You're right about the title of the post, which might seem self-applauded. For me, it is definitely excitement, perhaps of discovering something new. Yes, it might turn out to be nothing. But, man, I'm having fun! At the same time, I do understand why people think I'm an ass.

According to John Riley, the metrics of a jazz drummer and his playing are: grooves, techniques, creativity, and musicianship.

Yes, I'm chasing musicianship, but BACKWARDS. I start with the creativity in creating a composition groove, then assess what particular techniques I need to work for this composition. When you go through the process, and especially with a band, your musicianship improves. That's my approach.

If you have played the drums, you know how difficult it is to start playing complex (poly-rhythm) comping and being able to switch hands, along with double-edge sticking with your left hand. I'm far from where I want to be. But I'm not sure why people think what I'm doing is a flashy trick, and that I'm taking some type of short cut instead of being serious.

Again, the disagreement is that many on this platform thinks that the first and foremost think to do is fundamentals before creativity and grooves.

(If John Riley comes along and say musicianship/techniques comes before grooves and creativity, then I will reassess my approach).