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My Trip to Germany for the Meinl Drum Festival 2026

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My Trip to Germany for the Meinl Drum Festival 2026

In early June, I received a phone call from my boss, Neil, who enthusiastically said, “Would you like to go to the Meinl Drum Festival in Germany next month?” I said yes before he’d even finished asking the question.

Over the last couple of years working for Drummers Review, I’ve been lucky enough to attend some incredible concerts, shows and events, meeting amazing people along the way. But the opportunity to visit the Meinl family at their 75th anniversary festival in Germany was something I really didn’t want to turn down.

Although I’m the main stage host for both The UK Drum Show and The Europe Drum Show, my connection with brands goes beyond the products they make. I love getting to know the people behind those brands, and with Meinl being such a huge part of the drumming world, I was genuinely excited to experience the company and the people behind it firsthand.

Anika Nilles Rush Kit

It was a whistle-stop trip. We left Heathrow Airport early on Friday 10th July and arrived at our hotel later that afternoon. After a quick shower and change, Neil, Pete and I headed over to the Meinl site, and it was immediately obvious that they’d gone above and beyond to make the weekend something special.

Friday evening was all about welcoming invited guests. There was a huge marquee, a stage, fantastic food and hundreds of artists, friends and family celebrating Meinl’s 75-year history. Despite greeting what felt like hundreds of people at once, Alex Meinl still took the time to say hello, and I thanked him personally for the invitation.

We were fed and watered within an inch of our lives. The weather was boiling hot, the catering was exceptional! (and I have to admit I was a big fan of the free beer!).

One thing that really stood out wasn’t just the hospitality, but the chance to explore the different buildings dedicated to Meinl Drums, Cymbals and Percussion. Yes, the air conditioning was a welcome escape from the heat, but as a drummer there’s nothing better than walking into a room full of new gear. I spent ages trying out cymbals, chatting to people and even managed to blag myself a free Meinl cup.

Saturday was the busiest day. There were drum performances all day from Meinl’s top drummers. After watching a brilliant documentary on Friday evening about the history of the Meinl family and how the business has grown over the past 75 years, it was straight into work.

One highlight for me was finally sitting down with El Estepario Siberiano. We’d been trying to arrange an interview over text for months, but our schedules never lined up. As soon as I walked over, he recognised me immediately and said, “Let’s get this interview done now.” We grabbed a couple of chairs in front of a Meinl backdrop and had a fantastic 10-minute conversation, which is now available on YouTube, and you can watch HERE.

Afterwards, I headed straight to the main stage to watch Miguel Lamas perform. For me, he was the standout drummer of the weekend. His precision and effortless technique were simply incredible. That’s saying something too, because the lineup included artists such as El Estepario Siberiano, Matt Garstka, Helena de la Rosa and many more.

While I was interviewing El Estepario, Neil and Pete were given a tour of the Meinl factory. No photos or videos were allowed, but they both came back saying it was one of the highlights of the trip.

Me, Neil and.. Pete in the background!

Although I was only in Germany for less than 46 hours, it’s an experience I’ll never forget. More than anything, the weekend reminded me just how special the drumming community is. We all love playing drums, but what makes it even more rewarding is being part of a community that shares that same passion.

What impressed me most about Meinl wasn’t just the scale of the event, but the people. Alex Meinl seemed to know everyone by name, and both he and his father delivered a heartfelt speech that reflected exactly what the company stands for. Even after 75 years, it still feels like a family business that genuinely cares about its artists, its products and the people who support them and I left Germany feeling incredibly grateful to have been a small part of the celebration.

A huge thank to Alex Meinl, Joe Whittmore, the staff at Meinl and everyone else for making us feel so welcome.

Latin Percussion Sound Vibrations Collection

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Latin Percussion Sound Vibrations Collection

The instruments in the collection have been designed in collaboration with Karen-Renée Robb, visual and vocal artist and founder of The Music City Alliance for Sound & Music Healing and Frame Drum Wisdom. They feature Robb’s original artwork designs. The collection includes large and small rainmaker sticks, three 16” Shaman Drums, four 16” Frame Drums, and a 16” and 14” Ocean Drums.

