Drummer John Tokarczyk’s project PepperDome just released their second CD earlier in 2009, entitled Let’s Try the Otherside. At the moment the band are rehearsing for shows in early 2010 and working out the kinks on their new website. Amidst this, Tokarczyk took some time to chat about his drum kit -- a Yamaha Oak Custom Kit -- and more.

When I have spoken to drummers about wood I usually hear birch or maple. Tell me about oak drums; how is the tone different from other woods?

Since oak is a very hard wood by nature it tends to also have a harder, more distinct sound than birch and maple. [Oak kits] tend to have a very punchy, in-your-face, full body sound with a shorter sustain. When hit they have a very sharp attack that has a strong presence, but they also sound full and warm at the same time. They also are some of the loudest drums I have ever heard, which works great at gigs in small venues.

Beyond the wood itself, tell me about the drums -- the workmanship, the general feel, and why you like them. Why do they work in your music?

Yamaha has made a very solid drum that also looks great. I love how the mounting system (YESS, Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System) not only allows the shell to resonate freely but was designed with visual proportions in mind. In comparison to other drums I have owned, I have found that these drums stay in tune for a long time. Although I do check the tuning before every gig, I hardly ever have any major adjusting to do. I tend to lean towards natural wood finishes and have to say the York Honey Amber Oak finish is simply beautiful. Unlike some drums, these are simply classy and impressive in both construction and look.They work for PepperDome because they have their own unique sound which is perfect for the music we play. They also clearly cut through the music during live performances. Plus they add a touch of class to the stage.

Is there a "type" of drummer or a genre you think these drums will appeal to most?

I think they can be used anywhere, but they really fit well with Rock, Hard Rock and Metal music simply because of their attack, punch, and volume.

Compare these -- tone, construction, look etc -- to other drums you have used or that you considered getting?

Other companies do build a solid drum but the sound is really what sets the Yamaha oaks apart from everyone else. Since they are the only oak shells on the market, that makes them very distinct and special.

What is the best single thing about this kit?

They sound amazing.

You use a Gretsch Renown Maple snare with the Yamaha kit. Tell me how this snare complements the kit? Why did you pick it?

The snare is like a drummer’s fingerprint. It is usually a very distinct part of the kit. This decision was more based on a feeling I had while trying snares out in the store. That drum just sang to me. It’s warmth and power is a perfect compliment to the Oaks. You can never go wrong with a Gretsch snare.