I’m really exciting to finally share this (hopefully) first installment in a series of (somewhat) instructional videos that take a look at creating interesting and unique sounds using traditional drum set components and a few household items. I’m calling the series “Outsourcing” (I called it Outsourced in the video, but that was a horrible NBC comedy, so I’m changing it just a bit) because it will explore utilizing weird or “out” sound sources on the kit.

Now, I mentioned this in the video, but I’ll say it again here: most of these are not my own idea, but rather a collection of things I’ve seen other players do that I’ve adopted into my own drumming. Hopefully they’ll inspire you to do the same, or even better, go beyond and create your own new sounds.

Episode 1: Tymp-Tomming

Our inaugural episode covers using a plastic plumbing tube to adjust the internal air pressure of your drums. You’ll only need a couple of things to start applying this simple technique.

1. A length of plastic plumbing tubing from your local hardware store

2. A drum with only one 1/4″ hole or vent

3. Enthusiasm

And with that you’re all set. Follow the instructions in the video and give it a go (make sure that tube is clean!). As mentioned, if anyone would like to put together a video using this technique, I’ll be happy to share it on this page.

Thanks for watching, and please let me know if you enjoyed this clip. I had a lot of fun putting it together, and I’d definitely like to do a few more.