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Roland Showcases V-Drums 3 and 5 Series

Drummer's Review
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Roland Showcases V-Drums 3 and 5 Series

Roland showcases the V-Drums 3 and 5 Series, two all-new electronic drum kit lineups based around the powerful V31and V51 sound modules during The NAMM Show 2026 (Room 202, Level 2). These next-generation modules are part of a unified ecosystem with the flagship V71 from the V-Drums 7 Series, providing full cross-compatibility across V-Drums modules for the first time. Players can drum with core onboard sounds created for the V-Drums 7 Series and stay inspired with a growing library of curated drumming content on Roland Cloud, including multi-layered V-Drums Instrument Expansions based on premium DW drum sets. V-Drums 3 and 5 Series kits also offer additional features like newly developed pads, updated hardware, wireless app integration, and more.

 V31, V51, and V71 V-Drums Modules: Unified Sound, Unmatched Expression

Released in 2024 to wide acclaim, the V-Drums 7 Series and V71 module debuted an entirely new onboard sound library created in collaboration with Drum Workshop (DW), bringing unmatched realism and creative command to V-Drums. The V31 and V51 modules feature the same internal engine as the V71, providing drummers a unified sound experience with identical sounds and expansion path options

Crafted from a hand-picked selection of the world’s finest drum sets, the sounds in each module deliver the detail, punch, and sonic quality found in top professional drum sample libraries for computer-based production. Multi-layer sample playback and round-robin randomization ensure natural sound with no “machine-gun” effect. Roland’s proprietary behavior modeling adds the finishing touch, refining the sound with smooth, artifact-free transitions for every articulation and over 16,000 variations in dynamic response with Roland digital pads.

The V-Drums 3, 5, and 7 Series platforms offer two ways to play: the module’s expandable sound library and DW Soundworks software for computer-based drumming. Six months of Roland Cloud Ultimate membership is included with purchase, providing untethered access to DW Soundworks and related content, V-Drums Instrument Expansions, newly developed V-Drums Kit Packs, and more. Users can subscribe after the trial ends or purchase their favorite selections with Lifetime Keys.

The V31, V51, and V71 modules include built-in Roland wireless adapters, allowing users to audition and download sound content directly via the Roland Cloud Connect app on a mobile device. Modules can be updated wirelessly, making it simple to stay up to date with the latest system software. Bluetooth audio/MIDI is available to jam with songs on a smartphone, play along with video lessons, and more. Each module also includes an integrated USB audio/MIDI interface to communicate with DW Soundworks, dedicated editor software apps, and DAW platforms to record multi-channel audio over a single cable. (V31 and V51 Editor software for macOS and Windows will be available in late 2025.)

The new V-Drums Play app for iOS and Android (available in late 2025) will enable users to control essential module functions from a smartphone, including kit selection, metronome settings, and recording. The optional RSH-10 V-Drums Smartphone Holder provides a solid solution for mounting a phone to an accessible location within the kit, offering secure attachment for intense drumming sessions and a highly adjustable design for easy positioning.

All modules also provide detailed customization tools to edit and process sounds, plus onboard coach mode features for practice and skill development. Kit and module purchases include Drum Pass, an exclusive Roland bundle of 100 Melodics™ interactive lessons specially developed for V-Drums players.

 V-Drums 5 Series: Creativity Unleashed

Designed for serious drummers, the V-Drums 5 Series delivers pro-level performance for home, studio, and stage. The V51 module in every kit hits the sweet spot within the latest V-Drums universe, offering full Roland digital pad support and robust I/O in an efficient hardware command center. V-Drums 5 Series kits come in a variety of models for different styles, from the traditional vibe of V-Drums Acoustic Design to the high-tech profiles of classic V-Drums sets.

The VAD516 V-Drums Acoustic Design kit is the pinnacle of the V-Drums 5 Series, combining the immersive look, feel, and stage presence of an acoustic drum set with Roland’s groundbreaking digital snare (PD-14DSX), ride (CY-18DR), and hi-hat (VH-14D) pads and advanced V-Drums features. Outfitted with attractive Midnight Sparkle wraps, this five-piece kit includes two rack toms (PDA100-MS and PDA120-MS), a floor tom (PDA140F-MS), and the newly developed KD-20-MS, a full-size 20-inch kick drum with the same high-res triggering as the KD-22 from the V-Drums 7 Series.

