Last year's UK National Drum Fair threw up a broader-than-ever selection of vintage kits, none more magnificent than this complete Ludwig Blue Note.

Essex drummer and ex-fireman Steve Roots is the proud owner and he says, "The Blue Note was first seen in the 1959 Ludwig catalogue and made its last appearance in 1971.

"Mine came via eBay from a dealer in Denver, USA, in October 2003. I bid £1600 and got it. The serial numbers on all the keystone badges are close and all the shells are dated inside, July 1969."

"Levon Helm passed peacefully this afternoon," a statement on his website reads. "He was surrounded by family, friends and band mates and will be remembered by all he touched as a brilliant musician and a beautiful soul."

Born in Elaine, Arkansas on 26 May 1940, Helm began his professional music career playing in Ronnie Hawkins' band in 1957. During his time with Hawkins, he met Robbie Robertson, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel and Garth Hudson. With them, he formed The Hawks, the group that would back up Bob Dylan in the mid-'60s as he transitioned from acoustic folk to rock 'n' roll.

By 1968, Dylan had gone into semi-retirement after a near-fatal motorcycle accident, but The Hawks stayed together and became The Band. All five members were multi-talents, and in Helm they had a true triple-threat: drummer, singer and songwriter. Make that quadruple - he also played mandolin. Some of The Band's most enduring songs featured Helm singing lead, including The Weight, Up On Cripple Creek and The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.

Rich Pagano, drummer and co-vocalist with The Fab Faux, says that "Helm will be remembered as a great vocalist, but drummers will remember him as an extraordinary player. Everything he played was just right - not complicated, but perfect. Just watch Up On Cripple Creek."

Pagano played with Helm on a number of occasions, most notably at some of the popular Midnight Ramble concerts that Helm staged at his barn-like studio next to his home in Woodstock, NY. "I would play drums on a second kit whenever Levon would play mandolin and sing," says Pagano. "He never told you what to do, but just by watching him, I realized the fundamentals of making playing and singing one."

Following the breakup of The Band in 1976 (documented in Martin Scorsese's film The Last Waltz), Helm continued to play and record. Without Robertson, the members of The Band regrouped in 1983 and resume touring, but the 1986 death of Manuel (he hanged himself after a club show) and the 1999 death of Danko (from a drug-related heart attack) put a definitive end to The Band.

When helm was diagnosed with throat cancer, he underwent radiation treatments which initially robbed him of his ability to sing. Gradually his voice came back, and in recent years he won Grammys for the albums Dirt Farmer, Electric Dirt and Ramble At The Ryman.

"His legacy will be as someone who was true to himself," says Pagano. "In his music and the way he lived, he expressed the essence of an artist."

Armand Zildjian, then president of the Avedis Zildjian Company, introduced the K Zildjian Constantinople series in back 1998.

The aim was to recreate the look, feel and ultimately the sound of the original Turkish-made Kerope Zildjian Ks. After the death of Armand in 2002, the baton was handed over to R&D director Paul Francis and his team, who continue to develop the range, creating new models and series enhancements.

Build

The series' apparent suitability for jazz is echoed by the collaborative design input from several top jazz drummers including Adam Nussbaum with the 22" Renaissance ride, Kenny Washington 20" Bounce (and its larger 22" Bounce) and Elvin Jones with the 14" hi-hat.

Until recently the choice of Constantinople crashes was somewhat limited - in fact, there were only two - a 16" and 18". Zildjian has now added three new models to partner the existing models - a 15" and 17" crash and a 19" crash/ride.

With the exception of the Renaissance ride (which features intense 1mm grooves cascading over its entire surface), each of the other models is lathed in a similar way to the Turkish-made Ks of the 1940s and '50s.

Across the upper and lower cymbal surfaces there are tiny pin-prick grooves starting a path from the centre and spiralling their way to the outer edge. The second is a much deeper and wider groove, measuring nearly a centimetre, which follows a similar path.

On the hi-hat especially, this lathing pattern represents a considerable change to the design, which once featured 'cast' rings over its surface. The bell cups on 15", 16", 17" and 18" crashes are now similarly shaped with a slightly smaller 'vintage' style.

The bell of the 19" crash/ride however, features a fairly large domed-shape bell (similar to the bells on the Renaissance and Bounce rides), which is said to offer increased projection - an essential element for such a large crash.

The complex hammering process literally stamps each of these models with its unique sonic identity and dark tone. New for this year is additional hammering of the hi-hat and the 16" and 18" crashes, compressing the bronze alloy significantly and creating a darker tone.

The hammering on the both of the rides is so intense they almost appear to have been vandalised with a succession of large hammer blow clumps joining together to form incredibly deep indentations.

Hands on

Softly 'tickling' around each cymbal demonstrates a dark and surprisingly trashy tone which is far removed from anything crisp or clean. When struck with something a little more forceful, the crashes suddenly explode, discharging a huge whooshing effect, like an unnerving gust of wind that appears from nowhere.

Once these are played in a band situation it becomes difficult to detect the trashy side; instead they seem to have undergone a slight change of character, cutting through where necessary while perfectly blending in smoothly.

But then there are those who by sheer bloody-minded determination are fated to achieve their goals. Such a drummer is Luke Johnson, aka 'Jocko', the man now powering Welsh nu-metallers and anthemic pop-punks Lostprophets.

When Ilan Rubin, the talented US sticksman who had joined the 'Prophets for a stint following the departure of original drummer Mike Chiplin, announced he was joining Nine Inch Nails, Luke was determined he would take his throne. Having already proved himself with Californian punks Amen and his own band Beat Union, the West Midlands drummer literally went and camped on the 'Prophets LA doorstep until they let him in. That's tenacity.

Now, with the release of the band's excellent fifth album Weapons and the first tracked by Luke, he has now well and truly made Lostprophets' drumstool his own.

"It's nice to be sat here doing this interview three years down the line," Luke told Rhythm when they caught up with him at Cardiff's Music Box rehearsal space ahead of the new album's release.

"Writing on the new record and having a band of brothers again. It's nice to belong, even though I'm a Brummie in a Welsh band!"

Here we bring you pictures of the drum setup Luke is using with the 'Prophets, plus snippets from that interview, which you can read in full in  Rhythm issue 203. Alternatively, you can  subscribe to Rhythm Magazine to read interviews with the world's top drummers each month.

Jose Pasillas Joins Vater

Vater are very excited to welcome Jose Pasillas of the multi-platinum band Incubus to the Vater Artist Family!

Jose and Incubus are currently on tour in Europe before they return to the United States for a summer tour with Linkin Park. Vater tell us that Jose Pasillas is now using the Vater 7A in wood tip.

More at: www.vater.com

Meinl expands Byzance Vintage Series

Meinl has expanded the highly popular Byzance Vintage Series. Designed and developed in close cooperation with internationally famous drum artist Benny Greb, three new Sand Cymbal Models are now introduced - 18" Sand Thin crash, 18" Sand Medium crash and 22" Sand Crash/Ride. "After the huge success of Benny's Sand Rides and Hats, we got together with him and started to develop these new models," explains Meinl's product manager Stefan Mueller. "We had a clear vision of what we wanted to hear in these new cymbals, and I am proud to say that we were able to come up with these new sounds for him which reflect his unique style perfectly."

The new Benny Greb Signature Byzance Vintage Sand Cymbals are hand hammered from B20 bronze alloy and feature a sandblasted surface with a vintage sound and look. Their sounds complement his Sand Rides and Hats perfectly.

The 18" Sand Thin and Medium Crashes are pitch matched, dark sounding cymbals with a short sustain. What stands out is their relatively trashy crash sound with a modern white-noise character. The 22" Sand Crash-Ride is a very unique cymbal; the combination of the unique hammering patterns, the sandblasted surface, and the lightweight creates a roaring sound with lots of low end. Three rivets round out that special cymbal with an overall dark, earthy and almost mysterious sonic character. Another new addition is the matched Byzance Vintage Sand Cymbal Set that includes a 14" Sand Hat, 18" Sand Thin Crash and a 20" Sand Ride. This set is the perfect introduction to the world of Byzance Vintage sounds and is a must have for all fans of Benny Greb's drumming and sound and for fans of musical cymbals in general.

More information at: www.meinlcymabls.com

Watch Benny play the cymbals here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ob4-YXdeYps&feature=youtu.be

Video Link

http://zildjian.com/Videos/artist-performance-videos#/v/zRxy-sQ1PLE



As well as performances on his Acoustic kit and Zildjian cymbals, Gavin will also incorporate a demonstration on the Gen16 award winning AE Cymbal System as part of his clinic.

Bob Wiczling, Zildjian's International Marketing Manager said, "We are extremely proud to have Gavin represent Zildjian on the upcoming Asia tour.  He continues to be one of the world's most sought after clinicians, having conducted clinics extensively across Europe and the USA.  Now Asian drummers will have a unique opportunity to see Gavin in person and benefit from his clinics."

Confirmed dates for Zildjian's Asia Tour with Gavin Harrison include:

CONFIRMED CLINIC DATES AND CITIES:
October-14 - TOKYO - JAPAN 
October-15 - TAIPEI - TAIWAN 

October-16 - HONG KONG - HONG KONG
Venue:  Academy Hall, Tom Lee Music, 12/F Megabox, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Time:  8:00 PM
Contact: E:  music@tomleemusic.com, T: +852-2737 7602

Ocobert-18 - BANGKOK - THAILAND
Venue:  Thailand Cultural Centre - Smaill Hall
14 Thiamruammitr  Road, Huay Khwang, Bangkok 10310
Time: 16:00 
Contact:  thmusic@loxinfo.co.th

October-19 -  MANILA - PHILIPPINES

October-21 - KUALA LUMPUR - MALAYSIA
Venue: 4th Floor Bentley Music Auditorium
3, Jalan PJU 7/2, Mutiara Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Time: 2.30 PM
Contact: E: adrianwong@bentleymusic.com, T: +603 7727 3333

October-22 - SINGAPORE - SINGAPORE
October-25 - BEIJING - CHINA
October-26 - CHENGDU - CHINA 

Please check www.zildjian.com for more details on venues and clinic times as well as news on the upcoming Gavin Harrison Asia Tour Prize Competition.

ddrum's Uptown kit is constructed from handpicked highly figured red alder and is head turner as well as candy to the ears.  The Uptown's 100% Alder shells allow for a lower tuning range, but in this six-piece setup allow the player to cover all tunings and accents of any style of music.  Available in Natural Alder the Reflex features 22 x 18", 10x 8", 12 x 9", 14 x 14", 16 x 14", and matching 14 x 6.5" snare drum, mirror chrome 2.3 mm steel counter hoops, Faceoff lugs, Fixtpitch suspension tom mounts, and bass drum Resolifts for maximum resonance, projection, and presence for any size Reflex bass drum.

Reflex is the kit of choice for artist as versatile as Derrick Wright with Adele to Five Finger Death Punch's Jeremy Spenser.

Vintone Snares

ddrum introduces the Vintone line of metal snare drums.  These drums are a mix of classic tone and style and the consistency and strength of modern drum making.  This family includes the cut of steel, dry wash of aluminium, and the subtle warmth of nickel over brass. All drums feature the ddrum Faceoff lug, Hybrid Steel/Brass snare wires, and classic throw off.

Available in:

14 x 5" Steel                                          

14 x 6.5" Steel                                      

14 x 8" Steel                                          

14 x 5" Nickel over Brass                  

14 x 7" Nickel over Brass                  

14 x 6.5" Aluminium 

Further details can be located at: www.ddrum.com  

Evans has launched the 'Evans Black Chrome' series of drumheads, ideal for the Rock/Metal/Progressive drummer that hits hard, plays fast and desires a new, attractive aesthetic with a punchy tone.

For drummers who want both 'the look' and 'the sound', the Evans Black Chrome drumheads are the first sleek, black mirror-like 2-ply heads that deliver a robust tone, controlled sustain with exceptional ease of tuning. The two-ply heads consist of a 7mm optically clear film over an 8 mm black film, for exceptionally strong durability and the sleek, mirror-like appearance. The combination of these opposing films controls sustain and provides accentuated mid-to-low frequency response.

"Our Black Chrome drumheads were designed for drummers with the need for speed, heavy attack and a sleek and smooth aesthetic," says Dick Markus, Evans Product Manager. "These are sure to turn ears - and eyes!"

Evans Black Chrome drumheads are now available. 

For more information on Evans Drumheads, please visit: www.evansdrumheads.com

The Gretsch 'Round Badge' practice pads feature a silica gel surface designed to emulate realistic stick rebound. The dense wood base adds durability and an authentic feel. An 8mm pad mount inset on the bottom fits any standard practice pad stand or cymbal stand for easy mounting.

The pad is also backed with non-skid foam rubber for stability when used on a flat surface, such as a drum or tabletop and are available in 6" or 12" dimensions and with either the Grey or Orange Round Badge logo.

More details at: www.grestchdrums.com

Los Cabos Drumsticks has expanded its manufacturing capabilities with the recent addition of a custom built, high performance computer sorting system nicknamed 'The Spider' that can sort high volumes of drumsticks according to their individual weight and pitch and is aimed at increasing the quality of the company's drumsticks by offering a greater degree of weight-accuracy for paired sticks.  

"Pitch pairing is something we've wanted to do for a few years now," said Matt Carter, director of marketing and artist relations.  "According to our customers, we're producing some of the highest quality, longest-lasting drumsticks on the market.  Now we can take our overall quality one step further."

Company president Larry Guay worked closely with the University of New Brunswick engineers to ensure the design and operation of the project would meet the needs of this growing company.

"I think it was a great project for both the university and Los Cabos Drumsticks," said Guay.  "We gave a young engineer the opportunity to design and build a rather complicated machine.  He gained real-world design and work experience in his field and we got a great machine."

Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nl7GgJlY3v8

For additional information, please contact: www.loscabosdrumsticks.com

The Gretsch Renown Purewood Limited series continues in 2012 with American hickory wood. Highly prized for its natural strength and density, hickory is a natural extension for the Purewood series.

Tonal properties for the bass drum feature tremendous low end combined with punchy attack.

Tom tones have an emphasis on the higher and lower frequencies to produce a focused, lively and controlled sound.

The hardness of Hickory produces a solid wood tone and crack in the snare while retaining sensitivity for all styles of playing.

Shell interiors are finished naturally and shell exteriors are finished in natural gloss lacquer to enhance the unique visual characteristics of hickory. Production is limited to just 35 pieces of each configuration.

Renown Purewood Breakdown

100% American Hickory

Die cast Hoops

Matching Wood Hoops on Kick Drum

30 degree bearing edges

Natural Gloss exterior with natural shell interior

Two Pre-Configured shell-packs

20", 10" & 12" rack toms 14" floor tom, 14 x 5.5" snare

22", 10" & 12" rack toms, 14" & 16" floor toms, 14 x 6" snare

For nearly 30 years, Ralph Peterson has been one of the most distinctive and recognizable drummers in jazz. His career began by being handpicked by Art Blakey as the second drummer in the legendary bandleader's Jazz Messengers Big Band until Blakey's passing in 1990. Through a career that has lasted more than 30 years so far, Ralph's drumming has led to collaborations with artists such as Terence Blanchard, Branford Marsalis, David Murray, Roy Hargrove, Jon Faddis, Michael Brecker, Gerri Allen and Betty Carter.

Peterson's latest recording,The Duality Perspective, his sixteenth as a leader and second on his own Onyx Productions Music Label, features both an All Star Sextet as well as a brand new Fo'tet configuration.

Ralph feels that The Duality Perspective  embodies youth and maturity; past, present and future; and diverse stylistic approaches based on a common language. In a bit of word association, Peterson characterizes the young hungry Fo'tet as 'dry ice, so cold it'll burn you,' and the all-star Sextet as 'richly rooted, one foot in the tradition, the other foot in tomorrow.' But as he acknowledges: 'Each has a distinct sound and approach, yet they have a commonality at the core.'

In addition to his on-going stage and studio career, Ralph is currently a professor in the percussion department at the Berklee School of Music in Boston, Massachusetts.

Ralph is playing Meinl Byzance Jazz, Extra Dry and Traditional Series cymbals exclusively.

Take a look at Ralph's artist profile on www.meinlcymbals.com for more information and a diagram of his new Meinl cymbal set up.

Joey Jordison entered the hearts and minds world-wide as drummer and co-songwriter of Slipknot and thanks to his ultra fast grooves and thunderous fills, Joey is one of the most popular and distinctive personalities in today's modern Metal scene.

Paiste honors Joey's passion for eccentric and unique cymbal designs with a special edition in its Alpha series that are both a visually and sonically close fit to Joey's current Slipknot touring set.

As the name reveals, Black Alphas contain Paiste's innovative black "ColorSound" coating and each cymbal features 9 silver placed Tribal-S logos. Unique and deep hammer marks exclusive to Black Alpha Hyper cymbals are also visually apparent on this completely new developed line. 

Made of Paiste's 2002 Bronze (CuSn8), the bright sounding and rather heavy Black Alphas cut through the loudest Metal music. The 14" Hyper Hats have an articulate stick and chick sound yet when they're played slightly opened, these aggressive barking hats pierce smoothly through amplified guitars. In all musical styles where either super fast blast beats or extremely powerful bass drum patterns are common, the dense ping and potent bell on the 20" Hyper Ride always dominates.

The 16", 17", and 18" Hyper Crashes are preferred for heavy hitting drummers in need of a fiercely loud accent. When a unique and aggressive accent is required for a key musical phrase, the 18" Hyper China shows off its explosive and exotic character. The deceptively small 10" Hyper Splash has a very explosive bite paired with lively brilliance that is ideal for louder musical situations. 

An attractively designed Black Alpha Hyper Set consisting of 14" Hyper Hats, 16" Hyper Crash and 20" Hyper Ride with a free 10" Splash, is also available. 

Alpha cymbals were first launched by Paiste in 1992. Today, the Alpha brand is synonymous with dependability, and the cymbals are well known for their first-class sound and fair prices.

More details at:www.paiste.com

The 6" pad is perfect for drummers on the go. The round shape and small pocket size make it easy to store and carry, even in a stick bag. The bottom side is covered with foam to prevent it from sliding and it is mountable on a normal cymbal stand. It provides a realistic feel with a natural rebound.

The design on the pad symbolizes Benny's mindset about practicing and music in general; it should remind you to not only pay attention to your hands and feet while playing, but also to listen to what you are doing. Practice smart, and always play with emotion and feel.

Meinl has produced a short video clip in which Benny talks about his new Masterpad from Meinl.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9hMUaRhX-s&feature=youtu.be

Pro-Racket tell us that they have improved and upgraded their range of stick bags by adding new webbing straps, quick release metal clips for added strength and durability and an external popper to close the case once it is zipped-up to give extra protection and prevent sticks falling out.

The range of stick cases offers a choice for everyone and every need, with a 'Slim-Line' model for the quick get away, traveling light with three pairs of sticks and comes in a standard or deluxe finish.

Then comes the 'Standard' case with space for 10 pairs of sticks, a larger deluxe case for the more discerning drummer that wants to treat his twelve pairs of sticks to a little luxury when they travel.

Finally, there is the 'Super-size' case for those that simply cannot narrow their choice down below 16 pairs of sticks.

Protection Racket stick cases are made to the same rigorous construction quality as the drum cases by some very cool surfer dudes in Cornwall and they are 'must have' drum accessory for gigging drummers everywhere.

To find out more about the Protection Racket stick case range please visit http://www.protectionracket.co.uk/index.asp  

Once again, drummers choose cymbal-maker's new product offering

Throughout September and October, drummers from around the world will get to decide which new cymbals Sabian will release in 2013 - but this time around, most will be able to play them in person before voting!

Multiple sets of the 12 new cymbal models developed by the innovative Vault team will be shipped to select dealers worldwide, allowing customers to try them first-hand. In a series of exciting events, Sabian endorsers will be on location to play the cymbals along with their fans.

For those who are unable to get out and play the cymbals in person, the Cymbal Vote website will once again feature compelling video of Sabian artists playing and commenting on the 12 models. Top players like Mike Portnoy, Ray Luzier and Tony Royster Jr. will take the cymbals for a test-drive and allow their views to be heard loud and clear.

By shipping sets of the cymbals to locations around the world so that drummers can try before voting, Cymbal Vote 2013 promises to be an even bigger success.

For a complete listing of Cymbal Vote events worldwide, and descriptions and video of all 12 new cymbal models, please visit www.CymbalVote.com.

Facebook App

Sabian launches first Facebook app for obsessed drummers and players everywhere invited to share obsessions with Peart, Portnoy, Mayer and more

The Sabian Obsessed Campaign is all about drummers and their Obsessions. In a series of revealing print ads and videos, the cymbal brand's most famous and iconic artists - among them Neil Peart, Mike Portnoy and Jojo Mayer - have shared their Obsessions, musical and non-musical both. And now drummers from around the world have also been invited to share their Obsessions through a brand new Facebook app developed by Sabian, their first ever.

