Jason Bittner Drum Kit & Gear Setup — Overkill & Shadows Fall Drummer | MetalForge
Jason Bittner (born August 19, 1970, in Waterbury, Connecticut) is an American drummer best known for his work with thrash metal legends Overkill and metalcore pioneers Shadows Fall. His powerful, versatile drumming has made him one of the most respected drummers in the American heavy metal scene. Bittner rose to prominence with Shadows Fall during the early 2000s metalcore explosion, contributing to Grammy-nominated albums. Following Shadows Fall's hiatus, he joined Flotsam and Jetsam before becoming Overkill's drummer in 2017, continuing the legacy of one of thrash metal's most enduring bands.
Complete biography of Jason Bittner, drummer for Overkill and Shadows Fall. Explore his career spanning thrash metal and metalcore, his powerful style, and signature gear.
Jason Bittner Biography
Jason Bittner (born August 19, 1970, in Waterbury, Connecticut) is an American drummer best known for his work with thrash metal legends Overkill and metalcore pioneers Shadows Fall. His powerful, versatile drumming has made him one of the most respected drummers in the American heavy metal scene.
Bittner rose to prominence with Shadows Fall during the early 2000s metalcore explosion, contributing to Grammy-nominated albums. Following Shadows Fall's hiatus, he joined Flotsam and Jetsam before becoming Overkill's drummer in 2017, continuing the legacy of one of thrash metal's most enduring bands.
Career Highlights
- 1999: Joined Shadows Fall, New England metalcore band
- 2002: Released "The Art of Balance" with Shadows Fall, commercial breakthrough
- 2004: Released "The War Within," Grammy-nominated album
- 2005: Headlined Ozzfest with Shadows Fall
- 2007: Released "Threads of Life," continued success
- 2009: Released "Retribution" with Shadows Fall
- 2012: Released "Fire from the Sky," final Shadows Fall album
- 2013: Joined Flotsam and Jetsam
- 2017: Joined Overkill, replacing Ron Lipnicki
- 2019: Released "The Wings of War" with Overkill
- 2023: Released "Scorched" with Overkill, first album fully written with Bittner
Style & Influences
Jason Bittner's drumming combines thrash metal power with the groove and heaviness of modern metal. His playing is characterized by powerful double bass, tight snare work, and the ability to adapt to different subgenres while maintaining his distinctive sound.
Key Influences:
- Dave Lombardo (Slayer): Thrash metal foundation
- Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden): Galloping rhythms
- Vinnie Paul (Pantera): Groove-based power drumming
- Charlie Benante (Anthrax): Thrash versatility
Signature Techniques:
- Powerful, driving double bass patterns
- Tight, punchy snare work
- Ability to blend thrash and modern metal elements
- Consistent, reliable live performances
- Dynamic control across metal subgenres
Gear Highlights
Jason Bittner is a long-time Mapex Drums endorser, using their drums for both Shadows Fall and Overkill. His setup is designed for power and durability.
Current Setup:
- Drums: Mapex Saturn V (or Black Panther series)
- Snare: Mapex Black Panther Brass 14"x6.5"
- Cymbals: Zildjian K and A Custom Series
- Hardware: Mapex Falcon double pedal
- Sticks: ProMark Jason Bittner Signature 5BX (TX5BXN)
- Heads: Evans (G2 Coated, EMAD)
Setup Philosophy:
- Power-oriented setup for thrash metal demands
- Reliable, road-worthy equipment
- Zildjian K and A Custom Series cymbals for tone and cut
- Emphasis on consistent sound night after night