Tom Hipskind solo practice 2.17.26

Описание: This is some studio fun, a solo improvisation for setting up camera and lighting in my studio.

It's always a challenge to play freely, yet with discipline; to find and keep a narrative flow with discovering and playing off of little melodies and motifs while also keeping a basic structure intact, i.e. holding a consistent tempo, managing dynamics, and other things. I also enjoy drawing on inspiration from the sound of the kit itself. The 20" bass drum had just gotten new heads put on (coated Ambassadors front and batter with minimal muffling), so that had a new sound and feel for me; the snare; the cymbals. Space and density, dark and light, hot and cold, etc. Thinking of all of these elements makes me think of the recently departed Jack DeJohnette. He was a master of using colors, sounds and shapes in his playing.

Special thanks to Vic Firth drumsticks and Sabian cymbals.

Sabian cymbal setup (top view L to R):
14" HHX Complex Medium hats
17" HHX Complex Thin crash
10" HH Duo splash
22" HHX Anthology low bell
18" HHX Complex Thin crash
20" HHX Complex Aero crash

I've become a huge fan of the HHX Complex and Anthology series, both featured prominently here. The lush, beautiful tones are dark enough for a "jazz" sound, and yet versatile enough for multiple styles. They're incredibly musical cymbals.

Vic Firth Dave Weckl Evolution sticks. I like the Evolutions because they feel like a 5A with a slightly smaller tip. They've become my go-to for general lighter-than-normal playing.

Drums: Gretsch USA Custom
7x10
8x12
12x14
14x16
16x20
Noble & Cooley Classic SS Maple 3 7/8x14" snare drum