I am so excited here! Paul Francis is well known throughout the cymbal world as a true master of cymbal creation. Paul's experience goes back decades and he learned his craft under the guidance of past cymbal masters. Now, Paul has branched out and started his own cymbal company, "Cymbal Craftsman". Proudly made by hand, by Paul himself, these cymbals embody the knowledge and creativity Paul developed over the years. Each cymbal is hand hammered by Paul and each one is a superb creation. In a world that is crowded with so many cymbal makers it is refreshing to see someone like Paul bring us back to the core of why we love cymbals so much: The Sound, and just as importantly, the care taken to craft each one carefully by hand. Each cymbal has its own unique "voice", which gives the drummer so many choices when looking for a specific sound and "feel" in a cymbal. This is no "mass production" process. This is true craftsmanship and a commitment to producing superb instruments that will bring pleasure to drummers (and their bandmates) for decades to come. Of course, we'll carry Paul's cymbals in my IL and NYC stores as well as our Fork's Drum Closet shop in Nashville. Paul will also sign each cymbal under the bell.

I have not one or two, but 62 cymbals and these are available now for pre-purchase. They will be in my hands here in IL circa 5/10 and will be prominently displayed in my booth at the upcoming Chicago Drum Show 5/21 and 5/22 as well as in my IL shop the day before and day after the show (if we have any left after the show!!). No finer way to kick off Paul's new initiative than the Chicago Drum Show! Here is the list:

All hand hammered: 14" high hats, 4 pairs $618/pr, 15" hi hats, 4 pairs $651/pr; 18" crash/rides, 6 at $423 ea; 19" crash/rides, 5 at $518 ea; 20" rides, 17 at $559 ea; 21" rides, 5 at $621 ea; 22" rides 20 at $621 ea; 26" ride, 1 at $1100.

Contact me now at vintagedrums@aol.com to pre-order. And, make sure you get to the Chicago Show if at all possible!!