What makes a great drum groove?

[Jim Nazium]

Over the years I've listened to a lot of the great bass players and tried to understand what makes a great bass groove. It recently occurred to me that I haven't done the same thing with drummers. I guess I've heard the great groove drummers, since they tend to be in the same bands as the great groove bassists, but I don't really know who they are, and more importantly, what is it about their playing that makes it groove?

So, what do you think it is? Are there parts of the kit that are ahead or behind other parts? Are there accents in particular places? Can you suggest specific recordings and specific aspects of the drumming that I should listen to for a deeper understanding of the groove?

BTW, I posted this same question on a drum forum and all I got back was "listen to Steve Gadd"

 

[KenHR]

I generally find I like drummers with a fairly solid, on-the-beat kick and who hit the snare just a hair behind the beat.

 

[DWBass]

One that doesn't waver! Solid meter and tempo. No overplaying and transitioning every 4 bars! That's just frikkin' horrible. I hate that with a passion. I prefer drummers who play more like a drum machine. I don't need all that extra.

And yeah, Steve Gadd is the perfect example of a cat who is solid! Gives a solid groove every time. He was first call in the 70's, 80's and early 90's!

 

[48thStreetCustom]

I like drummers that play slightly ahead of the beat like Stewart Copeland. It makes the band sound more energetic.

 

[tangentmusic]

Deep Purple's Ian Paice not only Rocks, but Swings..
Great feel and groove for a hard rock drummer.