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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

EVANS Introduces the High-Tension Drum Key

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EVANS Introduces the High-Tension Drum Key

EVANS introduces the High-Tension Drum Key, a tuning tool engineered to give drummers the extra leverage they need for high-tension tuning applications.

Engineered for Marching & Drum Corps
Built for marching snare, tenor, and bass drums, the High-Tension Drum Key simplifies tuning under even the most strenuous conditions. Unlike standard drum keys, it features an oversized, curved handle and an ergonomic rubber over-moulded grip. This design delivers superior mechanical advantage and tactile control, significantly reducing hand fatigue while allowing precise micro-adjustments at peak tension levels.

Field-Tested by DCI’s Elite Players
“Because of the way this is designed, the handle is a lot wider, so you get more leverage, but also this rubber coating on here makes it to where your hands don’t hurt as much when you’re cranking down on these drums every single day,” said Joe Hobbs, Battery Arranger and Caption Head for Carolina Crown. “So, if you haven’t checked out the new EVANS [High-Tension Drum Key], make sure you do that today.”

The EVANS High-Tension Drum Key was also recognised with a NAMM Best in Show Award, highlighting its innovative design and practical impact for percussionists.

Key Features

  • Maximum Ergonomics: Features a wide, curved handle designed to fit naturally in your hand for ultimate comfort and control
  • Superior Leverage: Purpose-built for high-tension marching snare, tenor, and bass drums, as well as heavy-duty hardware
  • Rubber Over-Molded Grip: Reduces hand slipping and fatigue during demanding tuning sessions
  • Stainless-Steel Core: Heavy-duty stainless-steel construction built to withstand rigorous daily use on the field
  • Industry-Leading Quality: Designed, engineered, and manufactured to the most stringent quality controls in the percussion industry

Availability & Price
The EVANS High-Tension Drum Key is available now at ddar.io/high-tension-drumkey and authorised retailers. Street price: $27.99.

ProMark Launches the Eloy Casagrande Signature Drumstick

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ProMark Launches the Eloy Casagrande Signature Drumstick

ProMark Launches the Eloy Casagrande Signature Drumstick!

ProMark is thrilled to introduce the Eloy Casagrande Signature Stick. This new offering features a 5B diameter and a fortified shoulder that flares to a 2B size for enhanced momentum and weight, especially on rimshots. A teardrop bead provides clear, defined cymbal articulation, while maintaining full tone across the kit. With a natural wood finish and a custom graphic designed by Eloy himself, this stick is built for agility and power.

“My drumstick offers the perfect balance between speed and sound. The tip defines the cymbal sound very well, and the weight is distributed to get the best sound from rim shots and toms.” – Eloy Casagrande

ProMark Launches the Eloy Casagrande Signature Drumstick
Eloy Casagrande Signature Drumstick

• Fortified Shoulder: Increased shoulder diameter for added momentum and power while playing
• Custom Eloy Graphic: Designed by Eloy himself, matching the custom print from his live performances
• Raw Natural Finish: Enhanced grip compared to lacquered sticks, featuring a sanded-down wood feel in the hands of the player
• Teardrop Bead: Allows for full sound, without sacrificing articulation
• Perfect with ProMatch: The ProMatch process ensures unprecedented consistency of weight and sound, from stick to stick and pair to pair
• Made in the USA: All ProMark drumsticks are manufactured in Houston, TX

Availability & Pricing
The ProMark Eloy Casagrande Signature Drumstick (TXECW) is now available on daddario.com and at your favorite retailer.

Street price: $18.99
For more information, visit: https://ddar.io/eloy-pr

ONE DIRECTION Drummer Josh Devine

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ONE DIRECTION Drummer Josh Devine

Josh Devine’s career is one of those rare modern music journeys that feels almost impossible to replicate. It’s a story that begins with teenage drum covers online and evolves into stadium tours, chart-topping pop, grime sessions, and a growing role in the conversation around music and AI.

Speaking ahead of his appearance at The UK Drum Show 2026, Josh reflected on the early days of his career, when uploading videos to YouTube and linking them through MySpace was his main way of getting noticed. Like many young musicians at the time, he spent hours reaching out to artists he admired — with most messages going unanswered. But a few early connections changed everything.

