Sticks, Sticks, Sticks: Redux
Ever since I watched Secret Weapons for the Modern Drummer I’ve started to appreciate the differences in the different lengths of sticks. I’m particularly fond of short sticks nowadays and I recommend you all should try some if you haven’t before. I realize that “short” is a subjective term so here’s my stick length definitions. I define a stick as short if it’s less than 16 inches long; it’s a medium stick if it’s 16-16.5 inches long; and it’s a long stick at above 16.5 inches long.
The thing that short sticks have going for them is their quickness. They get from point a to point b in the minimum amount of time and have rebound with more ease than their longer counterparts. Two of my favorite short sticks are the Jojo Mayer & Steve Gadd models from Vic Firth.
The Mayer model is the hardest working stick I have ever worked with. When doing the free stroke it almost throws itself. The reason is the thick taper on this particular stick. the extra weight on the top end helps the stick accelerate and it gives the stick more striking power. It’s pretty thick for a stick of its length so its not like you’re gripping a tooth pick. A big plus when you consider that really thin sticks are very easy to lose control of when you play hard. At 15 21/64 inches in length and .577 of and inch thick, it’s a good all purpose stick if you enjoy or don’t mind the lack of length.
The Gadd stick is a little longer at 15 3/4 inches and a little thinner at .550 of an inch thick. The taper is thinner and longer than the Mayer stick. This gives it less power and quickness but more subtlety and ease of control. The thing I noticed about this stick is that it feels very light, even for a stick of its size. I looked it up and it’s made of hickory like most of the other sticks that I own so that isn’t it. I really enjoy the how light it is, however, it’s a bit thinner than I prefer. I usually don’t use sticks under .555 of and inch thick, but it’s too much fun trying to cop Steve’s style while playing with his stick.
Each stick can be thought of with similar characteristics to their player. Jojo’s is quick and powerful, Steve’s is light and subtle. So if you’ve never tried a short stick I recommend going out and picking up one or both of these stick models and see what it inspires you to do. Have fun with it, play “Fifty Ways to Leave Your Lover” with the Gadd stick and bust out some drum n’ bass with the Mayer stick. Go crazy! Just don’t hurt yourself or anyone else in the process.
If you’ve got a short stick that you like to recommend or condemn leave a comment.
-JABB
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Ive yet to try the Jojo Mayer model(although ive been meaning to) But the Gadd stick is easily my current favorite. Shorter sticks are MUCH easire to control. And the barrel tip on the gadd model sounds great on the drums.