Daru Jones, drummer and musical director for Pete Rock And the Soul Brothers, discusses his role in the legendary hip-hop group, shares performance highlights, and talks about his own break-beat sample packs. Jones, known for his work with various musical giants across genres, brings his unique drumming style and production expertise to Pete Rock’s iconic sound.
Replicating Classic Hip-Hop Drum Breaks with Pete Rock and the Soul Brothers
Formed in January 2018, Pete Rock and the Soul Brothers feature a handpicked lineup of talented musicians, including Mono Neon, Prince’s former bassist. Jones emphasizes the honor of working alongside Pete Rock and recreating the classic drum breaks that define his legendary production catalog. As a composer and producer himself, Jones understands the importance of preserving the integrity of these iconic sounds in live performances.
The group’s debut at the Winter Music Jazz festival in New York City marked the beginning of a successful journey, leading to performances at renowned venues like the Blue Note Jazz Club and Central Park Summer Stage.
Pete Rock and the Soul Brothers performing at Central Park Summer Stage
Daru Jones’ Drum Break Sample Packs: Inspiration for Producers
Beyond his work with Pete Rock and the Soul Brothers, Jones has also carved a niche for himself by creating break-beat sample packs for producers. Following the success of Daru Jones Drum Loops Volume 1, a collaboration with Loop Loft and Native Instruments, Jones released a second pack featuring over forty drum breaks and one-shots.
This latest pack incorporates live drum patterns from a collaboration with artist and percussionist Galaxe (Nick Werth), showcasing their innovative approach to rhythm and sound. Their live “Xio” performance, recorded at Layman Drug Company in Nashville, TN, exemplifies the dynamic energy captured in the sample pack.
Daru Jones and Galaxe performing "Xio"
Daru Jones’ Drum Gear: A Blend of Quality and Innovation
Jones’ signature drum setup includes a Daru Jones New Yorker PDP drumkit by DW drums, Paiste cymbals, and a “Neo Blaq” sub-mic created in collaboration with Solomon microphones. This combination of trusted brands and custom innovations reflects Jones’ commitment to achieving a powerful and nuanced sound.
Conclusion: Daru Jones’ Impact on Hip-Hop and Beyond
From replicating iconic hip-hop drum breaks with Pete Rock and the Soul Brothers to crafting innovative sample packs for producers worldwide, Daru Jones continues to shape the landscape of modern music. His dedication to his craft and his passion for pushing creative boundaries solidify his position as a leading force in the drumming community. His work with Pete Rock ensures that classic hip-hop sounds continue to resonate with audiences, while his solo projects inspire a new generation of music creators.
