Congratulations to the winners of Modern Drummer’s The Great Modern Drummer Sweeps we announced in December. Mark Bucher of New York won a 5-piece Dixon Outlaw drumset in Blue Burst Sparkle, model OL-522E-BLBS and percussion instruments by Toca, Sabian, and drum hardware from Gibraltar. Laura Storjohann of West Virginian the Dixon DS-0613-RWD Rosewood Snare, cymbals by Sabian, and drum hardware from Gibraltar. Thanks to everyone who participated.
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Annoucing the Winners of Great Modern Drummer Sweeps
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- drummers
- Dixon News
- sweeps
March 1 2010, 4:40pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Lou Mars Interviewed for KCHO Radio
Lou Mars was interviewed for KCHO radio by Catherine Beeghly about his world record attempt at marathon drumming. It airs today, 2/20/2010 at 3:00 PM Pacific time in the Chico area. You can listen below.
February 20 2010, 12:26pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
2010 is the Year of the Drummer
Lou Mars
The Chinese New Year may have to change from “Year of the Tiger” to “Year of the Drummer” as my world record attempt at marathon drumming has ignited what perhaps may result in one of the greatest years ever for the “sport.” Strength training coaches Rob Wolf began one of the post-even interviews with “I don’t know who will ever want to take on this record again!” We now know the answer. Drummers are made to drum, and they love a challenge. Drums are back in the spotlight, and the players are anxious to shine.
Kunto Hartono
Kunto Hartono of Indonesia, the 2004 Guinness record holder, watched my 108.5 hour show via live stream, and contacted me shortly thereafter to announce and ask for my support for his March 2010 attempt. I responded with a positive, “Yes.” Kunto’s goal is to play for 135 hours.
Russ Prager
American Russ Prager, the current record holder at 120 hours, has also been in communication with me and stated “I’m keeping an eye on Kunto, if he breaks the record there just might be one more attempt in me!”
Allister Brown
February 17 2010, 3:27pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Cool Car, Nice Drums, Great Engineering
I love great engineering whether it is high end cars or precision drum construction. Here is a really cool video that uses both! It is the official trailer for the new 2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder. Cut in with shots of the car driving on windy roads are close ups of a drummer doing his thing playing to the soundtrack. Lots of good “drum porn” such as kick drum beaters meeting the head and brushes on hi hats and the snare. And when the player’s tempo goes up and down, the car’s speed goes with it.
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- Video
- Videos
- cars
- Engineering
February 12 2010, 12:59pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Winner of Dixon Demon kit used by Lou Mars in his World Record Attempt
Kaden Gower wins Lou’s kit In conjunction with
February 9 2010, 4:18pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Join Us Online as Lou Mars Celebrates His World Record Milestone!!
The event will be streamed live world-wide from the Lakeside Pavilion and include a sneak preview of Lou Mars upcoming documentary. The drawing for the Dixon Demon drum set that Lou played on during the event will also take place. Lou will perform four songs along with a slide show and special guests. Friday, January 29th, 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM Pacific Time. See Lou’s blog for the stream link.
