Updates and news

I've got some new things in the works that I figured I could write about here. 

1. YouTube Memberships are active again. Not that they were ever inactive, but I was pretty lazy in creating Member content for a while there. This was largely due to the fact that I had no members, lol. But now there are some of you back again, I will make sure to get some special stuff in there for you at least once a month. 
2. New album coming eventually. I already have 15 songs I've made in the past several months and I'm really excited about the sounds I've been coming up with this year. My previous album, "Reformat", while I still love it, there was a lot of setbacks making that album, largely due to the person who was supposed to be making the artwork completely flaked out on me repeatedly. I was waiting for months for something that never materialized. This was a great reminder as to why I just usually do everything myself. But please still go check it out and purchase it. If you must, you can listen to it on Crapify, but it sounds much better if you buy and download it. If you would like to hear the new stuff, follow my Performance Stream playlist on YouTube. This is where I always post new stuff. Some of them may be changed later or have new instruments added or remixed all together, but it's always fresh!
3. If you didn't know, my channel was hacked and recovered. It was a very close call, and I almost didn't get it back. In that time I was ready to start over with a new channel called "Justin's Drum Adventures", but after I got my original channel back I decided to incorporate the new format ideas into my current channel. Check out the playlist of my Drum Adventures where I visit Good Hands Drum Shop in Manhattan, see street drumming in Brooklyn Chinatown, as well as had an amazing visit to the School of Musical Performance with David Kovins!
4. Lastly, I've started slowly uploading my visual artwork to my YouTube channel. I have many years of digital artwork and I figured the best place to put it is on my channel. Maybe I will make a page here on my blog as well to host the images in case anyone wants to download one.  

 

Donner L1 Essential Review and Demo

 Donner recently sent me their latest foray into the world of analog synthery, the L1 Essential. It is based on the legendary Roland SH101 originally released in 1982 but has something really unique to offer that I have not seen on any other synth. 

The keyboard is a standalone midi controller that connects to the synth module via magnetic connection! It can make this connection with no wires or special configuration at all. You simply stick the controller to the front of the synth and it just works!

I don't have confirmation of this, but it would be really cool if Donner kept making more modules to work with this controller, so you would essentially have a hot swap-able synth/keyboard combo. 

The synth module itself sounds absolutely awesome. I have played with my fair share of analog synths in my day, and the Donner L1 Essential can hang with the big boys. The price point is really nice at only $259 for the module.  Then if you want the KB32M magnetic MIDI controller (I highly recommend it) it is only another $109.  

A real SH-101 will run you anywhere from $1100 to $2000! Behringer also makes a SH-101 clone for around the same price, but the Donner gives you one more envelope section and another waveshape to play with, plus the magnetic keyboard! 

 

Zildjian S Dark Series now 19% off! Lowest price to date!

Zildjian S Dark Series: A Bold Evolution in Cymbal Design

If you're chasing a cymbal sound that cuts through the mix with moody warmth and aggressive character, the Zildjian S Dark Series deserves your attention. This lineup reimagines the popular S Series with a darker tonal palette, offering a unique blend of complexity and punch that suits modern rock, metal, and fusion drummers alike.

Crafted from B12 bronze and precision-lathed for a raw, unrefined look, the S Dark cymbals deliver explosive attack with a fast decay. Whether you're laying down ghost notes or crashing into a chorus, these cymbals respond with musicality and edge. And right now, most of the S Dark Series is on sale on Amazon for up to 19% off — a rare chance to upgrade your kit without breaking the bank. Check the deals here.

What Makes the S Dark Series Stand Out?

• Dark, Complex Tone: Compared to the brighter S Series, the Dark variants offer a more nuanced, earthy sound that blends well in dense mixes.
• Versatile Profiles: From thin crashes to trashy chinas and dry rides, the series covers a wide sonic spectrum.
• Affordable B12 Bronze: While not as pricey as B20 alloy cymbals, the S Dark Series punches above its weight in tone and durability.
• Striking Visuals: The raw finish and dark lathing give these cymbals a boutique look that complements any setup.

Whether you're upgrading from entry-level cymbals or adding new textures to your pro rig, the S Dark Series offers a compelling mix of quality and affordability. Browse the full lineup on Amazon while the sale lasts.

Watch the S Dark Series in Action

In the video above, you'll hear the S Dark cymbals pack. Notice how the crashes open up with a smoky wash, while the ride maintains clarity without overpowering the mix. The hats are crisp yet subdued — perfect for intricate grooves and dynamic shifts.

Top Picks from the Series

• 18" S Dark Crash: Fast, explosive, and ideal for accents. Grab it here.
• 14" S Dark Hi-Hats: Tight and articulate with a gritty edge. See pricing.
• 20" S Dark Ride: Dry stick definition with a subtle wash. Check it out.
• 16" S Dark China: Trashy and aggressive — perfect for breakdowns. View on Amazon.

These cymbals aren't just for metalheads — jazz and indie drummers have also embraced the S Dark Series for its expressive range and visual flair. If you're looking to add character to your cymbal setup, this is a smart move.

Final Thoughts

The Zildjian S Dark Series proves that you don't need to spend top-tier money to get top-tier sound. With its bold aesthetics, versatile tone, and current Amazon discounts of up to 19%, it's a no-brainer for drummers ready to evolve their sound. Explore the deals now and bring some darkness to your groove.