<![CDATA[CosmoMusic.ca Blog]]> Sat, 18 May 2013 23:23:10 +0000 en hourly 1 <![CDATA[Come Feel Like You Did The First Time You Played Drums]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 10:01:36 +0000 One day only!  Come to Cosmo Music to see the new Made in Japan Tama STAR drums.

STAR is the new flagship line for TAMA drums. It takes the knowledge and research they cultivated for the Starclassic series to the next level, by reexamining every detail to enhance shell resonance. STAR drums are available in two shell types - Bubinga, with its rich, deep tone; and Maple, which offers a bright and open sound.
STAR drums introduce many exciting new features, such as the "Super Resonant Mounting System", which improves resonance, unique shell constructions, and the Quick-Lock Tom Bracket, a ground-breaking memory lock system.
STAR drums are the culmination of intense research and development, combined with the knowledge and expertise of their skilled Japanese craftsmen. The results are in the sound.

Dan Ellison from Tama will have 2 kits and all of the STAR snares on site to touch, see, play and feel the most innovative drum kit of 2013.

When: Thursday, February 28th
Time: 3pm - 8pm
Where: Drummers Den inside Cosmo Music

Come feel like you did the first time you played drums.

New Tama Star Drums

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<![CDATA[NAMM 2013: Day 1 Round-up]]> Thu, 24 Jan 2013 17:49:16 +0000 And it has begun! Here are a few things we've spotted so far today: Elton John among a group performing live (and you can watch it), Fender basses and a whatchamacallit, Jackson Guitars, Peavey's next generation, Sennheiser & Shure launches more wireless, Pigtronix pedal, Digitech JamMan SoloXT, Korg MS-20 Mini + more goodies, M-Audio, Akai, Numark, Levy’s straps, Eventide H9 Stomp re-thunk, Kala Banjo Uke, Presonus, DW Drums, from the floor and pre-NAMM Suhr party pics (and breathe).

 

Yamaha’s 125th anniversary
To commemorate Yamaha’s 125th anniversary, a concert featuring Elton John will be held at the Hyperion Theater is Disneyland California will be streamed live for the world to watch on January 25th at 8 pm PST. Joining Elton onstage will be Amy Grant, Chaka Khan, Dave Grusin, Earth, Wind & Fire, James Newton Howard, Leogun, Lucy Schwartz, Michael McDonald, Sarah McLachlan, Sinbad and Toto. Legendary bass player Nathan East will serve as music director. Watch it live here.
Yamaha’s 125th anniversary, a concert featuring Elton John

 

Fender American Vintage Series Basses
Historic Benchmarks, American Originals. The resurrection of vintage 50’s tooling allowed for the recreation of these masterpieces. Take a look for yourself!

Fender Mando-Strat… Whatchamacallit?
The classic Fender electric mandolin returns as the new Mando-Strat. This highly distinctive and charmingly diminutive instrument evokes the Fender electric four-string mandolins of the 1950s and ’60s, with an updated and improved design for modern players.
Fender Mando-Strat… Whatchamacallit

 

New Jackson Guitars for 2013
A plethora of new guitars for Jackson in 2013, 20 new models in fact!

New Artist Signature models include a Chris Broderick Pro Series Soloist™ 6 and 7, Corey Beaulieu USA Signature KV6 and KV7 and Dave Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass.
Jackson Chris Broderick Pro Series Soloist™ 6 and 7Jackson Corey Beaulieu USA Signature KV6 and KV7Jackson Dave Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass

New Pro Series models include a Pro DKA Dinky™ 7/8 and Pro DK2HT, Pro DK2MHT, Pro DK2QHT, and Pro DK2MQHT.
Jackson New Pro Series models Jackson New Pro Series models

New USA Select series models include USA Select B7MG, USA Select B7MG Deluxe, USA Select B8MG, and USA Select B8MG Deluxe
Jackson new USA Select series models

New JS Series includes a JS22-7 DKA Dinky, JS32-7Q Dinky, JS32-8Q Dinky, JS3QM Concert™ Bass, and JS3VQM Concert Bass
Jackson new JS Series