The lightweight, durable Sound Vibrations Rainmaker Sticks have internal spines which produce a sustained sound. The natural bead filling generates a calming earthy sound that mimics falling rain or ocean waves. Both Rainmaker sticks have a 2” diameter, the large one is 47-¼”, long and the small one is 23-¾” long.

Shamanic drums are used in cultures all over the world to help promote connection and healing. The durable 16” x 2-¾” natural wood shells of the Sound Vibrations Shaman Drums give an authentic feel. The Black Napa synthetic heads offer a deep, expressive tone and come with a plain finish or a Mandala or Phoenix Rising graphic. The drums are held by an interior rope handle and played with the hand or a soft mallet, which is included.

The use of frame drums can help people connect with their own unique voices and internal rhythms. The natural wood frames of the Sound Vibrations Frame Drums have a 16” diameter and are 2-¾” deep. The scalloped edge offers increased comfort when being played by hand. The pretuned synthetic heads produce a brilliant, vivid tone and have a plain finish or a choice of a Blue or Orange Butterfly or Flower of Life graphic.

When an ocean drum is tilted, hundreds of tiny beads roll across the internal surface to create continuous, immersive sounds that imitate lapping or crashing waves. The Sound Vibrations Ocean Drums are available in two sizes, 14” diameter with a 2” depth and 16” diameter with a 2½” depth. The 16” drum is dual chambered; each filled with a bead filling which can move freely between the two synthetic drumheads producing a layered ocean sound that helps take the soothing sound of the seaside to any healing session or retreat.

Latin Percussion has combined its passion for, and extensive knowledge of rhythm, with the deep experience of sound therapist Karen-Renée Robb to produce a series of instruments to aid the promotion of wellness and community. The Sound Vibrations Collection is perfect for sound healing, drum circles, healing sessions, and retreats.

To find out more, please visit https://www.lpmusic.com/.

Inside The Mind Of EL ESTEPARIO – The Meinl Drum Festival 2026

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Inside The Mind Of EL ESTEPARIO – The Meinl Drum Festival 2026

At Meinl Drum Festival 2026, we sat down with one of the most recognisable drummers on the planet, El Estepario Siberiano, to talk about the reality behind viral success, performing under pressure, and what it really means to build a career in the modern drumming world.

Known worldwide for his incredible Instagram videos, one-handed drumming performances and relentless creativity, El Estepario has become one of the biggest names in online drumming. But despite his huge following, he admits that stepping onto a festival stage alone still brings a different kind of pressure.

“Everyone is terrified,” he explained, describing the unique challenge of performing solo with a backing track in front of a huge audience. Even the best musicians in the world feel that pressure, but for him, great sound and a supportive environment help transform those nerves into excitement.

The conversation also explored the changing role of social media for musicians. El Estepario believes platforms like Instagram have created incredible opportunities for drummers to connect with audiences all over the world, but he also highlighted how much the landscape has changed since he first started posting videos.

Rather than chasing perfection, he believes drummers should focus on enjoying the creative process and sharing their work. “The perfect take never exists,” he explained, pointing out that musicians will always notice their own mistakes more than the audience does.

Despite his enormous online following, El Estepario says the biggest moments are still when he meets fans in person at events like Meinl Drum Festival. For him, the drumming community is what makes the instrument so special.

Looking ahead, his biggest goal might surprise people. After years of constant recording, touring and creating content, he hopes to eventually return to simply playing drums for the joy of it — the same feeling he had as a kid discovering the instrument for the first time.

For El Estepario Siberiano, the passion was always there. The fame came later.

Sonor Introduces Universal Bass Drum Mount

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Sonor Introduces Universal Bass Drum Mount

We are pleased to introduce a new addition to our hardware portfolio: the SONOR Universal Bass Drum Mount (UBDM).

