Headhunters, the drumsticks with the groove, began in 1993. The Canadian company may be relatively unknown among drummers but their products are quite prolific. At 2015's NAMM Show in Anaheim, California next month, Headhunters will debut with four new nonretractable wire brushes: the patent pending Cyclops, Dreamcatchers, Rhino, and Saber-Tooth.
Wire drum brushes were first invented in 1913. After 100 years of very little changes to the concept of wire brushes, Headhunters have redesigned the concept.
The company brings us some of the most unique modern brush designs today. Each of the four new models incorporates an atypical beater such as polycarbonate rods and nylon hoops.
Dreamcatchers Dreamcatchers incorporate an adjustable nylon hoop and a traditional nonretractable wire brush. The hoop is expandable or can be retracted back into the handle. The hoop can be played in the up side or down side position. The percussionists will notice the ease with which a simple back beat can be realized when adjusting the 'hoop' in size. The nylon hoop helps compress the wire brush filaments into the drumhead more readily and the outcome produces a 'fat back beat' and a faster rebound, characteristics that elude the traditional wire brush. By merely flipping the brush over, a beautiful cymbal tone can be achieved; normally a wire drum brush produces a 'wash sound' from the cymbals. With Dreammcatchers both a focused cymbal 'ping' sound and/or the traditional wash sound of a wire brush are all within easy reach.
Cyclops The new wire brushes Cyclops incorporate an adjustable polycarbonate rod with an adjustable bead and a traditional non-retractable wire brush. The rod is centered above and over the wire brush fan. The rod can be adjusted in length and height by adjusting the O rings. The bead can be set to a position along the rod. The purpose of the bead and rod are to provide a focal point as desired. These added materials are extremely light and incredibly strong with very fast response and memory flexibility. They do not encumber the function of the traditional brush.
Rhino The Rhino wires incorporate an adjustable polycarbonate rod and a traditional non-retractable wire brush. The rod used in the Rhino is heavier and stiffer than that of the Cyclops and there is no bead. When rod is engaged in or impacted on rims or cymbals the sound it very distinct. The larger rod has incredible reflex and therefore its rebound is extremely fast. Many other esoteric effect sounds can be achieved by scratching the polycarbonate into the coated head.
Saber-Tooth The Saber-Tooth incorporates two adjustable rods with beads on either side of the brush fan of a traditional non-retractable wire brush. This is the loudest in the group of Headhunters' unique brush ideas. The rods can be individually adjusted in length as well as each bead positioned to get the exact sound qualities the music demands.
The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $28 USD.