 

Peavey introduces the next generation ValveKing® Series
The original award-winning ValveKing line was designed to feature all of the tonal qualities and attention-to-detail circuitry of a boutique amplifier, but with a price point real working guitarists could afford. With the next generation of ValveKing, Peavey has taken this idea even further and delivered one of its most tonally sophisticated lines of amps yet, tailored for the versatile needs of today's working guitarists.
Peavey Introduces the Next Generation ValveKing® Series

Peavey debuts new Vypyr® VIP Series Variable Instrument Performance™ Amplifiers
The world’s first Variable Instrument Performance™ amplifiers. After the award-winning original Peavey Vypyr series set the new standard for modeling guitar amplifiers, the Vypyr VIP series introduces an entirely new level of technological sophistication and tonal versatility. With the Vypyr VIP series, Peavey introduces the world’s first amp that contains Bass guitar, Acoustic guitar and Electric guitar amplifier models. With Peavey’s Variable Instrument Input™, a single amp can provide amplification for a variety of instrument types.
Peavey Debuts New Vypyr® VIP Series Variable Instrument Performance™ Amplifiers

 

Sennheiser launches digital 9000 series wireless
Digital 9000 wireless, with uncompressed digital audio with up to 40 channels within a 24 megahertz range – bodypack and mic transmitter options available.
Sennheiser Launches digital 9000 Series Wireless

 

Shure unveils new BLX and GLX digital wireless series
Adding to Shure’s already impressive lineup, the BLX series grants great performance at an affordable price, while the GLX series adds its Digital Audio Clarity technology with rechargeable batteries from upper end units.

 

Pigtronix introduces Quantum Time modulator pedal
Pigtronix introduces Quantum Time Modulator pedal for Winter NAMM 2013. It produces a parallel universe of analog time stretching effects with only three knobs and a single switch. Reflecting the fundamental principals of modern atomic physics in pedal form, the Pigtronix Quantum can be in any number of places at once and will change in response to both input and observation.
Pigtronix Introduces Quantum Time Modulator Pedal

 

Digitech introduces JamMan SoloXT
DigiTech’s JamMan Solo XT brings you the definitive stereo looping experience. Build up the energy in your performance and find new inspiration with virtually limitless loops. Seamless transitions between looped phrases make the JamMan Solo XT an invaluable tool for composing and performing.
Digitech Introduces JamMan SoloXT

 

Korg MS-20 Mini – Monophonic Analog Synthesizer, the classic MS-20 recreated in mini size!
An analog synthesizer featuring the original circuitry from 1978. Korg’s MS-20 monophonic synthesizer, first introduced in 1978, is still a coveted instrument to this day, thanks to its thick, robust sound, its powerful, iconic analog filter, and its versatile patching options. Over 300,000 people have enjoyed the distinct MS-20 sounds from the original, from Korg’s MS-20 plug-in synth, or the iMS-20 iPad app.
Korg MS-20 Mini – Monophonic Analog Synthesizer, The classic MS-20 –recreated in mini size!

Korg debuts KAOSSILATOR PRO+
Korg exhibits the latest addition to their acclaimed Kaoss family: the Kaossilator Pro+ Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer/Loop Recorder. The Kaossilator Pro+ is packed with 250 programs, including more of the cutting-edge synth sounds that Korg is known for. Like all Kaoss-based products, this versatile new instrument offers creative musical possibilities and intuitive control over multiple parameters simply by moving a finger across the X-Y touchpad.
Korg Debuts KAOSSILATOR PRO+

Korg’s new KP3+ KAOSS PAD
Yet another addition to the series: the KP3+ Dynamic Effect/Sampler. The KP3+ provides even more creative power for live and in-studio use while retaining the intuitive and user-friendly Kaoss touchpad interface. It offers the original KP3 effects, sounds and features, plus 22 all-new, diverse effect programs for everything from various EDM genres to rock and beyond. All are complemented by an enhanced, intuitive pad illumination system.
Korg’s new KP3+ KAOSS PAD

