Zildjian K Custom Special Dry Cymbals
Jazz drumming in 2017 means a far wider tonal range than it did a half-century ago. With so much funk, electronica, rock and more finding its way into jazz’s rhythmic language, drummers should have access to a dry, trashy sound from a lightweight cymbal with a quick attack: Enter Zildjian’s new, 16-model K Custom Special Dry Collection, which also boasts the junkyard look that is all the rage. Models include crashes, rides, trash-crashes, hi-hats, a splash and an FX hi-hat top. zildjian.com
Trevor Salloum with Bobby Sanabria: The Conga and Bongo Drum in Jazz
If often seems like there are more instructional books on jazz guitar than there are jazz guitarists—and the same goes for sax, trumpet, drums and piano. But the rich tradition of Afro-Cuban hand percussion? Not so much. Mel Bay’s The Conga and Bongo Drum in Jazz, by Trevor Sallum and Bobby Sanabria, aims to carry forward the history and technique of Latin-jazz rhythm through research, exercises and helpful demonstrative photos. There’s a surplus of valuable information here, including discographies, an extensive glossary and one-off treats like an interview with percussion-savvy guitar legend Kenny Burrell. $19.99. melbay.com
New Acoustic Amplifiers From Fender
You don’t even need to hear Fender’s new Acoustic 100 and 200 amplifiers to appreciate them. Their sleek yet welcoming design and finished plywood shells give them a midcentury-modern kick, great for a gig and even better for a den or living room. Their functionality is equally clean and smart, with features including two channels (perfect for guitar/vocal performers), an XLR line output, effects, a USB jack, an optional four-button footswitch, and Bluetooth, so you can stream music between sets or around the house. $399/$549 online. fender.com
