7 years is a long time to be away from an instrument. So much has changed, but the basics will always remain the same. If as you say he was a pretty good drummer back in the day, he didn't get there overnight. I tooks days, weeks, months, and years of practice, growth, and development to get to his level. He will have to do the things he did then to get back and beyond where he was and where he wants to be going forward. Patience is key. He has to get back into playing shape physically. His arms and legs will tire more easily. He may even experience fatigue that he never did before. He should approach his return to playing methodically. He has to chart a plan for development and take one step at a time. The most important thing to remember is that he has to remember what drew him to music and drums in the first place and have fun in the process. I'm getting back into playing after a two year hiatus of non-serious playing where I didn't even play in church. I only messed around at home. I have to get my mind and body back to where it used to be. God Bless!
