Site updates and news - 11/14/09
I've recently made a few updates to the website:
It's only fitting with Neil's drums being on display in Indianapolis, that we have three replica or "inspired" kit updates:
- Mark Gausel's "S.S. Imitation" kit
- Ryan Feeney's Tama Swingstar "Beast" kit
- Nereu's RMV kit (update)
Thanks to all the drummers for sending in the photos of their drums. Feel free to leave them a comment at the bottom of their pages.
Next we have a new Neil Peart postcard from Brian Andonian from the Snakes & Arrows timeframe.
Product updates
The new documentary The Big Story of Small Potatoes: Niagara's Rock Music History 1964 - 1974 is now available for purchase. Neil Peart was a part of this music scene, although he wasn't interviewed for the documentary. The director of the film, Paul Miil, told me via e-mail, "any Peart fan would enjoy this unique insight into the background of such an interesting and by all accounts 'great guy.'" I'm ordering a copy and will write up more after I've watched the film.
Rush: Rock Music and the Middle class: Dreaming in Middletown was released in October, and I've been reading it. The writer, Dr. Chris McDonald, is an ethnomusicologist, who uses this book to explore Rush's influence on the middle class. While it's definitely a scholarly book, it's also very readable. So far it's very interesting.
Ultimate Drum Play-Along Rush: Authentic Drum (Book & CD) (Alfred's Ultimate Play-Along) was also released in the past few months. I ordered a copy and have been reading the book and listening to the CD. There are two sets of tracks: One with a drummer (not Peart) and one without. A lot of attention is paid to getting the drum, bass, and guitar parts in most of the songs (especially on Anthem) -- but don't expect 100% accuracy on the drums. I'm assuming that the music is written from the drummer's performance (not from Neil's parts). What could be helpful -- especially to anyone trying to learn Rush drum parts -- are the tracks that don't include drum tracks. Instead, there's a click track to help guide you.
New NEP snare
All Pro Percussion announced a new Neil Peart Snakes & Arrows snare drum.
Here's the information from the Drummers Connection website:
Finishes
1. Birdseye Maple w/ Walnut Inlay (pictured above)
2. Vertical Walnut w/ Birdseye Inlay
3. Waterfall Bubinga w/ Figured Sycamore Inlay
List Price: $1,499.00
Our Price: $899.99
*Place your order by October 30th, 2009 and get an extra 5% off.
Learn more...
All Pro Percussion
10101 East Adamo Drive
Tampa, FL 33619
(813) 341-3786
Website: http://www.allpropercussion.com
Thanks to Rushisaband.com for the head's up.