A local songwriter, Charlie Drew, became one of those turning points. After inviting Josh to play drums on live sessions, that collaboration eventually led to work connected to UK grime heavyweight Skepta. From there, Josh’s reputation began to grow quickly, taking him from local gigs into full touring commitments.

That momentum eventually led to one of the most unexpected chapters of his career: a call to audition for a television performance with One Direction. What started as a short-term opportunity quickly turned into touring with one of the biggest pop acts in the world. Josh describes the experience as surreal — a “pinch-me” period that still feels blurred when he looks back over a decade later.

Alongside this, he had already won recognition through drum competitions and endorsements, building credibility within the wider drumming industry. But it was the combination of Skepta and One Direction that placed him in a unique position — crossing genres and audiences at a scale few session musicians ever experience.

Josh also spoke candidly about the realities of fame at that level, including intense fan engagement and the loss of privacy that came with global visibility. From family members suddenly gaining thousands of followers overnight to hotel moments where fans knew exact room locations, he described an environment that was both overwhelming and unforgettable.

More recently, Josh has become open about his use of AI tools such as Suno. Rather than seeing them purely as a threat, he views them as a creative tool — useful for practice, inspiration, and breaking through creative blocks. However, he is also clear about the boundaries, stressing that AI-generated music should not replace human creativity or professional musicianship.

For Josh, the focus now is less about chasing extreme highs and more about enjoying the process, playing meaningful music, and continuing to evolve as an artist.

His advice to younger drummers is simple but grounded: serve the song, stay visible online, and above all, enjoy what you do — because authenticity always comes through.

Chester Thompson Triumphantly Returns Home to SONOR

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Chester Thompson Triumphantly Returns Home to SONOR

Many famous drummers have realised their dream gig, crafted a career, and enjoyed a piece of the spotlight. They should all be celebrated accordingly. In putting together a dream gig list, many might list artists like Santana, Frank Zappa, Weather Report, or even Genesis. Only the great Chester Thompson can claim all these dream gigs, doing so with an extremely modest and humble character. Whether navigating the statistically dense Zappa rhythms, driving Weather Report’s world-jazz-fusion, or performing those iconic drum duets alongside Phil Collins during his decades-long tenure with Genesis, Chester Thompson is a universally revered elder stateman of drumming. Since the late 1990s, Thompson has also been highly regarded as an educator, teaching at Nashville’s world-renowned music school Belmont University and appearing regularly at the Nashville Jazz Workshop.

“You know, it all comes back to the sound,” states Thompson. “Business is an important part of everything we do as musicians, but this sound never left my head or my heart, and I was back home at the first stroke of the stick.”

Chester Thompson is widely respected for combining jazz sophistication, rock power, fusion improvisation and high level precise live performance discipline. The unmistakable SONOR sound has long been part of his journey and together the pursuit of dream gig level music continues.

More information: www.sonor.com

KORN DRUMMER Ray Luzier: “They Kept My First Take!”

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KORN DRUMMER Ray Luzier: “They Kept My First Take!”

When drummers talk about career-defining moments, they often point to the gigs they landed. For Ray Luzier, however, one of the most memorable moments of his career came from a drum part that almost never happened. The Korn drummer spoke to Drummers Review presenter Ollie Winiberg, reflecting on a remarkable career that has spanned David Lee Roth, Army of Anyone, and nearly two decades behind the kit with one of metal’s most influential bands.

For many fans, Luzier is synonymous with Korn, but before joining the nu-metal pioneers he found himself performing alongside Robert and Dean DeLeo of Stone Temple Pilots and Richard Patrick of Filter in the short-lived supergroup Army of Anyone.

Recalling how he landed the gig, Luzier explained that a chance meeting at a Sabian event changed everything.

“I was kind of looking for a gig,” he laughed. “They came up to me afterwards and said, ‘What are you doing right now?’”

The opportunity led to the recording of Army of Anyone’s acclaimed self-titled album, including the standout track Goodbye. The song features a memorable drum passage that many drummers still discuss today. Surprisingly, the version heard on the record was the very first take.

“I played it probably 12 or 13 more times,” Luzier revealed. “They kept the first take.” It’s a philosophy that would go on to echo throughout the conversation: trust instinct, embrace imperfection and prioritise musicianship over technology. That mindset remains as relevant today as ever. When asked what advice he would give aspiring drummers, Luzier was clear about the importance of developing genuine playing ability rather than relying on studio correction tools.

