This excerpt is taken from the complete article that appears in the June 2016 issue, which is available here.

Product Close-Up

Doc Sweeny

Midnight Edge and Narra King Snare Drums

Custom single-ply and hand-painted stave-shell drums.

Doc Sweeny is a high-end custom drum company whose mission is “to create works of drum art that will enhance the experience of drumming enthusiasts for years to come.” The San Diego–based company just wrapped up its freshman year of business and boasts the exquisite work of drumsmith Steve Stecher. The current lineup of options from Doc Sweeny includes one-of-a-kind single-ply and stave-shell snares constructed from countless types of wood, hardware, lug, and finish options.

We were sent two snare drums for review: a 5.5×13 single-ply elm in “midnight edge” finish ($750) and a 6.5×14 with a shell constructed from three different types of wood (figured narra with bubinga and maple accents) and featuring bubinga wood hoops with bird’s-eye maple inlays. This drum is called the Narra King and sells for $1,250.

Miguel Monroy

For the complete review, check out the June 2016 issue, which is available here.