
SABIAN, the world’s leading cymbal manufacturer, has added legendary
drummer Neil Peart of Rush to its stellar line-up of artists who play SABIAN
cymbals. Aside from switching exclusively to SABIAN, Peart has also created
his own signature line of SABIAN cymbals, titled Paragon, which will be available
to consumers beginning in Spring 2004, according to SABIAN President, Dan Barker.
“Our entire family at SABIAN, and particularly our manufacturing team,
is thrilled to partner with Neil Peart,” said Barker. “The fact that
Neil’s decision to switch to SABIAN was entirely based on the recommendations
of other drummers as well as his preference for our brand’s sound truly
illustrates the quality of our cymbals.”
Peart, who cites two other longtime SABIAN players, Phil Collins and Billy
Cobham, among his biggest influences, switched to SABIAN after making a visit
to the SABIAN factory where he spent time selecting sounds for his new setup.
“I couldn’t argue with my ears – SABIAN cymbals simply sounded
better than what I had been using,” said Peart. “While on the factory
tour I was incredibly impressed by the many levels of craftsmanship that went
into each cymbal. The tradition of alchemists and artisans definitely survives
at SABIAN!”
In addition to researching cymbals during his factory tour, Peart also collaborated
on the development of a new range of cymbals. Hand crafted from pure, Natural
Finish B20 bronze, Paragon cymbals combine elements of various SABIAN models
and provide a new dimension of sound and playability. In addition to a unique
and fresh sound, Paragon cymbals feature a new aesthetic look with the application
of custom gold logo stamping.
“Neil had a very definite idea of the look and sound he was seeking, which
was a subtle and tasteful look on cymbals that responded with both sensitivity
and power,” said SABIAN Master Specialist Mark Love. “The basis for
this new range is our popular AA series, but Paragon’s special design includes
a mix of AA, AAX, and Hand Hammered features that creates a combination of power
and sensitivity that will enable drummer to receive accurate responses at any
volume.”
In addition to individual models, Paragon is also available in ‘Sonically
Matched’ Performance Set (14” Hats, 16” Crash, 22” Ride)
and Effects Pack (8” Splash, 10” Splash, 19” Chinese). Paragon
cymbals are quality protected by SABIAN’s One-Year Warranty.
SABIAN is a privately owned manufacturer, marketer and distributor of cymbal
equipment headquartered in Meductic, New Brunswick, Canada. Utilizing centuries-old
craftsmanship and expertise, SABIAN was founded in 1982 and is one of the most
successful and influential cymbal companies in the world as a result of its
patented ‘Sonically Matched’ custom cymbal technology and all-star
lineup of endorsing drummers. With approximately 100 employees worldwide, SABIAN
maintains facilities in Meductic, Burbank, California and Marshfield, Massachusetts.
For further information about Sabian or its products, please visit the company
online at www.sabian.com.
For media inquiries, or to set up an interview with a SABIAN representative,
please contact Formula at (310) 578-7050.