ENDORSED BY THE PROS
DAVID NORTHRUP
BANDS:
Rick Derringer, Boz Scaggs, John Waite, John Mellencamp, Les Dudek, The Disco Biscuits, Wynonna, Travis Tritt, John Michael Montgomery, Joe Nichols, The Oak Ridge Boys, T Graham Brown, Joe Diffie, Tanya Tucker, Jo-El Sonnier, Pam Tillis and Lee Greenwood
TODD CHARRON
Todd Charron, a versatile drummer, musician and recording artist/ engineer from Eastern Central Florida, has collaborated with industry icons like Bobby Dahl, Paul Chapman, Mike Gibbins, Johnny Dee, Jack Starr, Terry Luttrell, and Pat Travers. Currently, Todd is the drummer for Capitol Fox and tours with Lovesong: The Cure Tribute, continuing to excel in both studio work and live performances.
Todd Charron’s choice of Omete cymbals showcases his refined taste and musical precision. His setup, blending the Fusion and Alpha Series, brings a perfect mix of power and nuance to his playing. The 14” Fusion hi-hats and 18” crash deliver crisp, articulate sounds with just the right amount of warmth. Meanwhile, the Alpha Series adds a dynamic edge with the bold, punchy 19” china boy and crash, alongside the sharp accents of the 12” splash and hi-hats. The 18” ozone cymbal rounds out the kit, offering explosive, trashy overtones. Together, this collection of Omete cymbals elevates Todd’s performance, allowing him to express a wide range of textures and tones with effortless control.
DEADWOOD
LEARN MORENATE FIGLAR
Nate Figlar is one of the Pittsburgh’s up and coming drummers that has turned many heads. Playing a very eclectic mix of genres from rock, progressive, country, jazz, roots/americana, jamband, and experimental/avant garde. Nate has been described as a solid drummer in any style with just the right amount of complexity to make any music interesting.
ULTRAGAMMA DRUMMER
UltraGamma Drummer is an Independent Musician and Content Creator. A child of the 70s and 80s, he was a part of the legendary San Francisco Bay Area music scene as a professional drummer throughout the 1990s. He brings to the table extensive live performance, recording, session, and touring experience.
"Music is the rhythm of life and drums are the heartbeat. Music moves us in so many ways, having the power to build up and the power to unite. Music has played a very significant role in my life and getting back behind the drums after a few years away has been very good for me in more ways than I can count. I look forward to continuing to grow as a drummer and sharing my passion for playing with everyone I can. Let’s Rock!” – UltraGamma Drummer
For the last two decades, he has called the Spokane, Washington, area home.
UltraGamma Drummer proudly endorses RL Drums.
BLAKE LONGEWAY
Blake has been playing drums and percussion for over +30 all around the Chicagoland area. This also includes 12 years in music retail sales.
He has played on an uncountable number of studio sessions, and performed with Invocation, Groove Sauce, The Rhythm Giants, A Silent Truth, Consume The Divide, Denial (Chicagos Sevendust Tribute) and most recently Oblivion Zero to name a few.
He has been fortunate enough to share the stage with acts such as Powerman 5000, Adema, HED P.E., Tantric, Saliva, Another lost year, ALBORN, Flaw, Otep, Combichrist, Devildriver, MushroomHead, NONPOINT, Andrew WK.
With over +120 shows in the past seven years (including the Covid shutdown) he shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
JOSEPH JAMES
Joseph James, the talented drummer hailing from El Paso, Texas, has been making waves in the music industry with his powerful and dynamic drumming style. With a career spanning over 25 years, Joseph has showcased his exceptional skills on the drums, leaving a lasting impact on both listeners and fellow musicians alike.
Having honed his craft from a young age, Joseph has developed a unique playing style that blends precision and creativity. His ability to seamlessly transition between different genres, from rock and metal to jazz and funk, has earned him a reputation as a versatile and sought-after drummer.
