Drum Talk - The History of Concert Toms - Pearl Fiberglass Concert Toms and Hal Blaine

The History of Concert Toms is me sharing my understanding of where these wonderful toms came from! I feature my Pearl Fiberglass Toms and discuss Hal Blaine and the other great drummers that made these toms so great!

[@Riddim4]

Yours is the most historically accurate video I have seen on this subject yet, in terms of concert toms on the kit. Thanks for doing this.

[@earldrum]

Nick Costa ... thank you for the kind words. It’s funny that this video is so popular. I had about 100 subscribers when I released this video of my musings on concert toms! Thanks for encouragement!

[@jonathandale-cy5hw]

Great Video,thanks! I grew up in Ft Wayne Indiana,and one of my drum instructors from the percussion center,built Neil Pearts early drum kits- Chromey,and added the Pearl “Vibrafibe” process where fiberglass was sprayed onto the inside of a wooden drumkit. Pearl had the original complete line of drums called the “Wood Fiberglass “kits,which my mom would buy for me in 76-77,for Xmas one year- I was considered a child prodigy at the time,so I played them 5 hours a day and lived the sound! You can see Neil wearing Percussion Center tshirts in many early photos of the band,and this drum shop would spray any drumkit with this thin layer of fiberglass over the inside of the shell. Eventually,Pearl would (I think),acquire the process and trademark it. You could buy Pearl Fiberglass Toms,Pearl a wood - Fiberglass drums,and Pearl Wood drums too.

[@earldrum]

Thanks for the feedback Jonathan! I know of the Vibrafibe process and that drum shop! My concert toms are fiberglass only … Pearl made them in the mid 70s. Since this video I have every size except the 5.5x6” tom … I working on getting that tom someday soon. I loved this old fiberglass drums. I took the wrap off because the wrap shrunk and ripped, but the drums sound great. I have many videos playing this kit!

[@tonymann848]

Peter Criss is the guy who made Pearl Drums famous. On the Destroyer tour he had 6" to 22" fiberglas toms. The floor toms were like bass drums on floor Tom legs. The drums were covered in a 3d honeycomb wrap. He had a marching snare with the same wrap. He always had some of the coolest looking kits of the 70s with custom finishes. He inspired a lot of kids to play drums.

[@earldrum]

Tony Mann .... thanks for your feedback! Yes, Peter Criss had a wonderful Pearl Fiberglass Concert Tom Kit ... it used to drive me nuts that he played it like he was playing a four piece kit! So it was all show and no chops! But that was Peter’s playing style! I have grown to love this kit and I have decided to keep it for now! I use it occasionally and it has a certain vibe that two headed drums don’t have! Thanks for watching! 👍🏻🤟🏻✌🏻

[@hendrixon]

KISS Destoyer-kit: Concert Toms (all with Pearl clip brackets): 5.5"x6", 5.5"x8", 6.5"x10", 8"x12", 9"x13", 10"x14", 14"x14" (made from a floor tom shell), 12"x15", 14"x16", 16"x18" (made from a floor tom shell). Floor Toms: 12"x14" (left of hi-hat), 14"x16" 14"x18". Snare: 10"x14" all Fiber Glass shell with Jupiter strainer and internal muffler Kick: 14"x22" (eventually 14"x24" for Rock & Roll Over tour).

[@earldrum]

eRnst hendrixon ... thanks for the feedback and watching! 👍🏻👊

[@klistarf]

I am one of them. Although, i must mention Mick Tucker of (The) Sweet. Those two are the reason i ever wanted to play drums when i was a kid. Thanks Guys! RIP Mick... \m/

[@russblack443]

Kiss uses Gibson guitars and Pearl drums because they want the best. On every album cover from 75 on until Paul got the Ibanez endorsement

[@anthonyf.9170]

Thank you Earl, very interesting.

[@shawnwoodley9003]

Another great video Mr.Earl.. Your drum knowledge just blows me away.

[@1realwild]

Great video. Been playing concert toms all my life and absolutely love them still 😊

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching! I’m digging mine more each day!

[@billnicholas1381]

Great video. I have from 1980 a Ludwig smoke power toms 6,8,10,12,13,14,16x16,16x24 concerts. Love the sounds.

[@earldrum]

That’s awesome! I have had a few Vistalite kits and they are fun kits to play and they sound wonderful! Thanks for watching

[@Cpayne30]

Very informative! Phil Collins always comes to mind instantly when concert toms are mentioned. His 80s White Pearl kit from 1987 is the one I always think about.

[@earldrum]

2003Cpayne ... thanks my friend ... Phil had quite a few kits ... like the black Premier “intruder” kit. He also had a maple concert tom premier kit he used with Brand X. Phil Collins definitely is associated with concert toms!

[@robertcombs9364]

lovr his Gretsch kits..

[@salthedrummer1]

drums sound amazing !

[@DivisionStreetDrums]

I still make concert toms, people still want them and I adore the sounds from the 6,8,10 &12 toms

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching Thomas! My KZbin channel help me to really love the sound of concert toms! At one point I was going to sell them but I’m glad I kept them! They are such a joy to play! Thanks for the feedback!

[@tonytrout4321]

The legendary Ronnie Tutt, who worked eight years as Elvis's drummer, used concert toms starting in 1971 on that legendary blue sparkle Ludwig double-kick drum kitand also on the COV (chrome-over-vistalite) kit that he used after he stopped using the blue sparkle Ludwigs.

[@chrissmith3668]

Tony Trout he wasn’t Elvis’ original drummer though. That was DJ Fontana

[@TheCopeland45]

Ronnie Tutt playing Proud Mary in 1972 for Elvis. There is your concert tom sound RIGHT THERE

[@garytoro2]

Loved this video Earl. You mentioned most of my favorite influences. I learned about Hal reading the liner notes on The Close to You Album. Loved and followed him ever since. Danny and Nigel were also major influences. Thanks for that very informative video. Totally enjoyed it!👍❤️✌️

[@earldrum]

Thanks for the feedback Gary! I did that video quite a while back before I had subscribers! Thanks for watching my friend!

