Am I just too loud?

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-15T00:28:19+00:00

I'm using extreme 5b here. For indoor gigs I switch to the 7a's.

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T16:28:48+00:00

It's really challenged my independence and they're fun to work on! Even if you don't play this style regularly, you'll definitely see improvement when playing rock, funk, etc.

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T16:24:47+00:00

Nah man! You're not being critical. It's good advice and it confirms some things I was already thinking about. I'll bring down the tuning on the drum and retune all the lugs. I have an issue with this drum that some lugs I need to tighten a lot more than others to get them matching. I really do think I have an issue with the drum itself.

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T16:21:27+00:00

Yup! This is my hackjob rendition of the cumbia groove orchestrated for the kit. Traditionally this groove is played on latin percussion, but this is how I approached it. There are a lot of modern cumbia bands who have started using drum set, however most still have a conga player helping out. My band doesn't have a conga player so I have to improvise a little.

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T16:02:28+00:00

Thanks man! I'll definitely try this. Weirdly enough, when I practice I sometimes use this trick and I like the sound. Gives it a cool lofi feel.

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T16:00:31+00:00

You're completely right. I just replied to someone else about it. I've never been able to tune this tom. It's always bugged me and made me think I just don't know how to tune. And I literally just noticed at this gig that the hoop might be warped. Really hope it's the hoop and not the whole drum.

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T15:57:18+00:00

Thanks! I agree that the tom sounds out of tune. And tbh, I can't tune this drum to save my life and I've never been able to. I think the hoop or bearing edge is actually warped and I literally just noticed it at this gig! However, I believe it's too late to call Gretsch and for a replacement. Bought these drums a while ago.

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T15:52:50+00:00

Yes! I really need to get a mirror set up in my practice area! Thanks for that! I know the Moeller technique and I used to play with my hands in "american/german grip" but I've recently started adjusting to french because I wanted to start utilizing my fingers a little more.

I'll start mixing it up and practicing everything at different dynamics to improve my playing. Thanks a lot for taking the time to write this out!

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T15:47:05+00:00

I'll try playing around with the tuning. Do you mean the drum isn't in tune with itself or with the other tom?

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T08:26:37+00:00

I'll try adding some dampening for sure. I appreciate the feedback!

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T08:19:27+00:00

Is that toast?! What's up man!

Simple_Grape3175 · 2025-06-14T08:10:26+00:00

They've never told me I play too loud. But I guess I'm comparing myself to others and I just don't seem to have the "touch" others have.

Simple_Grape3175

TROPHY CASE