Korg announces Pitchblack Portable
Korg announces the newest addition to the Pitchblack family of tuners, the Pitchblack Portable Handheld Polyphonic Tuner for Guitar and Bass. This new, compact tuner offers convenient tuning by enabling all strings to be tuned simultaneously.
Korg Announces Pitchblack Portable

The all new Korg SP-280 Digital Piano
The newest model in its series of Digital Pianos, the SP-280. It faithfully recreates the experience of playing a genuine Concert Grand in a beautifully designed digital piano that's ideal for use at home or on stage. With 30 sounds in total, plus customizable ambience effects, the SP-280 is versatile enough for a wide variety of applications.
The All New Korg SP-280 Digital Piano

Korg announces King Korg Analog Modeling Synth
Korg USA announces the King Korg analog modeling synth. Focused on live performance, it features Korg's new XMT (Xpanded Modeling Technology) engine, with many types of oscillators and filters that can accurately model sought-after vintage analog synths. With its controls laid out in easily identifiable sections, King Korg delivers the unique characteristics of a dedicated synthesizer, while remaining approachable to players who are new to synthesizers. It not only shines on stage with high quality sound, but also with a champagne gold finish befitting its royal name.
Korg announces King Korg Analog Modeling Synth

 

M-Audio launches assortment of new products for 2013
New products from M-Audio include the new Axiom AIR 25, 49 & 61 keyboard controllers as well as the AIR Mini 32. The new M-Track, M-Track Plus and MTrack Quad 2-4 channel USB Audio/Midi interfaces as well the new M3-8 three-way active studio monitors are great new additions to the M-Audio lineup.
m-audio 2013

 

New Akai Professional products for the masses!
New products from Akai include the MPX8 SD sample pad controller, the compact MAX25 and MAX49 USB/MIDI/CV controllers and a slew of new MPC – Music Production Controller products including the Renaissance, Studio, Fly, Software and iMPC App for iPad.
akai 2013

 

Numark’s new gear for 2013
Numark releases all sorts of new performance DJ controllers including the Mixtrack II, Mixtrack Pro II and Mixdeck Quad, as well as the iDJ Pro and Live II. The 4-Channel NS7 II and the wireless handheld Midi DJ Controller – Orbit.
Numark 2013

 

Levy’s introduces new LOXX series straps
Using premium garment leathers and using LOXX strap locks, these new straps are the definition of functional beauty!
Levy’s introduces new LOXX series straps

 

Eventide H9 Stomp – Stompbox Re-Thunk!
The H9 delivers Eventide's acclaimed sound and can run all of Eventide's stompbox effects. It features a simple, one-knob user interface and also connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to iPods, iPhones and iPads for creating and managing presets, live control and in-app algorithm purchases.
Eventide H9 Stomp – Stompbox Re-Thunk!

 

Kala Ukuleles presents the Banjo Uke!
Kala's banjo ukes will be available in soprano and concert sizes and are distinctively appointed with a luxuriant black satin finish, Remo Weatherking Banjo Head, deluxe geared tuners with black buttons, rosewood fingerboard, maple bridge with ebony cap, and a closed back design.
Kala Ukuleles presents the Banjo Uke

 

Presonus shows up with new Capture 2.0 Live Recording Software
The new software adds additional major features that come along with a new look! Version 2 further streamlines workflow—one of Capture’s strengths—and adds significant new safety features to an already remarkably stable recording platform.
Presonus shows up with new Capture 2.0 Live Recording Software

 

dw adds Concrete snare to their popular Collector’s Series Specialty Snares
Concrete drums are perfectly suited for both live and studio applications and provide a decidedly different tonal quality than either wood or metal. The thin, cast 5.5mm shell includes a standard 45 degree cut bearing edge and snare beds.
dw adds Concrete snare to their popular Collector’s Series Specialty Snares

 

Pre-NAMM Suhr factory party
We always make sure to visit our friends at Suhr when we attend NAMM - last night's Pre-NAMM Factory party didn't disappoint as Doug Aldrich, Andy Wood & Pete Thorn rocked it. Check out our pics on Facebook.
Pre-NAMM Suhr Factory Party [Jan 2013] - Facebook

 

Pics from the floor of the Anaheim Convention Center
Check out our pics on Facebook.
NAMM 2013 pics from the floor

 

NAMM is a very exciting trip for all of us and we want to share it with all of you. So our pledge to you is to give you as much of our experience through pictures, video and write ups so that you too have something to look forward to this time every year!

