Mario Duplantier's Drum Kit & Gear Setup — Gojira's Sound Explained | MetalForge

Frequently Asked Questions

What drums does Mario Duplantier use?

Mario Duplantier currently plays Tama drums — specifically the Starclassic Bubinga series — for both touring and recording with Gojira. His current configuration features dual 22" x 18" bass drums (played independently, not as a double pedal), three rack toms (10", 12", 13"), and two floor toms (16" and 18"). Tama has been his drum brand throughout his recorded career, from early records like From Mars to Sirius through landmark Gojira albums including The Way of All Flesh, L'Enfant Sauvage, and Magma.

What cymbals does Mario Duplantier use?

Mario Duplantier currently endorses and plays Zildjian cymbals, using the K Custom and A Custom series for their combination of dark complexity and cutting brightness. His setup includes 14" K Sweet Hi-Hats, a range of K Custom and A Custom crashes (17", 18", 19"), a 21" Z Custom Mega Bell Ride, an 18" K Custom China, and splash cymbals. Zildjian has defined his cymbal sound throughout his career, on Gojira's classic albums from From Mars to Sirius through Fortitude.

How is Gojira's drum sound achieved?

Gojira's drum sound is a product of both Mario Duplantier's gear choices and the band's self-produced recording approach. Mario uses Tama drums with Remo drumheads and Zildjian K Custom/A Custom cymbals; the kit is recorded by Joe Duplantier at their Silver Chord Studio in New York using close-miked shells, minimal processing, and a mix philosophy that places drums physically at the center of the arrangement. The Tama Starclassic Bubinga shells' projection and the Zildjian cymbals' dark complexity complement Joe's guitar tone. Equally important is Mario's playing approach: independent dual bass drums, tribal tom patterns, and dynamic control across the full spectrum from near-silence to full-kit assault.

What drumheads does Mario Duplantier use?

Mario Duplantier uses Remo drumheads on his Tama kit — specifically Remo Emperor Coated heads on the batter side and Remo Ambassador heads on the resonant side. These heads are selected for their attack response and consistency under heavy playing conditions — qualities essential for the long headline sets Gojira plays at major festivals.

What sticks does Mario Duplantier play?

Mario Duplantier plays his own signature model with Tama sticks. The Mario Duplantier Signature Sticks are custom-designed for the balance of mass and control required by Gojira's demanding live show — heavier than a standard 5A for powerful accents, with a taper and tip suited to the ghost note articulation Mario uses in atmospheric passages.