Endorsements

VIC FIRTH DRUMSTICKS AND MALLETS
I use and endorse VIC FIRTH sticks and mallets exclusively because their products never let me down. The shaft of their stick is strong, regardless of what type of wood it's made of, and the shoulder of the stick is equally resilient to the ride bell pounding and cymbal hitting that it inevitably suffers. The nylon tips never break away or come off of the stick, and the wooden beads don't fray easily like other brands. My personal favorite is the 5A size, and I use nylon tips most of the time for a very consistent cymbal sound. And on a more personal level, all of the people who work at VIC FIRTH are very nice, and they respond to even the smallest of my requests with fast, effective action. They even remember us all at Christmas with a greeting! It really is a family thing at VIC FIRTH, and I'm happy and proud to be a part of it.


YAMAHA DRUMS
I use YAMAHA drums and play their products exclusively, and I couldn't be happier! I have always admired YAMAHA musical equipment and the artists who played them. As far as what specific kits I use, depending on the music, I have my favorite kits that I feel work best for the situation. For instance, if it's a straight-up funk thing, or pop, or hip hop or anything with a real tight backbeat, the Yamaha Recording Customs made of Birch wood deliver that solid attack I when I need it most. If it's a jazz gig, then the Yamaha Maple Customs are the kits of choice with their warm resonance and ability to really "sing". Still, if sampling or looping is required, then I employ the Yamaha DTX DS-10 Electronic Drum and Percussion System capable of nearly endless possibilities with it's universal MIDI compatibility.


ZILDJIAN CYMBALS AND ACCESSORIES
Zildjian. The name pretty much speaks for itself. Zildjian has always been my only choice for cymbals, and being an Artist for Zildjian, I am proud to represent them wherever I play. I mostly use the K series all around the kit, except for my hi-hats which are Quick Beats, and splash cymbals which are of the A series.

REMO HEADS
For me, there is no other choice than Remo heads. I have been playing on Remo drum heads since the beginning, over 25 years ago! These guys have the most diverse selection of head types, sizes and thicknesses... Not to mention that the artist support at Remo is unparalleled. What a great company--run by a great group of people.

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