BURBANK, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 12: Josh Freese of The Offspring performs live onstage at iHeartRadio LIVE with The Offspring at iHeartRadio Theater on August 12, 2021 in Burbank, California. (Photo by Andrew Toth/Getty Images for iHeartMedia)

Ever since the Foo Fighters announced that they were playing festivals, we all asked the same question – Who would be drumming for them? There was so much speculation. So many names were tossed around and so many ideas suggested. As it turns out, it happens to be the super talented and much-in-demand Josh Freese that is drumming while the Foos are on tour.
Being a drummer myself, I am very familiar with his body of work. He’s played with many different artists and just so happens to be on one of my favorite albums from the early 2000’s. I’m referring to “Thirteenth Step,” the sophomore release from Maynard James Keenan’s side project A Perfect Circle.

This album is a classic. Or should I say…..an underrated classic. Slick production, brilliant vocal layers from Keenan and just fantastic drumming from Mr. Freese.

Let’s take a closer look at some key moments!

• WEAK AND POWERLESS

  The bass and guitar play off each other so well to kick this song off. Of course Josh’s playing is simple and lends itself to the song. Maynard’s vocals grow larger and larger as the song goes on. The chorus just seems to get bigger with each passing! This one Maynard said is not necessarily about drugs, but anything you’re in love with.

• THE NOOSE

  This is one where we showcase Josh.  His drumbeat hear is so creative.  Not so fancy or busy that it doesn’t work, but it just adds so much to the song.  It’s  really a great example of why he’s considered one of the best.

• THE OUTSIDER

  The whole band is tight on this song.  You have to be.  It feels like it boarders on ambient noise and being almost out of control.  But nope, Josh and company make this one work so well!

• THE NURSE WHO LOVED ME

  OK, so I know there’s no drums in this one, but I have to give props.  They do a bang up job covering this tune originally done by the 90’s band FAILURE.  It’s actually hard for me to pick which version I dig more.

• PET

  Straightforward bangin’, chugging, rock.  Josh plays this so well.  He knows when to get soft, he knows when to thrash it out and beat away.  His dynamics are truly impeccable.

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