Hybrid Theory: Abe Cunningham of Deftones
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Hybrid Theory: Abe Cunningham of Deftones

Hybrid drumming blends acoustic and electronic elements. Abe Cunningham of Deftones and tech Ed Davis explain their approach to the style. All photos courtesy of the artist

5 mins read
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Hybrid drumming fuses the traditional acoustic drum set with the latest digital percussion technology, enabling players to perform with the electronic sounds and processed textures that drive modern music styles. Since 2003, Roland sampling pads and acoustic triggers have revolutionized this style, and they’re regularly used everywhere from indie gigs to arena stages.

Instruments like the SPD-SX PRO make powerful partners for hybrid drummers, allowing them to incorporate loops, one-shot sounds, and melodic phrases into their musical universes. Every drummer has a unique story about their approach to blending traditional and electronic elements. Abe Cunningham of Deftones and his tech Ed Davis discuss their backgrounds, current gear, and hybrid drumming experiences.

The Backbeat

Where does your story begin?

“I started playing drums when I was seven. My first musical connection and memory was playing along to The Beatles Magical Mystery Tour LP. I was into Ringo, Stewart Copeland, and David Robinson from The Cars. From there, I just dove in and started listening to anything and everything I could get my hands on.” 

ABE CUNNINGHAM 

“I met Abe back around 2006 when we were doing some of the same festivals in Europe. A mutual friend contacted me around 2016 and asked if I would like to jump into the hot seat. Being a fan of the Deftones since the ’90s, and Abe being such a loveable, charismatic dude, it was a no-brainer.”

ED DAVIS 

The Mashup

What does hybrid drumming mean to you?

“Hybrid drumming to me is total freedom, joy, and limitless options. Growing up in the ‘70s and ‘80s was a transformational time for recorded drum sounds. Being able to mesh traditional sounds with what was happening in early hip-hop and electronic music at the time was very exciting to me.”

ABE CUNNINGHAM

“The concept of hybrid drumming to me is essentially the opening of a new world with no boundaries. It stems from the simple foundation of where we start as drummers: our hands and feet. As time evolves and technology advances, we can introduce these technological advancements in tasty ways.” 

ED DAVIS

Spotlight: SPD-SX PRO

How does the instrument shape your hybrid style?

“I started using an SPD-S around 2003-2004. Currently, I’m using SPD-SX PRO as a standalone unit, but also running a few external triggers and pads into it. I will definitely be messing with more hybrid options and smoothly trying to blend some of my recorded sounds with my live kit.”

ABE CUNNINGHAM

“Abe incorporated the SPD way before my time. We have recently added a Roland RT-30H on his side snare in conjunction with the SPD-SX PRO. Before, it was just the SPD-SX. He uses it mainly for added effects and blended snare sounds from the albums.” 

ED DAVIS

Hitlist Highlights

When do you use the SPD-SX PRO in the show?

“The SPD-SX PRO is my spice cabinet. It’s used all throughout our set—from running intros and outros and adding real-time delays and effects to signature sounds that I’ve sampled from our album. I can also add extra flavor with sampled fun bits we add on the fly.” 

ABE CUNNINGHAM

“’Prayers/Triangles’ is a big one. Abe starts that tune on the SPD-SX PRO. There are some samples that I will surprise him with that he will freestyle in the show. I can’t speak much about those hidden gems. You have to go to the live show to witness those magical moments.”

ED DAVIS

Forward Motion

What does the future hold?

“We just finished our last shows of the year. We’re going to enjoy a little downtime and start tossing some new ideas around to see what we can cook up. Being able to add many different textures and elements to our music over the years allows me to continue on my lifelong hybrid drumming quest.“

ABE CUNNINGHAM

“I’m sure next year will be filled with an overwhelming number of musical adventures. Whatever it is I know what I will have it illuminated right by my side.”

ED DAVIS
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Ari Rosenschein

Ari is Sr. Manager, Brand Storytelling Copy and Editorial for Roland. He lives in Seattle with his wife and dogs and enjoys the woods, rain, and coffee of his region.

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