Eloy’s ProMark Stick & Dynamics: What Vince Thinks

What ProMark changed for Eloy

D’Addario lists the new ProMark Eloy Casagrande model TXECW with a 5B diameter, a shoulder that widens toward 2B size, forward balance and a teardrop wood tip. The company says those choices add momentum for rimshots while keeping cymbal articulation. Bonedo reported its availability on July 2 and identified Casagrande as Slipknot’s drummer. Those are the product facts; the technique judgment is Vince’s.

Power is not hiding inside a stick

The tempting myth is that a larger or forward-weighted stick automatically makes someone a powerful drummer. It can alter rebound, reach and the amount of effort a stroke seems to need, but it cannot organize the motion. A tight grip can still choke the sound, rush the recovery and make every dynamic level feel identical.

Test dynamics before buying

Use the sticks you already own and set a metronome to 72 BPM. Play eight single strokes at a whisper, eight at a comfortable speaking level and eight firmly. Keep shoulders loose and let the stick return after every note. Record the exercise; even spacing matters more than maximum volume.

Next, play four bars with snare backbeats on two and four. Use centre hits for three bars, then clean rimshots in bar four without squeezing harder. If another stick size is safely available, repeat and compare control, rebound and cymbal definition—not which pair sounds loudest. The useful stick is the one that helps your intended music stay consistent.

How Vince teaches it

Vince would start with the student’s current level and a song that needs either subtle articulation or heavier accents. He would diagnose whether uneven dynamics come from grip pressure, stroke height, weak rebound, tension or an unsuitable balance. Vince would isolate one hand, simplify the rhythm and adapt the tempo or stick before rebuilding timing, technique, coordination and sound step by step.

Bring your current sticks and one troublesome groove to private drum lessons with Vince in Montreal or online. Beginners can learn a relaxed rebound; advanced drummers can refine rimshot consistency without sacrificing softer notes. Start lessons with Vince to identify whether the real next step is equipment, motion or musical judgment.