As the mid-level kit in the V-Drums 5 Series lineup, the TD516 combines premium sound and flexibility with a spacious footprint, enhanced playability, and digital pad integration. Equipped with digital snare (PD-140DS), ride (CY-18DR), and hi-hat (VH-14D) pads and a large kick pad (KD-12), it’s made for drummers who want a refined playing experience without the flagship expense.

The TD513 is the entry point into the V-Drums 5 Series, offering high-end expression and performance in a streamlined, accessible setup. Featuring redesigned tom pads (two PD-8H and one PD-10H) for enhanced feel, a highly responsive 12-inch snare pad (PD-12P), and the new MDS-Standard 3 stand, the TD513 provides an authentic drumming experience coupled with serious customization tools to personalize the sound.

 V-Drums 3 Series: Next-Level Drumming Starts Here

The V-Drums 3 Series brings advanced V-Drums expression and flexibility to three compact kits for daily practice, home recording, and tight spaces. Based around the streamlined V31 module, each kit features updated components for enhanced playability and powerful tools for skill development and jamming. The V31 also includes a dedicated digital trigger input that allows users to upgrade their setup with a high-resolution Roland digital snare, ride, or hi-hat pad.

The VAD316 brings the acclaimed V-Drums Acoustic Design experience to the V-Drums 3 Series. With a 12-inch snare (PDA-120LS), shallow-depth wood tom shells (two PDA100L-BK and one PDA120L-BK), and a full-size kick drum (KD-18-BK), this kit offers the stage presence, feel, and familiar layout of a traditional acoustic set—but with complete volume control.

The mid-level TD316 is filled with pro-inspired enhancements that provide an immersive playing setup in a modest footprint. A 12-inch snare pad (PD-12P), upgraded tom pads (two PD-8H and one PD-10H), three cymbal pads (two CY-12C-T crash and one CY-14R-T ride), and stand-mounted VH-10 hi-hats offer a familiar, acoustic-style feel, while the new MDS-Compact 2 stand features a wider layout for increased setup flexibility.

The TD313 delivers high-end V-Drums sound and feel in a space-saving format that’s perfect for home practice and studio sessions. Featuring a 12-inch snare pad (PDX-12), upgraded tom pads (two PD-8H and one PD-10H), and a rock-solid kick pad (KD-10), this kit provides a realistic and rewarding playing experience for dedicated students and drumming enthusiasts.

Availability & Pricing

The Roland V-Drums 3 and 5 Series are available now as follows in *USD: VAD516 $5,799.99; TD516 $3,699.99; TD513 $2,699.99; V51 $1,899.99; VAD316 $3,399.99; TD316 $1,999.99; TD313 $1,699.99; V31 $999.99.

To learn more about the V-Drums 3, 5, and 7 Series, visit Roland.com

*Price at the time of publishing.

About Roland Corporation

For more than 50 years, Roland’s innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration in artists and creators around the world. Embraced by hobbyists and professionals alike, the company’s trendsetting gear spans multiple categories, from pianos, synthesizers, guitar products, drum and percussion products, DJ controllers, audio/video solutions, gaming mixers, livestreaming products, and more. As technology evolves, Roland and its expanding family of brands, including BOSS, V-MODA, Drum Workshop (DW), PDP, Latin Percussion (LP), and Slingerland, continue to lead the way for music makers and creators, providing modern solutions and seamless creative workflows between hardware products, computers, and mobile devices. For more information, visit Roland.com or see your local Roland dealer. Follow Roland on Facebook, X (@RolandGlobal), and Instagram (@RolandGlobal).

Roland Showcases TR-1000 Rhythm Creator

Drummer's Review
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Roland Showcases TR-1000 Rhythm Creator

Roland showcases the TR-1000 Rhythm Creator, during The NAMM 2026 Show (Room 202, Level 2), a groundbreaking new drum machine built with and for artists to catalyse the next evolution of rhythm culture. As the latest member of the famous TR lineage, the TR-1000 builds on the legacy of the TR-808 and TR-909 as the first Roland drum machine in over 40 years with true analog voices, coupled with the latest digital sound and sampling technologies and a performance-focused user interface.

From the speaker-rattling boom of the TR-808 to the distinctive punch of the TR-909, Roland’s original TR rhythm instruments from the early 1980s have fueled the ambitions of generations of music makers. First embraced by underground creators, TR sounds are now deeply embedded in modern music, forming the backbone of hip-hop and trap, the pulse of techno and house, and the foundational grooves for contemporary pop songs across every genre.

