I read a great post titled Surfing is Music by alan_m at Waves of Discontent today. Talking about craft, instruments, surfboards, etc. made me think of master drum maker Paul Bleifuss. He died of cancer last week after a nearly two-year battle. In addition to being an impeccable craftsman, Paul was also an incredible drummer. He was a very low-key guy and made only a handful of drumkits each year. His snare drums are among the finest made, and that is no exaggeration. A testament to Paul's craft, jazz legend Billy Higgins was playing Paul's drums in his later years.
I was extremely fortunate and honored to have Paul build me a drumkit a few years back. He was one of the nicest people you could meet and absolutely passionate about his craft. I have so much respect for those who make fine instruments (surfboards included). They make the world a better place by providing joy in a tangible form which then radiates more joy in ways too numerous to get into.
RIP, Paul Bleifuss. I'm honored to have known you. jb
3 comments:
Sorry to hear about his passing. I don't know anything about drum construction but that sounds like an incredible kit you have. I love my breaks, drum breaks included.
Thanks for the comment, Erik.
In the spirit of breaks, you gotta love the Dap Kings:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=_mzXJOTrSQs&mode=related&search=
you pretty much summed it up. Paul was a good man and a good friend.
Post a Comment