All the Small Things Drum Transcription

The verse groove looks simple on paper, straight eighth notes on a closed hi-hat, backbeat on 2 and 4, but the challenge is consistency.

Barker keeps the hi-hat locked at a bright, punchy tempo without rushing, which is exactly the kind of timing discipline we cover in our drum lessons for beginners section.

The pre-chorus adds a subtle snare push that catches most players off guard the first time through. It’s a small rhythmic accent, but it’s what gives the section its lift into the chorus.

If you’re still building comfort with these kinds of syncopated snare hits, our common drum beats guide is a good next step before tackling this one.

The chorus fill is short, loud, and instantly recognizable, four hits that land right on the beat.

It’s a great example of how a fill doesn’t need to be complex to be effective, something we dig into further in our how to play drums guide.

Gear Note

Barker’s driving, punchy hi-hat sound on this track comes down to a mix of technique and setup, tight hi-hats, a fast-responding pedal, and a kick that cuts through a wall of guitars.

If your current pedal feels sluggish or inconsistent at faster tempos, it might be time for an upgrade, check out our picks for the best double bass pedals for pedals that hold up at speed, even if you’re playing single-pedal punk grooves.

Check the rest of the free drum charts here. 

Quick Reference

• Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate
• Tempo: ~148 BPM
• Time Signature: 4/4
• Key Technique: Steady eighth-note hi-hat control, syncopated snare accents