The TR-1000 launches the legendary TR heritage into the future with a bold mission: to inspire a culture hungry for the next wave of rhythmic experimentation. Musicians and producers can conceive, create, and perform with a range of premium drum sounds, powered by analog, digital, and sampling engines with advanced tone-shaping and layered track architecture.

The TR-1000’s analog engine features 16 of the most coveted circuits from the TR-808 and TR-909, faithfully recreated from the original designs with detailed engineering and carefully selected modern components. Alongside the TR-1000’s analog voices are powerful digital sounds driven by Roland’s latest advancements, including 21 circuit-bent TR-808 and TR-909 models built with Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, FM percussion, virtual analog tones, and a deep PCM library for sonic exploration and fresh textures.

Classic TR instruments laid the framework for countless electronic music genres—and when paired with digital sampling, their influence deepened. Comprehensive sample tools are fully integrated into the TR-1000 workflow, including stereo sampling and resampling, BPM sync, seamless time-stretching, and non-destructive slice editing. The onboard 64 GB memory comes with a curated collection of 2000 samples, with 46 GB free for user captures, edits, and sample imports.

Creators can refine and transform sounds and rhythms with the TR-1000’s rich palette of tactile effects. There’s a new analog state-variable filter (SVF) inspired by vintage Roland OTA designs, a dedicated analog drive, and a wide array of digital processing. Each track combines a model-specific sound generator, compressor, multimode filter/four-band EQ, and amp/envelope control. Four of the available tracks allow for two sound generators to be stacked or programmed separately with per-track FX, internal sidechaining, output routing, and a three-target LFO.

The TR-1000’s advanced sequencer expands on the familiar TR workflow with a focus on feel and flexibility. Users can program sounds fast, perform with intent, and shape rhythms in real time using extensive pattern tools, expressive controls, and new off-grid options to fine-tune the pocket. An ergonomic panel layout encourages creative exploration with high-grip knobs and smooth, responsive faders. The new Morph slider allows for radical transformations with simple movements, while the snapshot feature creates playable step buttons that instantly recall any knob position for an instrument.

Made for seamless integration with hybrid configurations, modular rigs, and modern studios, the TR-1000 offers extensive I/O and routing flexibility to support expansive production and performance setups. The companion TR-1000 App enables hardware control from a computer, providing a large graphical interface for real-time parameter editing, a librarian for organizing sounds, and more.

 Availability & Pricing 

The TR-1000 Rythm Creator is available now for $2,699.99.*

To learn more about the TR-1000 Rhythm Creator, visit Roland.com.

*USD Price at the time of publishing.

About Roland Corporation

For more than 50 years, Roland’s innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration in artists and creators around the world. Embraced by hobbyists and professionals alike, the company’s trendsetting gear spans multiple categories, from pianos, synthesizers, drums and percussion, and guitar products to DJ controllers, audio/video solutions, gaming mixers, livestreaming products, and more. As technology evolves, Roland and its expanding family of brands, including Roland Cloud, BOSS, V-MODA, Drum Workshop (DW), PDP, Latin Percussion (LP), and Slingerland, continue to lead the way for music makers and creators, providing modern solutions and seamless creative workflows between hardware products, computers, and mobile devices. For more information, visit Roland.com or see your local Roland dealer. Follow Roland on Facebook, X (Twitter) (@RolandGlobal), and Instagram (@RolandGlobal).

Drum Workshop Honour Josh Freese with Lifetime Achievement Award

Drummer's Review
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Drum Workshop Honour Josh Freese with Lifetime Achievement Award

Awards recognise individuals for invaluable contributions to the music industry

Drum Workshop, Inc. (DW) honors the musical achievements of legendary drummer Josh Freese by presenting him with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the NAMM Show 2026 on the DW/Roland booth, room 202 (2ndlevel), 16.30pm on the 23 January. The award is a fitting tribute to a career that has seen him play DW drums on hundreds of albums, across an array of musical genres, with the world’s biggest bands and artists.

Josh Freese has earned a reputation as one of the industry’s most versatile in-demand freelance drummers. He is known for his incredible versatility across rock, punk, and new wave with the ability to slot into established rock groups and sounding like he has always been there. A talent that was tested recently when, for two years, he joined the Foo Fighters following the death of Taylor Hawkins.

