I recommend you to play some jazz bits like bossa nova and fusion. And try to listen to some pro drummers play, like Dave Weckl and Omar Hakim if you know them. Ah yes one more thing, try this site Drummerworld. Damn good site.

I like funk, but i think funk grooves are a bit too simple. Indeed, because there are all simple 8th and 16th only.

Beginners should stick to single padle first, and best recommended with legs heel up.