So... last week I declared war on the neighbours. Well - unofficially. They have no idea about my declaration yet, but I have a feeling they'll find out soon enough.

Yup. I bought myself a drum kit. It's actually been a secret desire for about the last 35 years. I have spent too many days and nights playing finger drums on tables all around the world, and the joints in my fingers are really starting to complain, so thought it was about time to actually take the plunge. After seeking permission from the missus, of course. And at $130, it wasn't a huge expense, but I am hoping it was worth it. Believe it or not, it's actually a good kit, although the cymbals might argue with the assessment. A little rust on some of the chrome ware,  but the shells in good nick. Couple of dollars on some new skins and scrounging around a few mates for some spare parts, and I'm hoping it should be workable in no time!

Just not sure whether to start with a basic acca dacca rock bash for my first hit out, or whether I should learn the finer points of 16th note triplets or the relationship between paradiddles and the latest jazz beats in 5/4 timing. Oh, and stick twirling. All good drummers now how to twirl the sticks. I am sure there are youtube tutorials on that one. Will have to mark that down on the to do list.. For now, though, elbow grease is the order of the day - working the steel wool and Brasso to try and get this thing in order. Ready for my big reveal to the neighbourhood. I am sure they are waiting with baited breath.