[@spirodrums]

Hey Earl, I'm just getting into Hal Blaine, watching interviews etc...didn't know he was on so many recordings that I know! thank you for sharing your knowledge in this video. I noticed Joey Waronker (who you mentioned) plays a similar type of setup too. I've played with a no reso bass drum head here in Korea at the winter olympics a few years ago and the manager got mad at me cuz it looked ugly...but the sound was so immediate and great. I've struggled with reso heads on toms AND bass drum heads. if i had it my way I'd go to every gig and take off resos in situations where it'd work! this video is gold for a history nut like me, thanks Earl.

[@earldrum]

Thanks for the feedback and encouragement Spiro! There is a long list of drummers that like that single headed kick drum sound! You should try cutting a 12” hole in the center of the front bass drum head. It will give you a sound close to no reso head! Don’t forget the pillow! 👍🏻🤘🏻🙏🏻

[@mannymonteiro]

Nice video Earl, thanks for the info!

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching Manny! I appreciate the feedback!

[@alvarocarignanipodesta7882]

Nice video Earl. Thanks for sharing that information!!

[@earldrum]

Alvaro Carignani Podestá ... thank you! I appreciate your comments and feedback!

[@KAFKUBA]

My first (expensive) set was a black Slingerland melodic tom set ...I think it was around 77 or 78 my parents bought me. I still have it 45 years later...it was my only set

[@earldrum]

Very cool … concert toms are back … you’d probably get big buck for it! But still have me drum kit from college. I won’t be selling it! Thanks for watching!

[@sethl.1593]

I love the fact that you brought up John Densmore! He’s one of my favorite drummers!

[@earldrum]

Seth Legros ... you are welcome Seth! John Densmore was an innovative drummer for sure! I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@lauramcflymusica]

Great video man!! I´m hearing the great Chico Hamilton thanks to you!! Cheers

[@ARDrummer]

I am revisiting this video because I just got a 15" Pearl Limited Edition snare that is poplar with fiberglass on the inside. Very cool history/information Earl!

[@earldrum]

AR Drummer ... thank you Adam for watching it again ... I’m glad there were some nuggets to glean from video! 😀👍🏻🤟🏻

[@johndorohovich3367]

I appreciate your video it was very informative thank you

[@earldrum]

John Dorohovich ... thank you for watching and your kind words!

[@toddglacy1161]

My first "real" kit was also a Ludwig clear vistalite with 12,13,14,16 inch concert toms. Peter Criss was the big motivation for me at the time and had a huge kit with concert toms.

[@earldrum]

Todd Glacy ... thanks for watching and writing! My first kit was a vistalite as well! Great rock drums! Concert toms are wonderful for that one sound! Thanks for watching!

[@swccbakersfieldca2076]

Found ya man lots of great info. Thanks man keep on keeping on

[@earldrum]

SWCC Bakersfield CA ... thank you for watching! 😀👍🏻🤟🏻

[@garberwarren]

Great videos!! I am working on a 12”x13” 80’s Ludwig RockerII and I am thinking of leaving the bottom head off for a side tom. Thanks for the idea and keep the videos coming. Love the stories. Merry Christmas.

[@earldrum]

Warren Garber ... that sounds like a cool addition to your kit! Merry Christmas!

[@steverobertsmusic8019]

Great video. I love that 70s sound.... I have 2 Pearl Concert tom kits: 13/14/15/16 (concerts) 18 ft & 24 bd in fibreglass (1976) & a set of 8 Brothers phenolic concert toms 6/8/10/12/13/14/15/16 (1974) with a later 22 wood/fibreglass bass drum. Great drums!

[@earldrum]

SR MUSIC ... thanks for watching and your feedback. Pearl made awesome fiberglass drums! I think the Pearl shells were thin than the Fibes drums of that era. I think they resonate more. I appreciate you taking time to respond.

[@tomkloehrdrumchannel6901]

Great info Earl, thanks for sharing! :)

[@earldrum]

TOM KLOEHR DRUM CHANNEL ... thanks glad you enjoyed it!

[@salthedrummer1]

Nice Job !

[@dmsdrumcovers9506]

Great show! I think I told you I have a 6, 8, & 10 Pearl set> They are very LOUD! I use the as effect toms, they stand out from the double headed wood shells.

[@Greggyboyz60]

Love this video my man. I used to play a Ludwig kit similar to this back in the 80’s. Thanks for this.

[@earldrum]

Greg Hickey ... thank you for the kind words. I appreciate the feedback ... this a fun video to make. 👍🏻✌🏻

[@Greggyboyz60]

It’s a pleasure Earl. Awesome videos.

[@alanduncan1980]

I've an 8 x 12 Olympic by Premier concert tom. Great video, Earl. Keep up the good work. Very interesting stuff!

[@earldrum]

Very cool! Thanks for watching Alan ... more to come in 2021!

[@JoshWood1000]

Great video thanks!

[@earldrum]

Julian Dubois ... thank you for watching! 😀👍🏻🤟🏻

[@drumman190]

Those are very very cool!! You made a Christmas cover with those and they sound great!!

[@earldrum]

DrumMan190 ... I thought these drums might be a good topic for my drum talk equipment videos. Thanks for watching!

[@josephlama4097]

Big fan of concert Toms 80's

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching!

[@beeasinger]

Can't find a picture of it but in 1924 Leedy already has a set (10, 12, 14, 16) of shallow, single headed Tom A Phones. In the late 1950s Ludwig builds the Nite-Life Cocktail Kit with single headed tom-toms.

[@earldrum]

I’m sure drum historians will find versions of concert toms before Hal Blaine. The idea for the monster drum kit was inspired by Hal’s timbale drum kit when he could get that de tuned dip in the tom sound. But really took 7 single headed toms from 6” - 15” and created melodic tom kit. Then he played on hundreds of songs many number hits! Thanks for watching Robert!

[@JessicaSnow41]

Thanks so much for this. I had an 11 piece Pearl fiberglass, concert tom kit with Evans hydraulic heads. I so wish I could find another set. I sold them in 1986 when I got my license to help finance a 1978 Camaro. If only I could go back.

