advanced · LCM = 12
Three against four. Longer cycle than 2:3, creating a more complex, pushing feel.
Pattern — 12 subdivisions per cycle
Mute one layer to focus on the other. LCM = 12 subdivisions per cycle.
About 3:4
3:4 creates a cycle of 12 subdivisions (LCM of 3 and 4). Three attack points on the top layer, four on the bottom, creating 7 distinct attack points per cycle. Common in West African, Indian, and some jazz music. The interaction creates a gentle push-pull that takes longer to resolve than 2:3.
The LCM of 3 and 4 is 12, so the full pattern spans 12 subdivisions before realigning.
Verbal mnemonic
"pass the god-damn beer"
A classic verbal cue: 'pass the god-damn beer' maps the 7 attack points in a 3:4 cycle. Each syllable is a note in either the 3-layer or 4-layer.
Practice levels
Hear the combined pattern with visual highlighting
Start →Identify which ratio you're hearing from a short list
Start →Identify with one layer muted — hear the implied pattern
Start →Identify ratio, muted layer, and tempo simultaneously
Start →Examples in music
Various West African Pieces
Traditional
Master drummers use 3:4 constantly
Bolero
Ravel
Contains 3:4 relationships
Jazz Standards
Various
Comping often creates 3:4 against walking bass