Freese’s musical range is staggering, including working with Michael Bublé, Suicidal Tendencies, Nine Inch Nails, Glen Campbell, Sting, The Vandals, Avril Lavigne, Danny Elfman, Katy Perry, M83, DEVO, Guns N’ Roses, The Replacements, Weezer, and the list goes on. He has also recorded solo records and co-written songs with Queens of the Stone Age, Guns N’ Roses, Sting, The Vandals, A Perfect Circle, DEVO, and many more. From playing drums at Disneyland at the age of 12 to gracing the stage and studio with rock music’s elite, this award recognizes his exceptional career. “There’s a truism that ‘a band is only as good as its drummer,” noted Sting, “Any band that Josh graced with his presence on the kit was fortunate indeed.”

Don Lombardi, DW Founder, said: ‘I’ve known Josh since he was a young teenager and have had the privilege of witnessing all the accomplishments he has achieved throughout his lifetime. Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award is well deserved, as he has made an incredible contribution to the music industry and drummers around the world.

Chris Lombardi, DW President and CEO, commented, “Josh has been a true member of the DW family for over 40 years, and I have had the privilege of calling him a friend throughout his entire tenure as a DW artist. It is a true honor to present him with this prestigious award.”

About Drum Workshop


Founded in 1972, Drum Workshop, Inc. is widely recognized as the global leader in designing and manufacturing award-winning musical instruments including drums, pedals, hardware, and accessories. Drum Workshop manufactures, markets and distributes an iconic portfolio of brands including DW® Drums and Hardware, PDP®, Latin Percussion®, and Slingerland. Drum Workshop’s wide range of products have earned their reputation as The Drummer’s Choice and are endorsed by many of the world’s top artists including Dave Grohl, Matt Gartska, Chad Smith, Mick Fleetwood, Tommy Lee, Nick Mason, Jim Keltner, and Sheila E., and many other legends. Drum Workshop, Inc. is headquartered in Oxnard, California. Drum Workshop joined the Roland family of brands in October 2022, combining two of the world’s best acoustic and electronic drum companies to push the boundaries of innovation for drummers. For more information, visit.www.dwdrums.com.

Karl Perazzo Honoured by Latin Percussion with Lifetime Achievement Award

Drummer's Review
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Karl Perazzo Honoured by Latin Percussion with Lifetime Achievement Award
The award celebrates individuals with outstanding contributions to percussion.

Latin Percussion (LP®) presents Karl Perazzo with a Lifetime achievement Award to honour his outstanding contribution to music and percussion at the NAMM Show 2026 on the DW/Roland booth, room 202 (2nd level), 16.30pm on the 23 January. The award recognizes the achievements of this extraordinary, multi-Grammy award-winning percussionist, a long-term endorser of LP.

An acclaimed, world-class percussionist, Karl Perazzo is best known for his showmanship, deep groove, and precise technique when playing the timbales and congas. He frequently demonstrates his prodigious skills across an extensive percussive setup, in his dynamic solos as a longstanding and vibrant percussionist with renowned Latin rock group, Santana.

For more than 30 years, his skill in combining his signature multifaceted Latin rhythms with the guitar playing of Carlos Santana has contributed significantly to the band’s iconic sound, securing them multiple Grammy awards. A rhythmic force of nature, Perazzo has also recorded and performed with top artists around the world, including Dizzy Gillespie, Mariah Carey, Prince, Phish, and John Lee Hooker, to name a few.

Speaking about the award, Perazzo said: ‘To receive the lifetime achievement award for percussion is more than an honor, it’s a reminder that sound residence and vibration is forever connected. Long live the rhythm of the heartbeat!’

‘We are absolutely delighted to recognize Karl’s extraordinary career with this Lifetime Achievement Award,’ said Chris Lombardi, DW President and CEO. ‘His musical contributions and inspiration make him one of the most renowned percussionists today and a deserving recipient of this award.

ABOUT LATIN PERCUSSION (LP)

Founded in 1964, Latin Percussion (LP) is the largest hand percussion instrument brand in the world. The company offers an extensive line of hand percussion instruments and percussion accessories including patented designs such as the Jam Block®, Ridge Rider Cowbell® and Egg Shaker. Many of the world’s top artists play LP including: Giovanni Hidalgo, Richie Gajate-Garcia, Karl Perazzo, Stewart Copeland, Steve Gadd, Travis Barker, Mike Portnoy, and Cindy Blackman-Santana among others. For more information, visit www.lpmusic.com

Istanbul J.R. Robinson Signature Cymbals Review

Drummer's Review
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Istanbul J.R. Robinson Signature Cymbals Review

Few drummers can claim a recorded legacy as deep as John “J.R.” Robinson. As the rhythmic backbone behind countless chart-defining tracks, including Michael Jackson’s Off The Wall and Rock With You, J.R.’s sound has become part of modern music history. His signature cymbal range with Istanbul aims to distil that legacy into a versatile and contemporary setup.