[@earldrum]

JessicaSnow41 ... wow, sounds like a nice kit! Thanks for watching and I’m glad you enjoyed this video! 👍🏻🤟🏻✌🏻

[@MrRbillharz]

Thanks for the concert drum information. I own an early "70"s factory made set of Slingerlands concerts. Black wrap over maple. Toms are 8x10, 9x13, and 16x14. Mine have bottom rims, and a small strip of aluminum on the outside.The bass drum is 14x22 and was made with a front head. I still have all the original Slingerland branded heads. From the factory the tom and bass heads were frosted.

[@earldrum]

XS4EYES your welcome and thank you for watching! I’m glad you enjoyed the video! It sounds like an awesome vintage drum kit!

[@mediclimber]

1977 I bought my Tama Imperialstar saturn 12+1 kit. 8 concert toms, double bass, I upsized to 24s, and two floor toms. Still have it, still play it. Add 15 cymbals and that's my kit.

[@earldrum]

Jeffrey Campbell ... that sounds like an amazing drum kit. There was a day when big kits were what you wanted. I’m happy I still my concert toms, but I can’t imagine carrying it around town anymore. Thanks for watching!

[@TomMSTie1138]

Awesome video, very informative. Peter Criss used Pearl concert toms (or just rack toms without bottom heads) throughout most of the 70s.

[@earldrum]

TomMSTie1138 ... thank you watching. Yes, Peter was a huge concert tom kit player in the 70s! Great observation!

[@brendanallard3153]

I loved Alex Van Halen’s old 80s concert Tom kits

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching Brendan!

[@davidlanier7006]

I played a set of blue Sonor concert toms in the 70's. They were the Sonor phonic drums. However, my Sonor's never had the pitch bend you're talking about, but they were loud. I think in general concert toms are louder than toms with bottom heads. I'm thinking of buying a set of Pearl's new acrylic concert toms. I'm your age too, and I still like a larger set. Here's some history for you. I saw an old Gomer Pyle show from the 60's where he was singing with a band and the drummer had concert toms. The set had what looked like a 10 inch mounted tom and a 14 inch floor tom with legs that was a concert tom. The floor tom didn't just have the bottom head taken off. I've also seen a set of Sonor drums from the early 50's with concert toms, including a floor tom that was a concert tom. I like the whole idea of concert toms: no bottom heads to buy or tune, lighter weight because of less hardware, set up easier with no bottom heads. Maybe they will come back.

[@earldrum]

david lanier ... thank you for watching! Sonor made some beautiful drums and there concert toms had those beautiful beech wood drum shells! Concert toms were around before huge monster kit, but having 7 or 8 toms was the brain child of Hal Blaine and his drum tech. I think concert toms are coming back, but not to the degree they became a standard for drummer in the late 70s / early 80s. I appreciate you taking time to share your story!

[@davidlanier7006]

@@earldrum I thought I heard you mention something about New Jersey? I live in the south now but I'm front Jersey, south Jersey.

[@earldrum]

david lanier ... yes, I am from NJ ... NOW a transplant living in S FL. What part of Jersey?

[@davidlanier7006]

@@earldrum Cherry Hill area. Actually, not exactly there but people seem to know that town. I was a little north of there.

[@earldrum]

david lanier ... I understand... I lived in Monmouth and Ocean counties my whole life. I just call it the Jersey Shore! Have a great day!

[@davidseres3030]

Earl, it's me again - we just corresponded about your rotos video...I happened to see this video on my YT browsing tour...great discussion on the subject...good ol' Hal Blaine (real name was Harold Simon Belsky)...he died after your video was posted (March 2019)...he also drummed for The 5th Dimension (particularly on their '67 award-winning hit, Up, Up, and Away)...he was the one who coined the moniker, "The Wrecking Crew" (Glen Campbell, Carol Kaye, Leon Russell, etc.) because he thought the newer 60s house band would "wreck" the music industry with their rock & roll influence...on to other points in your video...I agree with your comment on Danny Seraphine...every Chicago member contributed to their distinct sound - but Seraphine's chops (jazz-influenced) were memorable and prominent in the sound mix (including his bridges in Make Me Smile and Beginnings - which I made a point of copying when I played those songs)...I had read that he was kicked out (due to being sloppy in his playing??)...I don't recall hearing Tris in Chicago - but as you basically stated, no disrespect to him as a drummer...as for Nigel Olsson, I remember his deep/long drums, and I think he called his company Drumork...his time with Elton (along with Dee Murray and Davey Johnstone) have a special place in my own drumming upbringing...I'm self-taught - and after using an old kitchen seat as my pre-kit to play songs from (e.g.) the Jackson 5 - my earlier learning on my first kit (December '73) included imitating Nigel's arrangement on music from the '73 Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album (particularly Funeral for a Friend)...at a later point, Grey Seal became another favorite to me - and Nigel's fill/bridge after the 2nd verse (into the chorus) hits me to the core (kudos to Gus Dudgeon and/or the mixer)...Elton's decision to change his band after his Captain Fantastic (ATBDC) album somewhat throws me - especially since his decision was made after that album (with that classic line-up) served as a culmination point to get him on the July '75 Time Magazine cover!...I recall Nigel wearing gloves when he played...regarding concert toms, (on my acoustic kit) I had 10, 12, and 13 racks - and, to be consistent, I went bottomless on my 14 rack, 16 floor, and 24 bass/kick (hey, I would not have wanted to obscure that custom pillow stuffer)...I did have an 18 floor, but it seemed superfluous for a 7-piece kit...still, so as not to waste a bottomless 18 floor, it was assigned as a container for unused drum stuff (All drums serve a purpose!)...OK, you need a break from my War and Peace commentary...thanks for your patience...you get me talking about music and drumming, and the "off" button may be applied too late...🥁🙂...again, great talk...

