An Overview of the Ride's Undeniable Importance, and some Saucy Examples.

Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts, for we are about to embark on a gonzo journey into the realm of drumming and the profound significance of the ride cymbal. Picture yourself in the midst of a pulsating musical frenzy, where rhythm reigns supreme and chaos merges with harmony. In this twisted tapestry of percussive mayhem, one cymbal stands tall, the ride cymbal, a sentinel of rhythm, a conductor of time, and the beating heart of a drummer's setup.

Like a renegade journalist armed with a typewriter and a bottle of whiskey, the ride cymbal takes centre stage, punctuating the air with its shimmering brilliance. Its purpose transcends the mere role of a noisemaker; it is a guiding force, a metronome of the soul. With each strike, it establishes the pulse, the heartbeat of the music, and channels the collective energy of the band and audience.

The ride cymbal possesses a duality that defies convention. It can be delicate and nuanced, whispering soft melodies that caress the ears like a siren's call. Yet, with a flick of the wrist, it transforms into a tempestuous storm, crashing and roaring with a ferocity that shakes the very foundations of the musical landscape. In the realm of improvisation, the ride cymbal becomes a gateway to uncharted territories. It provides a canvas upon which a drummer can paint intricate rhythms and syncopations, weaving a tapestry of sound that defies logic and sends the audience into a frenzy. Like Thompson's stream-of-consciousness prose, the ride cymbal takes us on a wild ride, navigating the unpredictable currents of musical expression with reckless abandon.

But let us not forget the ride cymbal's role as a conductor, a maestro of time. It keeps the band in check, ensuring that every musician stays in sync, like a deranged conductor guiding an orchestra of madness. Its steady pulse acts as a compass, allowing the band to navigate the musical landscape and find their way back home amidst the chaos. So, my dear readers, in this twisted world of rhythm and sonic exploration, the ride cymbal reigns supreme. It is a force to be reckoned with, an embodiment of freedom and expression. It is the beating heart, the pulsating soul, and the guiding light of a drummer's arsenal. Embrace its power, harness its energy, and let the ride cymbal take you on a journey you'll never forget.

And remember, in the words of Hunter S. Thompson, "Buy the ticket, take the ride." Hee.

And some Saucy Examples......

At Musicmaker we realise the importance, the nuance and the power of the ride cymbal. Not merely a humble timekeeper, these beautiful instruments are the colour and the shape of rhythmic expression. As such, I would like to highlight a few truly delightful options that we have in store. Follow me.....

Paiste 22" Giant Beat Crash Ride: As a finely crafted cymbal should, this exquisite offering from Paiste defies categorisation as either just a crash or ride. Like the original cymbals from the '60s, the Giant Beat encourages you to explore and decide how and when to use it. With the classic Paiste ride's defined and polite ping, it also boasts a warm, shimmery wash and glassy overtones, making it a true crash. This cymbal is an excellent choice for vintage setups that require maximum versatility from each cymbal. If you appreciate cymbals reminiscent of the golden era of rock 'n' roll, the Paiste Giant Beat 22" "ride" cymbal is a must-see for you.

Meinl Byzance Jazz 22" Medium Thin Ride: This Ride is a masterpiece that epitomises the essence of jazz drumming. With its 22" diameter and medium-thin weight, it exudes a timeless elegance and warm tonal character that blends seamlessly into any jazz setting. The cymbal offers a smooth, buttery stick response and a dark, complex wash that blooms with rich, musical undertones. Its controlled decay allows for articulate ride patterns and delicate crashes, while its subtle shimmer adds a touch of sophistication to every note. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a dedication to quality, the Meinl Byzance Jazz 22" Medium Thin Ride embodies the spirit of jazz drumming, providing drummers with an instrument that responds effortlessly to their every touch and infuses their playing with the authentic essence of the genre. 

Meinl Byzance Traditional 21" Polyphonic Ride Cymbal:  instrument that brings a world of tonal possibilities to drummers. With its 21" diameter, it offers a balanced blend of clarity, warmth, and complexity. The cymbal exhibits a strong stick definition, allowing for articulate ride patterns and precise accents, while its medium-thin weight provides a lively response and a controlled wash. The Polyphonic nature of this cymbal allows it to produce multiple layers of harmonics, adding depth and richness to the sound. From delicate jazz brushwork to dynamic rock grooves, the Meinl Byzance Traditional 21" Polyphonic Ride Cymbal excels in a wide range of musical styles, making it a valuable tool for drummers seeking a versatile and expressive ride cymbal for their kit.

Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride: And here it is. Buckle up, my fellow sonic explorers, for we are about to venture into the untamed territory of the Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride. Imagine, if you will, a cymbal that embodies the spirit of rebellion, a true maverick in the world of percussion. This 22" beast unleashes a symphony of sonic rebellion, defying conventions and leaving a trail of shattered expectations in its wake. Its light weight and hand-hammered craftsmanship create a ride experience like no other. With a nuanced stick response and a shimmering wash that lingers in the air like the echoes of forgotten dreams, the Foundry Reserve Light Ride takes us on a journey through sonic realms that defy categorisation. It whispers secrets of jazz ballads, barks like a rock 'n' roll rebel, and dances with wild abandon in the realms of fusion and experimental music. This cymbal, my friends, is a testament to the limitless possibilities of sound. It challenges us to break free from the chains of conformity, to embrace the unknown, and to ride the waves of sonic rebellion. So strap on your seatbelts, my fellow sonic seekers, and let the Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride take you on a wild ride that will leave your senses shaken, your spirit stirred, and your musical expression forever transformed.