Peter Erskine has always been one of my favorite drummers, so it was a pleasure to transcribe his comping from the opening 4-bars of Joni Mitchell's "I Wish I Were In Love Again" (Both Sides Now).
You can see/hear how Peter makes use of 4-way coordination; bass drum, snare, ride cymbal and hi-hat (foot). Notice the quarter-note pulse in the ride cymbal which propels the band along while the other voices of the drumkit interplay, creating the swung jazz feel. Observe Peter's phrasing and touch as you listen to the sample clip. It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing!
"I Wish I Were In Love Again" - Joni Mitchell
