One of the things I love about collecting vintage drums and percussion is the idea that each instrument has a story or mystery behind it – the old Deagan marimba that ends up in a pawn shop, the dusty xylophone that’s been stored in an attic, the pristine Gretsch kit that’s been hidden in a … More 1959 WFL Salesman “Banded Pearl” Snare Drum

Back in August, my amazing local drum shop posted this photo with this description: Rare pre Maple Custom Yamaha drum set. 22/10/12/14/16 all toms are suspended. Includes matching 6×14 snare. Gold maple custom lugs. I was immediately intrigued – it seemed like a great deal for what looked like a Maple Custom kit. So I … More Yamaha Custom Drums

As much as we like to thing we’re all unique, 30 seconds on Google will quickly dispel you of that notion.  For example, a search shows there are at least six individuals who share both my first and last name.  Included in this illustrious group is an infamous “scrounger” who has been banned from every … More Meet the Dearloves

I’ve definitely been bitten by the vintage drum bug over the past year.  Since picking up a nice Ludwig Acrolite in the spring of 2014, I’ve become a bit obsessed and have started a nice collection of snare drums.  There’s a ton of information online about seemingly every make and model of drum, although sometimes … More 1981 Tama Mastercraft Artwood Superstar Snare

I’ve come across a few Deagan Century of Progress marimbas online over the past few years.  A couple have been in beautiful shape, with bright green laminate and gleaming brass resonators.  More often than not, though, they’ve started to show their age.  Missing plaques, dented resonators, deep patina on the metal frame.  The green laminate … More Bringing a Deagan Back from the Dead