Jon Dette Drum Kit & Gear Setup — Slayer & Testament Touring Drummer | MetalForge
Jon Dette (born August 25, 1967, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin) is an American drummer known for his work as a touring and session drummer with several major thrash metal bands, most notably Slayer and Testament. Dette served as Slayer's touring drummer during 1996-1997, filling in when Paul Bostaph was temporarily unavailable. He also toured with Testament across two stints (1994-1995 and 1997-1998) — the first after John Tempesta's departure, the second covering live dates after Gene Hoglan's first stint ended — never recording a studio album with the band. His versatility and professionalism have earned him respect throughout the metal community.
Complete biography of Jon Dette, touring drummer for Slayer, Testament, and Anthrax. Thrash metal's go-to fill-in drummer.
Jon Dette Biography
Jon Dette (born August 25, 1967, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin) is an American drummer known for his work as a touring and session drummer with several major thrash metal bands, most notably Slayer and Testament.
Dette served as Slayer's touring drummer during 1996-1997, filling in when Paul Bostaph was temporarily unavailable. He also toured with Testament across two stints (1994-1995 and 1997-1998) — the first after John Tempesta's departure, the second covering live dates after Gene Hoglan's first stint ended — never recording a studio album with the band. His versatility and professionalism have earned him respect throughout the metal community.
Career Highlights
- 1994: Joined Testament as touring drummer after John Tempesta's departure
- 1995: Left Testament; Gene Hoglan joined for his first stint
- 1996: Joined Slayer as touring drummer, filling in for Paul Bostaph
- 1997: Left Slayer when Bostaph returned; rejoined Testament as touring drummer after Hoglan's first stint ended
- 1998: Left Testament before Dave Lombardo arrived to record "The Gathering" (1999)
- 2010: Filled in for Charlie Benante on Anthrax tour dates
Style & Influences
Jon Dette's drumming style is characterized by technical precision, adaptability, and the ability to faithfully replicate complex drum parts from multiple bands.
Key Influences:
- Dave Lombardo (Slayer): Thrash metal foundation
- Gene Hoglan (Death): Technical proficiency
- Paul Bostaph: Precision and consistency
Signature Techniques:
- Rapid adaptation to different band's playing styles
- Powerful, consistent double bass playing
- Professional approach to maintaining original song integrity
Gear Highlights
Jon Dette has used various drum setups throughout his career, adapting to each band's requirements.
Typical Setup:
- Drums: Ludwig Classic Maple (Slayer era, twin 22" bass drums)
- Snare: 14"x6.5" metal or maple snares
- Cymbals: Sabian or Zildjian
- Hardware: DW 9000 or Tama Iron Cobra double pedal
- Sticks: Promark or Vater 5B