How to Sound Like Jocke Wallgren — Drum Gear & Setup Guide | MetalForge

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Jocke Wallgren's drumming style unique?

Wallgren's defining trait is groove-first support — his double-bass gallop and kick patterns track Amon Amarth's guitar riffs exactly rather than running as independent technical showcases. Combined with a huge, anthemic backbeat and genuine dynamic control between the band's quiet folk-tinged passages and explosive choruses, his playing makes the band's Viking-themed anthems hit with maximum physical weight.

What drums and cymbals does Jocke Wallgren use?

Wallgren plays a Pearl Reference Pure kit with a Pearl Reference Brass snare for a bright, cutting backbeat. His cymbals are Zildjian A Custom & K Custom — bright A Custom crashes and hi-hats paired with a warmer K Custom ride. He uses a Pearl Demon Drive double pedal and heavier Vic Firth 5B sticks for arena-level power.

How do I get the Amon Amarth drum sound?

Tune the kick for punchy, defined attack rather than boom, keep the snare bright and minimally muffled for cut, and prioritize locking every kick pattern to the guitar riff before adding fills. The Viking gallop only works when it's rhythmically identical to the riff it's supporting — practice transcription before speed.

When did Jocke Wallgren join Amon Amarth?

Wallgren joined Amon Amarth in 2016, replacing longtime drummer Fredrik Andersson, and made his studio debut on Jomsviking (2016). He has since recorded Berserker (2019) and The Great Heathen Army (2022) with the band.

What Amon Amarth albums should I study for drumming?

Jomsviking (2016) is Wallgren's debut and establishes his gallop-driven approach — start with 'First Kill' and 'Raise Your Horns.' Berserker (2019) shows his dynamic build-and-release structure on 'Crack the Sky.' The Great Heathen Army (2022) is the most refined version of his setup and technique, especially on 'Get in the Ring' and 'Saxons and Vikings.'