The collection is concise but purposeful: 15” hi-hats, 18” and 20” crashes, a 22” ride, and a 24” swish fitted with rivets. From the first hit, it’s clear these cymbals are designed with recording in mind. They’re bright, clean and exceptionally well defined, sitting comfortably in a mix without overpowering it. Controlled wash is a recurring theme across the range, making them ideal for studio and live environments alike.

The hi-hats are a standout, cutting through effortlessly while retaining musical warmth. The swish cymbal offers something a little different, with the rivets adding a tasteful sizzle that expands the tonal options available to the player. Visually, the brilliant finish looks superb under stage and studio lighting.

There are a couple of minor caveats. We’d love to see the range expanded with smaller hi-hats and crashes, and at times the ride cymbal can feel slightly choked depending on playing style. That said, these are subjective preferences rather than deal-breakers.

Overall, the J.R. Robinson Signature Cymbals succeed in capturing the clarity, precision, and musicality that defined his career. If you’re looking for cymbals that record beautifully and carry serious heritage, this range comes highly recommended.

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Dan Flint on YMAS, Drumming Challenges & What’s Next

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Dan Flint on YMAS, Drumming Challenges & What’s Next

This year marked the bittersweet end of an era as You Me at Six decided to call it a day after 20 years of making music together. For fans, it was a shocking announcement—but for Dan Flint, the band’s powerhouse drummer, it was a decision made with heart. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dan to talk all things drumming, the band’s journey, and what it really takes to evolve as a musician. And yes, I may have cheekily demanded they get back together—because who wouldn’t want more YMAS?

From the very start, Dan made it clear that drumming isn’t about being “the best.” It’s about authenticity, consistency, and connecting with the music. We dove into the band’s early MySpace days, a time when connecting directly with fans shaped their rise in ways that social media today can barely replicate. That DIY ethos helped cement their bond with audiences and fuelled their growth into one of the UK’s most enduring rock bands.

Dan’s drumming has evolved significantly over the years, and he walked me through some of the technical challenges behind their tracks. In particular, “The Swarm” is far more complex than it seems, demanding precision and stamina that only years of experience can provide. Yet, despite the technicality, Dan insists it’s always about serving the song and not showing off.

One of the most fascinating parts of our chat was discussing how You Me at Six ended their career gracefully—a rarity in the modern music industry. They wanted to step back on their own terms, finish as friends, and avoid forcing themselves to tour. Yet, Dan left the door open for the future, teasing that while the band may have officially paused, their story may not be necessarily over…

We also talked about side projects and the importance of exploring creativity outside your main gig, along with some invaluable advice for aspiring drummers: practice, patience, and never lose sight of why you picked up sticks in the first place.

If you’re a fan of You Me at Six or just love drumming, this interview is a masterclass in musicianship, humility and longevity. And who knows? Maybe this isn’t the last we’ve heard from Dan and the band. I, for one, am rooting for it.

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Zildjian S Dark Series – REVIEW

Drummer's Review
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Zildjian S Dark Series – REVIEW

For this review, Zildjian supplied us with the S Dark box set, which includes a 20” ride, 16” crash, 18” crash, and 14” hi-hats. Straight out of the box, these cymbals make a strong first impression. The deep, dark finish combined with heavy, visible hammering gives them a bold, aggressive aesthetic that immediately makes you want to sit down and play.

The S Dark Series is made from B12 bronze, and while B12 is often associated with brighter or simpler-sounding cymbals, Zildjian have taken a different approach here. The complex hammering helps produce a darker, more trashy voice, offering more tonal complexity than you might typically expect from a B12 series.

Despite that darker character, these cymbals still retain plenty of attack and presence. In both live playing and recordings, they cut through nicely without feeling overpowering. The hi-hats deliver a tight, short chick when closed, while opening up smoothly and naturally when played open. They feel controlled but never stiff.

The crashes are quick and punchy, with a shorter decay that makes them ideal for accents, effects, and short statements within fills. They don’t linger too long, which will appeal to drummers who want clarity and control rather than long, washy sustain.