“Play your instrument. Get in a garage and suck. I don’t care if it’s for five days or ten years. Play with musicians all the time.”

The conversation also explored Korn’s remarkable resurgence in recent years. Having recently completed a hugely successful South American tour, Luzier described witnessing multiple generations of fans singing every word back to the band.

“We did a 50,000-seat stadium ourselves,” he said. “There were fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, sometimes even grandparents.”

For a band approaching three decades of influence, the continued growth of its audience is something Luzier still finds surreal. “We’re all about music and family now,” he explained. “There’s no substance abuse. There’s no BS in the way. We just lean forward and we’re grateful for the fans showing up.”

Elsewhere in the interview, Luzier discussed the unique camaraderie of the drumming community, suggesting that drummers are often more supportive of one another than musicians in many other disciplines. “There was never an attitude,” he said. “The majority of drummers just want to lift each other up.”

The interview also touched on one of his most recognisable setup features: the famous centre-mounted China cymbal. Despite repeated requests from bandmates and producers to remove it, Luzier has kept the cymbal in the middle of his kit for decades.

“It’s kind of my thing,” he laughed.

As always, Luzier’s conversation with Drummers Review was packed with humour, honesty and valuable insight. Whether discussing life on the road, surviving auditions, building relationships with crew members or learning to trust first instincts in the studio, one thing remained clear: longevity in music comes from authenticity, hard work and an unwavering love of the craft.

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SABIAN Expands the STRATUS Line with New STRATUS Dry Collection

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SABIAN Expands the STRATUS Line with New STRATUS Dry Collection

Meductic, NB: SABIAN is proud to announce the release of the new STRATUS Dry Collection, a modern series of dark, dry, and controlled cymbals designed for players seeking clear articulation, lower-volume response, and a visually distinctive raw finish.

Developed to expand the sonic palette of the STRATUS lineup, STRATUS Dry introduces a sound and feel that has not previously existed within the SABIAN catalog at this level—offering drummers a more accessible entry into one of today’s most in-demand cymbal categories.

Sabian Stratus Dry Hats

The STRATUS Dry Collection delivers reduced wash, shorter sustain, and crisp stick definition while maintaining a musical, responsive feel under the stick. With lightweight to medium-light weight profiles and a raw, dark appearance, the collection is designed for modern players working in recording environments, lower-volume settings, and styles where control and clarity are essential.

The collection includes 14”, 15”, and 16” Hi-Hats, 18”, 19”, and 20” Crashes, 22” and 24” Rides, as well as a new STRATUS Dry Performance Set featuring 15” Hi-Hats, 19” Crash, and 22” Ride.

Sabian Stratus Dry Ride

“We’ve been hearing from both players and dealers for some time that there was strong demand for darker, drier cymbals with a more controlled response,” says Randy Ross, SABIAN Chief of R&D. “STRATUS Dry allowed us to explore that side of the sound spectrum in a way that still feels distinctly SABIAN. The result is a collection with a raw, expressive character that responds quickly, stays controlled, and opens up a completely new tonal space within our catalog.”

“While dry and dark cymbals have become an established segment of the market, SABIAN saw an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective and distinctive sound to players seeking greater musicality, expression, and control,” adds Stacey Montgomery-Clark, SABIAN VP of Sales & Marketing. “STRATUS Dry gives dealers and drummers access to a highly sought-after sound and visual style at a much more accessible price point than many other offerings in this category.”

The STRATUS Dry Collection is available worldwide beginning June 3rd, 2026.

Sabian Stratus Dry Performance Set

About SABIAN:

SABIAN is globally renowned as the world’s leading designer and maker of musical cymbals. With endorsers including major drummers Phil Collins, Brian Frasier Moore (Pink), Tomas Haake (Meshuggah), Billy Cobham, Cora Coleman and JoJo Mayer, as well as renowned percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie and players in orchestras such as the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Los Angeles Symphony, Royal Opera House – Covent Garden and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, this award-winning company offers cymbals and sounds for every musical application, playing level and price point. Known for combining centuries-old traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, SABIAN ensures quality and value in every cymbal. Headquartered in Meductic, New Brunswick, Canada, it sells cymbals to over 80 countries throughout the world. For further information about SABIAN or its products, please visit the company online at www.sabian.com

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