Back Pocket by Mat Campbell

DescriptionBack Pocket by Mat Campbell is a dynamic multi-percussion solo that blends drum set performance with electronic trigger pad textures. The piece explores rhythmic illusion, shifting time feels, and octatonic colors while maintaining a strong sense of groove. Because the performer moves between driving patterns and sudden metric twists, the work creates a vivid and energetic musical narrative.About the MusicThe solo begins with a tight build-up in 9/8. Short motives repeat and shift, allowing the performer to create forward motion while playing with the listener’s sense of pulse. Soon, the texture expands into a crisp 12/8 groove that adds momentum and contrast. These early sections lay the foundation for the piece’s larger rhythmic journey.As Back Pocket develops, each new section introduces a fresh perspective on meter and feel. The performer navigates grooves in 9/8, 12/8, and half-time 4/4, shaping each texture with clarity. Additionally, a woodblock acts as a built-in metronome, anchoring the music while other voices move freely around it. This creates a playful tension between stability and fluidity. The layered motives, repeating gestures, and controlled shifts help tie the structure together as the music approaches its final ascent.The return of earlier material brings renewed drive and sets the stage for the open solo. Here, the performer can highlight personal style and take full advantage of the piece’s rhythmic vocabulary. A final burst of energy leads into the closing statement, which echoes the opening ideas while adding new weight and direction. Throughout the work, pre-recorded tracks support the more adventurous rhythmic layers, giving the performer freedom to explore bold ideas with confidence.Performance and StyleThis solo suits medium-advanced percussionists who enjoy groove-based playing combined with metric exploration. It invites strong stage presence, precise articulation, and confident pacing. Moreover, the use of electronics expands the sonic palette, allowing the performer to blend acoustic energy with subtle electronic color. Because the setup is compact and visually engaging, the piece works well in recitals, competitions, amplified concerts, and outdoor venues.Composer BackgroundMat Campbell writes percussion music shaped by rhythmic play and structural clarity. In Back Pocket, he draws from personal “pocket” grooves—patterns he keeps ready for improvisation or ensemble work. His use of hidden numerical details, vocalizations, and octatonic gestures gives the solo a personality that is both bold and expressive. The result is a piece that rewards careful preparation and invites creative interpretation.InstrumentationDrum setElectronic percussion padDuration: 8:10More InformationExplore additional works in our Multi-Percussion Solos collection. To browse more titles from C. Alan Publications, visit the C. Alan Publications website.ConclusionBack Pocket by Mat Campbell combines groove, metric invention, and expressive energy into a striking solo for modern percussionists. Its rhythmic twists, electronic elements, and performance flexibility make it a memorable addition to the multi-percussion repertoire.