Led by former Guns N’ Roses drummer Matt Sorum, The Rock N Roll Allstars hit the road to begin an unprecedented world tour this year. From behind a massive drum kit, Sorum led a choice rock line-up through a 2.5-hour show, performing songs from each member’s respective band.
The drum kit comprised two double kick drums, five toms and a suitably large array of cymbals – unsurprisingly, Sorum wanted to ensure it was a visual spectacle as well as delivering his sound. Key to both considerations was a suitable set of mics. He listed three considerations – ease of use, durability and visual appeal.
Soren was joined by Allstars Gene Simmons (Kiss), Joe Elliott (Def Leppard), Duff McKagan (Guns N’ Roses), Sebastian Bach (Skid Row), Gilby Clarke (Guns N’ Roses), Billy Duffy (The Cult), Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple), Ed Roland (Collective Soul), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol) and Mike Inez (Alice in Chains). For the drum kit, AKG’s microphones proved to be the match.
AKG’s C518 M micro mics were Sorum’s first choice for toms – the instrument for which he is widely known. The C518s clipped on to his toms – and held tight during his workouts. ‘I’ve had real issues with tom mics in the past, falling off or needing adjustments, but the 518s give me a great sound and are reliable during the shows,’ Sorum observes.
AKG D12 capsules were placed in the kick drums, suspended in the drums themselves for a rich sound with no adverse noise. C414XLS mics were mounted for overhead cymbal pickup, while one C214 was mounted in the front of the kit for the splash cymbals and ride. Two sets of C451 stereo condensers were clipped on the set to mic the main hats as well as an x-hat set up. Sorum utilized one additional AKG P4 for backup vocals during the shows.
‘AKG gives my drum set a huge sound and a clean look, without the worry of fixing an ill-fitting clip. Once the D12s are in place and the 414s are set, we get this amazing, thick, warm, fat resonance and it couldn’t sound more natural.’
Having recently concluded a successful run in South America, The Rock N Roll Allstars continue their tour in Australia and Japan in autumn 2012. The South American shows were host to more than 20,000 fans each night in the outdoor venues.
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