Bonham didn't come into his own until he settled down briefly around the time of "Physical Graffiti", because of Jason being almost 10 years old. He then worked on his technique, which was further showcased on "Presence" and "In through the out door." His best drum work was on "Achilles Last Stand." Don't get me wrong I like John a lot, I used to mention him alongside Keith Moon. But there is no comparison.
I drummed for 14 years and was self-taught. I know a "little" about drumming.
I'd put Portnoy up there before Bonham. Portnoy has always been been balls out, he's a "craftsman" behind the kit. This is the one drummer I have yet to see close up.
He (Portnoy) goes to the chiropractor where my wife works as a massage therapist once a week when not on tour, or in the studio. He gets an adjustment and a massage while he is there. I would say that is pretty close-up
When I first saw him there, it was too funny that most of the people in the office had no clue who he was.
He probably could be considered the best as he's been on the cover of modern drummer and voted the best about 5 or six times, now), but I still gotta say Bonham.
His sound was HUGE, he innovated many many things and had a right foot like a jackhammer. He is certainly not the most technical, or learned, or polished but his style is so visceral, instinctive and complimentary to John Paul Jones and the rest of the band that one can't help but be floored by his playing. I have been listening to him since I was 4 years old, cruising around in the back of my step-dad's 69 GTO and there are still times that I hear certain parts of songs (that I've heard a billion times) where I have to just stop and say DAMN!!!
All of the players mentioned in this post are great. As a drummer, I love them all and I am always discovering new things, but I'll stick to my guns and say Bonham !!