"Throughout this campaign, our endorsers have told us about a musical obsession, a life obsession and a Sabian cymbal obsession. We're now giving our customers a chance to do the same, and we'll feature the best Obsessions prominently on our Facebook page," is how Sabian eMarketing Coordinator Katie Bursey describes the Obsessed app.

"Although this is Sabian's first Facebook app, it's certainly not the first time they have leveraged social media and the power of their customers into a brand campaign. Probably the best-known instance of this is Cymbal Vote, where for the second consecutive year Sabian has allowed their customers to vote and decide their new product offering."

To share your Obsession story, visit https://apps.facebook.com/sabian-obsessed

A proven favourite of the Tama line-up, Starclassic Performer B/B, has added two new versions for drummers who favour retro style matched with cutting edge drum building technology.

The first and most apparent characteristics of the new jazz kits are the visually striking vintage lacquered oyster finishes.  Whether orange or azure, the liveliness and dimensionality of the skilled paintwork may momentarily fool even the trained eye into thinking these Tama drums sport a wrap finish.

The other tip-of-the-hat to retro style is the sizing of the bass drum and tom shells-shallower depths than usual, reminiscent of the classics.

B/B stands for Bubinga/Birch, and in perfecting this combination of shell materials Tama provided drummers an unprecedented "best of both worlds" sonic response-the robustness of Bubinga mixed with the controlled clarity of birch.  Its versatility has attracted players of all stripes. Blake Richardson of Between The Buried And Me: "The combination of low-end from the Bubinga and mid/high attack of the birch covers the tuning spectrum, both live and in the studio."

Two configurations are available (but be quick) with a Jazz set that features 18 x 14" kick, 12 x 8" rack and 14 x 14" floor tom and a larger 22 x16" kick with 10 x 7" and 12 x 8" rack toms and 16 x 14" floor tom. An optional 14 x 5.5" snare is also available, matched to either set-up finish.

Get the full story on Starclassic Performer at www.tama.com

Matt Byrne - Hatebread

"I can proudly say that I have been playing Vater sticks for 10 years now! It feels surreal to say that it's been 10 years already! My relationship with Vater products actually started years before that as I was introduced to Vater drumsticks when I first began playing drums. I think every young player tries every piece of equipment on the market in those early years of learning their craft to find that sacred piece of gear that they come to love and end up using forever. Vater were the drumsticks for me. I tried every stick on the market and Vater were the only ones that didn't break or crack after playing two songs."

In 2002, Hatebreed toured with Slayer. "We had just recorded our album,Perseverance, and starting what would be years of consistent touring. I was introduced to Vater's Chad Brandolini through Slayer's drumtech at the time, Chris Lagerborg (RIP) and that was the start of the great working relationship I've had with Vater for all that time. I've experimented with different sized sticks and beaters over the years and all of them have always stood up to the stressful beating of a Hatebreed show. I've also had the opportunity to introduce other drummers to Vater and their great products. Whether I'm on the road, studio or just jamming at home, it's a comfort knowing that Chad and the Vater family have my back....no doubt about it! I'm proud to have been a part of the Vater family for the last 10 years and look forward to many more years of using their consistent and reliable products!" -Matt Byrne [Hatebreed]

New vater Artists

Arejay Hale [Halestorm]

Jose Pasillas [Incubus]

Marco Giovino [Independent/Robert Plant's Band of Joy]

Patty Schemel [The Cold And Lovely/Hole]

Mike Rizzi [Sonia Leigh]

Sean Winchester [Everclear]

Jared Piccone [3OH!3]

Tyler Soucy [A Great Big Pile of Leaves]

Rachel Fuhrer [Ume]

Josh Dun [Twenty One Pilots]

David Prowse [Japandroids]

Rich Eisner [Ayla Brown]

Further details at: www.vater.com

Meinl Percussion Introduces Headliner Traditional Series Congas

Designed in an exciting Cubano Retro Style, Meinl's new Headliner Traditional Series Congas are pure eye candy. Available in a 10" Nino, an 11" Quinto, and a 12" Conga, these drums are equipped with hand selected buffalo heads for an absolute traditional conga sound with a powerful bass, strong mids and cracking high tones. When played together the new Headliner Traditional Series Congas create a full tonal range that leaves nothing to be desired.

Sizes:      10" Nino, 11" Quinto, 12" Conga all 28" tall

Material:      Rubber Wood (Hevea brasiliensis Muell.-Arg.)

Features:    Hand selected buffalo heads

8 mm strong tuning lugs

Original Meinl style tuning brackets

5mm traditional TTR-Rims

Black powder coated hardware

Finish:      Matte

Includes height adjustable basket stands (patented) with quick set-up system and tuning key

More information at: www.meinlpercussion.com

Brain Tichy Tish Stix

Regal Tip have always had great drummers using their gear, and now Brian Tichy of classic rock titans Whitesnake has put his name to a signature pair. If you are a rock drummer who puts serious wear on your sticks while performing, the Brian Tichy 'Tish Stix'could be your match. With a design featuring a heavy neck and taper as well as an extensive length, 'Tish Stix' sticks will stand up to the heaviest hitters on the biggest possible drum kits, and they're also topped off with an acorn tip, allowing you to exercise your rudiments and style through sharp accents and stick definition.

Anarchy X

Next up is the Anarchy X that, as the name suggests, is built to stand up to the blast beats of the extreme metal drummer, with expanded dimensions and additional brawn. Anarchy X sticks feature a durable heavy shoulder, extended length for increased reach and a rounded bead tip for articulations. Playing full on for 90 minutes a night can get tiring, so Anarchy X also features Regal Tip's Performance Enhancing Finish that helps minimise hand fatigue and improves grip too.

Mayhem Mallet 

Last up is the Mayhem Mallet which is perfect for the drummer who prefers the darker and heavier side of the music scale, but also appreciates the finer points of classical music and the soft timbre of a percussion mallet. The Mayhem Mallet features an all-maple handle with a gradual comfortable tapered profile for a familiar grip while you tastefully build or aggressively blast - a real fusion of two worlds of drumming - and with a black, durable, hand-sewn head to top it off, this mallet leaves no question who it was designed for.

More Regal Tip details can be located at:www.regaltip.com

With a reputation for innovation and originality, Protection Racket has done it again to bring you the new Musicians Tool Kit Bag, designed with universal appeal for any musician needing a handy sized bag to keep together safely useful and valuable accessories. Whether it's to keep safe your in-ears, torch, drum keys, picks, tools, sharpies or whatever you want to keep safe, this new bag is perfect for the road.

The bag, which measures 15" x 12" x 3", unzips all the way round for easy access to the single main compartment which features six internal zipped pockets that are 100% waterproof. There are also three elasticated holders for your Sharpie pens, drumsticks, and tools - whatever you need to hold for easy access. With a central carrying handle this is the perfect way to transport all your tools, your gear, and your nick-nacks from one place to the next.

Ryan Jenkinson's tech found his Musicians Tool Kit Bag invaluable when Reverend & The Makers recently at Knebworth where they were supporting the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. Ryan is one of Protection Rackets oldest endorsees and takes his family of bags, cases and backpacks with him everywhere.

Protection Racket's travel gear is well designed, tough enough for the road, strong, secure and functional. To find out more go to http://www.protectionracket.co.uk/index.asp

Be Precise with Standard And New Digital DrumDials

First introduced more than a decade ago, the popular and efficient DrumDial has been used to achieve fast, accurate drum tuning by many drummers. Recently, with the development of the upgraded Digital DrumDial, this drum accessory has become faster, more precise and more popular than ever.

The DrumDial works in any situation and at any volume and can easily be used to tune any snare drum, bass drum or tom as well as world, classical and marching percussion; no matter the drum size, shell material or head type.

Every Digital DrumDial comes with a hard-shell carrying-case, drum key, easy-to-use tuning guide and 1-Year Warranty.

DrumDial is distributed exclusively by Big Bang Distribution and is available at leading drum shops and music stores. Visit your local drum dealer or http://bigbangdist.com/drumdial.htm to learn more.

Clearly the folks at Vic Firth have been busy bolstering their roster of artists with the addition of Steely Dan's Keith Carlock, J.J. Johnson from the Tedeschi Trucks band, Kariem Riggins currently doing his own solo thing when not laying it down for Common and Ryan Seaman from Falling In reverse have all found Vic sticks that suit their styles.

For a full listing of Vic Firth artists and of course Vic Firth products, dial up www.vicfirth.com

The system will be available via a newly established network of Aquarian Technology Centres, equipped with inHEAD products for drummers to try.

The inHEAD system, developed by California's Aquarian Drumheads and US MIDI specialist, MIDItronix, is the first hybrid drumhead to successfully use FSR technology embedded inside a truly resonant acoustic drumhead. This new approach to electronic drum triggering eliminates many of the problems associated with conventional acoustic drum triggering and brings with it new triggering possibilities.

In addition to giving professional drummers a completely functional electro-acoustic set-up in one package, inHEAD will prove invaluable to recording studios, who can have a single studio kit immediately usable either acoustically or electronically, or for live sound engineers, who can almost dispense with kit micing for live performances.

The first products available will be Aquarian's Kick & Snare Electro-Acoustic Trigger bundle pack, which features the 14" FSR inHEAD. Included along with the 14" inHEAD is the inBOX - a combination signal booster, trigger conditioner and inHEAD power supply. The inBOX, when used with the inHEAD improves the performance of most popular drum trigger modules and features an input for the included rimSHOT rim trigger sensor. 

The key feature of the inHEAD acoustic/electronic hybrid drumhead is that it offers drummers the best of both worlds: great sounding acoustic drums and the power and control that comes with the hi-performance FSR triggering of electronic drum sound modules.

Further details at: www.aquariandrumheads.com

According to co-owner Roy Burns, "This new film is so popular with our endorsers that we decided to give it a special name. We ran a companywide contest and contacted a number of our endorsers in a name search and the overwhelming favourite was NU-BRITET.

AQUARIAN endorsers are saying that our new drumheads with NU-BriteT film are the best heads they have ever played.  The heads have more attack, faster response, better tone and greater projection.  Nu-BriteT is a winner with drummers who want the best.

All AQUARIAN Drumheads are made with Nu-BriteT drumhead film, and, only Aquarian has it.

For more information visit www.aquariandrumheads.com

Just off the Warped, All-Stars and other major summer tours, Cyrus Bolooki (New Found Glory), Jake Garland (Memphis May Fire), Mark O'Connell (Taking Back Sunday), Longineu Parsons (Yellowcard), Mical Montgomery (I Wrestled A Bear Once), Danny Duncan (We The Kings), Josh Ingram (Vampires Everywhere), Matt Traynor (Bless The Fall), Alex McKenzie (The Aggrolites), Dusty Boles (Make Me Famous), Conor Sullivan (Ice Nine Kills), Dylan Shippey (For The Fallen Dreams), Sean Heenan (Attila), Brandon Galindo (Winds Of Plague) and Cory LaQuay (A Skylit Drive) are among the many top rock, hardcore and metal drummers that are replacing their cymbal felts with Cympad's new cellular foam cymbal washers.

Available in a wide selection of models and colours, Cympads optimize cymbal sound and performance. At drumshops and music stores everywhere or visit www.cympad.com.

Combining Yamaha's expertise in acoustic drums and digital technology, the DTXdrums electronic line up now includes two new drum sets, the DTX450K and DTX400K kits, which offer pro-level sounds and features at entry-level prices.

Both drum sets come with the DTX400 module, which features 169 professional-level drum sounds, 128 instrument voices and 10 customizable kits. Newly designed 10" hi-hats, crash and ride cymbals offer realistic feel and the 7.5" drum pads have been redesigned for greater durability and playability. Both sets can be upgraded with the XP80 DTX-PAD snare.

            The DTX450K features newly designed drum pads, including a 3-zone snare pad for head, rim-shot and side-stick sounds. A Yamaha belt-drive foot pedal offers true-kick feel and the hi-hat controller allows for half-open, pedal and splash sounds. A steel rack provides solid support and the floor tom bar accommodates an extra cymbal (purchased separately).

            The DTX400 comes with rack and the new beater-less KU100 kick unit for whisper-quiet bass drum operation. The DTX400 is upgradable with the TP70S 3-zone snare pad, the XP-80 DTX-PAD snare and the FP110 belt-drive foot pedal, included with the KP65 kick pad.

            Along with the release of the DTX400 series, Yamaha created two free apps to encourage more people to join the drum tribe. For more information dial up: www.yamaha.com

Gon Bops has enlisted the help of master percussionist Luisito Quintero to play on a series of product videos, highlighting the legendary and authentic sound of its impressive instrument offering.

"It was fantastic to work with an incredible talent like Luisito and to listen to these instruments played the way they're supposed to be played," commented Gon Bops Marketing Manager Luis Cardoso. "Being able to deliver these fantastic videos to our dealers and distributors around the globe is a huge win for everyone."

Gon Bops partners currently have access to a number of online marketing resources: an image and marketing materials library at www.gonbopszone.com, a video distribution network at www.gonbopsvdn.com and of course, the Gon Bops YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/gonbopstube.

The new videos will be available widely with options for download or embedding directly to dealer sites in a variety of popular formats.

For more information on how to become a Gon Bops partner, contact terryr@gonbops.com. For information on the new Gon Bops product videos, please contact luisc@gonbops.com.

The most in-depth insight into Neil's body of work ever documented.

A new DVD from Hudson Music & Neil Peart, featuring breakdowns, demonstrations and performances of classic drum parts from songs spanning the entire Rush catalog.

Featuring over 6 hours of footage - Neil's personal drum rehearsals - set-up and soundcheck scenes - backstage interview as Neil warms up for a Rush concert - detailed discussion of classic Rush drum parts, with slow-motion, drums-only demonstrations and e-Book with transcriptions - one-hour interview, explanation, and demonstration of new Rush song, 'Caravan'. Plus, for the first time ever, a full Rush concert shot from the drum cameras only, immersing the viewer in Neil's performances of every song on theTime Machinetour.

Extensive bonus features including discussion, performance, and analysis of additional songs, including unreleased performances from theSnakes & Arrowstour.

This DVD package is a must-have for Neil Peart and Rush fans, other musicians, or anyone interested in a collection of insights on live performance, beautifully shot and eloquently delivered.

Further details at: www.hudsonmusic.com

A cross between Ahead's classic 5B and 2B models and the popular Lars Ulrich signature stick the new, limited edition Lars Ulrich Scary Guy signature drumsticks feature a hand-drawn icon created by Metallica's legendary drummer. The sticks are available in a choice of two models: the LU-SG Standard with silver logos and the LU-SGL Light with red logos.

Offering modern drummers "Everything You Want From A Stick... And More.", Ahead Drumsticks are distributed exclusively by Big Bang Distribution: www.bigbangdist.com.

Latin Percussion introduces a new edition of its Aspire congas and bongos made from exotic Jamjuree wood. Sometimes called Siam Walnut, Jamjuree is 15% lighter in weight than Siam Oak, yet still delivers stunning tone and resonance. Jamjuree's wood grain ranges from a radiant gold to a deep, rich walnut-coloured brown, resulting in dramatic visual contrast. To further enrich the wood's natural beauty, the drums are coated with a satin-like, matte lacquer finish.

The congas are 28" tall and come in sets of two with head combinations of 10" and 11". The drums are fitted with natural rawhide heads and feature chrome 5/16" diameter tuning lugs and are equipped with EZ Curve Rims. Rims and side plates are black powder coated and the conga sets come with an LP Aspire fully height adjustable slide mount double conga stand. LP has also added matching bongos with 6.75" and 8" natural rawhide heads and steel bottom rims.

More information at:

www.lpmusic.com

This specially designed drum kit will be available exclusively through authorized Mapex dealers worldwide 

The Obsidian 'Player Designed' kit will be specific in its configuration and very unique in its look.  Once they are sold out, they will not be reproduced.

The Birch/Maple hybrid shells crank out low and dark tones with a balanced attack. The inside of the shells feature a new Black finish that enhances resonance and projection. Configured with 24 x 14" kick drum, 12 x 8" rack tom and 16 x 16" floor tom. A 14 x 7" snare is available as an add-on for players needing the true rock essentials. 

Shells come wrapped in a deep volcanic glass sparkle, are fitted with chrome hardware, and are topped with Remo coated single ply UX drumheads.

SHELL SPECS:

Bass Drum - 4.8mm Birch Exterior/2.4mm Maple Interior    

Toms & Snare - 4.1mm Birch Exterior/1.7mm Maple Interior

For more information on the Meridian Black - Obsidian: 

Web Page: http://usa.mapexdrums.com/drums/meridian-black/obsidian/

FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/MapexDrums

YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBokfCjFxXI&feature=youtu.be

YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/mapexdrumsusa

To find your nearest Mapex dealer: http://usa.mapexdrums.com/dealers

 A quick update from the Vater folks tells us that they have some new artists - read on and then hit the link.

Jose Pasillas (Incubus), Arejay Hale (Halestorm), John Fred Young (Black Stone Cherry), Marco Giovino (Independent/Robert Plant's Band of Joy), Patty Schemel (The Cold And Lovely/Hole), Mike Rizzi (Sonia Leigh), Sean Winchester (Everclear), Jared Piccone (3OH!3), Tyler Soucy (A Great Big Pile of Leaves), Rachel Fuhrer (Ume), Josh Dun (Twenty One Pilots), David Prowse (Japandroids), Rich Eisner (Ayla Brown), Kate Schellenbach (Luscious Jackson) and Matt Higginbotham (Rachel Farley)

www.vater.com

The Small and Mighty BC2 now in a 2U 19" Rack Mount Format

With its BC2 and BC Gigster personal drum monitor systems garnering rave reviews and endorsements from top players including John Tempesta, Gavin Harrison, JR Robinson and Korn's Ray Luzier, UK-based Porter & Davies now introduce the BC2rm, a 2U 19" rack-mountable version of its top-of-the-line BC2.

"The brief for the BC2rm was very simple, make a BC2 in a 19" rack-mount format - otherwise don't change a thing. So, I did a complete redesign of the internal layout while keeping all the superb musical characteristics of the original BC2" explained Tim Porter. Everything - internal cabling, connectors and even the individual components - were retained, but remodeled to fit the slim-line case. Like the other two systems, the BC2rm is all about state-of-the-art personalized drum monitoring in a compact design."

"The BC concept is a game changer," concludes Porter. "Drummers tell us they can't live without it."

www.porteranddavies.co.uk

Hudson Music announces the release of a 2-disc DVD setIntense Metal Drumming II, with metal drummer and educator George Kollias. Produced independently by Kollias, the disc set appears on the Hudson Ltd. label

Kollias has become known as an international authority on extreme metal drumming, this DVD provides multiple workouts and specific concepts. Intense Metal Drumming IIis an educational product that covers blast beat concepts and workouts, extreme fill-ins, developing speed around the kit, and odd time concepts. Plus, reading concepts, practicing systems, general tips, and warm-ups, taking this DVD beyond just 'metal', making it useful for drummers of all styles. Another highlight is a complete section on double bass speed, control, balance, and expanded vocabulary.

Bonus features include a PDF containing all the exercises, a documentary from George's 2010-2011 clinic tour, backstage footage, an equipment tour, and extensive interview with George.

Further details at: www.hudsonmusic.com

Keith, known for his versatility and with an impressive list of credits including Sting, Steely Dan, Oz Noy, Diana Ross and many more. Keith has been described as an impeccable, creative musician and he can be seen touring Europe with Rudder and Japan with guitarist Larry Carlton.

Protection racket cases have always stood out from the crowd rather than be a part of it. They have made their name by being tough, light and very durable which is why so many drummers chose to use them. They have been described as quality protection for drums, ingeniously designed whilst also good to look at.

Keith joins other recent Protection Racket endorsees including Peter Erskine, Abe Laboriel Jnr, Clem Burke and Elbow's Pete Jupp.

To find out more about the seriously cool stuff Protection Racket has to offer all drummers visit

http://www.protectionracket.co.uk/index.asp 

Each Scymtek cymbal is a hand-made, hand-hammered instrument, crafted from premium quality B20 Bronze and available in four different series - Classic series that are said to be dark, warm, and expressive. Modern series offer bright, shimmering, and full-bodied tones. The Xtreme series are aggressive, powerful, and loud and the Vented series deliver a trashy, bright, and raw sound.

A quote from Brian Spaun- "For quite some time I've had great interest in producing a hand-crafted, hand-hammered line of premium quality cymbals that would be complimentary to Spaun Drums. With that goal in mind, I began my search to create a distinctive voice in the cymbal world before deciding on our current offering that will delight your ears and eyes with all of the quality and sonic beauty you have come to expect from Spaun."

Please visit - www.scymtek.com

Responding to drummers' ever-changing tastes in stick styles and designs, the UK's Shaw Sticks announces a new range of Classic English model wood tip sticks

The sticks have been designed following a complete re-tooling at Shaw, bringing them even closer to the original UK production sizes from the 1960s. Models come in E, C, C Plus, 5A, 5B and Super Soul styles and are made of 100% US hickory.

