Drum Sheet – K’s Choice – Not An Addict

Not an Addict by K’s Choice is more than just a 90s alt-rock classic — it’s a deeply personal, emotionally charged anthem carried by moody textures and anchored by subtly powerful drumming. Released in 1995 on the band’s breakthrough album Paradise in Me, the song became their international calling card, catapulting them from Belgium’s underground scene onto the global stage.

The track began as a raw acoustic idea between siblings Sam and Gert Bettens. Sam, reflecting on personal experiences with dependency and the emotional tug-of-war between control and surrender, penned the haunting lyrics: “It’s not a habit, it’s cool — I feel alive.” The phrase doesn’t just echo through the song — it defines its core tension. Gert developed the music around that emotional center, layering sparse guitar melodies that leave space for atmosphere to breathe.

But it’s the drumming by Bart Van Der Zeeuw that gives Not an Addict its quiet intensity. His performance isn’t about flashy fills or complex grooves — it’s about tone, timing, and restraint. The tom-heavy intro feels like a heartbeat — steady but fragile — and it sets the tone for what follows: a careful build of emotion, held back just enough to create tension, then released with precision. The snare hits land like punctuation marks, adding weight without overwhelming. Every beat supports the vulnerability in Sam’s voice, guiding the listener through the song’s emotional arc.

In the studio, the band recorded at Jet Studios in Brussels, working closely with producer Jean Blaute to maintain the song’s honesty. The drums were recorded with warm, natural room mics to preserve their organic sound. Nothing too polished, nothing over-compressed — just raw human playing that fit the song’s introspective mood.

When Not an Addict broke internationally — especially after its U.S. release — K’s Choice took the song around the world. It became a centerpiece of their live shows, from European festivals to intimate club dates across North America. Live, Van Der Zeeuw sometimes emphasized dynamics more heavily, pulling back even further in the verses and letting the choruses bloom with fuller force. His feel was always central — not flashy, but crucial.

For drummers, Not an Addict is a masterclass in emotional support. It proves you don’t have to play fast or loud to be powerful — you just have to serve the song. And here, Bart Van Der Zeeuw did exactly that.