How to Sound Like John Longstreth — Drum Gear & Setup Guide | MetalForge

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is John Longstreth and why is he significant in death metal?

John Longstreth is an American drummer widely regarded as one of extreme metal's fastest and most technically accomplished, known for his work with Origin, Angelcorpse, and Skinless. He's credited with pioneering double-stroke bass drum technique and the one-handed drum roll within extreme metal, and has driven Origin since 1999 across six studio albums.

What gear does John Longstreth use?

Longstreth is a Pearl-endorsed drummer (specific model undocumented), playing a fully documented Meinl Classics Custom Dark cymbal setup (8" splash, 14" hi-hats, 18" china) plus a Generation X Trash Hat, driven by ACD Unlimited bass drum pedals with FootBlaster triggers and his own Scorpion Percussion "Wee Heavy" signature sticks.

What is John Longstreth's double-stroke bass drum technique?

Longstreth is credited with pioneering a double-stroke bass drum technique that generates two distinct strokes per single pedal motion, rather than the single-stroke pattern most double bass playing relies on — pushing blast beat speed beyond typical physiological limits, alongside his innovation of the one-handed drum roll.

What tempo should I practice at to sound like John Longstreth?

Practice toward the 240-280 BPM range that defines his fastest blast beat work, but start by isolating the double-stroke bass drum motion at a much slower tempo before building speed — Longstreth's own instructional DVD, "Drumming of a Madman," breaks the technique down the same way.

What other bands has John Longstreth played in besides Origin?

Longstreth co-founded Angelcorpse in 1995 and drummed for Skinless in 2003. He's also done extensive session and touring work for Dying Fetus, Dim Mak, Gorguts, Unmerciful, Codex Ritual, Exhumed, and The Red Chord, including filling in for Hate Eternal on their November 2018 US tour.