With an impressive touring history of over 15 years, Joseph has become a seasoned performer on the road. His energy and stage presence have captivated audiences across the globe, solidifying his status as a true showman. Currently signed to Silent Pendulum Records, Joseph James continues to push the boundaries of his craft, constantly evolving as a drummer and musician, and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
FRANK SANCHEZ
Passionate musician with 30+ years playing the drums. Touring professionally for 19 years, as well as being a session drummer for recording studios. Playing with several local bands including: Licorice Pimpz, Carlos Montano Band and South 65.
GARY DACUS
Gary 'The Beast' Dacus has been part of several long running projects as well as a sitting-in for other bands, where needed. His love of metal has been his mainstay, but he truly enjoys 'beating the skins' with a good solid rock band. Over his many years playing drums -- any chance he could get, even around deployments and through injuries from his 12+ years in the Army Infantry -- he has played across several genres and sub-genres. To include; but never limited; to hard rock, southern, radio, classic and modern rock, as well as heavy metal, bay area thrash, hair metal, doom metal, hardcore and others; both in original acts and a few cover acts.
LOUIS-PHILIPPE DUMOULIN
L-P Dumoulin is a seasoned professional drummer, composer and arranger. He started playing at the age of 10 and playing gigs at 16.
He has released two albums in 2022 with 2 different bands on two different labels. Throughout his career, he has toured a lot in Canada, mainly in Quebec, Ontario and the Maritimes. He also got to do a mini tour in South America. He now masters recording and video and has his own home studio.
What sets L-P apart from others is the fact that his main influences are from metal drummers and drummers that have a sense of swing and groove to their playing. Having played many styles, he developed his own feel and sound which defines him well.
RID THEM ALL
LEARN MORESCOTT STEWART
BLACKTOP RODEO
Scott is from Louisville, Kentucky. He started expressing interested and playing drums at the age of 5. Following in his father’s footsteps as a musician, Scott takes his passion for music and tries to inspire others to follow their dreams.
Over his extensive career as a musician, Scott has played with and toured alongside various artist such as The Kentucky Headhunters, The Bama Band, KMFDM, Flaw, Primer 55, Dallas Moore, Mickey Lamantia, Hatebreed, Coal Chamber and more.
GLENN GROSSMAN
Drummer/Producer. The Donna Summer Musical on Broadway, BobDylan, ChuckBerry, SaltNPepa, BlackSheep, Mandy Lee Duffy, Bassy Bob Brockman, Mike Caffrey, Danny Pierre, Nimo Cali, GordonGaines.
JOSH SALANT
Josh Salant is a touring and session drummer from Brooklyn NY. He is the owner and operator of Salant Sound Recording Studios in Canarsie Brooklyn. The studio has served the music community for over 20 years. He is so happy to be part of the Omete team.
“I love my Captain Series cymbals. They are great for the road and record beautifully in the studio. You don't have to hold back in your playing because the volume and projection are perfect for smaller venues but can open up tremendously when you give it some muscle! Absolutely amazing! It’s everything I've been looking for in cymbals, thank you guys!"
ANDREW WARREN
Andrew Warren is a Music Educator, Content Creator and Freelance Musician from Long Island, New York. On his Instagram page (@andrewwarren_drums), he creates daily drum content ranging from product demos to drum covers and instructional videos. He also teaches privately and does session work from his home studio. He plays many styles, but favors pop, funk, and hip hop. Over the years, he has spent time playing on cruise ships, at amusement parks, at different theater’s, and in different bands. He currently is the drummer at the Argyle Theatre in Babylon, NY.
JOE BENINATI
Versatile in styles from rock, pop, Latin, soul, funk, and jazz, Joe’s abilities are boundless. Currently, you can find him performing and recording with Mike Maurice, Jason Ward and the West End Mules, a Jazz trio under his name and many other groups all around New England. He was Otis Redding III’s drummer when he gigged in Maine. Joe’s outlook on music is refreshing. He is grounded in his desire to continuously evolve as a player.
