Author: Bruce Parry

THREE DAYS GRACE DRUMMER NEIL SANDERSON JOINS GON BOPS ARTIST ROSTER

Posted on by Bruce Parry

GON BOPS has announced that Neil Sanderson, drummer for Canadian Platinum-selling recording artists Three Days Grace, has joined its growing artist roster. Listing his influences as John Bonham, Danny Carey and Phil Rudd, Neil plays a style that’s dynamic, and groove-heavy. Like the wide-open approach he takes to the kit, Neil leads a life that’s rich with nuance.

Although best known as a drumset player, Neil is a talented and dynamic multi-instrumentalist. Gon Bops Cowbells, Shakers and Tambourines are an essential part of his set-up. Gon Bops instruments will also play a significant role in his songwriting and studio work.

“I’m thrilled to be playing Gon Bops,” says Sanderson. “It’s a legendary brand, and I’m truly impressed with the design and craftsmanship. I’m really looking forward to getting more GON BOPS instruments into my studio.”

“It’s great to have Neil join the GON BOPS family,” adds GON BOPS International Sales Manager Terry Ryan. “He’s a great drummer, a wonderful individual, and having him on our roster certainly strengthens our brand.”

When he’s not touring and recording with Three Days Grace, Neil lives happily in Ontario, Canada.

INDUSTRY VETERAN RICH MANGICARO HEADS UP WEST COAST AR POST

Posted on by Bruce Parry

Gon Bops is pleased to announce the appointment of Rich Mangicaro as West Coast Artist Relations Manager. Throughout his successful career, Rich has worked extensively on all sides of the music industry. Most notably, for 19 years he served as Paiste America Director of Artist Relations and Education, in addition to a stint as one of the company’s Marketing Directors.

Rich is a published music journalist and his work has been featured in Modern Drummer, Drumhead, UK publications Rhythm and Drummer, and France’s Batteur. As a writer, producer and director of AV and print content, Rich has worked with Graham Nash, Chris Hillman and others.

As a musician, Rich has performed and recorded with a number of artists, most notably Jeff Bridges, Michael McDonald, Billy Idol, Jackson Brown and more. He continues as a member of the Glenn Frey-Joe Walsh band.

“We are happy to Rich have join the Gon Bops AR program,” says Gon Bops CEO Andy Zildjian. “Rich carries a multi-dimensional portfolio rich in experience and accomplishments and we’re looking forward to having him on our team.”

Currently a resident of Los Angeles, Rich will assume his new role effective immediately.

GON BOPS ENJOYS SUCCESSFUL 2012 PASIC SHOW!

Posted on by Bruce Parry

SONY DSCAlthough Tropical Storm Sandy created major havoc and devastated large portions of the East Coast of the US, most MI manufacturers were able to display and maintained a presence at PASIC, held in Austin, TX on November 1-3, 2012. While traffic was light, no doubt due to the cancellation of most flights out of the East Coast, attendees were very enthusiastic about the Gon Bops instruments on display on the booth.

“It’s rewarding to see our instruments so received by the great bunch of kids from music programs all over the US and Canada,” says Gon Bops Marketing Manager Luis Cardoso. “Not only are they great players, they’re very smart consumers to boot, and they appreciate the detail and design innovation that goes into every one of our instruments.”

Apart from a full line of Peruvian Cajons, including the latest El Toro and Fiesta models, Gon Bops also displayed a wide selection of bells, hand percussion, congas and bongo drums. Connect with Gon Bops on Facebook (http://www.Facebook.com/GonBops) for live updates from PASIC, NAMM, MusikMesse and other shows throughout the year!