Explaining the launch, Shaw says that the C and C Plus sticks are widely used by players looking for a vintage style and feel and that the company worked closely with Shaw users, including Ian Mosley from Marillion and Don Powell from Slade, to get the designs exactly right. The E sticks, meanwhile are very light and follow a surprise increase in demand which the company says has been growing rapidly over the past 12 months.

There is a new Shaw website and Facebook page - not bad for a brand that has been in business in the UK since 1866!

www.musicshipping.co.uk 

www.shawstic.com

Like all KickPort models, the KickPort2 SE features the Firm-Flex™ collar and reinforcement ring for fast and easy installation. The KickPort2 SE provides the ability to improve frequency response, depth, and dynamics for any style of music. The KickPort2 SE will be available for a limited time only. "We listen to the drummers," reports Jesse Bradman, president and co-founder of KickPort International. "As we continue to develop products that improve sound, we realize that all drummers have individual aesthetic preferences. The colour has to be 'just right' too." The limited edition Candy Apple SE style joins the current KickPort 2 line up available in black, white, chrome and gold.


KickPort's award-winning patented designs are in use by top performers worldwide - on the live concert stage and in recording studios - to provide improved tone, depth, and precision to the their sound.

The KickPort artist roster includes Teddy Campbell, Brendan Buckley, Ray Luzier, Gorden Campbell, Veronica Bellino, Steve Ferrone, Aaron Spears, Chris Fryer, Kenny Aronoff, George 'Spanky' McCurdy, Tim Yueng, and many more of the top drummers in the world from every style and genre of music imaginable. KickPort products are available through fine musical instrument retailers worldwide.

Visit www.kickport.com

Randy is a Canadian-born drummer who has been living in Berlin, Germany for the past several years where he has built a career teaching and performing with European heavyweights, Primal Fear. Before heading overseas, Randy performed with several Canadian artists including Bif Naked and Annihilator. Randy recently released a DVD entitled,Creative Metal Drumming(Hudson Music UK) that highlights his truly unique and innovative, ambidextrous playing style and ensures his place among the world's most skilled musicians on the metal scene.

Visit Randy's website www.randyblack.de

To learn more about his many projects, stay tuned to www.loscabosdrumsticks.com for more from Randy in the coming months.

Los Cabos welcome a few more new faces to the family:

Blair Youngblut (Endast), Graeme Wall (Insanity), Peat Hicks (Exit State) Eric Selby (Billy Thompson Band), Olly Smith (Six Hour Sundown), Doug Hayes (The Gatecrashers), Josef Hinterhölzl (Hot Pants Road Club).

Visit the complete artist roster at www.loscabosdrumsticks.com

As of January 2013, all Gretsch USA Custom drums will feature the traditional Gretsch Round Badge that first appeared on USA-made drums between 1930 and 1970. Drum sets made with the brass round badge have become highly respected and collectible in the vintage drum community. The Gretsch Round Badge will appear on all Gretsch USA Custom drums, including G-4000 Series Metal and G-5000 Series Wood Snare Drums.

Sharing many characteristics of the original version, each is made from brass and features an embossed 'Gretsch' logo versus fully embossed badges found on original Round Badge drum sets. A simulated patina will be applied to give the badge a vintage brass look. The new Round Badge will be attached in the traditional method to the drums' vent holes using a pneumatically pressed brass grommet. Original Round badge bass drums and snare drums have the pneumatically pressed brass grommet, with the toms using decorative tacks to affix the badge.

For more information on the Gretsch USA Custom drum set and to find a dealer near you, visit www.gretschdrums.com

Meinl's Make Your Own construction kits are now available, allowing you to build your own Bongo Cajon, or Cajon - or both!

The ultimate selection of Meinl Percussion has been extended with the addition of the Make Your Own Bongo Cajon and Cajon construction kits. The Bongo Cajon is one of Meinl's most popular instruments as is the Cajon and now you can build your own. Actual assembly is very easy with an instruction manual that guides you through each fun project step by step. Adding oil, lacquer, wax or paint can result in a unique and personal design and custom finish.

The wood used for both the Bongo Cajon and Cajon kits is Birch (Betula) that ensures a powerful and warm sound. The kits come with all of the parts and a list of the materials and tools needed for assembly and a multi-lingual instruction manual in seven languages (German, English, Spanish, Italian, French, Japanese and Chinese).

More at www.meinlpercussion.com

Soulive's Alan Evans releases his latest recording with his trio, titled Drop Hop. 

Co-founder, writer and drummer of Soulive for over 15 years,Alan Evansproudly presents his newest creation the Alan Evans Trio; an inspiring and fresh organ trio lineup. Enlisting the support of good friends and talented players Danny Mayeron guitar (On the Spot Trio), and Beau Sasser (Melvin Sparks, Akashic Record) the trio's sound proves hard driving and groovin' with dark funky rhythms and blues lick solos. Alan Evans Trio opens a window into another side - an emotional introspection, as dark as it is powerful. Their passionate progressions emanate an electrified, smoky,70s-era CTI Records zeitgeist. 

Evans, Sasser & Mayer really know their stuff and are killing it on this album. It's got a great vintage funk/soul sound, reminiscent of old school raw funk like The Meters. Every single track is funky and groovin and if you're a fan of the old school funk sound or the modern day funk scene like Soulive and Lettuce, or just good music in general this is one to add to your collection. Excellent debut, hopefully the first of many to come.

Protection Racket has launched a new case for the discerning musician looking for a multi-function, lightweight bag to protect their iPad/Tablet and carry-on items. The new slim line case has been designed specifically around the iPad /Tablet for perfect protection and ease of transport.

Made from their super durable Protection Racket Racketex, used on all their road tested cases, the high abrasion polyester won't fade, crack or shrink and is 100% waterproof. The case incorporates many other much loved Protection Racket features such as superior dual density Propadd foam for maximum protection, black velvetex cotton lining, ergonomic neoprene carry handle and an adjustable, detachable padded shoulder strap.

The new case will keep your iPad/Tablet safe and sound and guard it from bumps, scratches, shock and other damage. It's dimensions are 28cm/11" (H) by 20.5cm/8" (W) by 5cm/2" (D) and it comes with a dedicated pocket for the iPad/Tablet, two generous front pockets and another pocket on the back. It is finished with rugged zips and fastenings and its design blends cool style with functionality at a very affordable price.

More details at www.protectionracket.com

ProMark has released the highly anticipated Neil Peart Clockwork Angels Collector's Edition Stick Six-Pack. The one-of-a-kind collection commemorates RUSH's current worldwide tour.

The top selling ProMark Shira Kashi™ oak drumsticks have been given the golden touch, autographed by drummer Neil Peart and copper-ink branded with six RUSH tour logos. Each brick contains six pairs of sticks and Collector's Edition labels to satisfy any die-hard RUSH fan.

Drummers now have a chance to get their hands on these legendary collections, however, only a limited amount will be produced.

To learn more about Neil Peart, RUSH, and to check Tour Dates, visit www.rush.com/tour-dates. 

For additional information on ProMark, please visit www.promark.com.

Soulive has never made any bones about what they do best; it's right there in their name. Since forming in 1999, the trio of guitaristbEric Krasno, drummer Alan Evans and keyboardist Neal Evans has carried the torch for the soul-jazz organ trio-that venerable, funky institution pioneered by the likes ofJimmy Smith, Brother Jack McDuff and Groove Holmes in the late '60s. Rest assured, when the Evans brothers first brought Kraz by their Woodstock studio, there was plenty of old vinyl spread out on the floor.

Their latest, a four-track EP entitled, SPARK, deserves a place on your record shelf right between Booker T. and a bottle of some damn good single-malt. Recorded over a day and a half with saxophonist/flautist Karl Denson (The Greyboy Allstars, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe), the record captures the smoky vibe of early-'70s-era CTI Records releases by the likes of Freddie Hubbard, Grover Washington Jr.and George Benson. It's the stuff Denson grew up on. "I'm older than the Soulive guys," he says. "When I heard those records being sampled back in the late 80s, early 90s, popping up in clubs when I was over in Europe touring with Lenny Kravitz, that's what really prepared me for this whole thing we've been doing for the last 20 years. It was a natural progression for me to finally do something in the CTI vein."

Further information can be found at: www.royalfamilyrecords.com

Hit Like A Girl 2013 Celebrates Female Drummers

Dates, Sponsors and Judges Announced For Women's Drumming Contest.

Developed to support, promote and inspire the growth of female drummers, the Hit Like A Girl drumming contest for women and girls attracted nearly 400 contestants and more than 400,000 online votes from around the world in 2012. This overwhelming response has allowed organizers to plan for an even bigger event in 2013.

Led by DRUM! Magazine, participating sponsors Drum Workshop, TRX, Evans, Vater, and SKB, along with media sponsors Drum Channel, Alfred Music, Tom Tom Magazine, and the Enter Music Network, Hit Like A Girl 2013  will begin accepting online video entries at www.hitlikeagirl2013.com on Friday, February 1, 2013. Entries will close on Sunday, March 31, 2013 at which point finalists will be selected and judged by a panel of world-renowned drummers including Meytal Cohen (independent), Hannah Ford (Prince, Bellevue Suite) and Dawn Richardson (Four Non-Blondes, Tracy Chapman).

In addition to offering drum and accessory prizes valued at thousands of dollars, Hit Like A Girl 2013 has been expanded with the participation of corporate sponsor School Of Rock and divided into under and over 18 age divisions to create more interest and a more even playing field. Submitted videos can be drum covers, solos or performances with a band or pre-recorded tracks and will judged on factors such as technique, musicality and overall effect.

Additional details will be announced as they become available. To learn more and view the top women's drumming videos from last year, visit www.hitlikeagirl2013.com.

Cympad Introduces Red And Purple 'Chromatics' Foam Cymbal Washers

Expanding its popular line of  'Chromatic' cymbal washers, Cympad has added new red and purple options to its current range of orange and blue models. The durable, colorful, 40mm x 15mm cymbal washers are made from an advanced, cellular-foam material and, like Cympad's Optimizer Series, provide an easy, affordable method of improving the sound and performance of all cymbals.
Offered in a wide selection of models and sizes for all cymbal types and brands, Cympads are now available at drum shops and music stores everywhere. Chromatics are available in convenient five-packs.

For more information visit www.cympad.com

KMCMusicorp announces the introduction of the all-new KAT Percussion line of digital drum product, including two new value-packed digital drum sets. Each model features an extensive library of studio-grade sounds and effects developed and engineered by professional drummers. In addition, KAT Digital Drum Sets feature superb connectivity to a wide variety of devices and are some of the quietest electronic drum sets on the market.
 
 
KAT Percussion launches with the introduction of two new drum set models. The KAT KT1 includes over 150 sounds along with 10 user-programmable drum set configurations and 40 play-along tracks. The KT1 comes with five highly responsive drums pads, three cymbal pads, a programmable control module, a multi-pin audio cable snake and a pre-assembled durable frame. A "Silent Strike" bass drum pedal beater is also included to reduce noise while playing.
 
The centerpiece of the KAT KT2 High Performance Digital Drum Set is its advanced control module. The unit comes with over 500 high-quality drum, cymbal and percussion sounds, 80 play-along tracks, 30 pre-set drum configurations and 10 user programmable drum sets. The KT2 Control Module has multiple built-in ports including a MIDI port, a USB port for computer connectivity, a pair of π-inch stereo output jacks, a headphone jack and an input for MP3 devices.
 
The KT2 has five drum pads, including three dual-zone pads for toms and a snare. A hi-hat pad and a choke-sensitive crash and ride cymbal also come with the set. The control module has two additional trigger inputs, allowing players to add additional drum and/or cymbal pads. Add-on packs are sold separately. The KT2 frame is easy to assemble, with a pre-configured wire harness for quick and easy set-up.
 
For more information, visit www.KATPercussion.com

Nickelback's Daniel Adair On Tour with the Porter & Davies BC2

Nickelback's Daniel Adair is currently using the Porter & Davies BC2 personal drum monitoring system on the global best selling 'Here and Now' tour.

The Nickelback juggernaut has been rolling into more than eighty cities worldwide. 

Daniel Adair, drummer with Nickelback has been using the new saddle style BC2 throne on their tour and absolutely loves it. 'I am kinda speechless! What can I say that hasn't been said before by others that have tried it? said Daniel, 'Its AMAZING! Love how it picks up the lower end from the toms as well. This will definitely change how I approach things from now on. Even practicing some double kicks today I was clearly aware of weak points through the sensitivity of the device. More drummers need this.'

The BC2 converts signals from the bass drum microphone or an electronic kit into a physical pulse that is transmitted to the player's body via the systems modified drum throne. The transmission is transferred by Bone Conduction (BC), which means the player feels and hears the sound internally instead of just relying on conventional audio only monitoring.

The BC2, with standard and saddle style thrones will be at the 2013 Winter NAMM. Visit Porter & Davies to see them in Hall D Stand 2879.

For further details on Porter & Davies, the BC2 and BC Gigster please visit their newly updatedwebsite at www.porteranddavies.co.uk

ROLAND INTRODUCES TD-4KP V-DRUMS PORTABLE

 Easy-to-transport V-Drums Kit with Innovative Folding Design

Roland launches the TD-4KP V-Drums Portable, a compact, easy-to-transport electronic drum set with a unique and innovative folding design. This new set offers players the V-Drums sound and performance with maximum mobility and ultra-quick setup time.

The TD-4KP features a kick pad, a snare pad, three tom pads, and three cymbal pads (crash, ride, and hi-hat). An FD-8 Hi-Hat Controller pedal is included as well. The 7.5-inch snare and tom pads feature a cushioned rubber surface that provides a sensitive, accurate response and natural playing feel.

All the drum and cymbal pads are mounted on a durable, integrated stand that folds into a surprisingly small size for transport and storage. To put the kit back into playing position, the user simply unfolds the stand and pads.

The included TD-4 Percussion Sound Module delivers a wide range of expressive drum and percussion sounds that can be easily edited, allowing players to quickly customise their kits. Ambience effects optimised for drums are included for lively, dynamic performances. The Coach and Quick Rec/Quick Play functions are ideal for effective practice, providing drummers with valuable feedback for rapid improvement.

An optional CB-TDP Carrying Case provides a convenient way to transport and protect the TD-4KP. The custom-designed bag features a shoulder strap and detachable pouches for the FD-8 and a kick pedal, plus handy pockets for a kick beater, drumsticks, and other accessories. Users can also swap out the snare pad with an optional PDX-6/8 for a true mesh head feel and dual-triggering capability.

With its extremely portable fold-away design, great V-Drums sound, and expressive playing feel, the TD-4KP is perfect fit for a wide range of users, from young students to drum teachers to gigging players. Its versatility and small footprint makes it ideal for many different environments, including bedrooms, apartments, lesson studios, rehearsal spaces, and more. 

Further details at www.roland.com www.rolandUS.com

 Zildjian Announces New Look And Enhanced Sound For Its "A" Zildjian Cymbal Line, Three Re-Introductions Of "A" Zildjian Models,  and New Sweet Ride

Currently celebrating a staggering 390 years of manufacturing cymbals the Avedis Zildjian Company brings a new look and enhanced sound for its legacy line of cymbals - A Zildjian.  For decades, A Zildjian cymbals have been at the center of countless recordings by generations of legendary artists and bands.  In 2013, Zildjian is shining a bright light on the A Zildjian line by dialing into the essence of that classic sound.  The Zildjian factory has made adjustments to the curvature and weights of the line to capture the sweet spot of the A sound - resulting in enhanced crashes, rides and hats that reflect today's musical styles.  Also in 2013, Zildjian is re-introducing the 19" and 20" A Zildjian Thin Crashes and 20" A Zildjian Medium Thin Crash, and introducing a new 23" A Zildjian Sweet Ride - all in response to drummers' requests for larger, thinner models.

The 19" and 20" A Zildjian Thin Crashes and the 20" A Zildjian Medium Thin Crash offer drummers larger sizes; a classic, full-bodied sound; and a broad sonic range and wash that speaks to today's musical styles.  The new 23" Medium Thin A Zildjian Sweet Ride, inspired by the best selling 21" model, offers clean stick definition for riding as well as a powerful crash component, making this a dynamic and versatile cymbal that can be used in virtually any musical setting.

Special trade and consumer promotions commemorating the Company's 390th anniversary and the newly enhanced A Zildjian line will be announced throughout the year.

More details can be found at www.zildjian.com

Los Cabos Drumsticks Announce Red Hickory Wire Brushes

Los Cabos Drumsticks has a new addition to their line of brushes.  Tradition meets innovation in this combination of a classic wire brush boasting a classy red hickory handle. 

"This exciting combination offers the time-tested tone of stainless steel wire brushes with the weight and durability of red hickory," said Matt Carter, director or marketing and artist relations for Los Cabos Drumsticks.  "Together they create a beautiful new option for drummers playing jazz, country and all points in between.  The weight is extremely comfortable. These brushes are fun to play."

Further details can be located at www.loscabosdrumsticks.com

Pearl introduces a new Limited Edition VBA drum set exclusively for Europe.

Vision VBA delivers full Pearl Birch quality in Artisan II finishes. Each VBA drum set is equipped with a special designed Artisan II finish by Pearl. The set comes with a 22 x 18" undrilled bass drum, 10 x 7" and 12 x 8" toms, 14x12" and 16 x 14" floor tom and a matching Birch ply Snare drum. All will be complemented with Pearl's 890-Series Hardware Pack.

The new striking Artisan II finish is the Dynamite Burst (#799) which has a Quilted Maple Artisan base with a powerful Grey Dynamic overlay equipped with chrome drum hardware and a black Bass drum head.

Based on the new Vision-family formula, VBA drum sets feature Birch Ply shells, a striking new Badge design, and rock solid drum hardware.

For 2013, Vision VBA is now outfitted with Remo Pinstripe tom batters and clear resonator heads, coated snare batter and clear snare head, and PowerStroke3 bass drum heads for superb sound and excellent durability.

To learn more about the New Pearl products, please visit www.pearldrum.com

Mapex Drum Company Announces the NEW Saturn IV Series Drum Kits for 2013

The Mapex Drum Company is revolutionizing their flagship Saturn line by introducing the Saturn IV series of drum kits.  Together with respected artists around the globe, the Mapex team has created the next evolution of the Saturn line, featuring a host of upgrades including: SONIClear™ tom suspension, SONIClear™ floor tom legs, low-contact bass drum claws,  Memory Mark™ bass drum spurs, new style-badge and lug casing , free-floating bass drum mount (optional), and some really striking new finishes. While holding true to the Maple/Walnut hybrid shell formula that's made Saturn a unique and respected pro-level kit, the new look and features mark a significant departure from the Saturn (and Mapex) of old. The new Saturn kits will arrive in stores beginning in March 2013.

Saturn fans now have a choice between two different editions and price points within the Saturn range: The Saturn MH Edition and The MH Exotic Edition. 

The Saturn MH Edition:   Features the famous Mapex 6-Ply snares and toms, and 8-ply bass drums constructed of North American Maple and Walnut Hybrid shells with chrome hardware, Remo Emperor Clear Batter Drumheads, and Remo P3 Batter Bass Drumheads.  The Saturn MH Series is available in 6 new color finishes:  Merlot Burst; Granite Sparkle; Red Strata Pearl wrap; Transparent Espresso Walnut; Red & Blue Hybrid Sparkle; and Marine Spiral wrap.

The Saturn MH Exotic Series:  Features the same specifications as the Saturn MH Series but have an outer ply of exotic wood veneer and all come standard with Black Chrome hardware, adding to the high-end look of Saturn IV.  The Saturn MH Exotic Series are available in 5 new lacquer finishes with very pronounced figuring: Satin Black Maple Burl; Cherry Mist Rosewood Burl; Natural Ash Burl; Deep Water Ash Burl; and Transparent Ash Burl Burst.

The new features and finishes on Saturn IV are a continuation of the major R&D and Marketing direction changes for Mapex. "We've watched as most drum companies have tried to cut corners on their premium kits in order to hit the lower price points necessitated by the sluggish economy. Mapex has historically been priced aggressively, so we've taken the opposite approach from other brands by adding significant form and function value to our pro line while maintaining our consumer-affordable pricing" says Michael Robinson, KHS Director of Marketing.

For more information on the new Saturn IV drum kits visit: http://usa.mapexdrums.com/

After the very successful re-launch of the legendary Formula 602 series, Paiste developed a new sound dimension from 602 Bronze with the Formula 602 Modern

Essentials in collaboration with Vinnie Colaiuta, who is without doubt one of today's most influential drummers. Vinnie's idea was to create the missing link between really dark and bright, transparent cymbals. "I wanted to take some of that richness, warmth, darkness and a bit of complexity of the Signature Traditionals and combine that with the transparency and stick definition of the existing 602 sound. In retrospect, I think that Paiste Sound Development had a very similar idea. Their vision and my vision were completely in alignment."