[@earldrum]

Thanks for writing David ... you covered a lot of ground. I’m a huge Hal Blaine follower! DANNY is my main influence as a young drummer and Nigel became an incredible influence as I learned less is more! Thanks for sharing you story! I talk a lot on camera about mine! ✌🏻🤘🏻🙏🏻

[@davidseres3030]

@@earldrum You're welcome...Danny and Nigel now have at least 2 fans... I know, I'm talkative...aside from my love of music and drumming, I'm a lover of history...I graduated from Villanova ('82) as a History major [but some years afterwards I returned to school to get a nutrition-related degree from Drexel, ('89)]...but history still fascinates me - dates, historical origins/timelines...history involves a contextual aspect...sloppy 60s drumming and music altogether BELONGS to the 60s (and I have a theory about a reason for the sloppy drumming)...one of my 'druthers is to be a time traveller (if it were physically possible)...when I play Vivaldi's Four Seasons, the time is ~1725...by the way, with your darker hair in this video (and your overall appearance/manner), you somewhat reminded me of Jack Weston (The Four Seasons, Short Circuit 2)...blessings...

[@earldrum]

@@davidseres3030 my hair color changes often! When it’s dark it might be the day I got my hair cut .... by the end of that month it’s a different color. My hair is quite white if I leave it alone .. I started going gray in my twenties! But I have 10 grand kids so I could get away with the gray hair today! Thanks for watching I love drum and drummer history ... more to come!

[@davidseres3030]

@@earldrum 10 grandkids! - enough to call it Bennettville...there must be at least 1 musician out of the bunch...I'll be 61, and I have never married (perhaps one day)...hmmm, does having a dog count towards having children?...as another take on an Aerosmith song, Drum On... 🙂

[@earldrum]

@@davidseres3030 ... I have three budding drummers and a few more musicians. In the clan ... their parents are musicans too! 😀

[@skiptrace1888]

Great informative vid, man! I didn't know that Chico Hamilton used the concert toms. I always thought Hal was the first. Thanks for sharing, !

[@earldrum]

Skip Trace .. thanks Skip! Yea, Hal gets the credit for concert toms ... Chico Hamilton is amazing jazz drummer!

[@stephenduffy5406]

I found on Craig’s List a black Rogers 1972 “Studio 7” kit with 8, 10, 12, 13 concerts, with a 22 kick and a 16 floor, with a Dynasonic snare. They are practically new, unplayed for 40 years in cases with all the mint Swivomatic hardware! I was wondering how to properly tune them and you answered my questions 😁. I since found a matching 18 floor...

[@earldrum]

stephen duffy great find! What a cool kit. I love old Rogers drums! I’m glad I could help!!😎

[@GrayGhostDrumCovers]

In 1978 I bought a kit that was Pearl Fiberglass shells with a chrome finish. Played them for many years.

[@earldrum]

Gray Ghost Drum Covers ... I bet those drums sounded amazing! 😀👍🏻

[@steevidrums]

that kit sounds immense!!!

[@earldrum]

Stephen Mackrill ... thank you!

[@stillphil]

Never forget the Gretsch concert tom pioneer Mr Chico Hamilton Playing wooden concert toms in the late 50’s.

[@earldrum]

I think I mention him in this talk, but to be honest I haven’t listened in a while! Thanks for watching... I agree!

[@mcdude0192]

I’m getting ready to get 2 fiberglass pearl cts! A friend of my has a dw endorsement AND DW is finishing mine black! They are 13s and 14s

[@earldrum]

That’s awesome! Concert toms are fun!

[@iRideuWatch]

I just picked up two Pearl fiberglass toms, 14x10 and 16x16 (not concert toms) from 1979 or 1980 in white wrap. I didn't know about them. I was expecting them to be thick wood shells when I took the head off and saw what it was. They sound really good and am glad I scored them.

[@earldrum]

iRide uWatch ... they really are nice drums. Different than wood, but very cool! 🤟🏻

[@TempoDrift1480]

Dang that intro jam was pretty sweet!

[@earldrum]

Thank for watching and your comment! It's the drum part to "Do They Know it's Christmas" I did a cover of this song last December! :)

[@Riddim4]

Re Steve Gadd and putting bottom heads on his Pearl fiberglass shells; in Jonathan Mover’s Drumhead interview with Rick Marotta, Rick said that he was the first to do that. He said he turned Steve on to it. That made 10” drums with 2 heads a thing.

[@earldrum]

Nick Costa ... Steve and Rick are best buddies, so if it was Rick first great. I knew they both did it a long time before the Drumhead article. Rick and Gadd talk about those drums in their earliest Modern Drummer articles. But I will tell you that the guys that worked at Frank Ipolitto’s Pro Percussion in NYC told me Steve Gadd made the 10” tom famous because that was what they tried to sell me when I bought my Gretsch kit 1979. The 10, 12, 13, 14 was the “Gadd setup” in 1979!

[@Riddim4]

Earl Bennett - earldrum : I would agree with that. Rick came up with it, and it blew up with Steve.

[@earldrum]

Nick Costa ... sorry it took a year to write, but the nice comments get lost on YT. But I found it answering a less kind comment! Thanks for watching! 👍🏻🤟🏻✌🏻

[@mathiasperalta4070]

very nice sounding

[@earldrum]

Mathías Peralta ...thank you my friend! The intro I’d from the drum cover I did called ‘do they know it’s Christmas”.

[@klistarf]

Gotta say that it was Vinny Appice that first turned me on to the idea of concert toms, way back when he was a member of Dio. As well as his incredible chops, it was his tone - all thanks to the concert toms. I actually remember removing all the bottom heads from my first ever 'kit (although when i bought it in late '83 it did actually come with a pair of stand mounted Maxwin (Pearl) concert toms - 6" & 8" i think), back in '84, such was Vinny's impression on me. Still love that sound now... \m/ (:o)

[@earldrum]

klistarf ... thanks for watching and your comments! Very cool!

[@gavatron1980]

Nucko mcbrain had a sonor concert toms kit for the powerslave album and you can really hear it

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching my friend! Nicko … yes he did… huge concert tom kit!

[@tonymann848]

Fun video by the way!

[@earldrum]

Tony Mann ... thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed it! 😀🥁🥁🥁🥁

[@gabrielszarose5640]

Like the sound of your snare drum, it sounds like a deep fiberglass? speaking of Billy Cobham i seen photos of him on a clear, big Vistalite set, equiped with the full octobons range, i think it was the Spectrum album, with Tommy Bolin. also i had purchased the ludwig Quadra plus series, in the 1970's, it had concert toms starting at, 13, 14, 15,+ 16, on top, 18 floor tom + 22 standard kick, in black + all wooden shells, i'm now using a mini clear, Tama vistalites kit, with Remo roto toms, love Hal Blaine too, thanx for posting your informative video.

