The London Drum Show is a fantastic event to watch talented drummers, both young and old, visit the best drum exhibitors and attend masterclasses accessible for all. Over the two days, 13-14th October 2012 the Olympia Conference centre hosted this phenomenal event.
Visitors could enjoy a selection of different events throughout the day and visit stands with experts on hand to help. The exhibitors included the usual big names of acoustic manufacturers such as Pearl, Premier, Mapex as well as the biggest names in electronic percussion like Roland, who were showcasing their flagship TD30 kit with their new software ‘Friend Jam’, which makes practising social! Some of the lesser known, but no less intriguing manufacturers included Bullet and Kitch with their patented design for making the ‘heel-toe’ technique so much easier!
Performances from Andy Gangadeen and Rick Latham were outstanding. Andy Gangadeen is one of the most popular drummers in the UK and has worked with the likes of Duran Duran, Jeff Beck, Spice Girls and most recently, Chase and Status, Labrinth and his own band The Bays. His set demonstrated his ability to fuse electronics with acoustic drums. His blue-lit drum kit was certainly eye-catching and his energy on stage gave an electrifying performance. My favourite song was most definitely Flashing Lights by Chase and Status. The house, dub-step track certainly raised the roof and Gangadeen’s drumming was flawless. Gangadeen also took the time to explain his technique to the audience; he uses maximum velocity with accurate hits to create his unique sound. A strict tempo has to be kept throughout while using an attack playing technique. His precision and dedication to drumming has made him the success he is today.
Rick Latham’s performance was both captivating and enlightening. Latham answered the audience’s questions throughout, advising on both drumming technique, setting up your drum equipment and how to achieve the sound you desire. It was really refreshing for a drummer to offer such a personal show and visitors left feeling more knowledgeable.
The masterclass from Karl Brazil and Ralph Salmins was a riveting display of two extremely talented drummers from the music industry. The two offer different styles but both have extensive experience; working on film music and alongside various artists. Not only did visitors have the chance to enjoy their drumming pieces but the pair gave an interesting insight into their careers; explaining what it was like to record a soundtrack for a film or for television and what it is like being a drummer on tour with stars, such as Robbie Williams.
The main stage performances were well received and for most performances the room was completely full! Visitors were truly spoilt with the brilliant drummers and the opportunity to purchase the latest advancements of acoustic and electronic drum kits. The London Drum Show really is a worthwhile weekend for music lovers alike: a cymbal way to see the best drummers and pick up a few tips!