With this new hardware solution, SONOR expands the possibilities for drummers to customize their setups with maximum flexibility. The Universal Bass Drum Mount offers a simple and effective way to add a tom mount to the bass drum – whether for new configurations or as a retrofit for existing kits.

Originally developed for our new MOMENTUM series, the concept quickly proved to be highly relevant beyond that application. It addresses a clear need among drummers who are looking for more versatile setup options without making permanent modifications to their instruments.

Product Highlights
Compatible with MOMENTUM, SQ², SQ1 and ProLite bass drums from 18″ to 24″ diameter and depths from 14″ to 20″*
Mounts directly onto the lugs – no drilling or disassembly required
Fully adjustable positioning for optimal setup flexibility
Flexible 3-way clamp (height and rotation adjustable)
Compatible with all SONOR 19 mm hardware components

The product is already available for pre-order, with initial stock held in our warehouse.
To support your sales activities, we provide product information and media materials for use in your communication and in-store presentation.

Eric Harland on Community, Creativity and Finding Your Own Voice

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Eric Harland on Community, Creativity and Finding Your Own Voice

Few drummers possess the combination of technical mastery, musical wisdom and humility that defines Eric Harland. During a recent conversation with Drummers Review, the acclaimed drummer reflected on his remarkable journey, from childhood curiosity to performing alongside some of the biggest names in jazz, while offering valuable insights for aspiring musicians.

Harland’s introduction to music came through the piano. Surrounded by family members who played the instrument, he initially followed the same path. However, while practicing scales failed to ignite his imagination, the sound of pots and pans in the kitchen sparked something entirely different.

It was Harland’s grandmother who first recognised his fascination with rhythm and encouraged his mother to explore drum lessons. That decision led him to renowned Houston educator Craig Green, who would help shape not only Harland’s development, but an entire generation of influential drummers from the area.

Reflecting on the relationship between drums and piano, Harland described the instruments not as cousins, but as brothers. While one is primarily melodic and the other rhythmic, both share a deeply percussive nature, something he continues to appreciate when collaborating with world-class pianists.

One of the most significant moments in Harland’s career came long before international tours and award-winning recordings. As a nervous high-school student attending a jazz conference, he found himself watching drummer Greg Hutchinson perform. After the set, Hutchinson unexpectedly invited Harland onto the stage to play. The experience helped him confront the stage fright that might otherwise have prevented him from pursuing a career in jazz.

Harland also shared a memorable “Spinal Tap” moment from life on the road, arriving at a gig with the wrong book of music while the correct charts sat back at the hotel. Rather than disaster, however, the experience became a lesson in listening. Having worked with legendary musicians such as McCoy Tyner, Joe Henderson and Betty Carter, Harland learned that sometimes relying too heavily on written charts can distract musicians from engaging with the people around them.

The conversation turned to social media and the modern drumming landscape. While some musicians view the internet as a distraction, Harland sees it as an opportunity. He believes online platforms provide unprecedented access to information and inspiration, but warns against chasing likes at the expense of authenticity.

For Harland, the goal should never be to become a copy of somebody else. Instead, drummers should use the wealth of available information to discover their own musical voice and communicate something genuine.

Perhaps the strongest theme throughout the interview was the importance of community. Growing up in Houston alongside fellow drumming luminaries such as Chris Dave, Harland benefited from a supportive network that challenged and inspired one another daily. He encourages young musicians to build similar communities around themselves, learning and growing together rather than attempting to navigate the journey alone.

When asked about legacy, Harland offered a characteristically thoughtful response. Rather than focusing on how history will remember him, he prefers to concentrate on the music itself, the connections it creates and the hope it provides. If there is a legacy he hopes to leave behind, it is one built on compassion, understanding and a belief that growth comes through patience, experience and time.

It’s a perspective that feels increasingly rare in today’s fast-moving world and one that makes Eric Harland not only a remarkable drummer, but an inspiring voice within the global drumming community.