[@earldrum]

gabriel szarose ... sorry I missed your comment! Billy’s Kit was a clear Fibes kit on that album. The snare in this video is a Yamaha marching snare drum ... I think it’s mahogany ... it’s 10x14.

[@illusionclassicrock6742]

In 1978 I bought a Pearl 12-piece, all chrome, fiberglass concert tom kit which I gigged with all through the 80's until I sold it in the early 90's. Had the 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 concert toms, 18" floor tom, two 24" bass drums. Steel snare. Wish I had never sold that kit!!

[@earldrum]

Illusion (Classic Rock) ... I hear you! These drums are amazing for that single head sound! I actually bought these to build a Steve Gadd kit two heads ... that never happened! I’m missing the 6” and 12” tom ... I keep looking, but the price has gotten out of control! It sounds like a beautiful kit! Thanks for watching!

[@MegaDemon76]

Very informative

[@earldrum]

Ed vandame ... thank you for the feedback! I appreciate you taking time to watch! 😀

[@user-kx8iw7dh5k]

What is your take on head choice for a set of Ludwig Vistalite concert toms? I am currently using pinstripes but thinking about changing them out to the black dots. Sound wise l think they could sound better with a head change.

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching A! The black dots definitely have a cool sound … more focused! I haven’t used them on concert toms for years. I have been digging the pinstripe heads, but clear ambassador or emperors also sound great. If you want a lively sound the CS heads and Ambassador heads are more open, the pinstripes seem the perfect mix of lively and dead, and the emperors are very phat sound. When I had my Vistalite drums the CS / black dot heads looked really cool! I hope it helps!

[@MichaelJohnsonProductions]

Love your humor man lol

[@markricher7362]

Back in the 80's I had a Pearl fiberglass concert tom kit. 6-16 emricher.com/images/Acoustic%20Drums.jpg I didn't have the 6,8,10,12 mounted because I had other things mounted on my left.

[@waltonbrown]

Very very informative Earl, thanks 👍p.s. I still got the first edition carmine book too...

[@earldrum]

Churr Doii Drumma .... that’s awesome ... I think realistic rock is a classic drum book like syncopation and stick control. Thanks for watching!

[@waltonbrown]

Man I have to tell you the story about meeting Carmine Appice, he was playing with Rod Stewart in the late 70's, a concert in Wellington, NZ. Carmine gave a clinic on the day of the show (remember this was in the days when clinics were practically unheard of), but he was doing them back then, he walked into the drum shop (by himself), there were about 4 kits set up on the shop 'floor', he picked a white Ludwig, grabbed a stick with his left hand, a brush with his right and played a 'Bossa', (remember this was when he was regarded as one of the top ROCK drummers around) and he's playing and 'singing' The Girl from Ipanema... very cool..

[@earldrum]

Churr Doii Drumma ...awesome story. I never met Carmine, but I know he was huge influenced by jazz guys like Buddy Rich and Joe Morello. Yes, I remember clinics were a lot less tech show more teaching and playing on a simple kit. Great memory! Thanks for sharing!

[@TRC_PNW]

Great video! Ha, I was getting to the end of the video and thinking Carmine so smiled when you mentioned him. But, can’t forget Vinnie Appice too - Holy Diver baby! Can’t forget Peter Criss. Funny that people these days want these super resonant free floating tom setups and then put a bunch of moon jels on them haha!

[@earldrum]

I missed so many great drummers ... Vinnie being one of them! Thanks for watching

[@illusionclassicrock6742]

I had a Chrome 12 piece Pearl fiberglass concert tom kit that I bought in the late 70s and played through the 80’s. Sold it after a divorce. Really miss that kit.

[@earldrum]

I understand, these drums have a very unique sound! Thanks for watching

[@davidsherley2652]

Dating myself here, I remember going to an Emerson Lake & Palmer concert in the late 70’s. Carl Palmer had a huge kit with concert toms. What’s noteworthy about the kit was shape of the rack toms. From the batter head down, the shell curved to face the audience, reminiscent of a traditional shepherd’s horn. Certainly made an impression on me, I’ve not seen another kit like that. Wonder if anyone else has seen wild variations like that.

[@earldrum]

David, thanks for watching! Carl Palmer’s kit was extremely unique. It was stainless steel, it was permanently mounted on a rack. The whole kit move together on and off the truck by a forklift. It weighed 2000 pounds! Ringo Starr owned the kit until a few years ago. Carl also had other concert toms! Thanks for your question!

[@sheddski6415]

i think those drums were the other fiberglass company VIBES and later carl had a set made out of steel which were very heavy to think he is the only one left from the original lineup

[@PaulDes]

Very intersting earl (you are a drum-encyclopedia ☺)

[@jeffgreen4903]

Hey Earl! Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Am wondering what your thoughts are on the Yamaha CT-8000 series of concert toms? Cheers!

[@earldrum]

Jeff Green ... those are birch/mahogany concert toms ... I’m sure they sound amazing. Yamaha makes great drums! Thanks for watching!

[@hotrodtiki200]

So my first kit that i still own is a Reuther concert tom set (by Pearl) my parents said i could pick between that and a green Rogers regular set. Quality wise i probably should have picked the Rogers but that concert tom set in all silver looked way too cool to a kid. Im glad i still have them , they really are quite rare now and the Rogers set wouldnt look any different that any set today. what head do you recommend? mine came with revo black dots and i see that alot but do other head types work just as well? why does everyone go black dot on them? thanks!!!!!!!

[@earldrum]

Hi HotRod, I do a question show called Ask Earl Anything …. I will answer this question on camera in February 2023. The short answer is that was the “new head”:used in the early 70s when the concert tom kits became popular! I use pinstripe heads on my concert tom kit now, but you have choices. I use that kit often, so check out a few videos and see if you like that Pinstripe sound?

[@hotrodtiki200]

@@earldrum great! i look forward to it! love the content, thanks!

