{"id":52846,"date":"2025-03-28T20:30:02","date_gmt":"2025-03-29T03:30:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/?p=52846"},"modified":"2025-03-28T20:30:08","modified_gmt":"2025-03-29T03:30:08","slug":"gear-breakdown-steve-jordan-hears-incubus","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/gear-breakdown-steve-jordan-hears-incubus\/","title":{"rendered":"Gear Breakdown \u2013 Steve Jordan Hears Incubus For The First Time"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>When Steve Jordan sits behind a kit, every note matters. Known for his work with the <strong>Rolling Stones<\/strong>, <strong>John Mayer<\/strong>, and countless others, Steve\u2019s playing is equal parts restraint and authority \u2014 and that comes through loud and clear in this first-time listen and play-through of <em>&#8220;Wish You Were Here&#8221; by Incubus<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Steve Jordan Hears Incubus For The First Time\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Zddag1dmMsc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Jordan\u2019s gear choices reflect his refined, old-school-meets-modern taste. In his <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Zddag1dmMsc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Drumeo YouTube <\/a>Performance, he blends a vintage foundation with precision-crafted <a href=\"#drums\">Drums<\/a>, <a href=\"#snares\">Snares<\/a> and <a href=\"#cymbals\">Cymbals<\/a> that shimmer with character.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This Gear Breakdown looks at what he used in the session \u2014 and how you can recreate his setup with alternates for products that are not available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"drums\">\ud83e\udd41 Drums<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gretsch Round Badge Kit (1960s) \u2014 Tangerine Glass Sparkle<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>12&#8243; x 8&#8243; Rack Tom<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>14&#8243; x 14&#8243; Floor Tom<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>20&#8243; x 14&#8243; Bass Drum<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This vintage Gretsch kit oozes vibe and character, delivering that warm, dry, and resonant tone you can only get from old shells. The small bass drum keeps things tight, while the toms project a smooth, buttery tone \u2014 perfect for Steve\u2019s laid-back groove.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Try This Instead:<\/strong><br>\ud83c\udfaf <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/kOZAJL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gretsch USA Custom 3-Piece Shell Pack<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/gretsch_drums_usa_custom_18_wmp.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<br>This modern take on the classic Round Badge kits brings that same 6-ply maple\/gum shell construction and iconic tone \u2014 available brand new, with the same soul.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"snares\">\ud83e\udd41 Snare Drums<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Yamaha 13&#8243; x 7&#8243; Steve Jordan Signature Snare (Bamboo)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>While Steve used his Yamaha signature bamboo snare for this video, that model can be tough to find. Below is a list of 13-inch snares to help you find the one that will suit your style and budget while giving you that tight, responsive crack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfaf <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/kOZPjv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">13&#8243; Snares<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/search_dir.html?sw=13+inch+snare+drum&amp;smcs=539e87_2050?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1940s Ludwig Black Beauty<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>This is vintage royalty. Thick, dark, and juicy \u2014 the tone of this snare cuts through in the most musical way imaginable. Used sparingly, but unmistakably Steve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Closest Modern Option:<\/strong><br>\ud83c\udfaf <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/DynaAy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ludwig Black Beauty 6.5&#215;14 Snare<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/ludwig_lb417_14x65_black_beauty.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<br>Same brass shell, same dry bark. The modern ones may be more consistent, but they still sing with that classic Black Beauty voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cymbals\">\ud83e\udd41 Cymbals (Paiste)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hi-Hats: 17&#8243; Masters Dark Crash over 17&#8243; Formula 602 Modern Essentials Crash<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Not your everyday hi-hat combo \u2014 this is all Steve. By stacking two dark crash cymbals, he gets a washy, airy, and textured hat sound that\u2019s as expressive as his playing. These hats respond beautifully to dynamics and sit perfectly in the pocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfaf <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/55Yzmn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paiste 17&#8243; Masters Dark Crash<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/paiste_17_masters_dark_crash.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<br>\ud83c\udfaf <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/Bnbke9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paiste 17&#8243; Formula 602 ME Crash<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/paiste_17_602_mod_essentials_crash.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crash 1: 20&#8243; Masters Dark Crash<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>This crash brings a deep, moody wash with controlled sustain. It\u2019s perfect for adding drama without harshness. Steve uses it like punctuation \u2014 accenting with purpose, never excess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfaf <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/bO2QvB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paiste 20&#8243; Masters Dark Crash<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/paiste_20_masters_dark_crash.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crash 2: 19&#8243; Formula 602 Modern Essentials Crash<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>This one blends vintage warmth with modern shimmer. It\u2019s a versatile crash with a fast response, giving Steve the option to go from subtle textures to full accents with ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfaf <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/2aM7XD\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paiste 19&#8243; Formula 602 ME Crash<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/paiste_19_602_mod_essentials_crash.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">China: 18&#8243; Twenty Series Thin China<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Trashy, thin, and explosive \u2014 this china is used for added color and energy in the performance. It has a soft decay and just enough grit to cut through without overwhelming the mix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfaf Try this alternate: <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/qzZoNn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paiste&nbsp;Signature Thin China Cymbal &#8211; 18 inches<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/paiste_signatureline_18_thinchina.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ride: 22&#8243; Masters Dry Crisp Ride<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Dry, articulate, and complex \u2014 a ride that stays out of the way but rewards players who know how to draw out tone. Steve coaxes magic from this one with every tap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfaf <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/RGmELN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paiste 22&#8243; Masters Dry Crisp Ride<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/paiste_20_masters_dark_crisp_ride.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udde0 The Takeaway<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Steve Jordan doesn\u2019t play drums \u2014 he plays songs. He\u2019s listening, responding, and shaping the groove with feel and finesse even on a first listen. His gear choices support that: warm, dry tones; vintage character; and a cymbal setup that encourages sonic exploration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/28145323\/Screenshot-2025-03-28-at-1.53.51%E2%80%AFPM-1024x577.png\" alt=\"Steve Jordan Gear Breakdown\" class=\"wp-image-52851\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Inspired by Steve\u2019s groove? It all starts with dynamic control, musical space, and playing with intention. If you\u2019re looking to recreate his sound, you can find this gear at <a href=\"https:\/\/sweetwater.sjv.io\/LK4EkL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sweetwater<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomannmusic.com\/?offid=1&amp;affid=857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thomann<\/a> if you are overseas. If this video lit a spark to start drumming (or sharpen your chops), take the next step and try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/trial?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=&amp;utm_term=drumeo&amp;utm_campaign=stevejordan\">Drumeo, free for 7 Days.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>*This article contains affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission from the product seller if you make a purchase. For more info, check out our<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/privacy#affiliate-disclosure\"><em> privacy page.<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When Steve Jordan sits behind a kit, every note matters. Known for his work with the Rolling Stones, John Mayer, and countless others, Steve\u2019s playing is equal parts restraint and authority \u2014 and that comes through loud and clear in this first-time listen and play-through of &#8220;Wish You Were Here&#8221; by Incubus. Jordan\u2019s gear choices [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":174,"featured_media":52855,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4019,4020],"tags":[9,4082,4085,4084,4087,4088,4083,4086],"class_list":["post-52846","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drummers","category-gear","tag-drumeo","tag-gear-breakdown","tag-gretsch","tag-hears-a-song","tag-ludwig","tag-paiste","tag-steve-jordan","tag-yamaha"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52846","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/174"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=52846"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52846\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":52879,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52846\/revisions\/52879"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/52855"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=52846"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=52846"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=52846"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}