BARRY OOSTERHOUSE
Barry Oosterhouse is an experienced drummer with a broad taste in music and currently plays with the band Area 49. Specializing in 90s and classic rock and current original tracks.
Some of his most influential drummers would include: Benny Greb, Jeffrey Clemens (GLove and Special Sauce), Tim Alexander (Primus), Mike Cox (Coal Chamber), and Morgan Rose (Sevendust). To name a few.
Barry is known for formerly playing with bands such as the Zach Tisdale Band (Country), Silenced Addict (Metal), and the Funk Muffins (Funk) as well as filling in for numerous other local acts.
JACK THOMPSON
Jack “ The Giant Killer” Thompson, a two time South Carolina All State high school jazz drummer, studied percussion at Don Hamrick’s Drum Center. He plays at the First Presbyterian Church of Myrtle Beach when he’s not attending Presbyterian College in Clinton, SC. He currently plays in the jazz band and wind ensembles. He is a talented drummer who despite his young age has shared the stage with important artists across the state. Jack also plays in several local Myrtle Beach bands, creates original pieces and collaborates with many other musicians. He is a big fan of Omete cymbals and RL Drums.
TIFFANY KATZZ SMITH
I have been drumming sine I was 7 years old. I was part of the UNLV Pep Band 2018- 2020. My session experience is with bands such as Defile, Yogosu, Joe Sanchez, and Rythm Affair, Digital Kitty and Goddess of Thunder. I was a drum teacher at Elete Culture Center in Richland, TX.
I am currently the drummer for Defile, Digital Kitty, Yogosu, and Uncle Charlie. I recently started using Omete Cymbals and they are the best I have ever played. I am very proud to be the first female endorser of Omete Cymbals through RL Drums.
SNACKTIME
SNACKTIME is Philadelphia’s already beloved seven-piece band, blazing a path cut from their soul, funk, punk, jazz, hip-hop, and R&B influences. Created during the height of the pandemic, the group began performing free shows that combined their love of music, food and togetherness in Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square. They quickly amassed huge crowds and became a symbol of positivity and lockdown release, while showcasing the richness of their city’s musical history and community. This progressed to sold-out headlining shows, curation of neighborhood festivals, multiple appearances at Philadelphia 76ers halftime shows, and slots at major music festivals.
The band recently finished tracking their studio debut, recorded and produced by GRAMMY-nominated producer Will Yip (Lauryn Hill, Turnstile, Bartees Strange).
JONNY DARKO
Jonathan Darconte: 27 years as a Drummer, multi instrumentalist, songwriter, recording, mixing and engineering.
Bands:
- Kerouac or the Radio
- PAN
- WorldLine
- The Dark Engine
- Jeff Markham and the Last Call
- Dead Man’s Revival Co.
- Even the Animals
- In the Time of the Tiger
- The Midnight Foundation
- Nova Omega
FAN HALEN
I started playing at age 8. During and after High School, I played the Hollywood 80's scene at all of the iconic venues at the time. I was very blessed to work with Warner Brothers Records for two years and have also worked and performed with talent such as Brian May (Queen), Members of Earrth Wind and Fire, Weather Report. Oz Fox (Stryper). Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony, and Styx. I am now the Drummer for Fan Halen.We are the most authentic tribute to Van Halen.
LIGHTNING STRIKES
Premier St. Louis, Missouri Drummer. Born, February 17, 1963 immediately began showing signs of being a percussion prodigy, learning stick handling at the age of one. At the age of three Lightning had already mastered snare drum rudiments, within one year the percussionist had moved onto a full size kit. At age five he was enrolled into a percussion training school. Learning intricate rhythm patterns, stick handling techniques, and foot rudiments that can only be truly learned through constant practice, and continual guidance from a professional entertainer. In 1968, Lightning started performing professionally on stage with some of the best musicians in St. Louis. A very special Thanks to all the Music Fans across the world that continually support my musical journey.