The Darkness drummer RUFUS TAYLOR interview

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The Darkness drummer RUFUS TAYLOR interview

In a wide-ranging conversation with Drummers Review, drummer Rufus Taylor opened up about life behind the kit with The Darkness, his musical philosophy and what it means to carve out your own identity in the shadow of rock royalty.

From the outset, Rufus made it clear that The Darkness thrive on spontaneity and energy rather than rigid structure. The band famously perform without click tracks or backing systems, something Rufus sees as essential to their identity. For him, live performance is about communication, risk, and reaction. It’s the kind of musical conversation that can only happen when nothing is fully fixed.

That same instinct runs through his drumming philosophy. Despite his pedigree as the son of Queen’s Roger Taylor, Rufus is adamant that success comes down to discipline rather than lineage. Early in his career, he faced skepticism and assumptions about how he had landed opportunities, but he says the only response was to work harder and let the playing speak for itself.

When asked about his “drumming hill to die on,” Rufus didn’t hesitate: simplicity and single pedal control. For him, it’s not about technical excess, but about groove, weight, and intention. Fast double-kick patterns, he argues, can often strip the music of impact if they aren’t serving the song.

That idea of service to the song comes up repeatedly. Whether discussing AI-generated music or studio expectations, Rufus returns to a core belief: music only matters when it has been earned. Hours in rehearsal rooms, mistakes, and repetition are what create authenticity — something he feels cannot be replicated by shortcuts.

He also reflected on growing up around fame, revealing that his parents worked hard to keep him grounded and away from the trappings of celebrity life. It wasn’t until later that he fully understood the scale of his father’s success.

Asked for advice to young drummers, Rufus kept it simple: learn to listen, avoid overplaying, and play for the music rather than personal display. “Play the song, not yourself,” he said…a mantra that sums up both his approach and his respect for the craft.

For Rufus Taylor, drumming isn’t about legacy or expectation. It’s about feel, honesty, and keeping rock music alive in its loudest, rawest form.

Rufus also leads a life beyond the stage, balancing his touring schedule with ventures away from music. Alongside his work as a drummer, he is also a landlord and hotel owner of The Shipwrights Arms, Helford, a reminder that even for touring musicians, life often extends far beyond the kit. It’s another layer to a career built on instinct and staying grounded while navigating a very un-grounded industry.

Percussion Plus Publishes 2026 Edition of The Beatlife Book

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Percussion Plus Publishes 2026 Edition of The Beatlife Book

Percussion Plus is pleased to announce the publication of the 2026 edition of The Beatlife Book: Playing & Teaching Samba (RRP £19.99), the popular educational resource by professional percussionists and workshop leaders Stuart Hardcastle and Chris Preston.

Designed for teachers, workshop leaders, schools and community groups, the book provides a practical introduction to Brazilian-inspired samba, covering key instruments, rhythm arrangements and workshop activities. Readers are guided through a range of styles including Samba Reggae, Samba Funk, Ijexa, Ragga, Batucada and Maracatu.

The book has received widespread praise from educators and samba leaders:

“Great book! I am relatively new to samba teaching, and this book has given me all the confidence to go into schools with a clear plan and lead great workshops.”

Alongside the new edition, Percussion Plus has launched a dedicated online resource hub featuring downloadable audio tracks, printable notation sheets, wrist exercises, instrument guides and blank score pages to support classroom teaching, ensemble rehearsals and independent learning.

Tom Groves, editor of the 2026 edition, said:

“The Beatlife Book has been helping teachers and workshop leaders introduce samba to new players for many years. We’re delighted to publish this new edition with accompanying online resources for today’s teachers and workshop leaders. Whether you’re leading a classroom project, community workshop or percussion ensemble, the book remains an invaluable guide to teaching and performing samba.”