The Formula 602 Modern Essentials is not a set of cymbals designed exclusively for Vinnie Colaiuta. The application of the cymbals covers a vast range of musical styles. "What I had in mind was something that most discerning drummers are looking for", Vinnie explains. "They are cymbals for many seasons. They can potentially cover just about anything I could think of. And it's not specialized. It doesn't control you, but you can control it."

The Formula 602 Modern Essentials models comprise 14" and 15" Hi-hats, 20" and 22" Ride models, 16", 18" and 20" crashes, 18" and 22" China models and 8" & 10" Splash cymbals.

Formula 602s are entirely made by hand in Switzerland from the original 602 Bronze using traditional methods that have remained unchanged in over half a century.

More at www.paiste.com

Swedish drumstick manufacturer Wincent is adding two new 'must-have' products to their range. They call them 'drummer survival tools' as they explain: "There are a few things that we think are essential when you arrive at a gig where a drum kit is provided: drumsticks, tuning-key and some sort of dampening.

Often there is never enough time during stressful sound checks for fine tuning a drum kit, and those products are invaluable. Wincent ToneGel´s come as 5 pieces packed in a reusable box and are washable so can be used time after time. The tuning key can also be used as a bottle opener - arguably an additional "essential" item, or at least a most welcomed one!

The Wincent ToneGel reduces unwanted overtones without destroying the fundamental tone and all the gel pads are washable and reusable and come five pieces packed in a reusable box.

The Wincent RockKey could well become the 'Swiss army knife' for drummers with its dual role as bottle-opener and tuning-key

 To learn more about the New Wincent products, please visit www.wincent.se

What artist has inspired more aspiring drummers for generations?  Zildjian is honoured to announce its recent collaboration with the incomparable Ringo Starr to create an all-new Zildjian Artist Series Drumstick in 2013.  Ringo helped Zildjian design a very versatile stick with 5A type dimensions, an elongated oval tip, and Zildjian's exclusive DIP coating in a vibrant purple colour.  The stick is imprinted with Ringo's signature and trademark star.

Visit Zildjian at www.zildjian.com for more information.

Alex Acuna Becomes The Latest Legend To Join Sabian Artist Roster

Although Sabian recently celebrated its 30-year anniversary, a look at the innovative cymbal brand's artist roster reveals a long list of legendary artists whose influential careers began decades earlier.

This certainly applies to Alex Acuña, who at the age of 18 began his illustrious career playing in the great Cuban bandleader Perez Prado's band in 1964. By 1974 Alex was living in Las Vegas playing with two of the biggest artists in the world, Elvis Presley and Diana Ross. And by 1975 he had joined seminal jazz-fusion band Weather Report, playing on the groundbreaking albums Black Market and Heavy Weather.

Since then Alex's list of accomplishments and the list of artists he has supported are nothing short of breathtaking. U2, Paul McCartney, Joni Mitchell, Ella Fitzgerald, Whitney Houston, Sergio Mendes, Chick Corea, Carlos Santana, Herbie Hancock and Tito Puente are just a few names from a very long list.

"Alex Acuña is a great spirit in the drumming community. His resume is deep, his talent is legendary and it's widely known that he is one of the nicest people on earth. We're thrilled to have him choose to play Sabian cymbals," commented Artist Relations Manager Chris Stankee.

"I am greatly looking forward to making new sounds with my Sabian cymbals," says Alex Acuña. Sabian President Andy Zildjian said; "I'm really excited to have Alex as part of our family. Not only is he a great player, he's one of the greatest people I have ever met."

More at www.sabian.com

DW Launches Collector's Series Concrete Snare Drums

DW recently added to their Collector's Series snare drums with two new concrete models available in 14 x 5.5" and 14 x 6.5" sizes. The unique Concrete drums are perfectly suited for both live and studio applications and provide a decidedly different tonal quality than either wood or metal. DW's John Good said; "This drum is a completely different animal. Our goal is to outfit drummers with as many sounds as possible, so this one definitely fits the bill. At first, we were surprised at the dry, focused sound, but man, does it have volume! It's a shotgun! And the color of the raw stone looks really nice with our matte satin chrome hardware. It's just a killer combination all around."

The thin, cast 1mm shell includes a standard 45 degree cut bearing edge and snare beds. The Custom Shop drum includes standard features such as: MAGTM throw-off system with 3P (3 position) but-plate, True Tone snare wires, True Pitch stainless steel tension rods, 3.0mm steel True Hoops and DW Heads by Remo USA.

Each concrete drum is made to order and can be combined with any DW Custom Shop drum set order.

Further details at: www.dwdrums.com

Mapex offer three updated packaging designs for their MPX hardware and snare drums, Falcon Hardware, and Black Panther snare drums. 

The designs clearly define each level of product offering while staying consistent with the Mapex brand. All new packaging designs will feature high-contrast black and white photography, the new Mapex green in a continuous band around the base of the box, the new Mapex logo positioned like a belt-buckle on the green band, and box labels that clearly display a product image, the product I.D. and name, UPC and EAN codes for inventory scanning, and QR codes that will deliver additional useful content to the consumer at the point of sale.  All boxes include a handle on the top for easy transportation. The new packaging designs will be seen in stores starting in January of 2013. 

"The new packaging is another step forward in the continuing evolution of the Mapex brand.  We believe strongly in creating both a positive and complete buying experience for our retailers and consumers.  It's not enough for us to simply have a high-quality product inside the box.  It's important that our packaging engage the consumer in the retail environment using meaningful imagery and relevant information.  Our new packaging will not only help the consumer in their decision-making process, but it will aid our retail partners in selling, merchandising, and inventory identification", says KHS Director of Marketing, Michael Robinson. 

www.mapexdrums.com

Dig Chris Dave? Then best get yourself over to Dave's web site and grab a download of his new MixTape. Titled Chris Dave And The Drumhedz Mixtape, the 23-track mix will totally mess with your head as Dave keeps it all off kilter as he swings and sways his unique way through the tracks. Dave's path has always been one of innovation and as far as iDrum is concerned, he is the new Tony Williams, revolutionising how we hear and feel the groove! Appropriately, one track is titled 'Cosmic Slop', but all 23-tracks will have you scratching your head in bemusment at Dave's amazing/ridiculous take on the groove. Stokely Williams and Yasin Bey (aka Mos Def) contribute too.

Make the jump over to Chris' web site and grab the tape before time runs out: http://chris-dave.com

Zildjian unveils new 390 Box Line up, named for the 390th Anniversary of the Company

390 K Custom Hybrid Pack  features blended K Custom Hybrid cymbals developed in conjunction with Akira Jimbo.  The K Custom Hybrids are powerful and vibrant, yet dark and gentle. Contains 14 ¼" K Custom Hybrid hi-hats, 17" K Custom Hybrid Crash, and 21" K Custom Hybrid Ride. (Available January-June 2013).

390 K Zildjian Pack features the legendary deep, dry, and shimmering sounds developed in 19th century Turkey.  Used by many of the greatest drummers in history, K. Zildjian cymbals are distinguished by their dark expressive overtones. Contains 14" K hi-hats, 16" K Dark Thin Crash, and 20" K Ride. (Available July-December 2013)

390 A Zildjian Pack features the cymbals that have shaped musical history.  The A Zildjian line is known for its bright focused overtones and ability to produce as much volume as the music demands. Contains 14" New Beat hi-hats, 16" A Medium Thin Crash, 20" A Medium Ride, and a value-added 18" A Medium Thin Crash.  (Available May-December 2013).

390 ZHT Pack features thin to medium-weight cymbals that blend well in a wide variety of styles.  Zildjian's signature B12 alloy offers rich sounding cymbals at a great value.  Contains 14" ZHT Mastersound hi-hats, 17" ZHT Fast Crash, 20" ZHT Medium Ride, and a value-added 16" ZHT China.  (Available July-December 2013).

390 ZBT X Pack features a new larger size crash and ride to meet the demands of today's music.  Manufacturing techniques developed in the Zildjian Sound Lab release a fast, bright, high-volume sound from this alloy. Contains 14" ZBT hi-hats, 17" ZBT Crash (new in 2013), and 22" ZBT Ride (new in 2013).  (Available May-December 2013).

390 ZBT Pack features a bright, intense sound that cuts through the mix.  As an added value, the dynamic 10" Trashformer is included, offering a variety of sound effect opportunities, either alone or stacked. Contains 14" ZBT hi-hats, 16" ZBT Crash, 20" ZBT Ride, and 10" Trashformer.  (Available May-December 2013.

Visit www.zildjian.com for more information.

Deen Castronovo discovered the drums at age five and played his way through a long list of highly acclaimed bands. At 13, he had learned every song on Journey's albumInfinity. Deen exploded on the scene with heavy rockers Bad English, led by his future Journey band mate Neal Schon. Bad English enjoyed great success throughout the late 80s and early 90s, all the while proving that Deen was a drumming force to be recognized. He has also released an instructional video entitledHigh Performance Drumming. 

Deen was the natural choice to join Journey when the band reformed and Steve Smith decided to continue on his path with Vital Information. Deen has been touring around the world and recording with Journey for over 10 years.

Deen's other playing credits include Hardline, Ozzy Osbourne, Steve Vai, Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler's G/Z/R, Social Distortion, Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, Paul Rodgers, Tony MacAlpine and a solo project entitledSoul Sirkus with Neal Schon, Marco Mendoza and Jeff Scott Soto.

Deen Castronovo is currently on tour with Journey and is using the Vater Power 5B in wood tip.

More at www.vater.com

Herb Brockstein was the leading light behind Pro-Mark and his wealth of knowledge went way back to 1941 when he first entered the music business. Herb was involved in live performance, television, and commercial recording as well as being a teacher, a drum shop owner, and full time music retailer. In many ways the success of Pro-Mark is directly attributable to Herb Brochstein's lifelong dedication to music, along with his experience as a drummer and drum retailer. Herb Brockstein will be sadly missed and our thoughts are with the Brockstein family at this time.

www.promark.com

With its reboot of classic '70s /'80s jazz-funk, Rock Candy Funk Party (RCFP) delivers a sound that's as celebratory as the name suggests. 

The group is powered by a line-up of world-renowned players-album producer Tal Bergman (drums), Joe Bonamassa (guitar), Ron DeJesus (guitar), Mike Merritt (bass) and Renato Neto (keyboards)-who came together for the sheer fun of making music, and a mutual love of genre-blurring grooves.

RCFP's first album We Want Groove  is now out and fans can get their first taste of the album by obtaining a free download of the single 'Octopus-e' HERE

The album, featuring nine tracks, eight originals and one cover, is full of space and texture, mashed up funk, jazz, rock and virtuoso musicianship.  The album includes a bonus DVD that comprises a 'making-of' and two 'in-the-studio' features and the official music video for 'Octopus-e'.

"It really was the definition of collaboration, one of those records where you want to bottle the vibe and save it for all albums," says Bonamassa.

That improvisational nature comes through on We Want Groove, which was recorded live over the course of ten straight days at Tal Bergman's studio in LA. 

"The concept of this record had everything do with interplay," says Bergman.  "Everybody fed off each other, reacted, and captured the moment."

Start your own party with Rock Candy Funk Party's We Want Groove

Winner of the 'Best In Show' award at winter Namm, the Hoop Crasher has been designed in conjunction with Jojo Mayer, to offer an innovative dual ring effects device which can be attached  to any 14" snare drum,  producing a huge and versatile range of additional sounds.

Made from premium B20 Bronze hi hats, the top flotation ring is punched with 32 holes for lightness and lift, while the heavier bottom ring is designed with X-Celerator Air Wave lip to minimize contact with the snare head. This allows you to use it without changing the sound of your snare, allowing you to dial in as much or as little effect as you want. The sound possibilities are endless, from all snare to all Hoop Crasher!

Further details can be located at www.sabian.com

The NAMM show is always a good time to get together with friends and family and no more so than at the Alfred stand when many Hudson Music artists got together to enjoy some down time. Pictured here from left to right are Randy Black, Joe Bergamini, George Kollias, Dom Famularo, Keith Carlock, Steve Smith, Michael Wimberly, Rob Wallis, Stanton Moore, Vera Figueiredo, Carmine Appice, David Garibaldi, Jason Gianni, Chris Coleman, Gavin Harrison, Benny Greb, Gorden Campbell, Russ Miller, Todd Sucherman, Pete Lockett, Aquiles Priester.

Further information at www.hudsonmusic.com

Enjoy this unique and artistic video featuring Paiste Artist Pauli "The PSM" Stanley-McKenzie of the Gorillaz Sound System as he tours the Paiste factory sampling sounds and having the craftsmen use their tools to create beats and sounds.

Paiste Link: http://www.paiste.com/e/news.php?actn=det&menuid=39&newsid=1341

Youtube Link: http://youtu.be/DndQmQc59MI

www.paiste.com

Handcrafted in Premier's manufacturing facility in Lancashire, England, the 'Aces High' consists of a 14" x 5.5" shell that is 10mm thick and constructed from 17 plies of sycamore. The 'Aces High' also includes 2.3mm chrome plated triple-flange steel hoops, a 0610 quick release heavy-duty snare strainer and internal aerodynamic isolation washers.

The drum also features two touches inspired by Nicko: a Remo Emperor X coated batter head and 42-strand snare wire set.

Limited to a production run of 100 snare drums only, each one will be personally hand-signed by Nicko.

www.premier-percussion.com

TRX Cymbal Co. is proud to announce the addition of David Myers (Frank Ocean), Nick Ursich (Volumes), LeShawn Thomas (Flo Rida) and Rob Ketchum (Cher Lloyd) to the TRX Artist Roster.

For more information, please visit www.trxcymbals.com or find us on Facebook.

 Photo caption (shown left to right.): New TRX Cymbal endorsers Nick Ursich (Volumes), LeShawn Thomas (Flo Rida) and Rob Ketchum (Cher Lloyd).

Acclaimed drummer and jazz-fusion pioneer Billy Cobham visited the Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) on Wednesday, February 20 to meet and hold a master class with ACM students.   Billy, currently celebrating a music career that has spanned over half a century, performed for the college.  Students then had the opportunity to talk to Billy about his career, along with gaining invaluable one-to-one advice on how to succeed in the music industry.  

Speaking about his trip to ACM, Billy Cobham said, 'It's been over five years since I was last here and boy has ACM expanded!'

This visit is the latest coup for ACM, which prides itself on its world-class music industry education and was recently described byThe Sunday Time as "changing the face of music tuition".  

More details can be found at: www.acm.ac.uk

Paiste Artist Vinnie Colaiuta discusses the Paiste Formula 602 Modern Essentials line. This classy and artistic video features in-studio performances that capture the pure visual and sonic beauty of these cymbals. In an in-depth interview, Vinnie talks about each model and how this newly coveted line of cymbals came to fruition. 

Hit the link and enjoy or go to www.paiste.com for further details

Youtube Link: http://youtu.be/lWo3QU4btOY

Paiste Link: http://www.paiste.com/e/news.php?actn=det&menuid=39&newsid=1350

Download the HD-File (650MB): http://www.paiste.com/public/Resources/Videos/Formula602_VinnieColaiuta_DemoVideo/

The DM Dock Kit to feature groundbreaking drum module for iPad, six-piece configuration, and heavy-duty steel rack.

Alesis brings you the DM Dock Kit and the DM7X Kit, two innovative new electronic drum sets.

The DM Dock Kit is a six-drum, four-cymbal drum set based around the DM Dock, a revolutionary drum module for iPad unveiled by Alesis in 2012. The set features four toms, a snare, the Alesis StealthKick drum trigger, a hi-hat, two crash cymbals with choke, and a three-zone ride cymbal with choke. The DM Dock Kit's rugged steel rack is instantly adjustable with hinged quick-release clamps holding the drum pads and integrated cymbal arms that are easily converted in seconds from boom-style to straight.

The DM Dock drum module harnesses the power of iPad for drummers, giving them a stage-ready device with 13 professional trigger inputs and balanced ¼" stereo main outputs. Thanks to the WiFi, Bluetooth®, AirPlay®, and 3G wireless connectivity of iPad, the DM Dock empowers drummers to change and enhance their sound library at a moment's notice. With a compatible app, drummers can download new drums, cymbals, even a complete kit to suit any musical style or venue. The app allows drummers to create new kits in seconds by simply dragging and dropping drum icons onto a virtual drum kit.

The Alesis DM7X Kit, a premium six-piece electronic drum set. With its ultra-quiet rubber drum and cymbal pads, the DM7X Kit is ideal for professional drummers who want an electronic kit for quiet practice or for electronic percussionists looking to upgrade to a higher-quality kit with a professional module. The DM7X Kit features four 8" dual-zone toms, an 8" dual-zone snare, the Alesis StealthKick 2 compact drum trigger, a 10" hi-hat, a 10" crash cymbal with choke, and a 10" ride cymbal. The DM7X module is the newest module from Alesis and comes with 385 drum and percussion sounds arranged into 40 vintage and modern kits. 

Further details can be located at www.alesis.com

New Book with2-CD Pack Is a Superb Beginner's Guide to the Kit

Cherry Lane Music has released the latest instructional drum publication from author Andy Ziker. Drumcraft: A Beginner's Guide to the Drumkit is now available.

Percussive Notes calls Drumcraft "very thorough and well sequenced" and Modern Drummer says it's "useful and a heck of a lot of fun!" Ziker bases his unique new beginning method on his many years of playing and teaching experience.

The book covers in detail: how to practice; drumset vocabulary; techniques for hands and feet; sticking options; a mathematical approach to reading, writing & playing rhythms; beginning patterns; rock beats & fills; and  more. The two accompanying CDs let students hear all of the examples. They are playable on any CD player, and also enhanced so Mac & PC users can adjust the recordings to any tempo without changing the pitch - perfect for learning!

Further information can be found at: www.cherrylaneprint.com/clprint/Print-Artists-Items/Drum-Instruction/Drumcraft.aspx

DW has added two new models to their line of Collector's Series thin shell snare drums. The 14 x 5.5" and 14 x6.5" Aluminum drums feature a thin 1mm rolled shell and are "workhorse-style" snares that can be used for every musical genre. The thin shells offer a more resonant tone with more overtones than their thicker rolled-shell cousins. DW's John Good, explains, "We used to have a limited edition thin black nickel over brass. It was so popular we added it to the line. Then, we came out with stainless steel, and that was really well received. After that, our version of a Titanium drum. By this time, we figured that there is a market for both thin shells and the thicker cast-type shells we had been offering for years, so we've decided to have a little of both. Now we have aluminum. It's a really nice drum, warmer than brass and just enough metallic sound to cut and the sensitivity is really nice, too!"

The thin aluminum shell is finished with a matte grey powder coat and has a rolled bearing edges and snare beds. The Custom Shop drum comes standard with chrome hardware and features such as: MAG™ throw-off system with 3P™ (3 position) butt-plate, True Tone™ snare wires, True Pitch™ stainless steel tension rods, 3.0mm steel True Hoops™ and DW Heads by Remo® USA.

Good continues, "It's not the first thin Aluminum shell on the market, but it's the first DW version. We think that a bead-less shell and our patented features, such as our MAG throw-off system set us apart from the crowd. We already have a ton of pre-orders from guys that want to use it on sessions and tours."

web: www.dwdrums.com

Remo is now applying its unique suede texturing process to its popular Smooth White Series drumheads. Offered in Ambassador and Emperor weights, the White Suede drumheads provide focused warmth and maximum mid-range tones for snare and tom toms that have a soft feel and percussive attack. Cora Coleman-Dunham of Beyonce, Chad Sexton of 311, and legendary drummer Steve Gadd, are a few of the Remo artists using White Suede. Cora explains, "White Suede gives me more clarity when playing mallets, brushers or sticks. They're versatile so I can play aggressively and I can play soft and intimate and still have great tone and depth."

White Suede Ambassador drumheads feature 1-ply of textured Smooth White 10-mil film. The White Suede Emperor drumheads feature 2-plies of textured Smooth White 7.5-mil film. Both weights are ideal for all playing applications.

Available in sizes 8", 10", 12", 13", 14", 15", 16 and 18".

Further details can be found at www.remo.com

New pedal features multiple adjustments to tailor action and feel to specific styles.

Gibraltar Hardware introduces their latest G-Class single bass drum pedal, the latest addition to Gibraltar's Turning Point hardware line. The G-Class pedal is designed with the high-performance player in mind, and features a sculpted single-pillar frame, two cam drive adjustment points and a variable-weight beater. The pedal also includes an updated mounting system and independent adjustments for footboard height and beater angle. For changes on the fly, each G-Class pedal has an on-board tool kit secured to the cast-metal base-plate.

The Gibraltar G-Class bass drum pedal is supplied with a 'sling' style molded travel case with shoulder strap.

