Words from Andy Lloyd-Russell
From practice to performance, Tama’s new models and finishes have you covered
Within the drumming community, the name Tama is certainly synonymous with reliability, innovation and for many the industry standard.
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Since the brand’s inception in 1974, Tama has always had a strong focus on innovation and building the most reliable instruments and hardware. Headquartered in Seto, Japan and a US counterpart in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Tama has earned a solid street rep from all corners of the globe over the decades, and for very good reason.
Incredibly robust shells combined with equally sturdy, reliable and pioneer hardware are true touring and studio workhorses; worthy of any hard hitting touring band or demanding studio session. You just never hear from a Tama blow out†
Flagship Innovation – Entry Level Reliability
A company that never rests on its laurels, Tama always has the the status quo in both their drums and the accompanying hardware, constantly bringing exciting and revolutionary products to the table.
Their flagship STAR range of kits offers unique wooden shells namely bubinga, maple and walnut. The accompanying hardware includes multiple US patented designs such as: Quick lock tom braces, hold on rings, Bass Drum Tracks and the Super resonant mounting system†
The ever-popular Starclassic line offers a classic all-maple shell (always nice to have as an offering, it must be said), and a blend of walnut and birch.
Both high-end lines have earned their respective places as some of the most respected kits available today, sitting comfortably with the many usual suspects in the higher echelons of drum production.
As for Tama’s medium-tier and entry-level kits, there’s a good reason why there are so many of these kits around. The Superstar Classic and Imperialstar lines are maple and poplar shell composites respectively, clearly marking their positions in the lanes for intermediate/semi pro and beginner kits, and both comfortably meet the needs of their players in true Tama style – reliable, powerful and versatile.
genre defying
What has always struck me about Tama as a drummer is their versatility in shell construction and this gives their range a breadth that many others cannot match. Their long list of longstanding brand players ranges from jazz to the deepest chasms of metal, let alone everything in between.
Long time Tama players include Stewart Copeland (The Police), Simon Phillips (Toto), Lars Ulrich (Metallica), and Kenny Arnoff (John Fogerty, LA session drum royalty) with modern era players including guns like Adam Deitch (John Schofield, Lettuce) and Australia’s own Nic Petterson (Northlane) just to name a few.
What’s new in 2022
Never afraid of limited edition runs, Tama’s 2022 Starclassic line features a walnut/birch shell in a new stunning Gloss Natural Tamo Ash finish. As for the Starclassic Performer line, the maple/birch shell composition is available in a striking Sky Blue Aurora finish.
Aside from their great new acoustic kits, it seems that Tama has created something special for those who are unable to work on their chops on a full acoustic kit be it apartment living and the like. Their True Touch series is an exciting new and revolutionary line of practice kits that are placed directly on these types of players, with a simple kick, snare, hats and ride configuration, up to four and five piece setups. With an incredibly realistic feel and sensitivity on the heads, it looks like Tama has set the new standard for the practice kit market, something that is sure to be appreciated in 2022.
As for hardware, the flagship Iron Cobra series of kick pedals has a very nice limited edition gold single and double kick pedals; for those looking for that little bit extra something special in their traps. Very tasty indeed.
It’s always nice to see some updated finishes and it’s all too enticing when limited edition runs are done, especially when done right. In true Tama fashion, the new limited edition finishes for their Starclassic series are as striking as they are deep, and their hardware offerings continue to impress, and that’s saying something before falling!
Visit Tama Drums for the latest news. For local inquiries please contact Australis Music.
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