[@femaledeer]

I guess the pinstripe heads were added later to remove the overtones? The pinstripes worked well when kits that were made with cheap shells (like the 80's Pearl Exports). But as the quality of the shells on lower end kits have gotten much better, I don't see pinstripes being used nearly as much.

[@earldrum]

Thanks for the feedback my friend! I have used clear ambassador, clear emperors, coated emperors and pinstripe heads. They all have there sweet spot. Two ply heads last longer … one of my considerations not having a drum head endorsement! I bought the pinstripe heads for my Gretsch kit and decided to put them on the concert tom kit instead. To be honest I like the sound I’m getting for now! But it will change someday. But I agree with your analysis. Thanks for watching!

[@jonathanlichtig6511]

Hello. I’ve finally found myself a number of Pearl fiberglass concert toms. I’m thinking of taking off whatever wrap is on them. How did you go about removing the wraps on yours? Love your videos of you playing and talking about these fiberglass concert toms!

[@SONORSQ2guy]

The Carmine Appice maple colored Ludwig realistic rock kit was double headed he had 6”and 8” concert toms with custom Syndrum triggers build into them. Great video btw.

[@earldrum]

Greg Patterson ... you are right, on the second edition of Realistic Rock he had the synfuel convert toms. But the first edition of Realistic Rock there was a drawing of Carmine on the cover and picture of a walnut finish concert tom kit with two 26” bass drums.

[@doubledeucedrums]

nice !

[@earldrum]

Chadwick Perry ... thanks!

[@highnumber9494]

I believe Don Henley had them for "Hotel California" and "The Long Run". There is a distinct concert tom fill on the song "Hotel California" right after the lyric, "just can't kill the beast".

[@earldrum]

High Number ... Don Henley did use concert toms and double-headed drums without bottom heads for those songs. Hotel California had a set of timbales on the part you are talking about ... there is a video of him singing and playing those timbales! I used to use a 8” and 10” tom to play that fill!

[@earldrum]

High Number ... here is the link kzbin.info/www/bejne/eX3Li3yLmpyYl8U

[@highnumber9494]

Earl Bennett - earldrum Nice, those were great tones. Hard to use them now as they are seen as too "high pitched"

[@TempoDrift1480]

Those were timbales Homie.

[@rustybuckets07]

Finally I'm refurbishing my Tama Royal Star kit I've had since the 1980's.It's been looked after and cleans up nicely but I bought some new wraps for a change of scenery....c'mon UPS... Sure, I've had flings with other drums over the years ,but like a wayward husband have come crawling back to the missus. (6'' , 8'' both Maxwin ,and have traded out for 6'' and 8'' TAMA timbales ), 10'' concert tom (modern Silverline from the cocktail Jam kit) but the rest are all original TAMA concert toms ;12x8'',13x9'',14x10'',15x12'' 16''x16'' floor tom and 22''x 14'' Bass.- Vintage,Mahogany ,bullet proof.

[@earldrum]

That’s great that you got your kit restored and you are happy with the sound! That’s what it’s all about! Thanks for watching! 👍🏻🤘🏻🙏🏻

[@zeptimp]

Great videos. I have always wondered what the difference in sound might be between fiberglass and acrylic tom toms. Have you ever A/B'd them?

[@earldrum]

zeptimp ... I never AB’d them, but I have owned two kits of both vistalite and fiberglass drums. I think the vistalites are harsher sounding very bright and sharp. The fiberglass kits are loud, focused, and punchy. I like the fiberglass drums a lot. But my first kit was a vistalite! I hope this helps. Great question!

[@highnumber9494]

Keith Moon had Premier concert toms added to his kit in 1973 and continued using concert toms up till his death in 1978.

[@earldrum]

Thanks for that feedback ...Yes, Keith Moon was another rocker that loved concert toms! :)

[@highnumber9494]

Earl Bennett - earldrum He first began using them for the "Quadrophenia" sessions. His concert tom configuration in 1973-1974 was: 16″ × 16″ single-headed (concert) tom-tom 15″ × 12″ single-headed (concert) tom-tom 14″ × 10″ single-headed (concert) tom-tom 13″ × 9″ single-headed (concert) tom-tom

[@earldrum]

High Number ... I can see you know you know a lot about Moonie’s life and drums. That is very cool! I remember his kit for who are you ... very cool kit with concert toms!

[@highnumber9494]

Earl Bennett - earldrum Yup, he got beautiful tom sounds on the mid section of "Who Are You"...."Who are you, who are you, who are you...". They were concert toms and super musical.

[@earldrum]

High Number ... that’s my favorite The Who song!

[@drumcatfairy77]

Peter Criss of KISS was 1 of Pearl's most famous 70s endorsees in the 70s...He also used Pearl fiberglass drums around '76/77 through the 1979 Dynasty tours.....

[@earldrum]

drumcatfairy77 ... you are right he had a massive fiberglass kit!

[@eddiebirkett9602]

Please do your version of Hawaii 50, huge song

[@earldrum]

Eddie you mean Hawaii Five O? Interesting thought? Thanks for watching

[@VegasAlien1]

You can get a dip from a double headed tom by tuning the reso head lower than the batter head.

[@earldrum]

Vegas Alien ... yes you can! Thanks for watching!

[@DrGray_Drummer]

Geez, I don't know how I missed all your videos? They really are awesome. I'm maybe 15 years or so younger than you, so I'll have to go back, and check out some of your influences. I like the sound of those concert toms. They say necessity is the mother of invention, but seems like the concert toms was possibly created out of laziness, or perhaps the need for space??? About 10 years ago, I played in a Police tribute band.. I didn't take the reso heads off, or use the "Octa's", but rather used LP mini timbolis, but because the heads broke so easy, I threw some pinstripes on em, an they sound great. "100 vids, and 6 bucks" you're on your way lol. I'm glad I discovered your vids! And btw, that opening groove sounded much like a Bernard Purdie groove. A great compliment! Also agree, the older I get, the less gear I can get away with the better.

