Drummers are constantly experimenting with different techniques and accessories to fine-tune their drum sound. One common practice is placing a pillow or cushion inside the bass drum. This simple modification can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the drum. In this article, we will explore why drummers use a pillow in the bass drum and the benefits it offers.
- Enhanced Low-End and Control: Placing a pillow in the bass drum can help control and enhance the low-end frequencies produced by the drum. The pillow acts as a dampening tool, absorbing excess resonance and reducing unwanted overtones. By muffling the drumhead, the pillow produces a tighter and more focused sound, emphasizing the fundamental pitch of the drum and creating a well-defined low-end thump.
- Increased Articulation and Attack: The use of a pillow can also improve the articulation and attack of the bass drum. By reducing excessive sustain and ring, the pillow allows for a more precise and defined attack when striking the drumhead. This can be particularly beneficial in genres like rock, metal, and funk, where a punchy and aggressive bass drum sound is desired.
- Versatility in Sound: One advantage of using a pillow in the bass drum is the versatility it provides in shaping the drum’s sound. By adjusting the placement and tension of the pillow, drummers can fine-tune the balance between resonance and control, allowing for a customized sound that suits their playing style and musical preferences. This versatility makes the pillow a valuable tool for adapting the bass drum sound to different musical contexts and genres.
- Quieter Sound and Recording: In situations where a drummer needs to reduce the overall volume of the bass drum, such as practicing at home or in low-volume performance settings, a pillow can be a helpful solution. It dampens the drum’s sound, resulting in a quieter and more controlled output. Additionally, when recording drums in a studio environment, using a pillow can assist in isolating the bass drum sound, making it easier to capture a clean and focused recording without excessive resonance or unwanted room noise.
- Consistency and Stability: Another benefit of using a pillow is that it helps maintain consistency and stability in the drum sound. By reducing unwanted resonances and overtones, the pillow ensures a more even and controlled response from the drumhead, making it easier for drummers to replicate their desired sound consistently.
Tips for Using a Pillow in the Bass Drum:
- Placement: Experiment with different pillow placements to achieve the desired sound. Placing the pillow near the batter head (the side you strike) will yield a more controlled and focused sound, while placing it closer to the resonant head (the front head) can provide a balance between control and resonance.
- Tension: Adjust the tension of the pillow by varying its size or folding it to achieve the desired level of dampening. A looser pillow will allow for more resonance and sustain, while a tighter pillow will provide greater control and focus.
- Pillow Material: Consider using a pillow made specifically for drum dampening, as it will offer optimal control and durability. Alternatively, some drummers use household items like blankets or foam to achieve similar effects.
- Experimentation: Every bass drum and drumming style is unique, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different pillow placements, sizes, and materials to find the sound that best suits your preferences.
In conclusion, using a pillow in the bass drum can be a valuable technique for drummers seeking to enhance their drum sound. By controlling resonance, reducing unwanted overtones, and providing greater articulation and control, a pillow can help you achieve a tighter, focused, and more versatile bass drum sound that complements various musical styles and playing situations.
