Sticks ‘n’ Skins: A Photography Book About the World of Drumming made its debut at sticksnskins.com October 15, 2009! Fifteen Gretsch artists are highlighted throughout Sticks ‘n’ Skins which features some never-before-seen photos and stories of Alvino Bennett, Cindy Blackman, Karl Brazil, Jay Bellerose, Vinnie Colaiuta, M. Shawn “Clown” Cranhan, Steve Ferrone, Danny Frankel, Ryan MacMillian, Stanton Moore, Seth Rausch, Mark Schulman, Charlie Watts, Tommy Wells, and Stefanie Eulinberg.

Steve Ferrone

A perfect gift for all Gretsch fans! Music lovers will discover the heartbeat of music this holiday season in this 560-page coffee table book illuminating the eclectic world of drumming over the past 70 years. Fotos By Folletts photographers traveled to 53 cities in four countries and photographed over 500 drummers to be included in the pages of this captivating hardcover book. From the true legends to students and teachers, drum-techs to cartage companies and shop owners, Sticks ‘n’ Skins preserves the legacy of this unique group of musicians.

Mark Schulman

Dedicated to the late drumming photographer Lissa Wales, Sticks ‘n’ Skins opens with a special tribute to her work. Well known to the drumming community, Lissa was a trailblazer in her field, specializing in capturing the heart and soul of drummers around the world. (To learn more about Lissa, please visit DrumPics.com).

“This book documents our drumming history, thus preserving our talents and our reasons for why we do what we do for future generations to feel. It is a compelling and moving glimpse into the drumming community.” -Dom Famularo, Drumming’s Global Ambassador.

Stefanie Eulinberg

“I have been privileged and blessed to have met and photographed this amazing group of musicians . . . the drummers,” says author Jules Follett. “I thank them all for helping me capture their talent, energy and passion visually.”

For more information or to purchase your copy today, please visit www.sticksnskins.com.

Alvino Bennett

Brian recently met with Jim Fusilli of the Wall Street Journal to discuss the Brian Setzer Orchestra’s new album, “Songs from Lonely Avenue”, released earlier this month and which has since debuted in the #4 spot on Billboard’s Jazz Chart.  Brian wrote all 13 songs on the album which is already receiving rave reviews from music lovers and critics alike.  “Lonely Avenue” looks destined to make it onto many’s holiday gift wish list this year.  Be sure to check out the great WSJ interview at http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704107204574469560998406626.html. 

Brian and the Orchestra are also getting ready to hit the road for their 7th Annual Christmas Rocks Extravaganza!  This year some lucky fans will be able to purchase special VIP ticket packages.  Check out Brian’s website, http://www.briansetzer.com/, for the complete show schedule and to purchase tickets before they’re all sold out.

Setzer Releases "Lonely Avenue"

With the passing of Louie Bellson, drumming has lost a genuine innovator. Drummers around the world have lost a sweet and gentle man who was at once an icon and a comrade. And the Gretsch family has lost a cherished friend.

When Louie was making his mark on the drumming scene in the 1940s and ’50s, playing with the great bands of Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington, and Harry James, (more…)

On August 11, Berklee celebrated the 125th anniversary of the Gretsch Company, one of the world’s best-known guitar and drum makers. Members of the Berklee community packed the Berklee Performance Center for a special Gretsch clinic featuring Jim Pettit, owner of the Memphis Drum Shop and jazz guitarist/composer Bob Sabellico, who has played on sessions with Bela Fleck, Jaco Pastorius and Phoebe Snow, among many others.

Prior to the clinic, president Fred W. Gretsch, the fourth-generation descendant of company founder Friedrich Gretsch, and Joe Carducci, Gretsch’s guitar (more…)

Long Time Gretsch Friend Entertained and Inspired the Globe

Legendary R&B king and long-time Gretsch friend, Bo Diddley, has passed away at the age of 79. With his rectangular Gretsch guitar and trademark “Bo Diddley Beat”, he entertained and inspired the globe. His Ed Sullivan television debut aired way back in 1955. That was America’s first look at a man whose unique rhythm and style would eventually serve as fuel for the Rock’n'Roll, Blues, and Psycodelic genres. (more…)