Hi guys.  I haven't posted in a while because I've been really busy moving out (finally leaving home,) working and practicing--pretty much in that order too.  In my three years at uni I've met about 20 or so musicians whom I've become really good friends with.  Recently one of the guys I'd met my freshman year contacted me stating that he was in dire need of a drummer for a project and that he thought I'd fit the bill.  Immediately I got extremely excited because this guy (guitarist, vocalist, jack-of-all-trades-type) has built up a really impressive reputation as being one of the premier musicians in the area.  His repertoire generally consists of hard rock bordering on progressive but with REALLY catchy hooks and vocal riffs.  In addition, the bassist that would be in on this project is a bit older than us (we're both 21, he's 26) but is very, very reputable as a perfectionist and gifted bassist.  His bands are generally some of the "best" in the area as far as turn-out.  We also have a synth/keyboard player and a few miscellaneous musicians for percussion, etc--think along the lines of early Santana, Mahavishnu Orchestra and Mars Volta mixed in with a lot more progressive mainstream rock. 

I have been drumming for 11 years, but only really seriously for the last 4-5 years.  I've gigged before but nothing to the extent that this band could provide.  Both of these guys have hook-ups regionally as well as possess the prestige and reputation to be able to play anywhere in this area for any price asked!!!  This could definitely be the break I've been looking for!!!

The problem is that the music we're doing is extremely progressive with a myriad of "difficult" time-changes and song-structures.  I'm confident in my abilities to contribute to the band, but I don't feel that I can match their diligence and dedication to the writing process--I'm just not that seasoned, yet.  I feel that they (we) rehearse a song almost to death before moving on and it becomes really tedious and overwhelming at times.  It seems that sometimes I can notice a bit of frustration (may be perceived though) with the two guys at the progress of our songs.  I don't know if it's me they're frustrated with, or just the fact that they've both admitted that this is the most "difficult" music they've ever done...  In any case, they continuously ask me if I'm enjoying the material to which I try to appear as enthusiastic as possible without appearing unprofessional.  This is getting rather long so I guess that I should get to the point...

How do you guys handle gigs (or bands) that may be a bit "over your head" for whatever reason?  I must reiterate that I am very confident in my abilities but a lot of this rehearsing is still very new to me.  Previously I've played with the same guys, playing and rehearsing in the same styles and I'm afraid I've picked up some rather bad habits...  I really would love for this to work!  Thanks for any help!

I do keep things simple and pay a lot of attention to the guys, plus we rehearse in the guitarist's studio so we record everything... the problem seems to be that the songs start changing a lot and we keep adding stuff.  Maybe it's because we've only gotten together 3 times so far... maybe I'm expecting too much too soon?

You say you are recording your songs - well keep it up and make sure you record the last version!!!  Then put in the extra time needed on your own.  If you really want, you'll put in the work.  I strongly agree that you should work at getting a system down that allows you to record your playing and write down what you are working out.  Develop a short hand notation to capture important changes, hooks, etc. so you can go over it later.  Listen to the things that work or don't.  Then spend time in your easy chair thinking through the song, hear it in your head, then try and play it.  If you get an inspiration in the middle of the night, write it down or use a micro-recorder and make a note to yourself.  You're in the creative process and you need to learn how to work through it.   If you want to play that kind of music you got to spend the time and if it seems tedious, tough beans - focus on the goal.  If you are really happier just going to a jam session, than do that.  A lot of the best stuff in music and life comes not from the most talented but from those who aren't afraid of hard work.  ENJOY!