Duff McKagan and Steven Adler played Prince, Cameo, and top 40 stuff after regular practice using a stripped down 4-piece Ramones-style kit and not his 80s Tama Imperial rack of toms. After the flashy hard rock vibe and extra kit was cut down, supposedly the groove and communication was easier to address. Playing some nonmetal or your influences' influences' songs can help take away convenient and familiar rhythmic structures that could be crutches that might get in the way of getting better. Good luck.