Yamaha Manu Katche Hipgig JR Makes Summer NAMM Debut

Expanding on the success of the HipGig, the world's first portable drum set, Yamaha Drums will debut the signature HipGig Jr. at Summer NAMM 2000. Named for international drumming sensation Manu Katche, this functional, professional kit lives up to the established HipGig product line with convenience and great sound.

The Katche set consists of a solid 16-in. diameter by 16-in. bass drum, complete with Yamaha's distinctive floating bass drum system and newly designed bass drum lift, a pair of toms (10 x 7-in. rack and 13 x 13-in. floor) and a lively 12 x 5-in. snare drum. Hardware includes a drum throne, hi-hat stand, bass drum pedal, snare drum stand and two cymbal stands.

Constructed of durable, high-quality 9-ply Philippine Mahogany, the kits are available in four eye-catching finishes: Night Black, Marine Blue, Silky Silver and Sun Yellow. The HipGig Jr.'s snare and toms are equipped with Remo UT heads, and the bass drum with Renaissance PowerStroke-type heads.

"The HipGig Jr. has incredible sound, portability and Yamaha quality-all in one package," says Jerry Andreas, marketing manager, Yamaha Drums. "We are really thrilled that an artist like Manu Katche wanted to pen his name to a kit that has all the features that he and other drummers want and need."

"This truly is a set that works for everyone, from young kids to senior citizens," adds David Jewell, product manager, Yamaha Drums. "This is one great-sounding 'small gig' kit that can go from a Jazz trio to a big band."

The Paris-born Katche is one of the world's most popular drum artists, maintaining a constant schedule of clinics, session work and touring. His innovative playing style and steady grooves can be heard on the landmark Peter Gabriel albums, So and It's About Time, plus the critically acclaimed Sting efforts, Nothing Like the Sun, Soul Cages and Brand New Day. Katche has worked with Tracy Chapman, Joni Mitchell, Dire Straits, Tori Amos and a variety of international acts in both recording and live performance capacities.