2016 has been a great year for PCS. A number of new and exciting things have happened and there is so much more in the works. Part of that growth, much of it in fact is due to the fantastic support from our customers. We like to think the stick speaks for itself, but having the very best of the best touting your cause is indeed reason to celebrate. It’s with that notion that we bring you this next interview with none other than the ever legendary JIMMY FREAKING BOWER as in THE Jimmy Bower, Down Jimmy Bower, Eyehategod Jimmy Bower, Superjoint Ritual Jimmy Bower, Crowbar, Corrosion of Conformity Jimmy Bower, sludge metal/metal guru and super scene supporter, guitarist, dad, husband, hell of a guy, friend, funny man, and probably a pretty good son too, Jimmy Bower—as a smitten fan I was honored to do this interview and I just want to thank you, Jimmy, for taking the time to provide such honest and genuine feedback. It’s because of people like you that good things work.
PCS Drumstick Blogger: You know Dave-O and play PCS, can you give me a little feedback on how you met and came to use the sticks?
Jimmy Bower, Down: I met Dave-O through Joey Gonzalez on tour with Superjoint Ritual. Joey had an appointment with Dave so I tagged along, curious to why this guy (Dave-O) would be out selling drumsticks like this, kind of door-to-door, concert-to-concert. When I met him and saw what he had, the sticks had tape on them, each individual stick was weighed, everything in terms of his presentation was very nice and organized. Dave was a super nice guy and easy to deal with, he listened too, he said things and pointed things out about the sticks that told me that not only was he a seasoned, skilled drummer, but he understood the very fine intricacies and details that only a drummer understands when it comes to sticks and gear. I was blown away by the design, very impressed by the O-Ring, as soon as I held the stick I knew he was on to something. They are very balanced and fit my hand like a glove. Plus, you just want to help a guy like that. Dave-O’s just an awesome guy. I bought some immediately and have been a loyal supporter since.
PCS Drumstick Blogger: How long have you been playing drums? And, what are some key elements you can relate about your drumming education, training, or expertise to why you play PCS exclusively?
Jimmy Bower, Eyehategod: I’ve been into music and playing since I was a kid. I started playing for the most part when I was very young, but really started to get serious when I was 15. Much like then, even now I play all the time. Back in the day I remember I used to tape my sticks, I tried gloves, we cut the handles up with razors, anything I could do to keep the sticks in my hands. When you’re playing as hard and as fast as you can you find out very quick that the drum stick will break and/or fly out of your hand. That gets costly too, so early on in my training I began looking for a solution to this problem. I was completely shocked when I found PCS. And, I don’t say this lightly, Dave-O’s idea, his invention here is genius. He’s completely changed the game for me, any drummer, and I would definitely recommend these sticks to any friend.
PCS Drumstick Blogger: What are the key features of PCS that you like?
Jimmy Bower, Superjoint Ritual: I mentioned before how Dave-O weighs each stick and of course the O-Ring. Another personal preference is the finish. I prefer no finish versus the slicker clear coat, but that’s just me. I also like how they don’t break. Because of the finish and process he uses they allow you to play in different environments too, even if your hands are clammy you can still hold onto PCS. They also give you great pivot points, I tend to lay back on the stick, but if I want to get up on it I know to grab first ring. I tend to play butt end too so I play middle position with the second O-Ring in the middle of my palm and back meat of my hand touching the third one. The fact that I can accurately gauge where I’m placing my hand is a huge benefit.
PCS Drumstick Blogger: In one sentence, what would you say to any new or potential drummer who might be interested in PCS?
Buy the sticks, trust me, buy the sticks!
PCS Drumstick Blogger: I'd like to finish with a rumor, but I hear breakage wise you still have that original bundle. That's pretty amazing. Someday I'd like to do a follow up interview on just that! Thanks again, Jimmy, for the great interview! We'll talk soon!
PCS Drumstick Blogger: You know Dave-O and play PCS, can you give me a little feedback on how you met and came to use the sticks?
Jimmy Bower, Down: I met Dave-O through Joey Gonzalez on tour with Superjoint Ritual. Joey had an appointment with Dave so I tagged along, curious to why this guy (Dave-O) would be out selling drumsticks like this, kind of door-to-door, concert-to-concert. When I met him and saw what he had, the sticks had tape on them, each individual stick was weighed, everything in terms of his presentation was very nice and organized. Dave was a super nice guy and easy to deal with, he listened too, he said things and pointed things out about the sticks that told me that not only was he a seasoned, skilled drummer, but he understood the very fine intricacies and details that only a drummer understands when it comes to sticks and gear. I was blown away by the design, very impressed by the O-Ring, as soon as I held the stick I knew he was on to something. They are very balanced and fit my hand like a glove. Plus, you just want to help a guy like that. Dave-O’s just an awesome guy. I bought some immediately and have been a loyal supporter since.
PCS Drumstick Blogger: How long have you been playing drums? And, what are some key elements you can relate about your drumming education, training, or expertise to why you play PCS exclusively?
Jimmy Bower, Eyehategod: I’ve been into music and playing since I was a kid. I started playing for the most part when I was very young, but really started to get serious when I was 15. Much like then, even now I play all the time. Back in the day I remember I used to tape my sticks, I tried gloves, we cut the handles up with razors, anything I could do to keep the sticks in my hands. When you’re playing as hard and as fast as you can you find out very quick that the drum stick will break and/or fly out of your hand. That gets costly too, so early on in my training I began looking for a solution to this problem. I was completely shocked when I found PCS. And, I don’t say this lightly, Dave-O’s idea, his invention here is genius. He’s completely changed the game for me, any drummer, and I would definitely recommend these sticks to any friend.
PCS Drumstick Blogger: What are the key features of PCS that you like?
Jimmy Bower, Superjoint Ritual: I mentioned before how Dave-O weighs each stick and of course the O-Ring. Another personal preference is the finish. I prefer no finish versus the slicker clear coat, but that’s just me. I also like how they don’t break. Because of the finish and process he uses they allow you to play in different environments too, even if your hands are clammy you can still hold onto PCS. They also give you great pivot points, I tend to lay back on the stick, but if I want to get up on it I know to grab first ring. I tend to play butt end too so I play middle position with the second O-Ring in the middle of my palm and back meat of my hand touching the third one. The fact that I can accurately gauge where I’m placing my hand is a huge benefit.
PCS Drumstick Blogger: In one sentence, what would you say to any new or potential drummer who might be interested in PCS?
Buy the sticks, trust me, buy the sticks!
PCS Drumstick Blogger: I'd like to finish with a rumor, but I hear breakage wise you still have that original bundle. That's pretty amazing. Someday I'd like to do a follow up interview on just that! Thanks again, Jimmy, for the great interview! We'll talk soon!