Slapstik drumstick has flexible tip, drums really fast
Is it a 'drumming revolution' or a big cheat?

The Slapstik drumstick might sound funny, but its manufacturers are hailing it as a "revolution in drumming" not seen since the invention of the double-bass drum pedal. Its defining characteristic is its flexible tip, which enables drummers to play at speeds not possible from your average stick.
It's certainly a novel idea, but like the aforementioned double-kick, these built-for-speed tools will surely raise the eyebrows of many a drum-traditionalist. We asked Rhythm magazine's master features editor, Chris Barnes, for his thoughts on the subject: "The Slapstik is a very innovative and unique product and, to my knowledge, there has never been anything like this before".
"Demonstrations I've seen suggest it makes playing easier, in the same way a double bass pedal can offer a drummer more playing options without needing a great technique. The purist in me considers these sticks in the same vein as the double pedal and believes that you cannot compete with a pair of regular sticks and a finely honed technique".
Slapstiks are sold separately for $9.95 each and if you buy four you get one free. You can also watch a video of the sticks in action on the company's website to help you make your mind up. MusicRadar is sitting on the fence with a Slapstik in one hand and a mallet in the other.
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Tom Porter worked on MusicRadar from its mid-2007 launch date to 2011, covering a range of music and music making topics, across features, gear news, reviews, interviews and more. A regular NAMM-goer back in the day, Tom now resides permanently in Los Angeles, where he's doing rather well at the Internet Movie Database (IMDB).

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