My Main Cocktail Setup:
<img src="http://www.cocktaildrum.com/images/drums3/mysling1.jpg">
I currently have 4 drums of the same model but different finishes and models. I use this kit for many applications (Jazz, Pop, Latin, Cabaret, Etc. even some Drum & Bass!) and I find it is very successful. It is one continuous chamber inside so it took some time to get the kick (bottom) and snare (top) sounding like two seperate drums.
I use a Coated Remo Powerstroke 3 head on the bottom and a Coated Remo Diplomat on the top. Also, the bottom is tuned very low and hass two large strips of duct tape and tissue added for extra mass. I use lug locks to keep the bottom lugs from losening and falling off! The top head is tuned VERY tight which gives the snare a piccallo sound when played near the rim but the depth of the drum gives the snare a more normal sound when struck towards the middle.
The drum has no extra mounts besides the leg brackets (common with these drums). I wanted to attach as many extras as was reasonable without having to drill into the drum (it is vintage after all: >) I use LP claw mounts for the cymbal, cowbel and timbale. The cowbell mount also has a two post wood block mount attached as well as a small clamp that mounts the castanets. The bongos are Remo Kids Bongos (Pre-Tuned). They sound great, are light weight and take a beating! They are held on by a small latch that hangs them from the rim and then a bungie cord holds them against the drum. Believe it or not they don't move around much at all!<br>
Playing this drum is a real treat! Of course I have been playing it for a couple of years now and it took a while getting used to it. If approach these kits as a different instrument they are very exciting. I believe many people get frustrated because they want a regular drum kit that is small. THEN GET ONE!! Cocktail kits are just not the same, and that's the fun! I find I use more of my classical technique playing cocktail kit than anywhere else just becasue of the sisze and distance between instruments. I have to move very presicely but still keep it flowing and musical. It just takes practice and EXPERIMENTATION! I use brushes, blastics, hot rods, sticks, mallets, hit the side of the drum, play different places on the head, and they all get interesting sounds!<br>
That's what the Cocktail Drum is all about. Getting as much as possible with as little as possible!
Cheers,
John
