RUSH Drummer Inks Endorsement Deal With SABIAN Cymbals

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, according to an official press release. Aside from switching exclusively to Sabian, Peart has also created his own signature line of Sabian cymbals, titled Paragon, that has led the company to record sales during the first quarter of 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.