THE SHORT SET: A TALE OF TWO DRUM CIRCLES

What kid (and parent) doesn’t need to whack something in a rhythmic fashion once in a while? Here’s a comparison of two unique, popular weekly drum circles: the Saturday morning Kids Rhythm Club at the Remo Recreational Music Center (pictured) and the Sunday afternoon Venice Beach Drum Circle.

COST: Both are free.

PARKING: Plenty of free lot and street parking at Remo. In Venice, parking is either pricey or nonexistent.

GEAR: Remo provides congas, bongos, sticks and more. At Venice, you bring your own. Some creative regulars fashion makeshift shakers out of trash.

SETTING: Remo is a sound stage-like space staffed by professionals. In Venice, you’re on the sand and the bathrooms are a schlep and dubious after dark.

THE CROWD: At Remo, you will be among the fine dwellers of the 818. In Venice, the guy next to you with the thrashed snare drum may or may not own shoes.

THE DRUMMING: Remo’s drum circle leader Mike DeMenno makes even the most beat-challenged feel like the next Ringo Starr. Venice drummers don’t really do the “leader” thing, but the rip-roaring cacophony invites you to hit it like you know what you’re doing.

NIPPER SAYS: “I liked the nice man at Remo, but the beach has good pizza.”

Venice Beach Drum Circle; on the sand at the end of Wavecrest Avenue, every Sunday late afternoon, www.venicebeachdrumcircle.com. Remo Recreational Music Center, 7308 Coldwater Canyon Ave., North Hollywood. (818) 982-0461; 11 a.m. every Saturday.