Linkin Park Drummer Colin Brittain Takes On Iron Maiden Blind Test

Taking on an iconic heavy metal track with zero preparation is no simple task, but Linkin Park’s current drummer just proved his skill behind the kit. Colin Brittain made an appearance on the popular drum channel Drumeo for a high-stakes challenge, tackling a massive Iron Maiden song without having ever heard it prior to the session.

Brittain took part in Drumeo's signature series titled "For the First Time." The show pushes professional percussionists outside their comfort zones by playing them tracks stripped of their original drum recordings. The guest musicians must then figure out the arrangement on the spot and perform their own drum parts after listening to the tune for the very first time.

For Brittain's attempt, Drumeo selected the legendary Iron Maiden track "Hallowed Be Thy Name." The Linkin Park member had to listen through the tune, break down its structure in real time, and invent a drum line that matched the track's heavy metal style.

Colin Brittain Iron Maiden Drumeo video

During the "For the First Time" process, drummers listen closely to the music to identify tempo changes, rhythmic cues, and dramatic shifts in the song's energy. Brittain had to use his musical instincts to map out where to place heavy beats, subtle fills, and dynamic transitions without any prior knowledge of how the original drum track sounded.

Once he was ready to play, Brittain recorded his unique take on "Hallowed Be Thy Name." He delivered a powerful performance that captured the classic feel of the track while putting his own personal spin on the arrangement.

Linkin Park drummer Drumeo challenge

Brittain currently serves as the drummer for Linkin Park, making his Drumeo session an exciting showcase for fans wanting to see his raw talents in action. Taking on an unfamiliar piece of music under studio pressure allowed him to demonstrate how quickly he can adapt and create behind the drum set.

By taking on Iron Maiden's complex composition without a safety net, the beatmaker showed off the technical precision and creative quickness required for top-tier rock musicians. The impressive performance gives viewers an inside look at how professional drummers improvise and compose under tight constraints.