The ride cymbal features a slightly oversized bell, making it easy to locate and very defined when played. It offers enough stick definition to remain articulate, while still leaning into that darker, trashier overall character.

Choosing B12 instead of B20 is a conscious move from Zildjian to keep this range accessible. While you won’t get the same depth, shimmer, or richness associated with high-end B20 cymbals, what you do get is a focused, modern sound with fast decay and a strong visual identity. For drummers who favour darker tones, controlled sustain, and punchy articulation, the Zildjian S Dark Series is a compelling option.

Visually striking, tonally complex, and designed with modern players in mind, the S Dark Series offers something genuinely different within the B12 space.

You can find out more about the Zildjian S Dark Series HERE. Also, you can find us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X (formally Twitter).

Tama Imperialstar – KIT REVIEW

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Tama Imperialstar – KIT REVIEW

If you’re looking for a complete drum kit that combines quality, playability and value, the Tama Imperialstar is an excellent choice. One of Tama’s most recognisable and accessible drum ranges, the Imperialstar series has built a reputation over decades for reliable construction, consistent sound, and ease of use. The IP62 configuration we’re reviewing today continues that tradition, offering a full shell pack, hardware, drum heads, and a throne—all at an RRP of just £889.00.

The kit’s 6-ply, 8mm poplar shells are designed to deliver a focused attack, quick response, and warm, rounded low end. Combined with Tama’s Precision-Cut Bearing Edges, the Imperialstar provides a stable, versatile tuning range that works well across a variety of musical genres. The Burnt Red Mist wrap finish we tested is clean, seamless, and durable, giving the kit a polished, professional look that feels far above its entry-level price point.

In terms of sound, the poplar shells punch well, with a kick drum that delivers a satisfying thump perfect for live performance. The rack and floor toms respond quickly and articulate well, while the snare offers a controlled crack that works in multiple settings. While the stock heads are functional, upgrading them unlocks even more warmth, sustain, and tonal richness.

The hardware included with the kit is solid for the price, though drummers who play aggressively might find it a little basic compared to higher-end sets. That said, for beginners, hobbyists, or intermediate drummers, the Imperialstar provides everything you need to start playing immediately without compromise.

Overall, the Tama Imperialstar is a reliable, versatile, and great-sounding kit that punches above its price point. It’s an ideal choice for drummers at almost any stage of their journey, whether you’re just starting out or seeking a dependable secondary kit for rehearsals and live gigs.

Like what you see? You can find out more about the kit HERE. You can also find us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X (formally Twitter).

Max Portnoy : Growing Up On The Road

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Max Portnoy : Growing Up On The Road

Eighteen minutes with Max Portnoy goes by quickly. Not because the interview is short, but because Max is one of those musicians who speaks with a clarity and passion that pulls you straight in. Though many will recognise him first as the son of Mike Portnoy, Max makes one thing remarkably clear from the outset: there’s no pressure. Growing up in one of progressive metal’s most recognisable households hasn’t weighed him down. If anything, it’s helped him develop a musical identity that’s unmistakably his own. In this exclusive Drummer’s Review interview, Max opens up about the many layers of being a modern progressive drummer, the importance of craft and the lessons he’s learned from life on the road.

One of the most compelling early moments in the interview is Max’s reflection on life with Mike. While some might assume the legacy of a drumming giant would cast a long shadow, Max explains that music was simply normality in his household. There was no formal introduction, no singular defining memory, just that drums were there from the beginning. He laughs about the absence of a “first time playing” story because, genuinely, he can’t recall one. What might intimidate others has instead shaped him into the musician he is today: self-aware, grounded and armed with an instinctive connection to rhythm.

Despite the Portnoy surname, Max has spent years carving out his own musical voice. In the interview he talks about developing stylistic fingerprints that don’t mimic his dad, understanding what modern progressive metal audiences respond to, and letting his personality — not lineage — speak through his playing. That sense of individuality fuels every project he touches, and he breaks down exactly how he balances creativity, discipline, and experimentation.

Max has played both as a hired gun and as a full-time band member, and he describes the difference with a refreshing honesty. Being a hired gun means stepping into someone else’s vision and delivering with precision and professionalism. Being a full-time band member, though, is a different beast. It’s collaborative, emotive, and endlessly rewarding. His insight gives younger drummers a rare look into two very different career paths.