January 28 2010, 9:43pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Lou Mars’s Quest for The World Record is a Life Changing Experience for Many Involved
Lou Mars Facts:
Hours played: 108.5 (4.5 days) Place in the records for longest marathon drumming: 2nd Broken drumsticks given away by Lou to children: 36 Volunteers: 120 UStream.tv views: 47,872 Number of positive comments and e-mails received: +1,000 Amount of money made for Little Kids Rock: $700.00 Impact made on everyone involved: Unmeasurable
From January 14th to January 18th, 2010, Lou Mars attempted to break the Guinness Book of Word Records for Marathon Drumming in Chico, California. The event has changed the lives of many of the participants, volunteers and spectators alike. Lou’s endurance has become and inspiration to people all over the world. Both the visitors to NorCal Strength and Conditioning and viewers on the Ustream channel could not help but be compelled to support Lou. Workplace computer monitors all over the Chico as well as the Seattle Police Department where tuned into Lou during the event. The Mark & Brain syndicated radio show streamed the audio from the event live for two days. Some terms from Guinness on Marathon Drumming Record:
Lou could not be touched while drumming He could accumulate 5 min breaks every hour
Lou’s attempt to break the World Record for Marathon Drumming was a catalyst for change in Lou’s life, as he realized he would like to bring awareness to cancer and it’s connection to diet and exercise. Lou was inspired by his late friend Richard McKinley who recently passed away from cancer. Lou’s uncle is also currently suffering from cancer. He would also like kids to step up from Rock Band and Guitar Hero video games to real instruments. Lou played on both his Dixon Outlaw drum set he won in our “Drum Your Way to Hollywood” contest as well as an Urban Camo Demon drum kit which was given away to a lucky donor with the proceeds went to help Little Kids Rock. It was reported that Lou’s drum equipment failed. This was untrue. The Dixon drum sets held strong, however, Lou’s hard hitting did vibrate three lug nuts from the bottom of one snare, and one bass drum nut completely unscrewed itself over the 4.5 day duration. The snares on the back-up snare drum were also vibrated loose. Over-all the gear held through a ferocious beating. With that said 30 sticks were cracked or broken and one pair of aluminum sticks bent during the process. Brian Peterson and Lou Mars will be making of a mini documentary regarding the event. The documentary will explore the story in depth and the secondary stories that occurred during the process. The team will have a party on Friday the 29th which will also be livestreamed. Key players:
Husband and Wife team Robb Wolf and Nikki Violetti, strength & conditioning coaches, owners of NorCal Strength and Conditioning (Facebook) They kept Lou eating, hydrating, monitored Lou’s electrolyte levels. Tory Zellick with In Touch Body Works (Facebook), training up to the day of the event as well as physical therapist during the event.
Secondary Players:
Atty. David Howard, Legal sponsor, DM Howard Law Karen Maraschiello, Lou’s wife Brian Logue, Lou’s friend, fellow drummer, spiritual guide Brian Peterson, Photographer, sponsor, Peterson Pro Video Andy Deas, cheerleader for Lou near the last sets Dr. John Fargoso, Fargos Chiropractic, assisting with breaks, dropped what he was doing for next four days after becoming attached to the project after day one. Aunt Pam, provided backup speaker system
Some quotes from the post-event video interview with Lou and his team Nikki on the event: “It was one of the most amazing weeks of my life. All of us can attest to that. We all had a singular goal. I have never been more present or more in the now in any other given period of time ever before in my entire life, because there was never a monument to think about yesterday or tomorrow, it was always right now.” Lou regarding ear fatigue and/or deliriousness after several days of drumming: “When the music started distorting, at points, I started hearing second levels to the songs at different levels and different tempos and speeds…I’ve got to tell you, as a profession drummer, having to let yourself go, to have someone else get you on the beat…was bizarre to to have to let that go.” Tory Zellick on Brian Logue: “It went from a state of chaos to controlled chaos. When you are in the stage of chaos and you get that little bit of control it makes all the difference in the world. We were so sleep deprived and everything was changing every minute that we were in a constant state of reaction, that to have someone to bring it all back to center, it was almost like a baby sitter. It was perfect. He took control of the situation and he and Lou become one. And it was so healthy for everyone.” Karen regarding her husband Lou: “It was very stressful. Watching him hurt himself took on a whole new meaning for me. I would see him hitting with his wrists that hard and I felt like I could feel his pain. Robb had to settle me down a couple times, where I said I think you need to get him off the kit. It is too much, I can’t take it. And Robb finally said around day 3 he said ‘this is the way Lou wants to do it, you either support him and smile when you see him or don’t be around.’ So at that time I made the decision, Ok, I am on board, and I’ll see it through. But it was hard. There were times when I didn’t want to be here, but I didn’t want to leave. And when I left all I could [think about] was to get back here as quickly as possible.” Lou on getting in shape for the event: “When I first started this project, at the end of September I could not run to the mailbox enough. I was so out of shape. I drank heavily, I ate poorly, I was 217 lbs. My waist was pushing a [size] 38, and just didn’t feel good about myself or much of about anything around at that time. When this came up, I knew this would force me to change.” Sponsors:
NorCal Strength and Conditioning Candace McDonald Kremer, Preference Chiropractor Dixon Drums (Facebook) Peterson Pro Video DM Howard Law In Touch Body Works Paleo Brands (Facebook) Logo Merchant
Robb Wolf’s account of the event Brian Peterson account of the event KNVN News Nikki Violetti with NorCal Strength and Conditioning Robb Wolf, Nikki Violetti with NorCal Strength and Conditioning Crowd at NorCal Strength and Conditioning watches and cheers Lou Tory Zellick with In Touch Body Works cheers for Lou Lou puts his head on ice Andy Deas cheers for Lou Robb Wolf sharing words of encouragement with Lou Brian Peterson recording the moment Photos by Dain Sandoval.