PAUL L. MARSHALL
Professional Drummer, Instructor & Engineer Paul L. Marshall acquired his first drum set in 1990, at the age of 10, after having banged away on a drum pad for the past 3 years. at this point, he dedicated himself entirely to music. Under the instruction of Brad Sharo and Billy Canty, he honed his skills throughout high school, excelling in competitions and forming his first band, "Symphonic Indulgence."
Post high school, he joined the Suncoast Sound Drum and Bugle Corps, only to see it disband due to financial reasons. Undeterred, he delved into local bands and recording projects, emphasizing the value of networking and hard work in the pre-social media era.
With over 25 years in the industry, Paul is a respected session and live drummer, also skilled in backline tech, drum tech, live sound, and studio engineering, having independently owned Commercial Recording Studio from 2010 to 2017.
DILLON ESCUE
Dillon Escue is a national touring drummer based out of Tulsa Oklahoma. Dillon was born into the music industry with his cousins being Grammy Award winning artist The Hanson Brothers. Before he could walk he was sitting on his fathers lap with drumsticks in his hands, beating the drums. At age 10 he official began playing drums and taking lesson from Jason Gilardi of Carolines Spine. Dillon began his professional music career at the young age of 14 playing with various bands around Oklahoma. 15 years later and he’s still going strong. He is the go to drummer when any country artist needs a last minute fill in drummer. He has played with numerous award winning country acts over the years that include Texas Country Music song writer of the year Luke Christenson, Autumn Ragland, Cody Johnson, Kota Lewis and the Flyers just to name a few. Follow Dillon on Facebook: Dillon Escue or Instagram: DillonEscueOfficial
NICK PAPPALARDO
Nick Pappalardo began his extensive music career on Long Island, New York. He started playing drums early on while attending grammar school right through high school. He played in the Concert band and progressed right into Marching Band. Nick began playing drums in various original and cover bands throughout the New York Tri-State area club scene starting in the ‘80’s right up until today. He is currently playing drums in “The Mugshots” a NNJ cover band playing all your favorites from the 60’s to the 90’s! Before that he was playing in the original Psych/Garage/Punk band "The Cheap Vibes". “The Cheap Vibes” released 2 records on “Not Aloud Records” and both are available on all streaming platforms. His experience in this demanding role has helped him adjust to a very hectic rehearsal and performance schedule. Some of his favorite bands are, Yes, Rush, Marillion, Porcupine Tree, and Steven Wilson. Some of his bands the Mugshots cover are Heart, Led Zep, Pat Benatar, Boz Scaggs, Rush and others you all know and love.
Nick considers himself a “time” sensitive drummer. Always in the pocket and never “over-playing”. Nick currently endorses RL Drums, Soultone Cymbals and Collision Drumsticks. Follow Nick, RL Drums, Soultone Cymbals, Collision Drumsticks and The Mugshots on Facebook, Instagram, for updates, scheduled appearances and upcoming shows. Check out YouTube for videos of live performances as well @themugshotsnj.
ROBERT L. McLAUGHLIN
Born and Raised in The Rock N Roll Capital, Cleveland, Ohio, Robert started playing professionally at age 14, in Schools, Disco's and Clubs in Cleveland. Live and Studio work along with lessons and fellowshipping are a part of his practices. Robert has Toured In Europe, and played all over The U.S. & Canada, with many artists such as B.B.King, Johnny Winter, Richie Blackmore, Blackie Lawless, Poison, Buster Pointdexter, Ruby Wilson & The KingB's, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, Billy Joe Shaver, Les Dudek, Cliff Williams, Fran Sheehan, Jim Stafford and currently Performing with Vocalist & Guitarist SAVANT Reggie King Sears.
