How to Sound Like Paul Mazurkiewicz — Drum Gear & Setup Guide | MetalForge

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Paul Mazurkiewicz really play blast beats with traditional grip?

Yes. Mazurkiewicz is well known for using traditional grip even on fast blast beats and single-stroke patterns, which is unusual in death metal where matched grip dominates. The traditional grip gives his snare hand a distinctive whip and is central to how he generates his speed and feel.

Does Mazurkiewicz use constant double bass like other death metal drummers?

Not as much as many of his peers. Mazurkiewicz relies heavily on hand-led single-stroke 'skank' beats and riff-locked patterns rather than constant double bass barrages. His style prioritizes groove and riff-lock over showcasing continuous double-kick speed.

What drums and cymbals does Mazurkiewicz use?

Mazurkiewicz has long played Tama drums with a punchy, articulate setup built for attack and projection, paired with bright Sabian cymbals that cut through downtuned guitars. He favors heavier sticks for power and a solid pedal feel suited to his hand-led approach.

How do I get the Cannibal Corpse drum sound?

Tune the kick for a clicky attack with heavy muffling, use a deep steel snare tuned for a powerful crack with body, and keep toms punchy. Most importantly, lock every pattern tightly to the guitar riff — the brutal heaviness comes from the drum/guitar unison, not just the tone.

Which Cannibal Corpse songs should I study first?

Start with 'Hammer Smashed Face' for the definitive groove and riff lock, then 'I Cum Blood' for skank beats and mid-tempo brutality. 'Stripped, Raped and Strangled' demonstrates tight riff-locked blasts, and 'Make Them Suffer' shows his modern precision.