January 27 2010, 1:00am
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Protected: Lou Mar’s Quest for The World Record is a Life Chaining Experience for Many Involved
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January 26 2010, 5:56pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
NAMM 2010 Drums New Dixon Outlaw in Obsidian Black
Jim Stanek debuts the the new Dixon Outlaw in Obsidian Black finish at this years Winter NAMM 2010.
January 18 2010, 1:38am
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Video: Dixon Demon in Black Plasma Finish at NAMM 2010
Jim shows the new Black Plasma finish Demon drum set at NAMM 2010, booth #5420, Hall B.
January 16 2010, 2:54pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Dixon Rosewood and Bubinga Snares at NAMM 2010
In this video Jim Stanek shows off the new 5.5″ x 14″ 24-ply 100% Bubinga shell snare drum, along with the Rosewood snare.
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- NAMM
- Dixon News
- NAMM 2010
- snares
January 15 2010, 9:01pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Watch Lou Mars Live as he Attempts to Break the World Record for Drumming
Watch Lou live on Ustream.tv! Online video chat by Ustream Dixon Drums has provided a new Dixon Demon Urban Camo drum set and hardware valued at $2,300.00 for Lou Mars to play on during the event that will be given away afterwards. “All proceeds” donated will go to the Fender supported “Little Kids Rock”. Since 2002, Little Kids Rock has been dedicated to putting music back in schools by providing free musical instruments and instruction that focuses on their favorite popular music styles, including rock, blues, rap and hip-hop. So far, over 1,200 schools in 21 cities nationwide have benefited from a Little Kids Rock program, and the response from kids, parents and teachers has been phenomenal. Donate here.
January 14 2010, 10:20am
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Dixon Drums is proud to introduce several exciting new products at the 2010 NAMM show. As we all know, and perhaps are tired of hearing, last year was a financially tough year for everyone. As we juggle last minute preparations for the 2010 NAMM Show, we are full of optimism about Dixon and what the year will bring. I thought now would be the perfect time to share a few thoughts about Dixon Drums. This is not a New Years resolution…but perhaps some insight and purpose for why we do what we do. Before the 2008 USA launch, we wondered if the world really needed another drum brand. There are many fine brands with great legacies in the marketplace, so what would we bring to the show? So, we set out on a journey across the country to find out exactly what drummers wanted and what makes them excited about drums. We listened to what YOU, the drummer, cared about and the response was overwhelming; it’s all about the SOUND. Not the sound from a celebrity drummer…but YOUR sound. So, we built kicks, snares, toms and hardware based on your feedback, and we continue the conversation to constantly improve. We make great drums for drummers who are passionate about their music. Dixon won’t be endorsing the next arena act. Instead we’ll be reaching out to the drumming community to support YOU on your road to success. Now, let’s get to the NAMM 2010 show. Check us out at booth # 5420 and you’ll see the newest edition to the Outlaw Series. It’s a great four-piece players kit, in Obsidian Black finish. This distinctive new finish gives the appearance of a half satin, half gloss lacquer finish. Check out a great review on the OUTLAW series from Drum magazine. For our DEMON series, we have added two striking Plasma Lacquer finishes to the 2010 lineup. Our proprietary finish process produces one of a kind Plasma finishes – giving an exclusive look to each drummer.
