by Ron WynnMike Clark is a fine contemporary drummer whose reputation and profile have risen dramatically in the '90s. His reputation started in the seventies when he was a regular drummer for The Headhunters and has also sat it with Chet Baker, Woody Shaw and Bobby McFerrin. He's mainly recorded for Stash, but recently did session for Enja. He became known in hip-hop circles as one of the most sampled drummers used on tracks. Clark knows the tradition, can anchor groups, drive rhythm, inspire soloists and when given the spotlight plays with imagination and verve. He released his first solo project , Actual Proof in 2000. A collaboration with Paul Jackson and Marc Wagnon filled the time between records, and in 2003 he released Summertime, a fine fusion showcase of his impressive percussion skills.