A brand-new title is expected soon, focusing on samba percussion in early years provision. The Beatlife Book: Playing & Teaching Samba (2026 Edition) is available now from Percussion Plus and your local retailer. Supporting resources available at: www.percussionplus.co.uk/Beatlife

Static Dress drummer Sam Ogden at The UK Drum Show: “I’m just a lad from Stoke who never stopped”

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Static Dress drummer Sam Ogden at The UK Drum Show: “I’m just a lad from Stoke who never stopped”

Sam Ogden, drummer of UK post-hardcore band Static Dress, is set to play The UK Drum Show 2026 main stage. It’s a moment he still finds difficult to fully comprehend.

Speaking ahead of the event, Sam reflected on what it means to be given such a prominent platform at one of the biggest drum events in the country, admitting the experience already feels “surreal”.

“It’s going to be crazy, man. I’m trying to put myself in that moment and it just doesn’t feel real yet,” he said.

But beneath the excitement is a deeper sense of perspective. Sam’s journey is rooted firmly within the drumming community itself. He isn’t someone who has dropped into the scene, but someone shaped by it.

Growing up in Stoke-on-Trent, with a drummer father and a family full of musicians, Sam’s early exposure to music came naturally. From toy kits as a toddler to early lessons and school music nights, drums quickly became the centre of his world.

“I just became obsessed,” he explained. “I’d go to school thinking about getting back home to play.”

That obsession soon turned into live performance, with Sam playing his first gigs at just nine or ten years old before progressing into local bands and eventually joining Static Dress during a pivotal period around 2020.

His rise, however, has not been without its surreal milestones… from performing at Download Pilot, the first major festival after COVID, to supporting major international acts and playing increasingly larger stages across the UK and Europe.

Now, preparing to perform at The UK Drum Show, Sam finds himself reflecting on a full-circle moment: once a young attendee at drum clinics, now stepping onto the very stage he once watched in awe.

“I was sitting there thinking it would be mental to play this show one day… and now I am,” he said.

Despite his growing success, Sam is refreshingly open about experiencing imposter syndrome ahead of the performance.

“You do feel it, of course. There are people I’ve grown up watching on that stage. But I’ve been told I deserve to be there, so I’m just going to give it everything.”

When asked what advice he would give to young drummers watching from the crowd, Sam kept it simple: persistence.

“Never give up. Keep practicing. I’m no different from anyone else… I’m just a lad from Stoke who started playing drums and kept going.”

He also paid tribute to the wider drumming community, praising its humility and support. “Drummers are just the nicest people. There’s no ego. Everyone wants to help each other.”

For his main stage set, Sam promises a performance rooted in energy and personality, featuring material from Static Dress alongside a focused drum solo.

“I’m going to play my heart out. I just want to give everything I’ve got.” And while nerves are firmly on the table, so is gratitude. For the journey and the opportunity.

“I just want to make everyone proud.”

Jason Bowld Performs a Bullet For My Valentine Medley at the Europe Drum Show 2026

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Jason Bowld Performs a Bullet For My Valentine Medley at the Europe Drum Show 2026

Best known for his work with Bullet For My Valentine, Jason Bowld has earned a reputation as one of the most powerful and consistent players in the genre, combining explosive energy with impressive technical precision.

Filmed live at the Europe Drum Show 2026, this exclusive performance sees Jason take the audience on a journey through some of Bullet For My Valentine’s most iconic material, delivering an eight-minute medley packed with fan favourites, groove-heavy sections and a blistering drum solo.

The performance opens with Her Voice Resides before moving seamlessly into Four Words (To Choke Upon) and the band’s breakthrough anthem Tears Don’t Fall. From there, Bowld powers through Hit The Floor and Knives, showcasing the stamina, control and authority that have made him a fixture behind one of metal’s biggest bands.

A standout moment arrives midway through the set as Jason launches into an extended drum solo. Blending intricate sticking patterns, dynamic phrasing and relentless double bass work, the solo demonstrates not only his technical ability but also his musicality and command of the stage. Rather than simply displaying speed, Bowld crafts a performance that remains engaging and entertaining throughout.

The medley concludes with the unmistakable energy of Scream Aim Fire, bringing the crowd to life and providing a fitting finale to an unforgettable performance.

