Ludwig drums have announced new centennial maple drums, which are the first product being linked to the company’s 100th anniversary in 2009.

“The Ludwig Centennial Series fuses the need for reliable gear with the desire for perfect drum tone in one exceptional package. Expandable to fit the needs of any playing style, Centennial Series Drums are Ludwig’s answer to the battle-cry of the mobile percussionist.”

“The Centennial Series Drums start with 6-ply (toms and floor toms) and 8-ply (snare and bass drums) North American Maple shells. Augmented with Ludwig’s new Classic Micro-Lug, Vibra-band mounting system on toms, and 2.3mm drum hoops, Centennial Series presents the road-worthy player with new ways to expand their spectrum of tone. Centennial’s three “Core” shell packs each come standard with a bass drum (20″, 22″, or 24″, each with a 20″ depth for added low and punch), a 12″ rack tom, 16″ floor tom, and snare drum.”

The kit (pictured above), looks absolutely beautiful to play and I’m curious to see what the reviews will be like. I’ve personally always loved Ludwig’s, as a 1967 Ludwig Blue Sparkle kit (with Supraphonic Snare) was the first I ever played on.

For more information go here.

Zildjian Cymbals, have added Rezo crash cymabls to their A Custom Cymbal Series.

“A Custom ReZo Crashes are now available in 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20-inch sizes, all featuring medium-thin weights, a new bell size and a new Brilliant/Traditional Finish combination.”

The A Custom ReZo Crashes feature a spectacular new look that displays alternating bands of spiral and full lathing techniques while using both Traditional and Brilliant finishes. The traditionally lathed area of each Crash helps to offer an aggressive array of bright overtones that blends perfectly with the instantaneous response achieved by the Brilliant finished sections of each cymbal. In addition, a brand new bell design for these Crashes was created to attain exceptional projection. The total design of these versatile new instruments produces a Crash effect that is high-pitched, musical and truly unique within the acclaimed A Custom range of cymbals.”

It would also be perfect for someone not looking for an overly dark crash cymbal, but still one with a shimmer and consistency to it. These cymbals seem like they will sound amazing, although an MSRP price has yet to be stated. Since they are part of Zildjian Cymbals Custom A line, start putting aside some money now.

Source.

Pearl Drums is introducing a new drum kit, with new maple shells.

“Our Masters Series MCX 6-ply Maple shell has set the standard for great sound and craftsmanship for years and can be heard on countless recordings by the world’s most legendary drummers.”

“NEW for 2008, MCX 4-piece shell packs can be purchased at an average street price of just $1,500 dollars ($2,499.00 List) in your choice of 5 NEW configurations.”

“The heart and soul of MCX is the 6-ply 7.5mm shell, made from hand-selected choice Maple using our Superior Shell Technology. This offers the smooth round tone you would expect from Maple with even highs and mid range frequencies, coupled with pronounced low-end punch. The 7.5mm shell thickness provides a super wide tuning range; increased resonance and projection all of which allows your sound to be felt as much as heard.”

This drum set looks like a great intermediary step between Pearl’s lower budget models and their higher-end professional kits.  It is great that matching Pearl MCX snare drums are available as well. The tuning range of this kit is also a major plus, in my opinion, for drummers who like to experiment and/or tune to specific pitches.

Source.

I wanted to post this video, because I found it not too long ago and I think Igor Cavalera (formerly of Sepultura), is completely sick (in a good way). Igor Cavalera is pretty underrated especially when you think of the influence he has had on heavy drummers and heavy music in general.

Check it out. This is from a Pearl Drums TV commercial run in Brazil…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91K-WxSFYUg

Since is the first post on the site, I’m going to just say a little about what you can expect here.

I’m going to be mainly writing about drums; everything from reviews of drum sets, drum gadgets, drum news and of course drummers.

Expect to see show reviews as well, there’s nothing better than seeing one of your favorite drummers live. Stay tuned…