Akira Jimbo is a leading figure in the Japanese music scene. He started playing drums in college and was a member of the Keio Light Music Society, the school's 18-piece big band. He first gained international recognition playing with Casiopea and has maintained a high profile in the area of solo work. He is a very innovative drummer and a really approachable, funny, and nice guy. Akira is sponsored by Yamaha drums, Zildjian cymbals and uses his own Vic Firth "Akira Jimbo" signature drumsticks. What sets him apart from other drummers is how he incorporates Yamaha electronic drum into his acoustic set forming a hybrid kit. This enables him to trigger, in real time, loops and backing parts which he plays along with. He started the clinic with a Michael Jackson medley which was truly amazing. I will be adding pictures and videos from the clinic, links to more information about Akira and You Tube videos. So stay tuned. The clinic was held at Rainbow Guitars in Tucson, Arizona which is one of my favorite music stores. The clinic was sponsored by Zildjian and one of my students won the door prize, a Zildjian A Custom 16" Medium thin crash. I would highly recommend attending any clinics that come to town. For information on Rainbow Guitars upcoming clinics sign up for their newsletter. FREE VIDEO LESSON The prolific and versatile Japanese drummer, Akira Jimbo, talks about some Steve Gadd's licks.