I've been working on some new charts and listening to Louie in the process. I'd noticed that his cymbal sound, especially his ride, was different from many other big band drummers (Lewis, Rich) and decided to look up what he used (say, from the late 70's through the 90's, or late 80's). Unfortunately there is no information I've been able to find that documents what he played - the Zildjian configurator doesn't work for him, and his own website has no detail at all. I seem to recall he used 14" New Beats (heavy bottom) and I remember a Zildjian 'A' Ping Ride, but that's all I can recall, and I think he used two different rides on his set. And I have no information on his crash or special-effect cymbals, swish, china, etc.
Would anyone have more information of what he used, sizes, weights, layout etc.? I'm just amazed I can find nothing online about this. Photos don't give me much information.
My reason for asking is I'm evaluating adding or changing some cymbals in my 'base' layout, and I'm curious as to where his sound was in relation to other heavyweight big band drummers, specifically Buddy, Mel, Jake, and Nick Ceroli (who I've been listening to recently with the Bob Florence Limited Edition). Thanks! -Rick
