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A drummer's toolbox (NOTE: the hammer is a bit excessive) © Tetra Images/Corbis

Whether you're rehearsing, gigging, recording or simply rocking up for a jam, there are a few essential bits of kit no drummer should be without. Here are the top 10, courtesy of Rhythm Magazine…

10 kitbag essentials

1. Turning keys

At least two turning keys, preferably more, secreted about your person and in stick bags, cymbal bags, gig bags etc. You could need it at any point to tune up, adjust your pedal, a memory lock on a stand...

2. Gaffer tape

A roll of Gaffer's tape - it truly has a thousand uses, many of them to do with music.

3. Spare heads

You'll need at least a snare batter and bass batter. Keep a spare head in each drum case.

4. Spare snare

If you can afford to have a spare, take an extra snare drum - on a stand and ready for action.

5. Dampeners

Head-damping materials - a tub of Moongel or a selection of 'O' rings will work. Cut the latter into quarter circles. If all else fails, head back to point number one on this list.

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