Drumworld festival 2007

A huge hall, outstanding drummers, great weather as always, very affordable refreshments, top-quality sound, two video screens, a relaxed atmosphere, friendly exhibitors, Adams staff everywhere ready to help, the largest drum store in the country within reach, and a festival where every drummer has a full hour to tell their story. What more could you ask for? This year’s line-up was again impressive.

11.30 – 12.30 Darrin Mooney

Darrin Mooney, a quintessentially British drummer, opened the festival. After being asked to join Primal Scream, he recorded on the album “XTRMNTR” which was released in 2000 and received 4 stars from Q Magazine. With albums like “Vanishing Point” and “Evil Heat”, the band headlined major festivals around the world. Their last tour in 2004 took them across South America with great success.

Darrin studied with Bob Armstrong and played a wide range of styles, especially big band and jazz. In 2001, he was invited by Gary Moore to record the album “Back to the Blues”, which led to two more albums: “Scars” (2002) and “Power of the Blues” (2004). Darrin is highly respected among fellow drummers and is an excellent clinic performer — a worthy opener for the Adams Drumworld Festival.

13.00 – 14.00 Cindy Blackman

Next was Cindy Blackman. Born and raised in Ohio, she began her career as a street performer in New York. After three years at Berklee College of Music, she took private lessons with the legendary Alan Dawson. Her breakthrough came with her own band in New York, catching the attention of retro funk rocker Lenny Kravitz. His encouragement gave her the confidence to further develop her unique style.

The DVD “Multiplicity” showcases her ability and artistry. According to many, Cindy Blackman is a force with many years still ahead of her. She is thunder, she is fire, she is energy, she is passion.

14.30 – 15.30 Gary Chaffee

Following Cindy’s performance, her former teacher took the stage: Gary Chaffee. The masterclass was fully booked in advance. Gary has an impressive track record. From 1972 to 1976, he was chair of the Percussion Department at Berklee College of Music and he continues to teach in his private studio.

With students like Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Smith and Jonathan Mover, and collaborations with Mike Stern, Pat Metheny, Abe Laboriel and Palle Danielsson, we were proud to welcome him to Drumworld in cooperation with Yamaha Drums.

16.00 – 17.00 Flo Mounier

After the educational session with Gary, it was time for intensity — and yes, ear protection was available (and advised). Flo Mounier brought one hour of melodic speed metal. His fearless approach to drumming has made him a standout in the metal scene.

His technical brutality, speed, and creative vision result in a deep musicality where jazz and Latin influences blend with metal. Even if you're not a metal fan, you couldn’t help but be impressed. Born in Montreal, he tours the world with Cryptopsy and has performed at the Guggenheim Museum in New York and the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art.

He stole the show at Montreal Drum Fest and Cape Breton. In 2006, Flo and Cryptopsy won the Canadian Music Week Award for Favourite Metal / Hardcore Artist / Group. If you love power and metal, Flo Mounier is your drummer of the year.

17.30 – 18.30 Peter Erskine

Peter began drumming at age four and has been a leading figure in jazz for over 30 years. His professional career started in 1972 with the Stan Kenton Orchestra. After three years with Kenton and two with Maynard Ferguson, Weather Report was next.

His close friendship with Jaco Pastorius played a major role in the success of this legendary band. After five albums with Weather Report, Peter went on to perform with Mike Brecker, Mike Mainieri, Don Grolnick, Eddie Gomez (Steps Ahead) and many more.

With over 400 albums to his name, including work with Chick Corea, Mike Stern and Joni Mitchell, Peter is a proud leader in jazz. Now enjoying a quieter life, he focuses on composing for dance, theatre and animation. Clinics are rare — with twelve solo albums, his presence at Drumworld was a true honour. A jazz legend, still inspiring generations.

19.00 – 20.00 Jonathan Mover

The final artist of the day was headliner Jonathan Mover. He started drumming at age 13 in a small town north of Boston. Influenced by British progressive rock and artists like Frank Zappa, Todd Rundgren and The Tubes, he soon added a second bass drum and expanded his kit.

At Berklee College of Music, he studied privately with Gary Chaffee. After six months, he moved to London, where studio work and live gigs led to connections with Steve Howe (Yes) and Steve Hackett (Genesis), forming GTR. He later returned to the U.S. and played with Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Alice Cooper, Aretha Franklin, Mick Jagger, Peter Frampton and many more.

Jonathan also produces music. His first solo project “Einstein” and follow-up “Einstein Too” reflect his progressive rock roots. A versatile drummer with deep musical insight, he closed the festival with style and authority.

During the clinics, guests enjoyed the outdoor terrace with drinks and snacks at friendly prices. Drumstick sales took place outside the store to minimize noise inside. Adams Drumworld ensured that this would not disrupt the festival experience but rather enhance it, allowing our staff to assist guests more effectively — especially for cymbal testing and great deals!

Mister Universe was also in attendance, in his spectacular costume, just like at the Frankfurt Trade Fair — a true crowd favourite.

The festival fair, organised with leading distributors, made the day even more special. We’re already looking forward to the next edition, and hope that everyone had a fantastic time — that’s what we do it for.

You are all invited... See you on September 16!