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 later became Testament's touring drummer across two stints (1997-1999, 2001-2012), a tenure captured on the live album Live at the Fillmore. 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 later became Testament's touring drummer across two stints (1997-1999, 2001-2012), a tenure captured on the live album Live at the Fillmore. His versatility and professionalism have earned him respect throughout the metal community.
Career Highlights
- 1996: Joined Slayer as touring drummer, filling in for Paul Bostaph
- 1997: Left Slayer when Bostaph returned; joined Testament
- 1999: Touring drummer for Testament's "The Gathering" era (studio album recorded by Dave Lombardo)
- 2008: Testament's touring drummer during "The Formation of Damnation" era (studio album recorded by Paul Bostaph)
- 2010: Filled in for Charlie Benante on Anthrax tour dates
- 2012: Testament's touring drummer during "Dark Roots of Earth" era (studio album recorded by Gene Hoglan)
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