So visit us often!

Like us on Facebook - posting daily pics from the floor
Facebook

Follow us on Twitter - tweeting up-to-the minute discoveries
Twitter

Watch us on YouTube - posting daily videos from the floor
YouTube

Follow us on Instagram - posting up-to-the-minute captures
Instagram

Cosmo Music at The NAMM Show 2013

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<![CDATA[Roland V-Drum TD-15 Kit Review]]> Wed, 05 Dec 2012 11:48:38 +0000 Kyron takes a look at the feature packed Roland TD-15 V-Drum Kit!

Kits featured in this demo:
-Premium Kit
-Jazz
-Hip Hop (909)
-Custom Kit
-Ambient Kit

 

 

Drums & Percussion
905.770.5222 x320

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<![CDATA[Get a FREE Sabian Cymbal!]]> Fri, 30 Nov 2012 20:41:17 +0000 Sabian Canadian Holiday Rebate Offer!

During the month of December 2012, spend $150 or more in-store on qualifying
SABIAN cast cymbals and receive a FREE cymbal!

Here’s how it works:
1. Spend $150 or more in-store on qualifying SABIAN cast cymbals
2. Visit www.sabianrebate.com/holiday and fill out online rebate form
3. Write the transaction code from step 2 above on a copy of your receipt and mail it to:
SABIAN Canadian
Holiday Rebate Offer, 219 Main Street, Meductic, NB, Canada, E6H 2L5

It’s that simple! Sabian will mail the cymbal you selected to Cosmo Music and they’ll call you to pick it up. Offer valid in Canada only.

For complete terms and conditions please visit www.sabianrebate.com/holiday

Sabian Canadian Holiday Rebate Offer! December 2012

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<![CDATA[Chad Wackerman Drum Clinic]]> Mon, 26 Nov 2012 16:31:39 +0000 Chad Wackerman is one of the most diverse and talented drummers of the jazz and rock scene. Having started his professional career in 1978 with the Bill Watrous band, his appetite for growth in the drumming community has continued since that time. His hard work has payed off in a currency of playing with the who's who of the music world. He has toured, recorded and influenced with the likes of Frank Zappa, Allan Holdsworth, Barbra Streisand, Steve Vai, Andy Summers, Men At Work, Ed Mann, Albert Lee, James Taylor, John Patitucci and the list goes on.

"Chad's drumming combines the power and conviction of rock with the sensitivity and finesse of jazz. His playing is remarkably free of predictable patterns and licks, relying instead on invention and interplay with the musicians around him." - Chad Wackerman.com The Official Site

As of late, he has joined forces with the Dave Matthews Band and will be in the Toronto area in December. We are extremely pleased to welcome this powerhouse of beats to our "little corner" of the music world.

Date: Tuesday, December 4th
Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Cosmopolitan Music Hall in Cosmo Music
Tickets: $10 in advance, $15 on show day.
Tickets can be purchased at the Cash Desk in the Atrium
For Online Ticket Click Here

Cosmo Music Chad Wackerman Drum Clinic: December 4, 2012

(Sponsored by Paiste)

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<![CDATA[Kenny Aronoff Joins Cosmo Music for a Mind Blowing Performance Clinic!]]> Tue, 02 Oct 2012 11:19:40 +0000 Blow your mind as THE Kenny Aronoff demonstrates his stylings in this performance clinic! Known for his musical contributions to John Mellencamp, The Smashing Pumpkins, Bob Seger, John Fogerty, The Rolling Stones, Alice Cooper, Santana and many, many more, Kenny is one of the world's most influential and in-demand drummers. For more info on Mr. Aronoff's illustrious career visit www.kennyaronoff.com

Date: Thursday, October 25, 2012
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Cosmopolitan Music Hall in Cosmo Music
Tickets: $10 in advance, $15 on show day
Seating is limited so get your tickets today!

