Yeah it's true that the drum machines are having a bigger role nowadays but I don't think our jobs are in danger. There will always be a need for drummers. No matter how advanced the artificial intelligence may get, there is no way on earth to replicate the creativity or the expressional and artistic playing by some of the greats.

In terms of the whole "band nerd" thing I think movies like Drumline and American Pie (a stretch) have helped to bring some respect to the bandies..

but then again, drummers were and always will be cool.. its the male flutists that have it bad.. haha