Bundle Drum Sheet & Video – Rainbow – Catch the Rainbow

Released in 1975 on Rainbow’s debut album Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow, “Catch the Rainbow” is a slow-burning, emotional epic that blends bluesy melancholy with progressive hard rock. For fans of drums, this track stands out not through bombast, but through restraint, touch, and atmosphere—making it a study in subtle power.

The song was composed by Ritchie Blackmore and Ronnie James Dio during the formative days of Rainbow, shortly after Blackmore left Deep Purple. Drawing inspiration from Jimi Hendrix’s “Little Wing,” “Catch the Rainbow” evolved from a shared love of lyrical guitar work, ethereal textures, and soulful storytelling. Blackmore brought the haunting chord structure and soaring melodies, while Dio crafted lyrics filled with poetic imagery and longing. Their chemistry was immediate—this song became a cornerstone of the album’s identity.

Behind the kit on the studio version was Gary Driscoll, known for his tasteful and laid-back style. Driscoll’s drumming on “Catch the Rainbow” is minimalist but deeply expressive. He doesn’t fill space unnecessarily—instead, he supports the dynamics of the song with delicate cymbal work, ghost notes on the snare, and tom rolls that feel like emotional punctuation marks. His playing lets Dio’s vocals and Blackmore’s guitar breathe, while still giving the song weight and pulse. The song’s slow tempo and open feel demand a steady hand and a feel for tension and release—qualities Driscoll delivers beautifully.

“Catch the Rainbow” became a staple of Rainbow’s early live sets, often expanded into 10-minute performances that allowed the band to stretch out musically. Notable renditions include their 1976 show in Cologne and the legendary 1977 performance in Munich, where Cozy Powell, who replaced Driscoll, took the drums to a new level. Powell added a more dramatic flair to the live versions—slow, thunderous toms and cinematic swells that turned the song into a powerful journey. His interpretation brought a heavier, more orchestral tone to the track while still honoring its fragile soul.

For drummers, “Catch the Rainbow” offers a masterclass in emotional discipline. Whether it’s Driscoll’s gentle groove or Powell’s live drama, the drums are never just timekeepers—they are storytellers, shaping mood and motion. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the quietest beat can leave the deepest impact.