For drummers, this video offers plenty to study. Jason’s timing, consistency and attention to detail are on full display, while his ability to maintain intensity throughout such a demanding set serves as a reminder of why he remains one of the most respected drummers in modern metal.

The performance was captured using Jason’s touring setup, featuring Pearl drums, Paiste cymbals, Evans drumheads, Vic Firth sticks and Rock Locks hardware accessories.

Whether you’re a long-time Bullet For My Valentine fan, a metal drummer looking for inspiration or simply someone who appreciates world-class live drumming, this performance is well worth watching.

 

EVANS Hybrid and Sunhouse Launch New Sensory Percussion eKit System

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EVANS Hybrid and Sunhouse Launch New Sensory Percussion eKit System

EVANS Hybrid and Sunhouse announce the launch of the Sensory Percussion eKit System, offering drummers an electronic drumming experience that feels, sounds, and looks natural. Featuring powerful multi-zone Drum Sensors and groundbreaking electronic Cymbal and Hi-Hat Sensors that work with real low-volume and acoustic cymbals, Sensory Percussion eliminates the long-standing barriers of unnatural response and limited nuance in electronic drumming.

For decades, drummers have been frustrated with electronic cymbals and hi-hats due to their unnatural feel and lack of nuance. The combination of the new Sensory Percussion Cymbal and Hi-Hat Sensors, the included EVANS dB One Low-Volume Cymbals, and Sunhouse’s Sensory Percussion 2 software preserves the rebound and subtle nuances of acoustic cymbal playing while keeping volume levels 80% quieter than standard cymbals.

Sensory Percussion is designed to work with low-volume and acoustic cymbals and drumheads and is compatible with standard drum hardware. The result is an authentic, musical experience that bridges the gap between acoustic feel and digital versatility. It’s the best choice whether you’re practicing quietly, recording, or performing onstage.

Key Features

  • Unmatched cymbal and hi-hat feel: Experience authentic rebound and dynamic response across every part of your cymbal and hi-hats with superior nuance and fluid open/close control.
  • Every gesture captured: More zones mean that everything from rimshots and cross-sticks to stickshots, hi-hat foot splashes, chokes, ride bells, cymbal pings, and more are all captured when you play them.
  • Better for learning: Realistic response builds proper technique instead of bad habits.
  • Your setup transformed: Sensory Percussion is compatible with most hardware, drums, cymbals, and drumheads. Whether you’re playing low volume or fully acoustic, make your setup look and feel exactly how you want.
  • Melodic and hybrid possibilities: Unlock a new sonic universe with a modular system that expands into hybrid and experimental setups and plays nicely with other electronic drumming gear.

Driving Innovation

“Through the unrelenting innovation efforts of our EVANS Hybrid team, we are proud to

introduce a breakthrough electronic cymbal and hi-hat technology solution percussionists have long sought, helping complete our vision for the next generation of electronic drum performance,” said John D’Addario III, CEO of D’Addario & Company, Inc.

“Our new Cymbal and Hi-Hat Sensors mark the latest evolution of Sensory Percussion,” said Tlacael Esparza, Co-Founder of Sunhouse. “From the beginning, we set out to bring electronic sound to the drumset by harnessing the full expressivity of how drummers naturally play, unlocking new dimensions along the way. The new electronic cymbals have the level of finesse, control, and expression that makes them feel as responsive and inspiring as acoustic cymbals. I’m excited to see how drummers take their playing to the next level with Sensory Percussion.”

Loved By Artists

“Sensory Percussion gives me a lot more compositional opportunities,” said Glenn Kotche of Wilco. “I can make it react like a regular drum or cymbal, control effects, or create completely new sounds. It’s really limitless.”

“I’m in awe,” said Michel’Le Baptiste (Lizzo, Normani, Adam Lambert). “I’m blown away.”

Availability & Price

The EVANS Hybrid Sensory Percussion eKit System retails for $1,999.99 in the US and is now available at major retailers or through D’Addario’s website: ddar.io/ekit-pr

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