Drum Setups
Below are the three main stylistically different drum setups in the studio.
Overview:
The large setup uses bigger sizes to allow for more power in heavier styles. This Yamaha Stage Custom setup is a hybrid of acoustic and electronic drums which can help with variety among other things. There are two electronic pads, two electronic pedals and a trigger on the snare that all can be set up to cue desired sounds to highlight the actual acoustic drums. The toms follow a unique path with the highest pitch in the center and flowing to the left and jumping to the right for the lowest two drums. This provides versatility, meaning that whether you lead with the left or right hands you can always go up or down in pitch without 'shifting' (this also works with both duple and triple based patterns).
Overview:
The smaller of the main kits is set up on the same framework such that there are two pedals on the right foot, four pedal on the left and they all perform the same tasks as on the larger kit. As for the drums themselves, they also follow the same structure of the highest tom in the center. This Yamaha Stage Custom kit is also a hybrid of acoustic and electronic drums with just one less pad than the larger kit. The difference is in drum sizing, where this kit has much smaller drums and cymbals.
The above two kits are actually attached to one another and comprise the main drumset which is nicknamed the "Time Machine". Click here to see the entire kit.
Overview:
The third setup is a tiny show kit consisting of only five pieces. This helps for changeovers and time constraints. Each Epiarch Definitive Series custom drum is on an isolated stand, as well as the cymbals, so managing the kit on the road is simple. Though there are only five drums they range from tiny to huge to allow for as much contrast as possible. Simplifying complex parts is the only sacrifice but is also well worth it for ease of mobility as well as sound checking and occupying a small space. This is the only kit that is all acoustic because electronics require more time on stage to set up properly. It is also important that the custom Epiach kit be played at shows to help show off their great sound and craftsmanship.
| © 2011 Patrick R. F. Blakley | patrickrfblakley.com |  |