[@earldrum]

Toast Tee thanks for watching and discovering my drumming world. I love sharing my love of drumming with everyone. I bought these concert toms specifically for studio work. I have had a working recording studio for almost 20 years. I have recorded drums, engineered tracking sessions and mixed complete cd recording projects for local artists. But I can’t imagine bring this much gear on gig today! My gigging kit is usually four piece kit with an 18” kick drum! I love playing gigs where drums are provided! 😀👍🏻🤟🏻

[@DrGray_Drummer]

@@earldrum You're in the States I presume? If so what city, or state are you in? You have the same passion as I do. We have a lot of the same influences as well. I grew up in NY on Long Island, and was fortunate enough to study with some greats. From guys like John Miceli, and Bobby Rondeneli, and even had a few lessons with Jim Chapin (RIP). I'm now in Philly burb.

[@earldrum]

Toast Tee ... I’m from the Jersey shore and now live in south FL - palm beach county. I have some good friends from Long Island that live here ... I’m sure we have many of the same influences.

[@DrGray_Drummer]

@@earldrum Cool deal. I grew up on Long Island, and live in Bucks now. Some really amazing drummers from NY/LI. My biggest regret is I didn't work on what I was supposed to (as much) while I was studying with some of those cats. I became good friends with a few of the guys from the Drum Center. I moved to Houston for years, and except when some of the guys came to town for shows, I slowly lost touch. It wasn't that they were just amazing drummers, but really good guys, and fun "hangs" ,a key to getting the gigs they got. My father lives near by in Florida now. I'm recovering from a spinal fusion I had 2 weeks ago, so I probably won't get down there until Jan/Feb. Been a bit frustrating I can't play right now, but been diggin' your, as well as tons of vids, also working my hands, and reading till I get back. As you can probably tell from these long replies, I'm getting a little cabin fever going on lol. How's the music scene in your neck of the woods?

[@earldrum]

Toast Tee ... I find my friends from Long Island to always be a great hang. The music scene is okay ... I play a lot of church gigs ... not many other gig these days. You have to be in a band. I was until a few months ago, but we didn’t work enough for me to rehearse each week, so it was time to move on. I’m working on a recording project and plenty of KZbin playing. I have been at thus KZbin drumming seriously since 2017! I’ll do it until it’s not fun anymore!

[@skins-n-strings]

Sweet kit! How did you stip the wrap and how did you get the shells natural? Lots of sanding after stripping?

[@earldrum]

Thanks for the question ... I’ll answer it in detail on my next Ask Earl Anything show! But short answer, the wrap can off easy, because of glue tape. I did very like to no sanding. That’s the Pearl fiberglass shell.

[@TheCopeland45]

What is the grey tape doing for the sound?

[@earldrum]

It muffles the toms and give it that dead cardboard box 70s drum sound! Thanks for watching

[@FailureBand]

Jenkins Martin uses the exact blaemire spun fiberglass method

[@earldrum]

Failure Band ... I know ... beautiful drums!

[@gonzorudeboy]

Very interesting. As about concert toms as for pearl fiberglass shells. I played Pearl World Wood/fiberglass shells once, I loved them although I never liked Pearl drums (strictly personal, it is obviously a great brand). They sounded powerful and focused.

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching my friend. I’m a fan of all Pearl drums but I like the fiberglass concert toms! 👍🏻🤘🏻😎

[@passtheparcel2007]

In the 80's, I had a set of Pearl Full Dimension's with 4 concert toms 13",14" 15", 16"(Phenolic) a wood/fiberglass 22" kick an an 18 "floor tom all in White. www.vintagedrumguide.com/images/my_collection/literature/pearl/1970a-pearl-catalog-9_th.jpg This was expanded by adding 6", 8" 10" an 12", concerts: www.vintagedrumguide.com/images/my_collection/literature/pearl/1970a-pearl-catalog-11_th.jpg Eventually this evolved into 8", 10", 12", 14", 16". I was then able to pack them into 2 cases protected by plastic bags, as the large kick and the 18" were made single headed. So it was 10", 14", 18" (F/T) inside a tom case. Then 8",12",16" toms, 22"(kick, inside the kick drum case. As they were heavier. I then mounted casters on a base board on the cases. Worked for me. Just turned up at a venue an rolled the kit in..

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching! That’s awesome! I remember the days of having a huge drum kit on a gig! I can’t imagine carrying that many drums for a gig today! But I love playing all the drums for KZbin! 😎 they are fun when you don’t have to move the big drum kit! I appreciate your feedback

[@aaronz8888]

How tight or loose do you tune them before de-tuning a lug or two?? That's exactly the sound I'm after !!

[@earldrum]

Aaron, I tune the drum “to even tension” then pick a lug and use my ear to detune the lug to the pitch I want. Does that make sense.

[@aaronz8888]

@@earldrum makes perfect sense! And thank you! This is info I've been looking through the rabbit hole for!!

[@jessicagreene1773]

The most beautiful octoplus set I ever saw was the 1976 Ludwig Tequila Sunrise kit.

[@earldrum]

Jessica Greene ... thanks for watching and your feedback. I have owned two vistalite kits in my life and they are very beautiful drums. 😀

[@jaybone23]

Now you need to have a thousand subs and however many watched hours to qualify for monetization. I did my part and subbed!

[@earldrum]

jaybone23 ... thanks for the sub! ... KZbin sucks! 😐🥁👍🏻

[@cenaga3]

What's your white snare drum dimensions? 10x14? And what about your hihats used in this video? Thanks

[@earldrum]

Cezar Belmonte ... yes, 10x14, 15” Paiste Giant Beat hi hats. Thanks for watching

[@cenaga3]

@@earldrum thanks and both great sound

[@whathappenedtoandrae5676]

Great video! Love drum history! Are the stainless steel-wrapped kit from the 70`s fiberglass or fiberglass/wood, or were they offered in both? I suspect you would know,,, Thanks!

[@earldrum]

what happened to Andrae? .... thanks for the great comment and question! I believe all the concert toms from Pearl during the 1970s to 1980 were fiberglass only. The wood fiberglass drums were an option for double headed tom drum kits. But that all changed when they started making maple drums and maple concert toms in 1980 and changed the mounting system for concert toms too! I hope that answers your question ... I am going to use your question in greater depth on my next Ask Earl Anything #26 show that will come out on Friday!

[@whathappenedtoandrae5676]

Thanks! Been searching forums and history sites but found nothing... Cheers!

