- Early influence: Phil Rudd of AC/DC, leading to the choice of rock hi-hats.
- Initially sought Sonor Binga drums but chose Yamaha after experiencing their sound.
- Owns Yamaha Recording Series in banana yellow, oak Customs, original RCs, live oak Customs.
- Tour kit includes oak Customs.
- Snare drums: maple snare at home, stainless steel snare for the tour.
- Early AC/DC concerts influenced the choice of rock hi-hats.
- Uses Meinl Classics for live performances due to their quick response and suitability for thrash metal.
- Specific cymbals mentioned: heavy hammered ride, Mb8 (used live for its appropriate tone), classics for crashes and hi-hats, sound casters, and various Meinl crashes and hi-hats tailored for live thrash performance.
Drum Heads:
- EV G2 clear heads for toms, with a focus on punch and attack suitable for thrash metal.
- G1 for resonant heads, sometimes alternating with EC2s for different sonic qualities.
Hardware (Yamaha):
- Appreciates Yamaha’s hardware for its durability and reliability.
- Mentioned a specific bass drum to hi-hat attachment and involvement in prototype feedback for Yamaha hardware.
Drumsticks:
- Currently uses Vic Firth 5As, having transitioned from heavier sticks to accommodate faster play and reduce fatigue.
Drum Setup:
- Describes his drum kit configuration, emphasizing the importance of drum size and arrangement for his playing style as he ages.
- Notes the specific tom sizes used on tour and the rationale behind keeping cymbals tight for fast thrash metal playing.
Pedals:
- Prefers simple, single pedals, highlighting a preference for a bit of resistance similar to older Speed King pedals.