For more information, visit www.GibraltarHardware.com

Boutique look from this beautiful maple-inlay walnut snare drum

Gretsch Drums launches two new additions to its line of snare drums. Each Gretsch walnut snare drum has a distinct chocolate brown wood-grain finish with two bands of maple inlays around the center of the shell. Available in 14 x 6 ½" 10-lug and 13 x 7" 8-lug models, both of which feature 8-ply shells, 2.3mm triple-flange hoops and 20-strand snare wires.

"These Gretsch walnut snare drums produce a snappy attack with a punchy low-end," said Joe Mazza, Product Manager for Gretsch Snare Drums. "Due to the construction process and organic properties of walnut, no two drums will look alike."

The new Gretsch walnut snare drums feature a gloss lacquer finish with 30-degree shell bearing edges.

For more information, visit www.GretschDrums.com

The Turbo Crasher is one of Meinl's new products for 2013 and should interest both drummers and percussionists of all genres who want to add a different colour to their set up. The Meinl Turbo Crasher can be mounted on a cowbell rod or cymbal stand and creates a trashy short crash sound. Due to the corrugated playing surface, the Turbo Crasher can also be played like a Güiro.

Coloured black and silver and manufactured from steel the Meinl Turbo Crasher is easily mountable.

For further information go to www.meinlpercussion.com

The votes have been cast and the results are in!

During 2012 the Sabian Cymbal Vote tour travelled extensively giving players the opportunity to try 12 prototype cymbals, four of which would be the final production models for 2013. As is tradition the four cymbals were announced on the first day of the NAMM show by Mike Portnoy.

The winners of the Sabian Cymbal Vote were:

8" and 10" AAX Air Splashes, 14" and 16" AAX X-Plosion Hats, 18" AAX Freq Crash and finally the 24" AA Bash Ride - all voted by you, the player.

Hear the winners at www.cymbalvote.com

Thinking about a change in direction or perhaps building that kit you've always wanted? Well, now is your chance.


Tiki drums announce a four-day drum kit-building course. This course is an advanced course that is suitable for those that have either experience of building drums or who have attended one of Tiki's snare drum building workshops.

Learn about design and composition and perfect your tooling skills

Create a professional kit from a range of woods, shell sizes, finishes and hardware options

Under the expert supervision of Preston Prince, learn trade secrets and professional techniques to achieve a professional standard

With over 15 years teaching experience, Preston Prince will guide and assist you throughout the course, giving you all the assistance and attention that you need to complete your own unique kit.

Course Details:

Date: 11-14th July 2013                                                   

Venue: Workhaus, Arthur Street, Hove. East Sussex (UK)

Places are very limited as there is a maximum of 4 people per class to ensure you get all the attention you need.

Any questions please email us on info@tikidrums.com

Further details can be located at: www.tikidrums.com

Los Cabos Drumsticks has welcomed some new faces to their artist roster.  Over the past few months Los Cabos has connected with several great players from around the world and has duly welcomed them into the Los Cabos family.

Harley deWinter (USA) UnDVided (pictured)

Johan Nunez (Netherlands) Firewind

David Cates (USA) Session/Studio

Marek Sieroszewski (Poland) Independent

Danny Miles (Canada) July Talk

Franck Camus (Canada) Independent

Chris Sendat (USA) Curtis Grimes

 www.loscabosdrumsticks.com

http://loscabosdrumsticks.tumblr.com/

Wizdom Media, the brainchild of educator Dom Famularo and highly respected Broadway drummer Joe Bergamini, has announced the release of their latest instructional drumming book, Odd Feelings: A Guide To Odd-Meter Drumset Grooves.

Written by Italian drummer and educator Massimo Russo along with Dom Famularo, Odd Feelings focuses on helping drummers feel comfortable with odd time signatures. Based on a concept introduced in Famularo's book It's Your Move,Odd Feelings  presents grooves and exercises in 18 different time signatures. Using a simple yet effective counting system, the book is divided into chapters on quarter-, eighth-, and sixteenth note based meters, with an additional section on mixed-meter grooves. Odd Feelings provides eight play-along tracks on the included multimedia disc, which contains MP3s and QuickTime videos demonstrating selected examples and including the play-along tracks minus drums. Author Russo performs all of the tracks.

To find further details or to purchase Odd Feelings, go to the Wizdom MedIa site at www.wizdom-media.com or to Alfred Publishing, at www.alfredpublishing.com

Yes, yes, yes! Travis Barker fans need to tune into this right away as Travis unveils his Crash Course, a web series created by Travis Barker that will be teaching and showing some of his favorite techniques behind the drums and more. What are you waiting for? Dial it up now, but be prepared to shred headphones.

Click here to watch Episode #1

New for this year is a 22" Thin Ride in Meinl's Byzance Extra Dry Series. Living up to their name, Byzance Extra Dry Series cymbals are extremely dry, with low-pitched sounds and a short sustain. The raw un-lathed surface and extensive hand hammering reveal dark, earthy tones and the cymbal comes to life when played at lower volumes.

The 22" thinner relative of its medium version has slightly more wash and an extremely buttery, soft feeling. The cymbal features crash abilities too, due to its thin material and works perfectly for Jazz, Funk, RnB and others genres.

Further details can be located at: www.meinlcymbals.com

Over at http://revivalist.okayplayer.com we discover that drumming is undeniably one of the oldest forms of music - so old in fact that we can trace it as far back as there were things to bang on (read: forever). Consequently, drumming - and in turn rhythm - has become the backbone of everything that has evolved from the first humans to the latest Ableton session. With so much history and influence it's about time we gave the drummers some!

With all due reverence, respect, and experimentation Revivalist will be presenting Generations of the BEAT, a two-day Drummer's Festival complete with an all-star line-up, guiding you through everything you ever wanted to know about the legendary, innovative, and current realm of drums.

Generations of the BEAT

Saturday, March 23rd

Performers include: Jimmy Cobb, Jeff 'Tain' Watts, E.J. Strickland Quartet, Jo Dyson

Sunday 24th

Performers include: The Elvin Jones Project (feat. Billy Hart), Kimberley Thompson Quartet, Lenny White Quartet, Andrew Cyrille & Oliver Lake, Mark Whitfield.

Hit up http://revivalist.okayplayer.com for further details

National Learn To Play Day Saturday, 16^th March 2013, is set to go with a bang as a whole host of top professional drummers line up to support the day.

At Foote's Music store, London, renowned Pink Floyd drummer, Nick Mason will be appearing. Commenting on the day he said; "Learning to play an instrument is something rather more than a passport to a TV talent show. I know this - I've been doing it for 45 years now, and it still doesn't feel like a job!"

One of the most in demand, award winning UK drummers, Ralph Salmins, who has worked with Robbie Williams, Van Morrison to name just a few, will be at Bell Percussion, London between 3.00pm and 5.00pm on the day.

Yes / King Crimson drummer, Bill Bruford  will be appearing at The Electric Theatre in Guilford. He is a revered master percussionist and regular attraction at drum clinics. Popular comedian and sometime drummer, Al Murray, is also lending a hand and will be giving drum lessons at 11.00am at Chappell of Bond Street, London.

National Learn To Play Day is run by the charity Music for All and will be offering everyone all over the UK the chance of a free taster music lesson, on many sorts of musical instruments on March 16^th.

Check out the Learn To Play Day Website www.learntoplayday.com, and your local shop for more information.

 Or go to:

www.musicforall.org.uk 

www.takeitaway.org.uk

www.artscouncil.org.uk

www.themu.org

www.musicteachers.co.uk

Stand out from the crowd with Protection Racket's all new, limited edition, 'Bubble Man Print' stick and cymbal bags.

Protection Rackets' legendary funky protection has just got even better with new stick and cymbal bags that feature a special edition fabric with a 'Bubble Man Print' of the iconic logo.

The cases available in this limited run are Deluxe Stick case, Standard Stick case, Super-Size Stick case, 3-pair standard Stick and 3-pair deluxe Stick cases, Standard cymbal case and Deluxe cymbal case.

These cases are sturdy enough for the road, durable, secure and functional - it's all due to the clever design. The limited edition fabric is just as tough and hardwearing; the cases come fitted with the quick release clips, strong zips and poppers for your gear's safety and protection.

The 'Bubble Man Print' stick and cymbal cases are available now, for a limited period only. To find out more go to www.protectionracket.co.uk/index.asp.

 When they've gone - they've gone!

"I recently had the chance to check out some Vater sticks and was really impressed with their feel, variety and killer quality!  I've been using the West Side model ever since I've checked them out and they're my new stick of choice. They're really versatile and I dig the unique tip design.  I'm happy to be on board as a Vater artist!" -Gil Sharone

For Gil Sharone, his power as a drummer resides in his triad of skills as an artist, session player, and clinician. It's also reflected in three invaluable traits he brings to any situation: musical versatility, razor-sharp instincts, and refined, but inspired technique.

With his capacity to come into any professional environment and instinctively play exactly what is needed, Sharone has gained a reputation as a veritable drumming ninja. In a shining example of Sharone's amazing ability at sonic absorption and understanding, the drummer was called-in last minute to replace Travis Barker on his tour with +44 after Barker broke his arm. Sharone memorized all his parts on a plane ride over to Europe and played the next afternoon without even a rehearsal. After playing with +44, Sharone's momentum continued and he was asked to work with Dillinger Escape Plan as well as Maynard James Keenan in Puscifer. 



Paying homage to some of his biggest influences, Sharone channelled his lifelong love of Jamaican styles of Ska, Rocksteady and reggae drumming into a self-produced award-winning genre-specific instructional DVD called Wicked Beats.

Parts of Sharone's professional and technical accomplishments are best accented by his passion. No matter the musical situation, Sharone will always be the stabilizing force that brings it together. 

Gil is currently keeping very busy touring with his band Stolen Babies, working on a new project featuring Chino from the Deftones as well as various studio sessions.

Gil Sharone is now using the Vater West Side Model

Further details can be found at www.vater.com

JULY 3^RD - 5^TH AT DRUM CHANNEL STUDIOS IN OXNARD, CA

5-Day Music Education Camp Features Special Guest Instructors Including George Kollias, Stanton Moore, Virgil Donati, Chris Coleman, Dave Elitch and Jon Dette Among Others

Drummer/producer Thomas Lang (stOrk/Paul Gilbert/John Wetton), has announced the Big Drum Bonanza 2013 (BDB2013) -- scheduled for July 3^rd -7^th at the Drum Channel studios in Oxnard, California and at the nearby Courtyard Marriot in Camarillo, California. 

Drummers of all ages, levels and styles are invited to join Thomas and other special guest instructors including world-renowned drummers George Kollias (Nile); Stanton Moore (Galactic); Virgil Donati (Steve Vai/Planet X/Derek Sherinian); Chris Coleman (Prince/Chaka Khan/NKOTB); Jon Dette (Antrhax/Slayer) and Dave Elitch (The Mars Volta) among others for this exciting, 5-day music camp and educational experience. Lang and his special guest teachers will lead 
daily schedules of intensive, hands-on drumming, master classes, Q&A sessions, performances, private lessons and much more.

Presented by MUSO Entertainment, the BDB 2013 boasts not only an incredibly diverse line up of world-class drummers but features the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy a VIP tour of the Drum Workshop factory as well as participate in camp activities held in the Drum Channel studios.

"This is our second Big Drum Bonanza and we are incredibly honored to have this caliber of talent at the event," says Lang.  "We are proud to offer students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play with and learn from some of the most acclaimed and talented drummers of our generation."

For additional information on the Big Drum Bonanza, please visit www.bigdrumbonanza.com or email info@bigdrumbonanza.com

Latin Drummer & Percussionist set for Sussex Academy of Music dates:

Dream Machine sticks-man Maurizio Rossi has announced a 30-places for his Latin Drum Masterclasses.

He will put on exclusive demonstrations and lessons of Latin Afro-Cuban drumming style for maximum of thirty drummers at Sussex Academy of Music starting from the 27th of April.

Maurizio's Latin Master-class will cover the importance of the Latin fundamental key the "Clave" including the most known Afro-Cuban rhythms within depth discussion of how to apply the Clave into other styles such as Second Line drumming.

He will also demonstrate innovative and contemporary grooves using the Clave concept in various styles such as Funk, Rock & Pop.

The day start off at 10:30-12:30 with places costing £8 in advance and £10 at the door. For more information click here

Drum stick luminary Regal Tip celebrates 2013 with the release of four great new sets of sticks for the discerning drummer - three of which have been created in conjunction with some of the music world's greatest percussionists.

Daniel Adair, the drumming force behind Nickelback - and long-time Regal Tip endorser - has worked with Regal's product specialists to create a new signature model, the Daniel Adair B-52. Emphasising extra length, with a heavy taper and neck, and an acorn tip, the B-52 is designed to hold up under punishing treatment and measures 16.25" in length and .590" in diameter.

Regal Tip has something for jazz fans, in the form of a new pair of Ulysses Owens signature sticks. Ulysses, who previously played Regal Tip Jazz; says of his new signature U pair: "My new 'U' stick is perfect. Great feel, touch, and balance continuing with Regal Tip's reputation of creating the best feeling stick in the business!"

Daniel de los Reyes, percussionist with the two-time Grammy Award-winning Zac Brown Band, needs a stick as rugged and as versatile as the music he plays. The Daniel de los Reyes Power Grip sticks feature a rubberised comfortable sleeve not only for grip but also for cymbal swells. The sticks measure 16" in length and .555" diameter, and with the 7 ¾" long comfort sleeve, the diameter measures .655".

Finally, the new Regal Tip Session model is built for balance and finesse, featuring a fast sloping taper for greater bounce and speed. The compact tip brings out precise quality and warm tones on the cymbals, and the stick measures 16" in length and .555" in diameter.

Quality is Regal Tip's number one priority when designing and manufacturing its elite line of percussion products. All new Regal Tip models are cut from first quality US hickory, crafted with extreme attention to detail, and powered by Regal Tip's famous P.E.F. (Performance Enhancing Finish) finish. The PEF's secret is in a lacquer finish that makes all Regal Tip sticks stickier the more you play, minimising hand fatigue and improving your grip.

These four new models are available from all good drum stores from April 2013.

www.regaltip.com

Chris Coleman, Gabor Dornyei, Florian Alexandru_Zorn andAlexey Baev take part in the Sonor Drum Festival to be held in Moscow on 14th April. The festival runs 17:30 through to 22:30.

Full details can be located at www.redsinkopa.ru

World's Leading Drum Education Website is the Exclusive Sponsor and Will Provide Exclusive

Content for "Chad Smith Drum App"

DrumChannel.com announced a partnership with Chad Smith to be the official sponsor and provide exclusive content through his "Chad Smith Drum App," which is available for free in the Android market and on iPhones. Smith, who is already a member of the DrumChannel.com faculty, launched his app last year for fans and drummers worldwide so they can keep up with all of Smith's activities. DrumChannel.com will work with Smith to provide exclusive content including Smith's first clinic in over two years, a Q&A session and select episodes of the Chad Smith show.

"We're excited to work with Chad on yet another endeavor. We will provide fresh and current video content that will only be available through his app," says Don Lombardi, founder of DrumChannel.com. The app was designed to showcase Smith's work and influences while fans get the latest news, see upcoming tour dates and discover drummers with the unique "Drummer GPS." Fans can also listen to tracks spanning all of Chad's projects, interact with other members of the community and get the lowdown on everything Chad.

For more information, visit drumchannel.com.

Before we delve into Elvin Jones' life and career from a musicologist's standpoint, it is important (when available) to hear from these musicians themselves and those they worked with. Luckily in the case of prolific drummer Elvin Jones, film producer and director Ed Gray decided to make a documentary entitled Different Drummer: Elvin Jones  in 1979 for PBS.

Though Jones is most well known for his work with innovators like Charles Mingus, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and countless others, he also had quite an interesting youth both serving in the US Army and developing his musical chops in the Detroit music scene afterwards. The documentary in part looks at his earlier work that helped him develop a music sense in the church and in postwar Detroit. The documentary is only 30 minutes total, so we won't tell anyone if you break away for a quick lunchtime viewing!

Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6v9C3TAOL8&feature=player_embedded

Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wo5lmH1jLN4

Part 3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0T5p1ZmQ1M

Found at: http://revivalist.okayplayer.com/

Usually it is not necessary to explain much about Benny who has established himself within the drum community as a drummer who is continuously in demand for drum clinics around the globe. Beside his outstanding musicality and drumming qualities, Benny always supplies additional knowledge and highly motivating approaches and objectives to take, use, practice and rehearse.

Meinl Cymbals is therefore very proud to be able to present a Benny Greb clinic tour through Scotland, England and the Netherlands in May 2013. Due to the high demand it is already recommended to reserve tickets as soon as possible - space is limited! 

Benny's clinic dates:

6^th May - Glasgow (Scotland)

Rhythm Base, www.rhythmbase.co.uk

7^th May - Gateshead (England)

Drum Shop, www.drumshop.co.uk

8^th May - Colchester (England)

Sound Attak, www.soundattak.co.uk/home/default.asp

9^th May - Bournemouth (England)

Absolute Music www.absolutemusic.co.uk

10^th May - Zwolle (Netherlands)

Rimshot, www.rimshot.nl

11^th May - Rotterdam (Netherlands)

Rotterdam Drum Department, www.rotterdamdrumdepartment.nl

The perfect road trip album for the everyday space traveller,Merkaba takes listeners on a cosmic funk adventure. With spacey Hammond organ overlays and celestial chord progressions provided by Beau Sasser (Melvin Sparks Band, Akashic Record), zero-gravity guitar riffs by Danny Mayer (On the Spot Trio) and the rocket powered beats of Alan Evans. The Alan Evans Trio follow up album to the critically-acclaimed Drop Hop, invites listeners to experience an interstellar musical voyage as deep as space itself.

CD + VinylBundles Here!

Vinyl + Digital Download + T-shirt + Poster - $38.00 

CD +  Digital Download + T-shirt + Poster - $28.00

(still available until the end of the week!)  

TOUR DATES

Saturday, March 23  -  Northampton, MA  -   Bishop's

Thursday , March 28  -  San Diego, CA  -  The Griffin w / Sister Sparrow

Friday, March 29  -  West Hollywood, CA  -  The Roxy Theatre w / Sister Sparrow/Monophonics

Saturday, March 30 -  San Francisco, CA  - The Independent w / Sister Sparrow

Sunday, March 31 -  Santa Cruz, CA  - Moe's Alley

Wednesday, April 3 -  Arcata, CA  - Jambalaya

Friday, April 5 -  Denver, CO - Quixote's

Sunday, April 7 -  Frisco, CO  - Barkley Ballroom

Monday, April 8  -  Boulder, CO - Southern Sun Pub and Brewery

Wednesday, April 10  - Chicago, IL  - Martyrs'

Saturday, April 13 - Kerhonkson, NY  - Rock n Roll Resort w / Soulive, Chali 2NA

Wednesday, April 17  - Syracuse, NY -  Westcott Theater

Thursday, April 18 -  Buffalo, NY - Nietzsche's

Friday, April 19 -  Albany, NY  - The Red Square

For more information and to get tickets please visit:

  www.alanevanstrio.com

Sabian has announced that legendary percussionist and drummer ALEX ACUNA will be performing with Sabian Cymbals and Gon Bops Percussion at the Agora Stage on Saturday, April 13th from 4.00 - 4.30pm.

Alex's accomplishments and the impressive list of artists he has performed and recorded with are nothing short of breathtaking. U2, Paul McCartney, Joni Mitchell, Ella Fitzgerald, Whitney Houston, Sergio Mendes, Chick Corea, Carlos Santana, Herbie Hancock and Tito Puente are just a few names from a very long list that also includes Elvis Presley and Diana Ross.

 Alex is perhaps best known for his work with legendary jazz-fusion band Weather Report and played on the groundbreaking albums Black Market and Heavy Weather.

Further details at: www.sabian.com

We just received this press release from the folks at Sabian.

It is with deep, deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert "RZ" Zildjian, our beloved founder and leader. A tireless and dynamic force within the drum industry, he inspired each one of us in the Sabian family to work harder, to reach farther, to make a difference - and he led us by example.

His professional story is well known. Having been dealt a major career setback at an age where most men would have opted for retirement, RZ instead chose to re-invent the cymbal business with his own hand-crafted brand, a brand that would forever change the face and sound of popular music. With his bare hands he shaped the Sabian cymbal brand into his life's story - and by extension we became his family.

We mourn his passing, and he will be forever in our hearts. But we are better people for having known RZ, and we are richer for having worked alongside him. We draw comfort from the knowledge that his spirit will live on in the music made by drummers the world over.

Rest in peace, RZ.

Voted  "Progressive Rock Drummer of the year" over four consecutive years in Modern Drummer  magazine readers' poll, as well as winning "Best Progressive Drummer" in DRUM USA magazine, Gavin has played with a number of the world's greatest artists, from bands such as Incognito and level 42 to the punk icon Iggy Pop.