[@sgtpepper1138]

I've been wanting to make a replica of Hal's monster kit for ages, maybe a modern interpretation of them, and thankfully they make Blaemire shells again....BUT no way am I going to be able to afford them. SO, my next option is the Pearl shells, which sound great, and are fairly easy to find. I think depending on how they look when stripped of the wrap, I may just leave them natural to keep that vibe.

[@earldrum]

sgtpepper1138 ... the old 70s Pearl drums were wrapped using a strip of glue tape. The finish came of the shell easily in minutes. What you see here is naked shells. Not much too it if that helps. 😀. I hope your project turns out well.

[@bobdob5696]

Great video. Very informative. I couldn't help noticing your soundproofing egg shell foam that you have on your walls. I am not sure but it looks exactly like the foam that was used in the Station Night Club in West Warwick RI, where Great White played. The foam caught fire, and within two minutes the entire club was in flames, killing hundreds. I'm not trying to tell you what to do by any means, but if it's not flame retardant, you may want to reconsider. It also gives off poisonous black smoke when it burns. I won't post the link, but you can google it. Be safe!

[@earldrum]

Bob Dob ... thanks for your concern! I actually do risk management and safety in my real life. So I understand the dangers and risks in daily life. Truthful, I have lots of egress, no smoking in my studio or ever at my house, and I haven’t had any issues with it for the last 12 years. It is acoustical form and makes my room sound dead enough to get great drum track recordings and even use the camera mic to record these Drum Talk videos. But I appreciate your concern my friend. Thanks for watching. 😀🥁

[@ronfrancois]

Thank God you got Neil Peart in there. I was worried for a minute.

[@earldrum]

Thanks for watching Roni! 🤣

[@gacdrums6685]

That’s interesting about the bottom heads , I remember doing that in the 70s and didn’t know why I did it until now ! LOL I guess I did it just because that was the thing to do !!!! LMAO holy cow .....

[@earldrum]

GAC Drums ... yea, it was the thing to do ... I lot of great vintage drum kits lost their bottom rims and lugs! 😁 thanks for watching! I appreciate the feedback!

[@userplayeraccount]

Great job Earl! Do you still have the concert toms?

[@earldrum]

Yes, I still have them ... I used them last month on a few covers by Journey and Elton John! They are fun to play every once in while.

[@userplayeraccount]

Earl Bennett - earldrum ok!

[@chromebull884]

I have always wanted a set of stainless steel concert toms in 6" 8" 10" 12" 14" 16" 18" and 20" in a red chrome finish with a 28" bass drum and a hand hammered copper 14x8 snare.

[@earldrum]

Caleb Grant ...thanks for watching and subscribing. The red stainless steel concert tom kits sounds like an amazing kit. Have you ever seen a company that makes that kit. Ludwig used to make a stainless steel concert tom kit. Stainless steel are heavy drums literally!

[@chromebull884]

Earl Bennett - earldrum I have not but I am hoping to find someone who will. I have also thought about an all copper drum set. Another great drummer who used concert toms is Les Binks. He played with judas priest from 1977 to 1979.

[@earldrum]

Caleb Grant ... the coolest stainless steel kit I ever saw was Carl Palmer’s kit used with ELP back in the 70s. It weighed 2 tons and was moved a one unit built on its on rack on to a truck. Good luck in your search.

[@michaelbrown3128]

I do like your passion, and informative? What are your favorite cymbals? Think I see a Zildjian china behind your head?

[@earldrum]

Thanks for the feedback and watching Michael! That’s a hard question! I love Paiste cymbals, actually the China is a Paiste! But I love cymbals Zildjian and Sabian too!

[@joaquinabdala5343]

is there any significant sound difference between Concert tom and a Doble head tom without the Bottom head??

[@earldrum]

J A ... probably not if tuned like a concert tom. But don’t lose the lugs and rims! Thanks for watching and the question!

[@patrickstaak501]

Hey! Have you got any idea where I could purchase 6" concert toms in different depths or 6" tom shells? Thanks!

[@earldrum]

Hi Patrick ... I would check eBay to start. I have been looking for a 6" Pearl Fiberglass for a long time! Usually they are sold in pairs. But if you want to just get a shell you check with Keller Shells or one of the Drum Parts shops like Precision Percussion tehy might have a shell. I hope this helps.

[@patrickstaak501]

Earl Bennett - earldrum Thanks for your reply. Im looking for wooden shells in different depths, ebay and amazon don't have them. There are a pair of DW concert toms in sizes 6 and 8 in thomann however they're not deep enough and cost a lot. Most shell manufacturers also don't sell 6" shells at all. Also, living in Europe makes finding stuff like this way more pricey. I'll check the site out!

[@patrickstaak501]

Earl Bennett - earldrum they do have 6" diameter drums for sale... Thank you so so much! Time to get on with the project! Keep on drumming!

[@earldrum]

Patrick Staak ... yea, wood shell in various depths are hard to find. Fiberglass toms give you octabans as a option. Good luck in your search my friend.

[@MichaelJohnsonProductions]

A lot of information here I didn't know. I had no idea about concert Toms. They do sound great though.

[@earldrum]

johnsondrummer ... they are fun to play once in while for that one 70s sound. It’s kinda like the old Simmons SDS V electronic drums ... one cool sound from the early 80s ... but that was all they were that sound. Now I have really dated myself! Thanks for watching!

[@cjansenATL]

How about something on rototoms?

[@earldrum]

the_ultimate_chris ... I just found this comment. Thanks for watching and writing! That might be a good topic! Thanks!

[@scottlowell493]

I have a love/hate relationship with concert toms since the 70's. Phil Collins, Neil Peart, Eric Carr and Triumph sounded cool when mic'd right. There are too many boing and thud examples. (especially disco era) If I had a kit of them now... two things: The kick has to be 2 headed. 2: I'd have to use a two ply head or something richer than cs black dots. Maybe Vintage emperor or ec2 for a bit more body.

[@earldrum]

They are an acquired taste for sure. Also I have a double headed kit for the times when I want that sound. But it’s nice to use the right sound for the song. I do lots of 70s drum covers .,, they are perfect for that sound. Thanks for watching and your story! 🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻✌🏻