He admits he doesn’t remember starting drums at all because they were simply woven into daily life. What he does remember vividly is being on the road with Mike: stages, tour buses, backstage rituals, the camaraderie among musicians. Those early experiences didn’t just shape his playing, they shaped his understanding of what a musician’s life actually looks like.

When asked whether he’d be a drummer without Mike’s influence, Max’s answer reveals both humility and self-awareness, because it’s a tough one to answer. Growing up around drums certainly set him on the path, but the drive to dedicate himself to the craft, the hours, the curiosity and the love of the instrument is entirely his. Influence may spark the fire, but commitment keeps it burning.

One highlight from the interview is Max discussing learning bass with John Myung. For most musicians, that’s the stuff of dreams, yet Max talks about it with genuine appreciation rather than fanfare. Learning a second instrument, he says, has made him a better musician. Sharpening instincts, widening his creative vocabulary and deepening his understanding of arrangement and groove.

When asked about where he sees himself in 10-15 years, Max jokingly answers with “I hope I’m still alive!”. But he does see more touring, and more creative evolution. He’s driven without being rushed, career-focused without losing presence and his advice to drummers is equally grounded and is something to listen to with open ears.

The conversation is a brilliant reminder of what makes musicians like Max so compelling: passion, humility, humour, and a complete lack of ego. He may carry one of the most recognisable surnames in progressive music, but what emerges here is not  just ‘Mike Portnoy’s son’, it’s Max Portnoy, an artist forging his own trajectory with intention and authenticity. Whether you’re a drummer, a Dream Theater fan, or someone who simply enjoys hearing musicians speak passionately about their craft, this interview has something for you.

You can find out more about Max HERE, and you can find us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and X (formally Twitter).

Sonor Momentum – KIT REVIEW

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Sonor Momentum – KIT REVIEW

In our latest Drummer’s Review deep dive, we turn our attention to the brand new Sonor Momentum Kit, a thoughtfully engineered five-piece beech shell pack that has already generated plenty of excitement. The kit we reviewed comes in the striking ‘California Burl’ finish, which instantly elevates its visual appeal and brings a real sense of premium craftsmanship to the setup. Sonor has always been associated with meticulous quality, and the Momentum series feels like a continuation of that legacy. It’s modern, refined, and built with the working drummer firmly in mind.

This particular configuration includes:

  • Kick Drum: 22” x 17.25”
  • Snare Drum: 14” x 5.75”
  • Rack Tom 1: 10” x 7.75”
  • Rack Tom 2: 12” x 8.5”
  • Floor Tom: 16” x 15.25″

 

The shells are constructed from beech, a tonewood known for its articulate attack and warm, balanced low end. Sitting tonally between birch and maple, beech offers a distinct blend of clarity and punch, making the Momentum series particularly adaptable. Whether you’re after a powerful rock presence or a more nuanced, expressive voice for studio sessions, this kit is designed to handle it all.

One of the standout features here is the inclusion of Sonor’s innovative hardware systems. The Sound Sustainer floor tom legs and TAR tom mounting system are both engineered to minimise the amount of vibration lost through contact points with the floor and hardware. This is an area where many other mounting systems fall short, often choking the drum’s natural resonance. However, on the Momentum kit, these systems do the opposite and allow the shells to breathe. The enhanced sustain is immediately noticeable, giving the toms a fuller, more expressive quality.

During our testing, we pushed the limits of what these drums could do by tuning them extremely low and extremely high. Across the entire range, the drums responded impressively well, retaining clarity and character at every pitch. This level of tuning versatility is a massive plus for drummers who need one kit that can cover a wide variety of genres and playing environments.

Visually, the Momentum kit is a real head-turner. The California Burl finish is smooth, glossy, and expertly applied. It gives the shells a premium presence under both natural and stage lighting. Sonor currently offers only four finish options for this series, and although each one is striking in its own way, some players may wish there were a few more choices available.

As you might expect from a kit at this level of build quality, the Momentum series does come with a higher-end price tag. While the investment is justified by the engineering, materials, and performance, it may place the kit slightly beyond reach for drummers on a more modest budget.

Overall, the Sonor Momentum Kit stands out as a versatile, beautifully crafted, and highly musical drum set that delivers across the board. From its impressive sustain and smart engineering to its stunning aesthetics and broad tuning range, it feels every bit a serious professional tool. For drummers seeking reliability, resonance, and refined tonal character, the Momentum deserves a very close look.

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