[pounamu]

The art of playing an instrument while being recorded.
I like the levels bit, the velocity thing. Whether we play guitar of percussion or any instrument with an attack that hasn't been compressed we need to think technique and placement of mics. So much to be gained I would think from concentrating on a groove with drums and keeping the drum levels as even as can be with feeling. I make no comment on your skills as a drummer Stx, as a guitarist this concept is something I work on all the time. If I can get the mic placed right and get my fingers feeling the way and get the volume of my picking even enough there is little compression to be done. Like a singeer who shouts when he or she dosn't know they are doing it. Have a look at your wave track and pick out the points at which the drums work and see (hear) what worked. Start from there.
My point of view.

Best
Pounamu