Kenny Aronoff

Update:
Drummer Kenny Aronoff Live at Cosmo Music

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<![CDATA[Horacio 'El Negro' Hernandez Joins Cosmo Music this October!]]> Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:53:31 +0000 We are pleased to host Grammy Award winner & drummer extraordinaire Horacio 'El Negro' Hernandez in a unique performance clinic in our very own Cosmopolitan Music Hall. Mr. Hernandez is one of the world's most talented percussionists who has worked with McCoy Tyner & Michel Camilo on Jazz projects as well as Rock legends like Carlos Santana and Steve Winwood. Accompanying 'El Negro' are two of Canada's most influential musicians - Robi Botos on Keyboards and Louis Botos on Bass. Robi Botos is known for his work in the Jazz world here working along side of many local and international artists such as Chaka Khan, Al Jarreau, Michael & Andy Brecker, Molly Johnson and Branford Marsalis to name a few. With these three players, this will be a night to remember! Get your tickets early to avoid disappointment!

http://www.elnegro.com/index.php
http://robibotos.com/wordpress/

Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Cosmopolitan Music Hall, Cosmo Music
Tickets: $10 in advance, $15 on show day

Horacio Hernandez

UPDATE:
Checkout some video from the clinic!

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<![CDATA[It's a good time to start thinking about maintenance!]]> Fri, 31 Aug 2012 17:30:06 +0000 If you're bringing an idle or well played instrument out after a long summer, you should probably take some time to keep that instrument in good order. Ryan and Kyron give some tips on how to keep your guitar, band instrument, or drums in shape.

Tips for guitarists:

Tips for brass and woodwind players:

Tips for percussionists:

Remember, a few minutes or a few dollars spent now can save you a lot of hassle down the road. If you have any questions, feel free to ask any of our repair technicians or staff, they're more than willing to help out!

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<![CDATA[An In Depth Look at 5 High Quality Snare Drums]]> Thu, 09 Aug 2012 11:16:01 +0000 Kyron takes a look at 5 high quality snare drums offered at Cosmo Music, demonstrating each snare at different levels of tuning. The full video is below. Scroll down further for a quick look at each of the snare drums:

DW Edge Maple/Walnut
Material: Maple Top/Bottom and Walnut Centre
Size: 14"X6"
Shell Thickness: 1/2"
Hoops: 2.3mm Triple Flanged

Pearl Virgil Donati
Material: Maple/Birch
Size: 14"X5"
Shell Thickness: 8 ply (Outer: 4 ply Maple/ Inner: 4 ply Birch)
Hoops: MasterCast

Yamaha Sensitive Series
Material: Maple
Size: 14"X5.5"
Shell Thickness: 7 ply
Hoops: 4mm Diecast

DW Solid Stave Gon Bops Snare Drum
Material: Siam Oak
Size: 14"X5"
Shell Thickness: 1/2"
Hoops: 2.3mm Triple Flanged

Premier Modern Classic
Material: North American Maple
Size: 14"X4"
Shell Thickness: 6mm 6-ply
Hoops: 2.3mm Triple Flanged

Visit us at Cosmo Music to try out these fantastic snares!

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<![CDATA[Money For Metal! Bring your Broken Cymbals and Get a Discount!]]> Wed, 08 Aug 2012 15:58:09 +0000 Sabian and Cosmo Music present Money For Metal! From August 1-31, if you bring your broken cymbals of any brand to Cosmo Music, we'll give you $25 off the purchase of new SABIAN cymbals!

That’s right – this is a great opportunity to get something back for those cracked and broken cymbals you thought you’d have to throw away. During the month of August, bring us your old or broken cymbals – from any brand – and get $25 off brand new SABIAN cymbals. You’ll get one $25 credit for each broken cymbal you submit. Although you may submit as many cymbals for credit as you like, only one $25 credit may be redeemed for each new cymbal purchase.

*Valid only until August 31st
*Discount not applicable to online purchases
*Not applicable to purchase of SABIAN SR2 cymbals

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