I would hope someday that it would be more of a collaboration, but it isn't right now. It's basically if you don't like what you're playing, come up with something better. If I like it, you can play it. If I don't, play what I did. If it sucks, then I've got myself to blame.
Some people mistake it for egotism.
Only when Patrick starts goofing around instead of listening to Reznor's instructions does Reznor show any frustration. Patrick nods his head yes. Vrenna, who's known Reznor since his high school days in Mercer, Pennsylvania, beats his electric drum kit until his arms nearly fall off and knows when to offer suggestions. He good-naturedly jumps up from his stool when Reznor twice dives into and knocks down all the drums. With the road manager's help, Vrenna immediately repositions the equipment while Reznor, pleased as a bowler with a strike, resumes his spot at the mike.