Craig Jenkins, drummer for Toronto punk band Spitfire, got totally cucked last night when he just sat and watched as three other bands used his drum kit.
“When Stixx (drummer of hardcore act The Voidtones) approached me after our set I was pretty hesitant,” explained Craig. “But he said that it would save a lot of time and everyone would have a more enjoyable evening if I shared. I know Stixx OK and I thought … well maybe just this once. I was totally unprepared for what happened next.”
As the band started up their set, Stixx began violently working over the tom-toms with his extra long drum sticks using lightning fast speed and techniques Craig had never even seen before. By the time the Voidtones finished their first song Craig’s kit was covered in sweat. To make matters worse as the band started their second song Stixx spit beer all over the cymbals.
“I wanted to stop it but I didn’t know what to do,” said Jenkins. “I had technically agreed, and I didn’t want to ruin anyone’s good time, but I would never abuse my kit like that. I’m surprised it could even take that pounding.”
After The Voidtone’s set, Bobby from Razorback just assumed it was OK if he took a turn on Craig’s kit too.
“He didn’t even ask me,” said Craig. “When I finally worked up the nerve to say something everyone just told me not to be so uptight.”
By the time Razorback finished their set Craig was drinking heavily at the back of the venue. When headlining band Next Year took the stage and also started in on Craig’s set he mumbled quietly to himself then didn’t speak for the rest of the show.
“Look, it’s not like I’m going to love my kit any less, but those other drummers left a dent in the bass drum and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t mad. Every time I look at the dent I’ll remember what happened tonight and that’s going to be difficult. For any other drummers out there thinking about sharing your kit I’d just say know what you’re getting into and set up clear boundaries beforehand.”
Photo by Craig Jenkins