In this roundup of drum news, “Pretty Things” are brewing in Chicago; Simmons packs a portable punch with a new amp; and the beat goes on for the Milwaukee Bucks in their new arena.
Chicago Drum Announces New Finishes, Employee
Ken Harck
Chicago Drum Company has announced a new, psychedelic finish it calls “Pretty Things,” and has brought Ken Harck onto the team. Harck was born in 1955 in Chicago and started to show an interest in drumming at the age of five. By the late ‘70’s, he was the drummer in the band Off Broadway, who was signed to Atlantic Records. Off Broadway released three albums and enjoyed major airplay on national radio stations across the county. Harck also spent time in the band Badfinger and several others groups.
Simmons Introduces Portable Electronic Drum Amplifier
Simmons has introduced a new portable “grab and go” electronic drum kit amplifier. The DA25 Electronic Drum Amplifier weighs less than 20 lbs. and is designed for the beginning drummer for home and practice use.
The DA25’s 25 watt power amplifier drives an 8-inch woofer and a 2-inch tweeter, and includes an onboard two-band EQ with a low band centered at 60 Hz and a high band centered at 10 kHz. The slanted cab design directs sound up from the ground toward the player, and a slot port at the bottom front of the enclosure enhances efficiency and bottom-end projection. In addition to the 1/4-inch main drum input with volume knob, the DA25 offers a 1/8-inch TRS stereo auxiliary input for practicing and playing along with music from an external source, such as an MP3 player or smartphone. The volume knob and EQ knobs are even dimpled for convenient adjustment with a drumstick. The Simmons DA25 Electronic Drum Amplifier is available now with a street price of $149.99.
Bucks Beats Drumline Debuts at New Fiserv Forum
The Bucks Beats Drumline, known for its loud beats and energy during Milwaukee Bucks’ basketball games, made its debut in the new Fiserv Forum October 3 and is scheduled to appear for more performances throughout the season.
Wisconsin musical instrument retailer Cascio Music will continue its sponsorship of the Bucks Beats Drumline at the new arena for the 2018- 2019 season.
“Cascio Music is again proud to bring the dynamic Bucks Beats Drumline to the All-New Fiserv Forum,” said Michael Houser, Cascio CEO. “We have presented the Drumline for the past six years here in our hometown, entertaining fans and providing musical inspiration through this exciting troupe. Our goal is to inspire all ages of musicians or potential musicians to enjoy the power of music throughout their life and hopefully pick up an instrument and play.”
Bucks Beats showcases local talent, with performers selected via open audition each season. The ensemble includes percussionists on snare drums, tenor drums, bass drums, and cymbals. Each member is outfitted with high-end Pearl drum equipment and instruments with Remo drumheads.