# What's In Matt Garstka's Kit: The Jazz-Fusion Meets Progressive Metal Arsenal

> Discover Matt Garstka's complete drum setup — the Pearl Masterworks kit, Meinl Byzance cymbals, and signature gear that power Animals as Leaders. Complete breakdown of the modern prog pioneer's equipment.

**Type:** Kit Breakdown
**Drummer(s):** [Matt Garstka](/llms/drummers/matt-garstka.md)
**Band / Album:** Animals as Leaders
**Genre:** Progressive Metal / Djent

## Overview

Matt Garstka represents a new paradigm in heavy music drumming. Where previous generations relied on raw aggression and speed, Garstka brings Berklee-educated jazz sophistication to the world of djent and progressive metal. The result is drumming that's simultaneously technical and deeply musical.

Born April 27, 1989, in Westfield, Massachusetts, Garstka began drumming at age 5 and was performing professionally by his teens. After studying at Berklee College of Music, he joined Animals as Leaders in 2012, replacing Navene Koperweis. His first album with the band, "The Joy of Motion" (2014), immediately established him as one of the most important drummers of his generation.

What sets Garstka apart isn't just his technical ability — it's his approach. He uses traditional grip in a genre dominated by matched grip players. He prioritizes dynamics and ghost notes in music that often favors wall-to-wall intensity. He makes 7/8 feel as natural as 4/4.

His educational presence has made him one of the most studied drummers of the modern era. Through Drumeo, YouTube, and international clinics, Garstka has shared his approach with millions, influencing how a generation thinks about progressive drumming.

This article breaks down every piece of gear Matt uses to achieve his distinctive sound — from his Pearl Masterworks kit to his extensive Meinl Byzance cymbal setup.

## Gear Breakdown

- **Drums:** Pearl Pearl Masterworks Maple (Custom Natural Maple / Black (various configurations) finish)
- **Snare:** Pearl Pearl Matt Garstka Signature Snare, 14" x 5"
- **Cymbals:** Meinl — Meinl Byzance (Multiple lines)
- **Hardware / Pedals:** Pearl Demon Drive Double Pedal; Pearl Demon Drive Hi-Hat Stand; Pearl Roadster D-3500 Throne; Vic Firth Matt Garstka Signature
- **Heads:** Remo Ambassador Coated or Evans G1 Coated (batter), Remo Ambassador Snare Side (resonant)
- **Snare tuning:** Medium tension for balance of sensitivity and crack

### Matt's Pearl Masterworks Setup

Matt Garstka's drum setup reflects his jazz-influenced approach: smaller, more responsive drums that prioritize articulation over raw power. Unlike many metal drummers who favor massive kits, Garstka uses a relatively compact four-piece configuration that forces musical creativity.

The 20" bass drum is notably smaller than typical metal setups. This size provides quick attack and clear articulation — essential for the intricate kick patterns in Animals as Leaders' music. Where larger bass drums might produce muddy low end at fast tempos, Matt's 20" speaks clearly at any speed.

The rack toms (10" and 12") and floor tom (14") are sized for responsiveness rather than volume. Masterworks maple shells deliver warmth and projection, while the smaller dimensions mean faster decay and tighter overall sound.

Pearl's MasterCast hoops provide additional focus and attack, crucial for the precise tom work in songs like "Physical Education" and "Tooth and Claw." Every drum in Matt's setup serves a specific musical purpose — there's no redundancy.

This minimalist philosophy extends to his entire approach. Rather than adding drums, Matt adds complexity through technique: ghost notes, dynamic variations, polyrhythmic layering. The kit is a vehicle for musical ideas, not a display of excess.

### The Signature Snare

Matt Garstka's signature Pearl snare drum embodies his musical philosophy: sensitivity and expressiveness over brute force. The 14" x 5" maple shell is shallower than many metal snares, designed for quick response and a wide dynamic range.

The snare's unique bearing edge — developed specifically for this model — allows exceptional sensitivity for ghost notes while maintaining crack for backbeats. This dual nature is essential for Garstka's playing style, where whisper-quiet ghost note patterns transition instantly to powerful accents.

Maple construction provides warmth and body, avoiding the harsh brightness that can make detailed ghost note work muddy. The shell speaks clearly at any dynamic level, from the softest grace notes to full-force rimshots.

The 5" depth keeps the fundamental pitch higher and the response faster than deeper snares. This suits the articulate, jazz-influenced patterns that characterize Matt's playing. Every stroke is distinct; nothing blurs together even at extreme speeds.

For heads, Matt typically uses Remo Ambassador or Evans G1 batters — medium-weight heads that balance sensitivity with durability. The resonant side usually gets a thin head to maximize snare wire response.

This signature snare has become popular among drummers seeking to capture Matt's detailed, dynamic approach. It proves that metal drumming doesn't require massive, thunderous snares — precision can cut through just as effectively.

### Meinl Byzance: Dark Complexity

Matt Garstka's cymbal setup centers on Meinl's Byzance line — hand-hammered cymbals known for their dark, complex character. Unlike brighter, more aggressive cymbals favored by many metal drummers, Byzance cymbals provide warmth and musicality that suit Matt's dynamic approach.

The 15" Dual Hi-Hats are crucial to Matt's sound. The "Dual" designation indicates two different finishes (brilliant and raw) combined for complex overtones. These hi-hats respond beautifully to both light stick work and aggressive playing, delivering clear articulation for intricate patterns while maintaining musical warmth.

The Extra Dry Thin Crash (18") exemplifies Matt's unconventional choices. Where most metal drummers want explosive, sustaining crashes, Matt prefers quick decay and papery attack. This allows for faster crash patterns without wash buildup — essential for AAL's dense arrangements.

The 22" Sand Ride is perhaps Matt's signature cymbal. Its dry, articulate stick definition and complex, controlled wash have made it one of the most popular rides among progressive drummers. The "sand" finish (raw/unlathed) contributes to its unique voice.

Stacked cymbals provide the trashy, short effects that punctuate modern prog metal. Matt's stacks cut through without overwhelming sustain — accent tools rather than wash generators.

Overall, Matt's cymbal choices prioritize control and musicality over raw volume. Every cymbal serves a specific purpose in his dynamic vocabulary.

## Key Facts

- Berklee College of Music graduate with jazz fusion background
- Joined Animals as Leaders in 2012, transforming their sound
- Uses traditional grip — unusual in progressive metal
- Pearl Drums and Meinl Cymbals endorsee with signature products
- One of the most influential drum educators of his generation
- 20" bass drum — smaller than typical metal for articulation
- Four-piece configuration prioritizing creativity over size
- Masterworks maple shells for warmth and projection
- MasterCast hoops for focused attack
- Setup designed for dynamics and responsiveness, not raw power
- Estimated kit value: $4,000-6,000 (Masterworks Maple configuration)
- Estimated snare value: $400-500 (signature model)

**Source:** https://metalforge.io/articles/whats-in-matt-garstkas-kit

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*Last updated: 2026-06-16 · Source: [MetalForge.io](https://metalforge.io)*