Now best known for his work with the progressive rock band Porcupine Tree, Gavin also occupies the drum seat with the legendary band King Crimson

A talented author, Gavin has released two instructional drum books entitled Rhythmic Illusions and Rhythmic Perspectives. As well as producing his own instructional DVDs, Rhythmic Visions and Rhythmic Horizons,

Says Bob Wiczling, Zildjian's International Marketing Manager, "We are extremely proud to be able to bring Gavin out to perform clinics in  Europe. Gavin continues to be one of the world's most sought after clinicians. As well as his acoustic Zildjian cymbals Gavin will also be incorporating  Zildjian's exciting new Gen 16 AE Acoustic Electric cymbal system into his performance "

Further details at: www.zildjian.com

Contestants to perform at Roland's V-Drums World Championship 2 Final

The world final of Roland's V-Drums World Championship 2 are to be held at the Südbahnhof, Frankfurt on 11^th April as part of Frankfurt Musikmesse - the International Trade Fair for Musical Instruments.  The event will be streamed live on www.Roland.com here starting at 19.30 (GMT+1) or by following the link in the Roland Connect App, which can be downloaded via the Apple App Store and Google Play for smart phones.

The unique event will see contestants from 16 countries take to the stage and perform in front of the public and a panel of industry judges. One winner from almost 5,000 entrants from around the world will have the honour of taking the V-Drums World Champion 2 title.

In addition to their playing skills, entrants had to prove their musical ability and technical command of the instrument. The 16 finalists will now show off their chops on the Roland TD-30KV electronic drum kit, creating wild electronic soundscapes and incredible dance rhythms. Performances will be judged by a panel of industry experts.

The participants are:

Nicolai Weißert (Germany), Haruka Matsumoto (Japan), Patrick Kennedy (USA), Zoltan Csanyi (Hungary), Boris Massot (Switzerland), Zhi Long Chen (China), Issah Contractor (Canada), Doğaç Titiz (Turkey), Diego José de Medeiros (Brazil), Lars Nijman (The Netherlands), Paul Kholodyansky (Ukraine), Geoff Fry (Great Britain), Fredrik Olsson (Sweden), Jesús Gancedo García (Spain), Jaime Edwin de la Rosa (Mexico), Michele Villetti (Italy)

A New Drum Company… And A New Class of Percussion.

Heading up a group of today's top drummers and drum industry veterans, legendary Gospel drummer, teacher and mentor to a generation of Gospel and R&B musicians, Jefflo Davis, has announced the formation of Urban Percussion™, a new company dedicated to developing a range of acoustic and electronic drums and percussion for use in Gospel, Hip-Hop, R&B and other urban-influenced live and recorded music situations.

"Urban Percussion is more than just a new drum company, it's a whole new drum category," Davis explains. "We have Latin, African, Brazilian, Asian and other types of drums and sounds from around the world but there's never been a term for the family of instruments that have come from our community- everything from tambourines, shakers and cowbells to turntables and beat boxes. Our goal is for 'UP' to do for urban percussionists what 'LP' has done for Latin percussionists."

While Davis and Urban Percussion are currently in the process of finalizing the administration of the company and the design of their first instruments, UP has announced that its instruments will be distributed worldwide exclusively by Kelley Percussion.

Please visit www.urban-percussion.com

Tired of having to lug a big piece of carpet along with his drums to parties, clubs and recording studios, Bob Hyams was a serious drummer who played nearly everyday and worked as often as he could. Bob figured there had to be a better way to secure his drums, protect his floors and lighten his load. So, necessity being the mother of invention, he set out to develop a drum mat that would meet his needs.

After several preliminary attempts, Bob settled on a design that combined a heavy-duty yet lightweight material with a spider-like web of super-gripping Velcro™. This new system not only securely anchored his bass drum and hi-hat pedals, it prevented his entire drumkit from creeping and crawling whenever and wherever he played, it folded up in seconds and it traveled in his bass drum case- allowing Bob to get rid of his bulky drum rug once and for all.

Today, Bob's ingenious invention is known as the Black Widow Drum Web™ and, although it has only been on the market for a few months, it has become one of the fastest selling new drum accessories in years. Perhaps this is due to the fact the "Widow" is an affordable, easy to use accessory that works for virtually every drummer, every day.

"The 'Widow' isn't just for the rich and famous drummers who play stadiums and arenas all around the world," Hyams explains. "It's for local, everyday players like me who set-up and pack-up their own kit and who appreciate how its simple yet advanced design can help make their lives better and easier."

The Black Widow inventor is now giving other "everyday drummers" the chance to tell their stories on the Black Widow website and social media. In order to participate, Black Widow owners can record and post their testimonial videos on Youtube and then enter the link at www.blackwidowdrumweb.com/everyday. The videos will be available for general viewing on Black Widow's YouTube channel. As an added incentive, Bob will personally select the best submissions for use in Black Widow's upcoming print and electronic advertising in leading drum publications.

Check out the revolutionary Black Widow Drum Web your local drum dealer and post your video link at www.blackwidowdrumweb.com/everyday.

Visit www.blackwidowdrumweb.com for further information.

Gretsch and Gibraltar hardware has announced the addition of Matt Sorum to their respective artist roster. Matt is best known for his work with legendary bands like The Cult, Guns N' Roses, and Velvet Revolver. He is currently working on a solo project (singing and playing guitar), as well as getting ready for upcoming shows with his band, Kings of Chaos. Last year, Matt was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Guns N' Roses. When asked why Gretsch, he replied: "I always loved the sound and I own a late 70's kit in my studio. Best recording kit."

For more info on Matt, please go to www.mattsorum.tv

The Crash Course is a web series created by Travis Barker that will be teaching and showing you some of his favorite techniques behind the drums and more. We just dropped Episode #2. Check it out!

The Crash Course with Travis Barker - Episode 2: The Warm Up Pt 2

Hudson Music releasesOff Time/On Time, a new instructional drumming DVD from pop/Gospel/R&B/rock drumming sensation George 'Spanky' McCurdy. Having performed and/or recorded with artists such as Lady Gaga, Diddy, Kanye West, Jill Scott, Justin Timberlake, and Timbaland, Spanky's playing has long been admired by awestruck drumming fans, and now he divulges his secrets on this new DVD! The package comes with an extensive 45-page eBook containing note-for-note transcriptions, and play-along MP3 versions of all tracks played by Spanky on the DVD!

Off Time/On Time  explains and demonstrates a wealth of concepts, licks, and secrets to taking your playing to an entirely new level. One of the main topics covered on the DVD is the ability to play creative grooves and fills that are extremely creative and can sound 'off time.' Spanky performs many examples, from basic to very advanced, where he shows you his concepts and secrets to 'off time' playing. Examples are performed at different metronome settings, and other approaches are explained, including taking an idea on one surface and moving it around kit. All of these examples are applicable to R&B, pop, rock, and gospel playing situations.

Also covered are creative concepts to spice up your drumming tool kit, including cool ideas of Spanky's own creation such as 'partial diddles,' 'the echo,' 'the CD skip,' and being able to play over-the-bar-line fills. There is also an extensive section on hand and foot techniques and tricks, including foot doubles, before-and-after effects with the hi-hat, 'sneak attack' bass drum technique, playing off time with the ride cymbal, hi-hat/snare combinations, and much more. All of the concepts presented on the DVD are then demonstrated by Spanky as he plays along to several funky, melodic tracks of his own composition. Off Time/On Time is a drumming DVD unlike any you have seen before.

"Spanky's DVD is really going to blow a lot of minds in the drumming world." said Hudson's Senior Drum Editor Joe Bergamini. "There is, of course, plenty of the funky yet polyrhythmic playing that Spanky is known for, but what takes this DVD to another level is the fact that he has broken down many of his ideas into an organized system that will help you understand how he thinks and comes up with his amazing ideas. The detailed eBook will also shed a lot of light on Spanky's advanced rhythms."

Drummer & Producer Daru Jones Joins the ProMark Line-Up as the Newest Member of their Ever-Evolving All-Star Roster

D'Addario welcomes drummer/producer/beat-master Daru Jones to its ProMark artist roster. Currently residing in Brooklyn, New York, Jones lies on the forefront of progressive percussion performance, merging Soul and Hip-Hop to create "Soul-Hop." Inspired by such legendary musicians as James Brown, Jones has attained a breadth of experience through his countless years on the Soul/Hip-Hop scene. All his beats reflect the art of incorporating live drum loops, jazzy samples, and soulful passion. 

"Already a member of the Evans roster, D'Addario is enthusiastic to now have Daru on board with our ProMark line. The level of creative energy, sophistication, and expertise that he brings to the table is unparalleled," exclaims Marco Soccoli, Director of Artist Relations at D'Addario. "Daru has his ear on the pulse; his mix of progressive, yet age-old style is completely in sync with our forward vision for ProMark, along with the way our company's evolving as a whole."

When performing, Jones plays with ProMark Hickory 735 Steve Ferrone Wood Tip Drumsticks and the Hickory 747 Pro-Grip Wood Tip Drumsticks.

Daru has played with a myriad of artists including Slum Village, Black Milk, Ski Beatz & The Sensei's, and Jon B. Currently, Jones is drumming and touring with Jack White, Talib Kweli, and Austrian Jazz-Hip-Hop trio The Ruff Pack, of which he's also a member.

For more information on Daru Jones, please visit his website at www.rusicrecords.com, and for more information on ProMark drumsticks, please visit www.promark.com.

To celebrate the launch of the new Paiste 602 Modern Essential range of cymbals that have been designed in conjunction with Vinnie Colaiuta, Foote's will host Paiste Day.

This new range (and others) from Paiste will be available to test and Paiste product specialists from Korg (UK Paiste distributor) will be on hand throughout the day.

Special guest Nick Mason (Pink Floyd) will be in attendance so come and meet Nick and find out why Paiste has been his choice of cymbals for the last forty years.

Further details:

Foote's

41 Store Street

London

WC1E 7DB

Tel (+44) 020 7323 2213

www.footesmusic.com

Evans And Promark Are Proud To Welcome Josh Eppard to their Artist Roster

Josh Eppard has joined the Evans and ProMark families.



Hailing from Kingston, New York, Josh is the drummer for the progressive rock band, Coheed and Cambria. Eppard's musical repertoire encompasses cutting-edge style with the grittiness of the East Coast streets. His varied background includes working as a solo rapper under the name Weerd Science and as a drummer for the super group Terrible Things.


Product innovations from Evans and ProMark have made Eppard a dedicated convert. "The sticks have the density and weight distribution that suits me very well. The heads have great tone and are the best in the business!"



Eppard's trials and tribulations during his career have been his primary inspiration for his music. After leaving Coheed and Cambria in 2006 for personal reasons, he recorded his second Weerd Science album, entitled Sick Kids.  The album is a creative take on substance abuse as well as a social commentary on the current condition of the United States. However, Eppard officially rejoined Coheed and Cambria in 2011, and is currently playing with the band. Most recently, he has also formed another rock band called Mours.

"It's great to see Josh back in the band that he helped start," says Marco Soccoli, Director of Artist Relations. "We are proud to have him as part of our family

To learn more about Josh Eppard, visit www.coheedandcambria.com.  For more information on Evans Drumheads and ProMark drumsticks, please visit www.promark.com and www.evansdrumheads.com.

In celebration of the launch of the 12th Annual Jazz Appreciation Month at the Smithsonian's National Museum of  American History in Washington, D.C., a selection of Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez's musical instrument artifacts were accepted into the Smithsonian's Latin Jazz Collection.

El Negro's Istanbul Mehmet Signature Cymbals, along with his purple and gold Pearl drum kit and Pearl signature cowbells, all uniquely designed to represent his Latin fusion style, joined the prestigious Latin Jazz collection. This distinguished collection includes musical instrument artifacts from other luminaries including Benny Goodman's clarinet, Herbie Hancock's cordless keyboard, Dizzy Gillespie's angled trumpet and Tito Puente's timbales.

El Negro's Musical Instrument Artifacts include:

1999 Purple & Gold Pearl drums

The complete line of Istanbul Mehmet Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez Signature Cymbals

Pearl Signature Cow Bells

Signature ProMark Drumsticks

Evans Heads 

www.istanbulmehmet.com

The renowned Swiss cymbal maker Paiste is proud to welcome Jon Larsen to its Artist Endorsement Program.

Jon Larsen is founding member of Danish band Volbeat, whose fan base around the globe is constantly growing. Their latest studio album Beyond Hell/Above Heaven received Platinum awards in Denmark and Germany as well as Gold awards in Finland and Sweden. Volbeat's new album Outlaw Gentlemen & Shady Ladies has just been released. This summer Volbeat will co-headline some of the most prestigious rock festivals such as Rock im Park/Rock am Ring (Germany), Download (UK), Sauna Open Air (Finland), Rock Werchter (Belgium) and Roskilde (Denmark).

For Volbeat's unique mix of Heavy Metal, Rock 'n' Roll, Country and Blues, Jon selected cymbals from various lines of the Paiste assortment. His set up is as follows: 18" 2002 Power Crash, 19" Signature Power Crash, 14" Twenty Custom Collection Metal Hats, 18" Twenty Custom Collection Metal China, 18" Signature Full Crash, 18" Signature Reflector Heavy Full Crash, 18" Twenty Custom Collection Metal China, 22" Twenty Custom Collection Metal Ride, 14" 2002 Wild Hats, 19" Twenty Custom Collection Metal Crash, 18" 2002 Power Crash.

Paiste welcomes also the following distinguished artists to the Paiste Artist Family:

Joel Farland # Van She (Australia)

Matti Johansson # Korpiklaani (Finland)

Stefan Brunner # Schandmaul (Germany)

Claus Heiberg # Briskeby (Norway)

Jan Inge Nielsen # Sigvart Dagsland, Tre Sopranos (Norway)

Danil Prokopyev # Independent (Russia)

Chris Barkensjö # The Resistance (Sweden)

Alexis "Singha Dee" Amitrigala # Dee Day Dub (Switzerland)

Steven Chen # Independent (USA)

Nate Coon # Hudson Moore (USA)

Norm Freeman # Independent (USA)

Ben Jackson # Greg Bates (USA)

Ian O'Neill # Gavin Degraw (USA)

Ryan Parrish # Smoke or Fire (USA)

Michael Cale Parks # Yeasayer (USA)

Juan Manuel Roura # Los Amigos Invisibles (USA)

Fernando Sanchez # L.P. (USA)

Gringo Starr # Michael Bolton (USA)

Matt Starr # Ace Frehley (USA)

Further details at www.paiste.com

Anytime Night or Day - Yamaha's new DTX502 Series kits bring pro features to discerning home players on a budget

Slave to the rhythm no more - professional sounds with exceptional playing 'feel' at great prices define Yamaha's latest mid-range DTX Drum Kits.

Recently independently awarded the prestigious international Quiet Mark for their exceptional 'silent' capability, the DTX kits are perfect for home use on headphones. You can now play any time, night or day without being disturbed or disturbing others. Yamaha acoustic drums and professional electronic drums are the choice of pro drummers and studios the world over. The new DTX502 trigger module and DTX522k, DTX532k, DTX542k and DTX562k kits combine high level professional and performance features and bring together Yamaha's world-class acoustic drum heritage with state-of-the-art music and sampling technology.

At the heart of the new DTX range is the all-new, redesigned, re-engineered, and re-voiced DTX502 Drum Trigger Module, which delivers brand new rock, jazz and electronic kits combined with a range of new songs. Yamaha's latest award-winning proprietary AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory) provides punchy, dynamic and exceptional realism. There's even a wide selection of sounds imported from Yamaha's flagship DTX900 series systems.

Complementing the DTX502 are the newly designed drum pads providing a softer feel and much wider dynamic range than their predecessors. They offer realistic touch, feel and 'bounce' for a true acoustic playing experience. The new range also offers a refined, sturdy and extra durable rack system. The kit can be quickly assembled and disassembled making it ideal for homes and apartments where space is at a premium.

Full and further information available at:

http://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical-instruments/drums/el-drumkit/

Yet again, 117 magazines from all over the world voted to reward the best musical instruments and audio equipment of 2012/2013.

Instruments from more than 40 categories were evaluated to select who should receive the M.I.P.A - Musikmesse International Press Award. The awards were presented to the winners at a special ceremony held during the Musikmesse in Frankfurt, Germany, on Thursday, April 11th, 2013.

Meinl Artisan Edition Flamenco Cajons were voted best Percussion Instrument. "This award means everything to us and we want to say thank you so much to all magazines and editors who have voted for our products. This award proves that all of the materials used and the quality of craftsmanship that was utilized to build the Meinl Artisan Edition Cajons are unparalleled and emphasize once more Meinl's worldwide leading position in Cajon manufacturing."

For further information on our Artisan Edition Flamenco Cajons please head over to www.meinlpercussion.com

The new Precision series is created using Paiste's proprietary Signature Alloy, and features the typical hallmarks of Paiste's original Signature sound - brightness, fullness, strong presence and projection, with brilliant musicality. A particular quality of the Signature "Precision" is its clean and focused character in combination with a very articulate, straight-ahead sound.

The finish of Signature "Precision" purposely follows the tradition established by the original Signature series. Fans of the original Signature sound, look and feel will thus find these cymbals a compelling choice for their cymbal sets.

"The goal for the Signature 'Precision' was to create a more affordable Signature sound. We specifically researched and designed the manufacturing process to achieve that goal. Part of the success of this project is the incredible sound potency that already exists within the Signature Alloy", explains Erik Paiste, the cymbal maker's CEO.

The 14"Hi-hat features a clear, defined response, a strong open sound, and is suitable for an enormous range of musical styles and applications. With a bit more sharpness and an intense chick sound, the14" Sound Edge Hi-Hat offers the typical sound characteristics of Paiste's wavy bottom cymbal innovation.

The 20" Ride distinguishes itself with a delicate, brilliant and separated stock definition over a rich, yet controllable wash, which makes it the perfect all-purpose ride. In louder settings the 22" Heavy Ride does extra duty thanks to its penetrating ping and the powerful bell.

The precise attack of the 16", 17" and 18" Crashes develops into an explosive, bright crash sound with rich fullness. These cymbals fulfill the demands of drummers in varied styles on stage and in the studio. The rich and warm 16" and 18" Thin Crashes are predominantly suitable for gentle to medium applications.

The 10" Splash and the 18" China complete the Signature "Precision" assortment with exciting and versatile effect sounds.

Further information at: www.paiste.com

Meinl ihas announced that the company's third International Meinl Drum Festival will take place at the Svenska Mässan in Göteborg, Sweden on November 02, 2013. Meinl will produce the festival in cooperation with Crafton Musik, Meinl's distributor for Sweden and Denmark.

"Each of our eight previous festivals so far have been phenomenal and this year's edition won't be any different," says Meinl's festival organizer Norbert Saemann. "Scandinavia's music scene sets trends worldwide. It is very multifaceted and will lend us the foundation for another unforgettable international Meinl Drum Festival."

"We are proud to be the host for the 2013 Meinl Drum Festival in Göteborg," explains Crafton's Per Burstrom.

"Bringing such a word-class and prestigious festival to our home country is a great honor for us. We are looking forward to that experience."

Norbert Saemann continues, "Per and I are currently working on putting the final line up together. Confirmed artists so far are Peter Wildoer and Dirk Verbeuren who will perform a show together, Rodney Holmes, Juan Carlos Mendoza, Morten Lund and Benny Greb. There will be a few more names to be announced."

The latest Meinl Drum Festival news will be posted regularly on meinldrumfestival.com and on Meinl's Social media streams.

Facebook Fanpage: @meinldrumfestival

Twitter: @meinlcymbals

#meinldrumfestival

www.drumfestival.com

The organizers of "Day of Drums" are seeking support from the worldwide community of drummers to help reduce or eliminate the cost to children and their families to participate in this amazing day long drumming experience.

"The more donations we receive - even if it's $1 - the more children and families we can reach," said event organizer Scott Graves.

Day of Drums is held every summer in the seaside Oregon town of Brookings and is hosted by Stagelights Musical Arts Community. The nonprofit enlists a small army of volunteers and professional Latin and Native American percussionists to provide hands-on drumming and drum making activities. 

"Our mission is to set young people on the path of musical discovery and appreciation," said Mombo Hernandez, a self-taught, professional percussionist with 40-plus years of experience.

To reach more children this year, Stagelights has launched an Indiegogo crowd funding campaign that uses the power of social media to fund Day of Drums. 

Graves encouraged people to visit www.indiegogo.com and type "Day of Drums" into the search box. 

"People can learn more about Day of Drums, watch a video of last year's event and then make a donation with the click of a mouse," Graves said.

Every donation is tax deductible and donors automatically receive a receipt, he said.

For those who are unable to donate, they can still help by telling others about the web site via Facebook, Twitter and email.

www.stagelights.us

www.indiegogo.com

Clearly, thieves are not that bright as it seems that one of only two in the world Crush Crop Circles snare drums was stolen during the Frankfurt Musik Messe show last week, making it a somewhat difficult task to play or try to sell the drum!

