As a drummer I can testify that one of the most difficult things to learn is "less is more". (Guitar players, this does not apply to you either!! ha, ha) That being said, playing a smaller kit kind of forces you to play less because you simply have less, but ultimately it comes down to the person behind the drums. Molding his or her sound to the overall music and fitting in to the goal of the writer or band and understanding that the drums, most of the time, should not be out in front of the sound.

Personally, since I play a wide variety of styles, rock, folk, blues jazz, rythem and blues etc. I play a 5 piece with a single bass drum, snare, 2 ride toms, 1 floor tom, 2 crashes, 2 splashes a ride and a high hat. I also use a few add on percussion instruments, clave, tamborine, wood block etc.

This enables me to have all the tools in my arsenal to cover most musical styles. Certainly the ones I enjoy playing anyhow. Even when I play a smaller venue, I sometimes will bring my complete kit as described above, which is a bit intimidating to most people who have not heard me play. Once they hear me play however, I usually put them at ease.

Bottom line- I like having the tools in my arsenal. Walk softly but carry a big stick!!

Drummer Jim