well, many people strongly disagree to my opinion, but for me Philthy is/was the best drummer Motörhead ever had.

Sure, Mikkey is a much better drummer, from a technical point of view. But Philthys rumbling sound (compare Overkill on NSTH with current recordings!) was fitting Motörhead songs and sound perfectly well!

Anyway, I hope he'll be okay, soon! I always liked that guy, don't know why

I agree with you 100%, Iron Fist. Mikkey is a monster drummer, but Philthy had a totally unique "busy" style that was instrumental in creating the signature sound of the band. His double bass work was great (but maybe not like a clockwork) and he was a wizard with the cymbals. Philthy could also add a few surprises when playing live. Other examples of Philthy's greatness: The Chase Is Better Than The Catch and Bomber. They just don't sound the same without Philthy. His drumming on tracks like Motorhead and Iron Horse is also totally inimitable. Examples of Philthy songs that Mikkey performs really well: The One To Sing The Blues, Ace Of Spades.

For me Motorhead are very much like AC/DC regards drummers. Phil Rudd added a kind of groove to the bands sound, that was lacking during Simon Wright and Chris Slade's tenures. Phil had an almost 'soft' way of playing the drums, especially apparent on the first few albums, which I liken to him sort of feathering the drums (if that makes sense). I know he was often beating the crap out of his kit, but it just had that smooth kind of groove. Mikkey is an excellent drummer and is a real tub thumper, in the nicest possible way. He does tend to smash the drums more to my ears, which probably works better in some of the faster songs, but as Motorola says certain songs don't sound the same when he plays them. That shouldn't be an excuse not to play them though.

I like Mikey and Phil the same, both excellent. But I prefer Mikey's Overkill than Phil's. Wishing Phil a speedy recovery.