If you are offered this drum, or have any information that might lead to its return, then please contact www.soarvalleymusic.com or: http://crushdrum.com/ with any details. Or, you can mail us at iDrum magazine - ian@idrummag.com

The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance announces Kristian Dick as winner of the 2013 Higher Diploma Drum Scholarship Award

Each of the five finalists had an interview with a panel of judges including Institute tutor Darren Ashford and the Institute's Industry Liaison Officer, Giaco Bridgett. The interviews were followed by a five-minute live performance with fellow finalists and guests amongst the audience. Kristian impressed the judges with his stylistic versatility and commitment to his instrument.

Judge on the day and head of the Institute's Hub, Giaco Bridgett said:"It was remarkable to see such amazing talent which made it difficult for us to make a decision. It's a privilege to be able to award somebody with the chance to reach their goal and this course is the perfect opportunity for any aspiring drummer. "

The Institute continues to encourage as wide a range of students as possible to access education regardless of financial, social or cultural circumstances. As an equal access institution, scholarships are just one way of supporting guiding and assisting deserved students in their studies.  

Kristian receives a full scholarship onto the Higher Diploma drum course starting September worth £5,650 with runner-up Gabrielle King receiving a partial scholarship worth £2, 825.

For more information on scholarships, awards or courses at the Institute, contact us directly:

www.icmp.co.uk
02073280222 
enquiries@icmp.co.uk

New to the Protection Racket range are three Mini Bags, intelligently designed for people on the move who need to be able to plan and organise their everyday essentials.

Protection Racket attaches great importance to the practicality of their cases and know that the functionality of storage bags is fundamental to being on the road. As perceptive as ever, Protection Racket has created a series of three Mini Bags full of zipped, mesh compartments, made of their legendary tough Racketex material, complete with carrying handles and Carabiner clips. The bags are available in the following sizes: -

Small 10" x 4" x 2.5"

Medium 10" x 6" x 3.25"

Large 10" x 8" x 3.75"

These sturdy bags are made to give a flexible storage solution for all your accessories; from gaffer tape to drum keys, Allen keys to iPods. They fold out flat providing ready access to all your gear and they perfectly compliment all your other Protection Racket bags and cases. In black and white with the highly recognisable Protection Racket logo, these bags are aimed at people who travel for a living and place value on cleverly designed, useful, hardwearing and versatile gear. Have bag - will travel - with complete confidence.

 The Mini Bag range is in stock now. To find out more, visit  http://www.protectionracket.co.uk/index.asp.

Swiss cymbal maker Paiste is proud to welcome Gregory Hutchins onto its Artist Endorsement Program

Gregory Hutchinson is an accomplished and respected musician; a drummer's drummer, who is soundly rooted in the jazz tradition and able to approach many different styles of music tastefully and with imagination. Gregory has worked with a virtual 'who's who' of the jazz world including Dianne Reeves, Betty Carter, Wynton Marsalis, John Scofield, Roy Hargrove, Charles Lloyd, Diana Krall, Harry Connick Jr, Joshua Redman, Christian McBride and Maria Schneider, as well as many others.

Hutchinson's cymbal set-up consists mainly of different models from the classic Formula 602 series as well as Dark Rides and Dark Crash Rides from the Twenty Masters Collection.

Paiste also welcomes the following distinguished artists to the Paiste Artist Family

Robert Moeller # Le Fly (Germany)

Gota Yashiki # Mute Beat (Japan)

Martin Huber # Navel (Switzerland)

Christian Specker # Bligg (Switzerland)

Jesus Mendez, jr. # Newsted (USA)

Further information can be found at www.paiste.com

Vater is pleased to welcome Chad Sexton of 311 to the Vater Artist Family. Chad actually began his career using Vater sticks (the 3A in wood tip to be exact). Chad and 311 are currently gearing up for their 11th consecutive summer tour, "Unity Tour 2013", which will run from July 2nd-August 4th.

Chad Sexton is currently using a custom prototype stick model from Vater

More details can be found at www.vater.com

Cympad "Moderators" Control Cymbal Sound In Any Situation

Although Cympad's "Optimizer" cellular foam cymbal washers have become known for enhancing the sound of all types and brands of cymbals, the company's original goal was to develop an accessory that would help drummers control the sound of cymbals that were too loud or too long to begin with. According to Cympad inventor and Swiss drummer Reto Hirschi, his first innovation was not the "Optimizer" but a cymbal tone control device called the "Moderator". However, now that Cympad's Optimizer and Chromatics series have become popular and successful, Moderators have started attracting interest from the world's drummers, as well.

"Moderators are recommended for a wide range of drumming situations," explains Hirschi. "They can be used to 'dry out' a ride cymbal in a live application, reduce the volume and decay of a crash in a lesson or practice session and add focus and definition to a cymbal set in a recording studio. They don't completely deaden the cymbals; they are subtle and musical. In addition, Moderators can quickly and easily be placed under the bell of any cymbal- and removed just as quickly and easily- offering highly effective yet flexible and temporary tone control."

Available in 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100x15 millimeter sizes to allow incremental modification of virtually any cymbal's sound, Cympad Moderators feature the same quality and consistency, and are made from the same advanced foam material, as Cympad Optimizers. They come in convenient two-packs, a handy assortment Cube (one of each size) and a versatile double Box Set (two of each size). Ask for them at your local or online drumshop or visit www.cympad.com to learn more.

Cajon innovator and craftsman Paolo De Gregorio introduces the groundbreaking DG 'DrumBox' Cajon. The new model features many of the innovations incorporated into De Gregorio's popular range of Cajons, including Baltic Birch bodies, exotic wood veneers, removable faceplates and adjustable snare mechanisms, plus an additional tone panel to right of the traditional front playing surface that is played by a patented foot pedal and linkage assembly mounted on a built-in adapter. For added convenience, the pedal can be stored and transported inside the Cajon, itself.

"By giving players more creative control and freedom, the Drumbox makes the Cajon a more versatile, more musical instrument," says De Gregorio.  "Rather than attempting to connect a standard bass drum pedals to a conventional Cajon, the DG pedal and DrumBox Cajon have been specially- and successfully- designed for this purpose."

Endorsed by world-class artists such Stewart Copeland, Sheila E, Marco Fadda, Evelyn Glennie, Paquito González, Ulysses Owens, Jr., Dave Weckl and Steve White, DG De Gregorio Cajons are sold at leading drumshops and music stores. For complete information on models and availability, visit bigbangdist.com.

Drum Workshop, Inc. and Sabian have developed a snare drum combining exclusive features from both Sabian cymbals and DW Collector's Series Edge snare drums. The result is a unique drum that combines very musical Sabian Cymbal Alloy with carefully selected Lake Birch wood, said to be hundreds of years old. 

The aptly named, Vault Edge rings are made of Sabian's B20 bell bronze and cast from hundreds of cymbals played, and worn out, by artists on tour.  The bronze in these drums has been on every big stage and played by the finest drummers in every major city in the world.  It is well traveled and full of mojo!  Combined with the 10-ply Birch core, it lends the drum a decidedly darker and warmer tone than brass and maple Edge™ drums.

DW's John Good, explains, "In the past, we've experimented with many different types of metals in our Edge rings.  Traditionally, we use brass, but we've also experimented with aluminum, zinc and other alloys.  The Sabian cymbal alloy is a completely different animal.  We were expecting something very musical, and that's exactly what we got!  In addition, Lake Birch wood is a very dark, mellow sounding wood. It comes from Moosehead Lake in Maine, and like our old Lake Superior drums, it's much denser because of its age and the minerals that have been added over time.  To top it all off, we came up with a custom Antique Bronze plating exclusively for this drum.  It's a beautiful instrument and it really does sound as good as it looks."

"When I started in this business, partnering between companies was common.  We all knew that on our own, we didn't have the answer for everything," says Sabian VP of Manufacturing and Metal Specialist, Nort Hargrove.  "So, when we were approached by DW to help on this project, it reaffirmed that somebody out there thinks we're pretty good at what we do, and when we agreed, we affirmed the same about them.  It's truly rewarding to see this happen from companies that are still family-owned, which is also a rarity these days."

Only 50 of the 14 x 6" Limited Edition drums will ever be built and each one is hand-signed by John Good. The collectable drum comes in a rugged, oversized carrying case.

For more information: www.dwdrums.com

David Rosado Cuba met his idol Tito Puente in 1977 and Puente become a good friend and a mentor. The same year David also met percussionists Juan Antonio Pepin, better known as "Papo" Pepin, and Willie Rosario. These two were also very influential in the development of David as a percussionist and it was thanks to Pepin that David was able to record for the first time with Rafael Cortijo.

"I'm excited to be working with David," says Meinl percussion Artist Relations manager Germán Baratto. "He is a very influential percussionist in and out of Puerto Rico. David is not only a great Timbalero but also a specialist in the Afro-Cuban tradition that includes conga, bongo, pleneras and Bata."

David has played with some of the most important salsa orchestras in Puerto Rico including Tommy Olivencia, Mario Ortiz, and the famous Batacumbele. David has also performed with international artists such as Antonio Caban Vale (El Topo), David Valentin, DLG, Marc Anthony, Celia Cruz, Tito Allen, Tito Puente, Eddie Palmieri, Grupo Yuba Ire, and Son del Barrio among others. In 1986 David start playing with singer Gilberto Santa Rosa with whom he travelled the world and recorded eleven albums, many of which went double platinum. Currently, David is working with various artists and groups such as Gilberto Santa Rosa and La Sonora Sanjuanera.

David uses Meinl Professional Series Timbales, Marathon Congas, Free Ride Bongos, Hammered and Steel Cowbells and a Percussion block.

Further details at www.meinlpercussion.com

New from Meinl cymbals is an oriental drum rug that measures 200cm (6.50') x 160cm (5.25') that will comfortably fit most standard sized drum or percussion set-ups.

"Many drummers told us about their drum kits creeping on stage so we decided to do something about it and came out with a series of drum rugs in various looks which have become very popular," explains Meinl's international Artist Relations manager Norbert Saemann. "The newest addition in that series is an oriental design drum rug. That style is popular among drummers and we believe that it will become the most popular version of all our drum rugs."

All Meinl drum rugs are equipped with a no-slip rubber bottom and are made from tightly woven fabric. The mat rolls up easily and is put in a special bag that comes with the rug for easy transportation. Further details at www.meinlcymbals.com

Drum cover video contest sponsored by Pearl, Sabian, Remo, Vater and Jammmit

in conjunction with The Chad Smith Drum App.

Drum! Magazine, DrumChannel.com and the Chad Smith Drum App are inviting drummers of all ages to participate in Chad Smith's Bombastic Drum Contest. To enter, drummers simply have to download one of three, free, "minus-drums" Bombastic Meatbats tracks, record and post a play-along video drum cover on YouTube, and sign-up on drumchannel.com.

The ten top videos as determined by popular vote as well as ten additional 'Wild Card' entries will be judged by Chad along with an all-star panel made up of today's leading drummers, including Terry Bozzio, Gregg Bissonette, Thomas Lang, Stephen Perkins and others.

The Grand Prize winner of the drumming competition will receive a free trip to Los Angeles where he or she will meet Chad, sit in with the Bombastic Meatbats on a live Drum Channel webcast, and take home $1,000's in gear from Pearl, Sabian, Remo, Vater and Jammit. Second place, Third place and ten Runner-Up winners will receive a selection of drum prizes while everyone who enters the contest will receive a "Chad Smith Drum App Digital Good-eBag" featuring electronic content and access from participating sponsors.

Chad Smith's Bombastic Drum Contest will be featured in Drum! Magazine and on DrumChannel.com from May through September 2013. Contest dates and activities are:

• Entries open June 1 to July 31.

• Public voting open June 15 to August 15.

• Final judging from August 16 to August 31.

• Winners announcement and performance live on a special Drum Channel webcast.

Visit drumchannel.com to download the specially-formatted Bombastic Meatbats tracks and for complete contest details. Keep up with the latest contest news and developments as well as the Bombastic Meatbats on the Chad Smith Drum App- available free for all Android and Apple mobile devices.

Remo's Pyramid Wire Drum Stand is designed to lift drums up off the floor letting the bass tones resonate from the bottom of the drum. Use the Pyramid Stand to hold your drum in place with its non-slip rubber bass and tilt at any angle while you sit and play. The stand conveniently fits on the inside of the drum, such as a djembe, without disturbing the airflow and projection for the optimum drum sound quality. Featuring a patent pending lightweight three-tiered level design, Remo's Pyramid Stand can accommodate many drums with an inner diameter opening at the base of, 7.125", 5.90" or 5.36". No other stand can tout these versatile features.

Fits: Remo Mondo Djembes 10" to 18", Versa Timbau and Djembe, Advent Djembe, and more.

Further details at www.remo.com

Remo is now applying a Black Dot to its bestselling line of Powerstroke 3 Series bass drumheads. Offered in Clear, Coated, and Smooth White, Powerstroke 3 Black Dot drumheads provide deeper low tones for bass drums with a focused attack and durability. Inspired by legendary drummer Steve Smith, the P3 Black Dot allows for a more focused lower note fundamental on all bass drum sizes and shell types.

Vinnie Colaiuta, John Tempesta, Eric Hernandez, and Alex Rudinger, among other Remo artists have found their sound with the new Powerstroke 3 Black Dot bass heads. Steve Smith says, "With the Clear Powerstroke 3 with Black Dot I get the fat low-end associated with the Powerstroke 3 head plus more attack, projection and durability.  My favorite is the Coated Powerstroke 3 with Black Dot.  The Coated head has even more low-end than the Clear head and the Black Dot gives me clarity of attack and added durability."

The Powerstroke^® 3 Black Dot bass drumheads feature 1 ply of 10-mil film with a 10-mil inlay ring and 5-mil dot. Available in sizes 14" to 32" and ideal for drum set and marching applications.

Further details can be located at www.remo.com

Vater's wood is attracting a slew of new players to their Artists Rosta including:

Chad Sexton     311

Thomas Hedlund     Phoenix

Mike Cox     Coal Chamber

Gil Sharone      Stolen Babies

Melanie Howe       Independent

Nate Mullins     W.E.R.M.

Harry Judd      McFly

Ben Russin      Title Fight

Isaias Gil      Independent

Ellington Ratliff     R5

Jesse Kristin     Jukebox The Ghost

Tom Hane     In This Moment

Brent Taddie     Crown The Empire

Rich Walker     Alvarez Kings

Drew McKeon       Hall & Oates/Michael Bolton

www.vater.com

www.facebook.com/vaterpercussionusa

www.twitter.com/vaterdrumsticks

www.youtube.com/vaterpercussionusa

www.instagram.com/vaterdrumsticks

www.vaterdrumsticks.tumblr.com

Mike Terrana is one of the busiest European-based recording and touring drummers. Currently he is member of Masterplan, tours with Tarja, and fuses the sound of a Symphonic Orchestra with his Classic Rock oriented drumming on the project The Beauty and The Beat. Mike Terrana is also a well-known and respected clinician.

Mike's cymbal set up consist of 14" Signature Sound Edge Hi-Hat, 17", 18" and 19" Signature Full Crashes, 20" Signature Full Ride, two 19" 2002 Wild Chinas, a stack of 14" Signature Heavy Hi-Hat Top on top of 16" Signature Thin China, two stacks of 5" 2002 Cup Chimes on 8" 2002 Splashes, and a stack of 5.5" 2002 Cup Chime on top of 10" 2002 Splash.

Paiste welcomes also the following distinguished artists to the Paiste Artist Family

Rolf Pilve # Stratovarius (Finland)

Fathi Shayan # Chakuzza (Germany)

Dario Esposito # Balletto di Bronzo (Italy)

Alex Cooper # Katrina And The Waves (UK)

Marc Atkinson # Wayne Newton (USA)

Billy Freeman # Dustin Lynch (USA)

Michael Green # Jenny O (USA)

Pablo Viveros  # Chelsea Grin (USA)

Paiste's Artist Endorsement Policy, as established in 1957 with the creation of «Drummer Service», is based entirely on the artist's appreciation for Paiste products, Paiste's recognition of the artist's career and distinguished status among the drum and percussion community, and mutual respect and loyalty. Further details can be located at www.paiste.com

We got this note in from Norbert @Meinl

As the Meinl Drum Festival will be held in Sweden this year, my buddies from our Guitar Dept. are going to host their Ibanez Guitar Festival on our premises here in Gutenstetten, Germany on June 22nd and 23rd.

Nonetheless, there will be two world-class drummers playing at the guitar festival which make attending so worth while for us drummers too.

First, the one and only Matt Garstka will perform with his band Animals As Leaders on
 Saturday June 22nd. And second, Felix Lehrmann will be the house-drummer for all guitar performances and workshops throughout both days. Watching Felix adapt to the various different musical needs will be a great lesson for all drummers.

Tickets are still available. All info at ibanezguitarfestival.eu

I'll be there for sure. Hope to see some of you there too.

- Norbert

Snapped by none other than Mr. Famous Cheese, you could be wearing this fetching little Travis number and be impressing all your pals in next to no time with this authorised Travis Live Shot Tee!

Dial up the Travis link below to his Psycho White site and order your Tee and get set to be the hip cat in your crowd.

Get the Tee here - http://www.travisbarker.com/psychowhite/

NY/NJ East Coast Invasion

Brian Thomas Tichy along with his partner Joe Sutton have decided to bring the Bonzo Bash/John Bonham Celebration to New York and New Jersey for three shows.

The shows, co-sponsored by Modern Drummer run over May 30^th, May 31^st and June 1^st and will pay tribute to John Henry Bonham on and around what would have been his 65^th birthday.

Show dates are:

Thursday 30^th - Gramercy, NYC

Friday 31^st - Revolution, Amityville, NY

Saturday June 1^st - Bergan PAC, Englewood NJ

Hendrix Drums presents Sleeved Washers that will protect and preserve the chrome on hoops and tension rods by eliminating all metal-to-metal contact. The washers produce smoother and more accurate head tuning and enable lower tom and kick drum tuning without any 'rod rattle'. Sleeved Washers will also help prevent rods backing out under tension so that drums stay in tune longer and will perform well under high tension due to the high quality nylon employed.

Sleeved Washers are available in packs of 20, 50 and 100 pieces and are available in a range of custom colours.

Full and further details can be located at www.sleevedwashers.com

Drumscene Live Tour 2013

Frank Corniola and his DrumScene team has assembled yet another vibrant line up for 2013 with Gregg Bissonette, Virgil Donati and Dom Famularo set to take part in the nationwide tour. 

Full ticket information, dates and times can be located at the DrumScene website:www.drumscene.com.au

Tour Dates include:

24 August  - 1 September

• 24 & 25 AUDW
• 27 CANBERRA
• 28 SYDNEY
• 29 ADELAIDE
• 30 PERTH
• 1 SEPT BRISBANE

Announcing PHOTOGRAPH, The New Book And Ebook By Ringo Starr Featuring Never-Before-Seen, Previously Unpublished Images

Taken By Ringo And From His Personal Archive

Genesis Publications and Ringo Starr proudly announce the upcoming release of PHOTOGRAPH, a collection of never-before-seen material, including photos taken by Ringo as well as exclusive images from his own personal archives. The material will first be published as an ebook, available exclusively on the iBookstore, on June 12 2013 in conjunction with the Grammy Museum Exhibit, "Ringo: Peace & Love", where select images from the book will be displayed. A limited-edition hand-bound book, signed by Ringo Starr, will follow in December 2013.

'These are shots that no one else could have.' - Ringo

Ringo shares forgotten photographs of his childhood home, family holidays and all-night parties on his road to stardom. He candidly captures his Beatles bandmates in pensive and playful moments: washing, eating, recording, smoking, drinking and playing monopoly. Pictures of 'the boys' are joined by Ringo's travel photography, taking you inside the car with The Beatles as they toured the world. His photographs and stories portray four lads from Liverpool, trying to live normal lives amidst the frenzy that surrounded them.

The digital book lifts the Genesis design off the page into an interactive format. Readers can pick up and zoom in on photographs as they scroll through Ringo's memoir, while audio clips narrated by Ringo tell the previously unheard stories of the photos. Ringo tells tales of growing up in Liverpool and his time in hospital, where he played a drum for the first time. He remembers his first car, drum-kit, girls and bands, amidst the excitement of the emerging Merseybeat scene. Ringo has also filmed exclusive videos for this ebook, featuring interviews, music and animation.

'I've got a lot of pictures in the ebook, a lot more in the real book and some in the exhibition in the Grammy Museum.' - Ringo

Genesis are delighted to be making their very first ebook, especially with an author that is an integral part of their company history. Using Apple software to bring their designs into the digital dimension, the ebook was created exclusively for the iBookstore.