JAY DEPOOL
Hailing from the musical melting pot of Nashville, Tennessee, Jay DePool is not just your average drummer. He’s also a singer, bassist, guitarist and songwriter. With a knack for blending genres and an electrifying stage presence, Jay has captivated audiences worldwide, earning millions of views on social media platforms in a short time. Early Years and Musical Journey : Jay's love affair with the drums began at age 12, and he built his skills in marching and jazz bands through high school. He then progressed to DCI and march Drum Corps. Moving to Nashville provided him with a rich musical tapestry to draw inspiration from, and he honed his performance skills on tour with pop punk band AirFiveandastintwiththeTonyDanzaTapDancing Extravaganza. Breakthrough on Social Media : In the digital age, Jay found a platform to showcase his talent to the world. His creative drum covers, lesson videos, and original compositions gained traction on social media, garnering over 13 million total views and more than 56,640 followers since July of 2023. His innovative approach to drumming, coupled with his dynamic personality, made him a standout figure in the online drumming community. Collaborations and Projects : Jay's versatility as a musician and producer has led to collaborations with artists across a variety of genres. From studio sessions to live performances Jay's drumming prowess knows no bounds. His ability to adapt to different musical styles while maintaining his signature flair has built his following as a performer and instructor. Impact and Legacy : Beyond his impressive resume and accolades, Jay remains grounded in his passion for music and his commitment to inspiring the next generation of drummers. Through private lessons, instructional and tutorial videos, he continues to pay it forward, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians around the world. Conclusion : In a career spanning decades, Jay has left an indelible mark on the music industry, both online and offline. With millions of views on social media, a global fanbase, and a reputation for excellence, he stands as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the universal language of music. As he continues to push the boundaries of drumming and creativity, Jay's legacy as a true drumming dynamo is sure to endure for years to come
CHRIS BRAKE
Chris is a professional drummer from Rochester, NY who started his career in several popular NY bands , including Cheater and Jon Paul Age and Section Eight who performed with Bon Jovi, Cyndi Lauper, and Honeymoon Suite.
Chris relocated to Atlanta to further his career and has recorded with several area bands, and also was a long time member of a Worship team at his church home.
Chris now brings his experience and skill to some of the premier tribute bands in the Southeast, including Bad Co Experience, Kanstyx (Kansas and Styx), AR38 (ARS and 38 Special, and Dr Iconic (premier rock icons).
Chris delivers every performance with passion, professionalism , and most likely a sense of humor !
MIKE WILSON
Mike started playing drums at a very early age. Both his parents were in a band and practiced at the house when he was a baby. One day, at their practice, he was crying and wouldn’t stop so the drummer in their band gave him a drumstick that made him content and quiet; this moment became the start of Mike's drum career.
Mike started playing in his parent’s band at the age of 11 and it just escalated from there. He has been in a band playing music ever since (over 40 years) and has loved every minute of it! He played for Johnny Bush, and several other people who he has recorded with over the years. His current band is Tumble Dry Low, based in south Texas (Corpus Christi area) and is predominantly 80’s, 90’s country but play a wide variety of all genres of music! We played over 160 shows last year and are well on our way to that again this year.
Mike learned so much throughout the many years of being on stage, but the main thing learned was to “have fun” and get the crowd involved with you as you play! He stands up and dances, twirls his sticks, and throws them in the air quite often and the crowd loves it because it makes them happy to see his crazy antics and makes them feel apart of the show!
"I’m no rock star by any means, but I have fun and do give out signed drumsticks (when I can afford too) or
other things (like some homemade drumstick key chains) at almost every show to keep my fans happy and always coming back to see what I may do next."
Mike has never had any opportunities to be an endorsed musician through his many years of playing. He is proud to call RL Drums his first ever endorsement!