No two are the same. Ok, there may be some drummers out there who want exactly the same set up as “so and so” celeb drummer of the month. For those of you looking for originality and your own style check out the Red and Black Plasma Demon! It’s about who sits behind the drums that makes the biggest difference. But you still need a quality kit and the style… well, who doesn’t want to kick some ass and look great doing it, right? So…to all, have a healthy and happy new year…and if you’re coming to the big show next week, make sure to drop by and say hi…and check out our new kits!January 8 2010, 1:44pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
A soldier entertains himself and other playing beats on coffee cups and metal thermos with pencils.
from Break.com
December 19 2009, 5:56pm
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From Dixon Drums |:| Blog, dixondrums.net
Enter to Win Gear form Dixon, Gibraltar, Sabian, Toca with Modern Drummer
Enter today for a chance to win a Dixon Outlaw drumkit outfitted with Toca percussion, Gibraltar hardware, and a set of Sabian AAX cymbals, or a Dixon rosewood snare, a Gibraltar snare stand, and a Sabian B8 Pro cymbal set. Contest valued at over $8,300!
Grand Prize A Dixon Outlaw five-piece drumset with 22″ bass drum in Blue Burst Sparkle finish, Toca double-row bar chimes, two Toca Pro Line cowbells, a Toca Static Whip, Toca 8″ and 10″ doumbeks with stand, a Toca hi-hat Hit Zone tambourine, a Toca jingle snare with mount, a complete Gibraltar Stealth rack set-up with 6600 Series hi-hat stand, double pedal, and throne, and a set of Sabian AAX cymbals that includes 14″ Stage hats, 16″ and 18″ AAX-Plosion fast crashes, and a 20″ Stage ride. Second Prize Dixon 100% Rosewood 6 x 13 snare with bag, a Gibraltar Ultra Adjust pro snare stand, and a Sabian Limited Edition B8 Pro set with bonus 18″ crash. Enter here! See the official rules here or below. The Great Modern Drummer, Dixon, Gibraltar, Toca, and Sabian Sweeps Consumer Disclosure
To enter online, visit http://www.moderndrummer.com/contest.php between the dates below (one entry per email address). ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND ON THE NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES RECEIVED. CONTEST BEGINS DECEMBER 1, 2009, AND ENDS JANUARY 31, 2010. Grand Prize Drawing: Winner will be selected by random drawing on February 12, 2010. Winner will be notified by phone or email on or about February 15, 2010. Employees, and their immediate families, of Modern Drummer, KMC, Dixon Drums, Toca Percussion, Gibraltar Hardware, Sabian, and their affiliates are ineligible. Sponsor is not responsible for lost, misdirected, and/or delayed entries. Open to residents of the U.S. and Canada, 18 years of age or older. Void in Quebec, Florida, and where prohibited by law. One prize awarded per household per contest. Prizes:
Grand Prize: One (1) winner will receive a
Dixon Outlaw five-piece drum set with 22″ bass drum in Blue Burst Sparkle finish; From Toca: one (1) each: double-row bar chimes, Static Whip, 8″ and 10″ doumbeks with stand (black), hi-hat Hit Zone tambourine, jingle snare with mount package, and two (2) Pro Line cowbells; From Gibraltar: a complete set of Gibraltar hardware; From Sabian: one (1) each: 14″ AAX Stage hats, 16″ and 18″ AAX-Plosion fast crashes, and 20″ AAX Stage ride.
Approximate retail value of Grand Prize: $6,785. Second Prize: One (1) winner will receive
A Dixon 100% rosewood 6×13 snare with bag; one (1) Gibraltar Ultra Adjust pro snare stand; one (1) Sabian Limited Edition B8 Pro set with bonus 18″ crash.
Approximate retail value of second prize: $1,559. Approximate retail value of entire contest: $8,340. Sponsored by Modern Drummer Publications, Inc., 12 Old Bridge Road, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009, (973) 239-4140. This game subject to the complete Official Rules. For a copy of the complete Official Rules or the winner’s name, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to:
Modern Drummer Publications/Dixon-Sabian-Toca/Official Rules/Winners List 12 Old Bridge Road Cedar Grove, NJ 07009.
December 16 2009, 8:00am









