve accomplished. Watching them grow through songs they genuinely enjoy is one of the best parts of teaching. Looking forward to many more great recordings in the studio!
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