RYAN POE
Ryan Poe is a 26 yr old drummer from rural Oklahoma. As young as 5 Poe discovered a love for metal and an affinity for drums. Daily practices became the norm, all throughout early childhood, middle and high school. Poe played with multiple small bands until finding a permanent home with nu metal band Cultis Black from Raleigh NC in 2023. Cultus Black has an ever expanding Cult following given their recent tour with Combichrist, and festival appearance at Inkcarceration Fest, and RockFest in 2024.
COüNT CHüCKüLA
Fort Wayne native, born in Lubbuck, Texas, raised in Carlsbad, NM. Drummer for 35 years.Husband, father, horror enthusiast and Chaos Creator.
Former bands include: Jacob's Well, Sunny Taylor, Creep, Soulfyre, Fiend, The B-Movie Monsters, Rosemary Gates, The Migrianes, Grave Robber, Leper, Loose Focus, Darkhorse, Grace Minnick and countless other tribute and cover bands.
Writer, composer and soundscape designer.
Multiple albums and singles recorded.
Specializing in theatrical and goth rock, no stranger to make-up, contacts, blood and fire.
"I don't set out to set a standard, but I do believe I leave a mark. Music is life, period. It's a fire that once lit, can set the world ablaze. I believe in legacy and I strive to not play a song, but play for the song. Each one is an extension of my voice and, if done well; leaves and mark rather than a stain. I chose RL Drums and Omete Cymbals based simply on Richard and his compassion, belief in the artist and their needs and his work ethic. I've never been prouder to be part of a family."
ERIC DALTON
Eric Dalton Productions is led by Eric Dalton, a talented singer, songwriter, and recording engineer/producer based in Wappingers Falls, NY. Eric collaborates with a diverse range of artists across genres including metal, rock, indie, and country. Recently, RL Drums supplied Eric with a beautifully crafted and resonant clear five-piece drum set. This versatile kit delivers exceptional tone and resonance across all genres, maintaining its tuning impeccably. Visiting drummers often prefer it over their own kits when recording. Eric also uses this drum set for live performances with his metal band, where it delivers a massive sound and enhances the stage’s aesthetic with its clear design. Eric extends his heartfelt thanks to the team at RL Drums for their outstanding support and craftsmanship.
CHRIS BRADLEY
Chris started playing at 14 years old and was playing the club circuit at 16. Chris went on to major in music in college but didn’t finish due to a heavy touring schedule. At an early age Chris was fortunate enough to tour in support for major acts such as: Tesla, Dokken, Slaughter, Great White, Vince Neil, George Thorogood, Kings X, and Zakk Wylde to name a few. After 15yrs of playing in the Rock genre Chris moved into the Country world and supported Just about every artist in the Red Dirt scene eventually signing a record deal and releasing several videos on CMT. 12yrs in the country scene lead to a much needed break for several years before kicking back up with the largest Pink Floyd Tribute in North America. Chris is known for being a hard hitting Bonham style drummer and is proficient with automated stage systems and sampling as well. Chris to date has been on 4 major releases and has co-wrote 8. Chris is currently touring with “Brick’s in the Wall” and is extremely excited to endorse RL Drums.
MICHAEL CYPHERS
Michael Cyphers has been a dedicated drummer for over half his life. His journey began with a relentless beat that he couldn’t shake, leading his parents to gift him his first Slingerland drum kit—a spark that ignited a lifelong passion. This gift was more than just a drum kit; it was a piece of himself.
Michael has played in various bands, from the gritty Redeemer (Firing Line) to the melodic Scarlet Stitch (Women and Whiskey), and currently leads a band called RISE. He has shared the stage with hometown heroes like Lost Circus, Kickin’ Valentina, and Fractured, as well as international acts such as Jake E. Lee’s Red Dragon Cartel, L.A. Guns, and Stryper.
Michael is incredibly grateful to Rich for the opportunity to represent and endorse R.L. Drums. Music has always been his heartbeat, and he looks forward to sharing more of it with the world. As Michael proudly states, “Drumming excellence begins with RL Drums.”