RIP. Levon Helm's cool signature drumming chops and his excellent rhythmic feel with The Band always seemed to me very much like what I heard from Ginger Baker playing with Cream. Very different musical genres and overall band sounds to be sure, but that's the technique comparision I immediately noted and mentally made whenever I listened to their great recordings and/or when I saw those two great bands live. I bet Levon or Ginger could have each sat in with the other's famous group, in a plnch, and made it work musically, somewhat similarly and very nicely, Of course, Levon sang a bit also.
Was lucky enough to attend one of his "rambles" at his house in Woodstock, and met him after the show. Memorable night.
