Absolutely!!

With a good bass player and a solid drummer, you have the foundation upon which to build whatever else you want. You wouldn't build a house directly on the ground. You always construct a solid footing and foundation first.

Some of the best drummers I have seen play live, had basic kits.... small kits. A Kick, a snare, high hat, one cymbal, and a tom or two. In fact, I saw one drummer carry a small kick, with one cymbal connected to it and a snare on a stand.....and that was his kit. 3 pieces and when he played, you knew there was a solid beat to the music. He didn't even have a seat... he stood the entire time.

One song I always point people towards when this topic comes up is the song Black Velvet.

Black Velvet

Essentially a bass/drum groove song that illustrates the concept being discussed, perfectly.

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.