The Martin Fleetfoot spawned the Camco pedal. Camco made the same pedal for Gretsch, inscribing the footboard w Floating Action. Drum Workshop purchased the Camco tools and dies. Then there is the Tama Camco pedal, copied in spirit if not entirely in the flesh.
Read more1934 Slingerland 5x14 sparkling green/artgold Artist model
Slingerland’s Sparkling Green finish was first introduced around 1934. I have seen my share of Sparkling Green/Green Sparkle finishes from the 1930s and this drum shell is one of the cleanest versions that has ever come my way. “Cancer free”. The finish cleaned up and polished up nicely. The solid maple shell interior is very clean. The cloud badge is also clean with a tight grommet.
Read moreBuddy Rich: The Beat Goes On - Featuring Gregg Potter and Cathy Rich
Gregg Potter and Cathy Rich continue the legacy of Buddy Rich's music.
Read moreMystery: What drum shop does Frank Zappa's "Drum Shop" art collage depict?
An episode of the series "History Detectives" featuring Cal Schenkel, Bobby and Gail Zappa investigating whether a Collage painting is or isn't by Frank Zappa. Original broadcast hosted on video.pbs.org/video/2253617192
In addition to being the musical genius and political dissident that we all know, Frank was also an artist (and a drummer). One particular piece he created was lost then found and an investigation by PBS turned up some surprising ties to the drum shop world.
Read moreCanopus introduces reproduction of the vintage Ludwig baseball bat muffler
Canopus Drums has been very innovative in new designs of instruments, hardware and parts. Now their newest offering is a much needed improvement on an old classic- the CIM-20 baseball bat internal muffler. It is an exact copy of the baseball bat but with new features. Not So Modern Drummer carries all Canopus products.
Read moreA first hand account of Ringo's auction of drums and personal items that fetched over 9 million dollars
I was prized when Ringo picked up the sticks and started playing the kit. I was standing a few feet in front of him with an astonished look on my face. He began playing the beginning of Come Together and Ringo laughed when he saw me smiling and said “You caught that.” to which I said “Yes I did.” The last time Ringo played that kit as a Beatle was 51 years and nine months ago, truly a magical and historical moment.
Read moreBrush with greatness; I played the Sistine Chapel set on a gig!
This past weekend my band shared the stage with another band at a local festival. The drummer for the other band had the drum set I knew as Bobby Rock's "Sistine Chapel" Peavey drum set. I could hardly believe my eyes.
Read moreBuying Custom, Part 2: Choosing a builder
If you’ve decided that custom drums are right for your needs (see my previous article) it’s time for a critical next step: selecting the builder to work with. It’s not always easy. There are a lot of custom builders out there, with new ones entering – and other leaving – the marketplace every year. So making wise choices means doing your homework.
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Reflections On Shelly Manne: chapter 4
NSMD's David Barsalou asked internationally recognized drummers Claire Arenius, Marko Djordjevic, and Dave DiCenso to share their ideas and opinions on the following quote attributed to Shelly Manne: "the ride beat is the easiest and the most difficult thing a drummer will ever play".
Read more1970s Ludwig white marine pearl Big Beat kit
"Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow." I really don't wish for snow in the south. We are really not equipped too handle snow. A small snow storm will shut us right down in Georgia. I do like "the white stuff", though. Not the snow but white drums.
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