The Hipgig shells are made from a 7-ply sandwich of high quality birch and mahogany. Toms and snare drum come equipped with Remo Ambassador Coated batters, the bass drum with Remo Renaissance PowerStroke-3s. This combination supplies plenty of attack alongside control and body. The snare drum is suspended rather than placed on a normal stand, resulting in an extra liveliness and a huge cross-stick sound. The bass drum is fitted with our special floating bass drum system, which enables the bass pedal beater to strike centre for maximum punch. The exceptional 22” depth gives the bass drum a cavernously deep sound, which is further amplified by raising it off the floor.

Because of the larger drums the hardware set-up has been slightly modified from the standard Hipgig. So there are now two separate CS641 cymbal stands which allow the use of bigger cymbals and wider variation in positioning. Like the standard Hipgig, the snare and two tom toms are stored inside the hinged bass drum during transport, then mounted off it when set up. But instead of the canister throne the Al Foster Hipgig has a normal drum stool. This and the other hardware pack easily into the supplied soft carrying bag. To add further distinction, the Al Foster Hipgig has its own sharp ‘jazzy’ finishes: Jaguar and Gold Marine Pearl, along with the more traditional White Marine Pearl.

While setting up and breaking down in five minutes is obviously a big attraction, the Hipgig also displays all of the craftsmanship and sound quality that has made Yamaha a worldwide professional's choice. The Hipgig is perfect for the busy gigging jazz drummer. But, with its larger sizes, the Al Foster Hipgig is a versatile kit which will find a place in almost any style of music.