Have You Gone Hybrid?

Hybrid drumming has become an increasingly popular way of playing drums over the last few decades, with many drummers combining acoustic drums and cymbals with electronic kits or sampler pads to create a unique and versatile sound. In this article, we'll explore the history of hybrid drumming, some notable drummers who use this setup, and the advantages and disadvantages of using a hybrid setup.

History of Hybrid Drumming

The concept of hybrid drumming can be traced back to the 1970s when drummers started experimenting with electronic sounds and adding them to their acoustic drum kits. One of the earliest examples of this was Phil Collins' use of a drum machine on his 1981 hit "In the Air Tonight". This song featured a distinctive drum sound that was created by layering a drum machine over his acoustic drums. This technique became popular in the 1980s with the rise of electronic music and the introduction of drum machines and samplers.

In the 1990s, drummers began using electronic drums and percussion pads in their live performances. This allowed them to trigger sounds and samples in real-time, adding a new dimension to their playing. Some of the earliest examples of this were Stuart Copeland's use of a Simmons SDS-V drum kit on The Police's 1983 Synchronicity tour, and Bill Bruford's use of electronic drums on King Crimson's 1984 album "Three of a Perfect Pair".

As technology advanced, drummers began using more sophisticated electronic drum and percussion pads such as the Roland SPDSX, Yamaha DTX Multi 12, and Alesis Strike Pad. These pads allowed drummers to trigger not only drum sounds but also samples, loops, and even full backing tracks. This opened up a whole new world of possibilities for drummers, allowing them to create complex, layered arrangements and perform more like a one-man band.

Notable Drummers and Their Setups

There are many notable drummers who use hybrid setups, combining acoustic and electronic drums to create a unique and versatile sound. Here are a few examples:

Benny Greb: Benny Greb is a German drummer who is known for his unique hybrid setup, which combines a Gretsch USA Custom drum kit with various electronic pads and triggers. He uses a Roland SPD-SX sampling pad, a Yamaha DTX Multi 12, and a Roland V-Drums TD-30KV electronic drum kit, among other pieces of gear. Greb is a master of combining acoustic and electronic sounds, and his setup allows him to create complex and layered arrangements that are both musical and dynamic.

Jojo Mayer: Jojo Mayer is a Swiss drummer who is known for his innovative use of electronics in his playing. He uses a variety of pads and triggers, including the Roland SPD-SX and Alesis SamplePad, to trigger electronic sounds and samples in real-time. Mayer's playing is characterized by his lightning-fast speed and his ability to seamlessly blend acoustic and electronic sounds.

Josh Dun: Josh Dun is the drummer for the band Twenty One Pilots, and he is known for his energetic and dynamic playing style. He uses a hybrid setup that includes a custom-built acrylic drum kit, along with various pads and triggers, including a Roland SPD-SX. Dun's setup allows him to create unique and memorable drum parts that are an integral part of the band's sound.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Hybrid Setup

There are several advantages to using a hybrid setup, including the ability to create a wider range of sounds and the flexibility to perform in a variety of musical styles. Hybrid drumming also allows drummers to add electronic sounds and samples to their acoustic drums, creating a unique and versatile sound.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using a hybrid setup. For one, it can be more time-consuming to set up and requires more gear than a traditional acoustic drum kit. This can make it more difficult to transport and set up for gigs, rehearsals, or studio sessions. Additionally, some purists may argue that hybrid drumming takes away from the authenticity of acoustic drumming and that electronic sounds should be left to electronic music.

Despite these drawbacks, many drummers find that the advantages of using a hybrid setup far outweigh the disadvantages. With the ability to trigger samples, loops, and backing tracks in real-time, hybrid drumming opens up a whole new world of possibilities for drummers, allowing them to create complex and layered arrangements that would be impossible with an acoustic drum kit alone. Additionally, many hybrid drummers find that the combination of acoustic and electronic sounds creates a unique and versatile sound that sets them apart from other drummers.

Notable Performances and Recordings

Hybrid drumming has been used in a variety of musical styles and genres, from rock and pop to hip-hop and electronic music. Here are a few notable performances and recordings that showcase the versatility and creativity of hybrid drumming:

Radiohead - "Kid A" (2000): The opening track of Radiohead's groundbreaking album "Kid A" features a distinctive drum part that was created by combining electronic drums and percussion with live drumming. The result is a complex and layered arrangement that sets the tone for the rest of the album.

Bjork - "Biophilia" (2011): Bjork's album "Biophilia" features a unique and innovative approach to hybrid drumming. The album was created in collaboration with several drummers, including Manu Delago and Chris Corsano, and features a variety of electronic and acoustic percussion sounds, including a tesla coil played as a musical instrument.

Nine Inch Nails - "Ghosts I-IV" (2008): Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross's experimental album "Ghosts I-IV" features a variety of electronic and acoustic percussion sounds, including drum machines, loops, and acoustic drumming. The result is a complex and atmospheric sound that showcases the versatility of hybrid drumming.

Conclusion

Hybrid drumming has become an increasingly popular way of playing drums over the last few decades, with many drummers combining acoustic drums and cymbals with electronic kits or sampler pads to create a unique and versatile sound. While the concept of hybrid drumming can be traced back to the 1970s, advances in technology have allowed drummers to create more complex and layered arrangements than ever before. Despite the drawbacks of using a hybrid setup, such as the increased setup time and gear required, many drummers find that the advantages of this approach far outweigh the disadvantages. With the ability to trigger samples, loops, and backing tracks in real-time, hybrid drumming opens up a whole new world of possibilities for drummers, allowing them to create unique and memorable drum parts that are an integral part of the music.