The PHOTOGRAPH ebook will be followed with a traditional hand-crafted Genesis limited edition book, each copy signed by Ringo Starr. This will be an expansion of the ebook, with a wealth of new memorabilia, photographs and text taking you deeper into Ringo's early life, his Beatle days and beyond. Hear about Ringo's adventures, mishaps and movies, with appearances from an all-Starr cast of friends.

Combining traditional printing and craftsman bookbinding with innovative designs, Genesis books are designed to be treasured for a lifetime. This hand-bound volume will elevate the ebook to the next level. Ringo Starr will personally sign each of the 2,500 numbered books in the limited edition.

Buy Online:
Available exclusively on iTunes ® and the iBookstore ℠ from May 29 2013
Pre-order price £8.99 / $9.99 / 9.99 Euro

Publication June 12 2013, price: £9.99 / $12.99 / 11.99 Euro

itunes.apple.com/book/isbn9781905662241                               www.RingoPhotograph.com

featuring print and video lessons from some of the world's greatest drummers

For the first time in print, Hudson Music has taken lessons from the eBooks contained on their award-winning DVDs and compiled them into a book/DVD package for drummers of all styles. Lessons with the Hudson Greats, Vol. 1 contains note-for-note transcriptions of many of the key exercises, grooves, fills, and concepts performed and taught by some of the greatest drummers in the world, creating a workbook that will improve your playing on just about every front. Concepts cover all the bases, including hand and foot technique builders, odd-time patterns, jazz time and comping concepts, fill ideas from basic to extremely advanced, groove creativity ideas, funk patterns including odd linear groupings, and more.

These eBooks together present a fantastic amount of challenging practice material in all styles, almost like a college course in modern professional drumset playing. Not only a companion to the Hudson DVDs, the book works as a stand-alone course of study that will allow you to incorporate the concepts of many of today's leading players into your approach.

Included is a DVD containing 75 minutes of clips pulled from the Hudson DVDs referred to in the book, indexed for ease of reference, making this a complete educational package. Included are drumming greats Jason Bittner, John Blackwell, Keith Carlock, David Garibaldi, and all the artists from the Modern Drummer Festival 2008: Will Calhoun, Ndugu Chancler, Gavin Harrison, Simon Phillips, Thomas Pridgen, Dafnis Prieto, Derek Roddy, Todd Sucherman, Bill Stewart, and Billy Ward.

"We hope that this book serves a few different purposes," said Hudson Senior Drum Editor Joe Bergamini. "It is a companion workbook to all of our DVDs, presenting the eBooks in an attractive new format that can reside in your library and be referred to whenever working with any of the DVDs. It is also an incredible stand-alone product that allows you a glimpse into the key concepts of all the amazing players contained herein. Because we wanted to make sure the product worked on its own, we have included a three-hour DVD containing selected clips from the original DVDs. Finally, we hope that working from a book/DVD package such as this one might allow you to gain inspiration and knowledge about the work of some of the drummers that perhaps you currently don't know very much about. Maybe you are a big fan of David Garibaldi already, but haven't yet discovered Aaron Spears. This package can expand your awareness and abilities on the instrument in a big way."

A second book/DVD package,Lessons with the Hudson Greats, Vol. 2, featuring different artists, will be released later in 2013.

Lessons with the Hudson Greats

Book/DVD package

Label: Hudson

Item: HL00119746

Pub : HDBK36

UPC#: 884088912598

EAN#: 9781480344983 UPC#: 884088905569

We heard the news of the sad passing of one of drumming's legendary players - Ed Shaughnessy.

We found this tribute to the great man on the Ludwig web site

Edwin Thomas Shaughnessy was born in Jersey City on Jan. 29, 1929, the only child of Tom Shaughnessy, a longshoreman, and the former Theresa Geetlein, a garment worker. A well-traveled and highly regarded jazz drummer when he was offered the "Tonight" job in 1963, Ed had already performed or recorded with Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus, Billie Holiday and numerous others.

He agreed to take the "Tonight" gig for two weeks and see how he liked it. "When I got up there," he recalled in a 2004 interview for the Percussive Arts Society, "and Doc Severinsen was the lead trumpet player, Clark Terry was sitting next to me in the jazz trumpet chair, and there were all these great players, I said, 'My God, this is not your ordinary studio situation.' " He took the job and never left, remaining until Jay Leno became the host in 1992 and brought in his own band. Mr. Severinsen kept his ensemble together for concert appearances in the years that followed, with Mr. Shaughnessy still in the drum chair.

Though we feel genuine grief in his passing, comfort can be taken in the fact that his personal attention to his craft and to the many that followed him will live on. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, and to the drumming community he cherished. So long Ed, you'll be sorely missed.

Read more at http://www.ludwig-drums.com/

'Concept and Philosophies'

By Bruce Becker

Learn the art of drumming with Bruce Becker's new double instructional DVD, Concepts & Philosophies: A Comprehensive Approach For The Development Of Drum Technique. With over four hours of one to one lessons and interviews, Bruce shares his unique perspective, demonstrating how drummers can make definitive changes in their playing by applying three basic principles: Balance, Motion and Use of Gravity.

Master educator, Bruce Becker, has taught or consulted drummers such as David Garibaldi, Jojo Mayer, Daniel Glass and many more. When teaching he draws inspiration and knowledge from his close thirty-year relationship with drumming guru and legend Freddie Gruber and long association with the highly respected teacher Jim Chapin. The clear narrative of the DVD is full of easily digestible insights, from which any drummer, whatever their style, can gain valuable understanding of a better mind / body connection and thus become a more effective player.

This new drum technique DVD takes you through a series of sequential steps, that will break old habits and build new ones that maximize a drummers power, stamina and most importantly, feel. Bruce talks about the importance of the physical position of arms, hands and fingers and how balance, weight shift and posture can affect small changes that result in a natural body movement. In a similar way Bruce also looks at legs ankles and feet to guide you toward a more fluid pedal motion. During the course of the four-hour DVD Bruce discusses the different grips, and demonstrates various exercises to enhance strength and stretch. He also explains how a drummer can develop a good bass drum technique, looks at the finer points of playing a jazz ride cymbal and offers insight into improving flow in tom movement.

Also included are interviews with master jazz drummer and Bruce Becker student,Tony Arcoand long time studentMark Shulman(Pink, Cher and Foreigner). Talking about Bruce as a teacher Mark said 'he has affected my playing since we were teenagers ...he combines an unparalleled sensibility of the anatomy of drumming with a modern understanding of music and feel.'

The conceptual approach offered by Bruce in these DVD drum lessons can yield brilliant results. Put mathematically, Balance + Motion = Emotion. This DVD offers an understanding of timing, proper motion, posture and placement. Drummers will unlock emotions, feel and imagination as they gain a greater fluidity and more effective way of playing, whilst improving the harmony between body and drums.

This new DVD is available exclusively through Bruce Becker, for more information please visit www.brucebecker.com

Pat Van Dyke (PVD) - drummer, composer, producer, and bandleader releases his full-length record Lux DeVille that features Pat taking care of most of the instrumentation along with 8thW1 providing the story.

Equally comfortable behind the drum kit, as he is penning compositions at the Fender Rhodes, PVD balances the rhythmic intensity of true-school hip-hop and experimental electronic music with the rich harmony and refreshing subtlety of jazz.  Drawing from a diverse palette of sounds, PVD's music features live instrumentation alongside analog synthesizers, vintage keyboards, and lush horn sections, straddling the boundaries of electronic music, jazz, and golden era hip-hop. 

Recent releases include PVD Breaks Volume I & II  (original breakbeat series), a full length LP with NJ emcee; 8thW1, as well as a limited edition vinyl 7" single with (mc) John Robinson entitled 'Miles & Trane': a hip-hop tribute to the two jazz legends that sold out at nearly all online vinyl retailers within the first month! Dial up the link and check out PVD's beats and grooves and go buy Lux DeVille from iTunes or direct from Pat's web site. www.PVDMusic.com

Thursday 4th July - Friday 5th July

"Chris Dave is probably the most dangerous drummer alive. He is totally reinventing just what you can do with drums." 

?uestlove

As the go-to drummer of some of music's most established and iconic artists, Chris Dave has been around the world and back playing for and recording with the likes of Adele, Maxwell, D'Angelo, Beyoncé , Kenny Garrett, Terrence Blanchard, Wynton Marsalis, Pat Metheny, Donald Brown, MF Doom, Bilal, Lupe Fiasco, Me'shell N'Degeocello, Lalah Hathaway, Ledisi, Sonny Rollins, the Robert Glasper Trio/Experiment, Pharoahe Monche, TLC, Toni Braxton, Kevin Mahogany, Kim Burrell, Mos Def, Erykah Badu, Common, Talib Kweli, Jill Scott, A Tribe Called Quest, Mint Condition (Janet Jackson World Tour), Michelle Williams, Dianne Reeves, Sa Ra, Geri Allen, Yolanda Adams, Soulful Symphony, Reginald Veal and many, many more.

Chris "Daddy" Dave is one of the most revered and in demand musicians of his generation. His eccentric approach to the drum set and his ability to adapt to any musical setting, whether jazz, hip-hop or R&B, has put him in a category of his own and has redefined the role of the modern drummer.

Dave now returns to Ronnie Scott's to present two very exceptional Late Late Show Specials with his acclaimed band, the Drumhedz.

The Drumhedz are a rotating cast of world renowned musicians that Dave has worked with over the years and may include a combination of any of the following: saxophonist, keyboard player, bassist, guitarist and of course drums. The show takes the audience on a musical journey by playing a variety of genres, often performing covers inspired by themes from the likes of Jimi Hendrix, D'Angelo, Fela Kuti, Radiohead, J Dilla and many more.  

SHOW TIMES:

Thursday 4th July: Doors 10.30pm, Chris Dave: 11.15pm-late.

Friday 5^th July:  Doors 10.30pm, Chris Dave 11.15pm.  Late Late Set from UK act from 1am.

Tickets£17.50 (Thurs) and £25 (Fri).  Seating first come, first served, plus standing area

Ronnie Scott's

47Frith Street, Soho, W1

Reservations:www.ronniescotts.co.uk 

Tel:  (+44) 020 7439 0747

TRX Takes Over At 2013 Vans Warped Tour

With over a dozen drummers from many of the top bands and participation as an official sponsor- plus support for the Drum Lesson Lab at the BandHappy tent- TRX Cymbals will have a huge presence at the 2013 edition of the Vans Warped Tour. The tour begins June 15th in Seattle and runs for nearly 6 weeks, stopping in more than 50 cities in the U.S. and Canada. Here's the line-up of TRX Artists: DAVID ANGLE (WOE IS ME), GABE BARHAM (SLEEPING WITH SIRENS), RUSSELL DIXON (NEW YEARS DAY), JOE ENGLISH (SECRETS), JAKE GARLAND (MEMPHIS MAY FIRE), JONATHAN GONZALES (UPON A BURNING BODY), REGGIE JAMES (RDGLDGRN), MIKE KENNEDY (THE WONDER YEARS), BRANDON MULLINS (BEARTOOTH), ANDREW OLIVER (I SEE STARS), MATTY P (HANDS LIKE HOUSES) , RYAN ROBINSON (SUPER WATER SYMPATHY), CONOR SULLIVAN (ICE NINE KILLS), BRENT TADDIE (CROWN THE EMPIRE), NICK URSICH (VOLUMES). Also appearing at selected shows is JAGGER KRUSEN (SLATER), age 14, who is a member of the CRX "Exceptionals" project.

www.vanswarpedtour.com

www.trxcymbals.com

www.crxcymbals.com

Dream Cymbals, the brand known for quality hand-made cymbals at extremely fair prices, are taking our social responsibility one step further. We believe we can make cymbals and contribute to the environment at the same time.

Following on from great success in other continents, Dream is bringing our Cymbal Recycling Programme to the UK and customers can 'cash in' broken cast cymbals for credit towards new Dream models.

As all drummers know, once a cymbal has started showing signs of split damage after years of taking a hammering, there's little that can be done with it apart from add it to that stack of knackered crashes leaning against the wall in the back room.

Dream has got your back! Take any old split, smashed or cracked cast cymbal to your local Dream recycling point - cymbals for recycling include crashes, rides, hi-hats, etc. and can be from any manufacturer. Cymbals accepted should be in and around B20. You tot up the amount of inches in your broken cymbals and receive 50p per inch off the purchase of a new Dream cymbal. (e.g. a 22" Ride allows £11.) There is no limit to how many broken cymbals can be used towards a new Dream cymbal.

Example: Four broken 20" cymbals are taken into any Dream recycling point, £40 credit is allocated towards a new Dream model - a purchase is made of a new 20" Dream Bliss Crash retailing at £135, a great new Dream B20 bronze cast cymbal is taken home for £95!

For further details email recycling@dreamcymbals.co.uk.

Dream recycling points are listed at www.dreamcymbals.co.uk.

Dream cymbals information: www.soarvalleymusic.co.uk/catalogue/dream-cymbals-gongs.

Additional:

Here is the really cool part: the collected cymbals will be melted down into a limited edition, numbered series each year creating new unique voices from old metal as part of the new exclusive Forge Reserve Line, or used to create our new Re-FX range, including Crop Circles, bells and trees.

In addition to encouraging sales and recycling to individuals, Dream's program offers a terrific incentive to schools and institutions. School bandleaders can turn the broken cymbals that have accumulated over the years into high-quality Dream instruments at substantial savings. Any customer can upgrade busted cymbals to our fine hand hammered B20 cymbals at possibly no extra cost!

Dream announces our Re-FX series!

After collecting thousands of kilos in recycled B20 cymbals from across the USA and Canada, Europe and the UK through the Dream cymbals recycling program, Dream is proud to launch the first of many new products to be born from the ashes.

Introducing the Re-FX series of cymbal effects. The first item in this line up is the Scott Pellegrom Crop Circle. As an artist, Scott can best be defined as pushing the boundaries, an explorer and risk taker with breathtaking musicality and chops.

Those who have seen him perform at Drum festivals around the globe know how truly exciting he is to experience.

The Crop Circle is a 2" wide circle around 14" in diameter cropped out of a larger cymbal. Attach 4 pairs of jingles and you have an effect that is out of this world. Placed on a snare or tom it acts like an effect pedal for acoustic drums, modulating the sound and adding a galaxy of new sound possibilities. Placed on a ride cymbal it sizzles and dances adding a whole new pallet of sound.

For further details email recycling@dreamcymbals.co.ukor contact David at Dream UK distributor SVM Percussion on 0116 2304926.

Dream official dealers are listed at www.dreamcymbals.co.uk.

See Scott Pellegrom demonstrating the Re-FX Crop Circle: http://youtu.be/w1GfvXNQ83k

DREAM THEATER UNVEILS MILESTONE NEW ALBUM;

ROCK ICONS TO RELEASE FIRST-EVER SELF-TITLED COLLECTION;

DREAM THEATER ARRIVES ON SEPTEMBER 23^rd

Roadrunner Records has announced the eagerly anticipated new album from the legendary Dream Theater DREAM THEATER- the first self-titled collection in the GRAMMY®-nominated band's nearly three decade career - arrives on September 23^rd.

DREAM THEATER was recorded at Cove City Sound Studios in Glen Cove, New York, with founding guitarist John Petrucci producing and studio luminary Richard Chycki (Aerosmith, Rush) engineering and mixing. The album marks a brilliant new chapter for the always adventurous band, their first to have been written and recorded with drummer Mike Mangini wholly integrated into the creative process from the start.

"I see every new album as an opportunity to start over," says Petrucci. "To either build or improve upon a direction that has been evolving over time or to completely break new ground. This is the first self-titled album of our career and there is nothing I can think of that makes a statement of musical and creative identity stronger than that. We've fully explored all of the elements that make us unique, from the epic and intense to the atmospheric and cinematic. We're incredibly excited about DREAM THEATER and can't wait for everyone to hear it."

Check out this special clip from the studio, shared today:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=EIjhQhm1JvU. 

DREAM THEATER will be available in a wide range of distinctive versions, including standard and special edition CDs, 180 Gram Vinyl Double LP, and a Limited Edition Box Set. Pre-orders are scheduled to get underway in July. More details will be revealed in due course.

DREAM THEATER follows 2011's acclaimed A DRAMATIC TURN OF EVENTS. That album - highlighted by 'On The Backs Of Angels', which earned the iconic band its first ever GRAMMY® Award nomination (in the "Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance" category) - proved one of Dream Theater's most successful, making top 10 chart debuts in 14 countries, including the Billboard 200, as well as picking up 'Best Album' accolades across the world. In the UK, it was their highest charting album to date.

Furthermore, the special edition CD/DVD set of A DRAMATIC TURN OF EVENTS  included The Spirit Carries On - a 60-minute movie documenting Dream Theater's drummer auditions, which resulted in the addition of the gifted Mangini. The challenge spurred Dream Theater to extraordinary artistic heights on A DRAMATIC TURN OF EVENTS and the epic world tour that followed. Long known as one of hard rock's most powerful live acts, the recalibrated band hit the road hard in celebration of the acclaimed album, a 15-month trek which saw sold out headline shows in 35 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, Central America, and South America.

With total sales exceeding 10 million albums and DVDs worldwide, Dream Theater have long stood among the upper echelon of hard rock giants. Albums such as 1992's RIAA gold-certified classic IMAGES & WORDS  (featuring the breakthrough top 10 single, 'Pull Me Under') have earned the Long Island-based band countless plaudits for their visionary synthesis of melodic power and virtuosic experimentation, including being named as one of Rolling Stone's top 10 "Best Prog Rock Bands Of All Time."

Dream Theater will tour in support of DREAM THEATER- full details will be announced soon. For up-to-the-minute news and information, please visit www.dreamtheater.net/tourdates.

Dream Theater is: John Petrucci (guitar), John Myung (bass), James LaBrie (vocals), Jordan Rudess (keyboards and continuum) and Mike Mangini (drums).  

For additional news, please visit www.dreamtheater.net, www.facebook.com/dreamtheaterofficial, www.twitter.com/dreamtheaternet www.myspace.com/dreamtheater, www.youtube.com/dreamtheater, and www.roadrunnerrecords.co.uk.

Learn some new ways to apply rudiments to the drum kit with Steve Gadd!

Drumming legend Steve Gadd has created several lesson packs exclusively for Drum Guru! In these lessons, Steve shares many of the signature concepts, grooves and fills that have made him one of the most popular, important, and imitated drummers in the history of the instrument.

In Rudimental Concepts Part 2, Steve covers ideas based on the rudiments. Each of these ideas have become a signature for Steve, and he shows how they are all based on simple rudimental stickings. Three of the lessons in this pack reveal how Steve uses diddles to create some of his immediately identifiable licks. Also included is a challenging rudimental drum solo that Steve memorized during his younger years in drum corps!

 Hit the link to check it out

http://www.drumappguru.com/pack/rudimental-concepts-part-2/

Chris Johnson who took a break from his current tour schedule (Rihanna's Diamond World Tour) recently, to visit the Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) where he met and held a masterclass with ACM students.

Chris performed several tracks including, a rendition of The Meters' 'Cissy Strut' with the help of ACM students. The gathered students were later given the opportunity to talk to Chris about his career, along with gaining invaluable one-to-one advice on how to succeed in the music industry.

Speaking about his visit to ACM Chris Johnson said: "This is on a whole other level." 

Chris has played and/or toured with Seal, Mya, Patti LaBelle, Anastacia, Fantasia, Beverly Crawford, Norman Hutchins, Stevie Wonder, and Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly and is currently touring with Rihanna.

Described by the Sunday Times as 'changing the face of music tuition', ACM has over 1200 students studying from diploma through to degree in courses including music performance, production and business.  High profile alumni include Ed Sheeran and members of The Sugababes and Mumford & Sons. More importantly, they're actively placing people behind-the-scenes of the industry, from executives at Universal to Radiohead's management company.  So much so, Major Labels are now hiring ACM to provide training for their in-house staff! 

Find out more by visiting: http://www.acm.ac.uk/

Vater is proud to be an official sponsor of the Vans Warped Tour 2013. Vater will be providing drumsticks for the Drum Lesson Lab at the BandHappy Tent at every of the 50+ tour dates this summer. The first 10 registered drum students each day will walk away with a pair of free Vater sticks.

Some of the Vater Drumstick Artists on Warped Tour 2013 include:

Jared Piccone [3OH!3]

Rich Walker [Alvarez Kings]

Danny Whitesides [The Used]

Jess Bowen [The Summer Set]

Ryland Steen [Reel Big Fish]

Darrin Pfeiffer [Goldfinger]

Jono Diener [The Swellers]

Gabe Barham [Sleeping with Sirens]

Christian Coma [Black Veil Brides]

Derrick Frost [Chiodos]

Brent Taddie [Crown The Empire]

Mike Kennedy [The Wonder Years]

Andrew Oliver [I See Stars]

Derek Davis [Big D and the Kids Table]

Aaron Stern [Itch]

Justin Collier [Man Overboard]

Russell Dixon [New Years Day]

www.vater.com