Alan van Kleef uses stainless steel as the primary material for the hoops, lugs and shells, he produces drums that are as unique in appearance as they are in sound.
Van Kleef is a musician-turned-builder. His career started in the 90's, drumming live to Drum & Bass DJ's at various events in the UK and Ibiza, then soon after, running his own recording studio in London. From his current Sheffield home workshop (where he's resided since 2010), Van Kleef crafts custom snare drums and full kits from materials such as stainless steel, aluminium, copper, titanium and an vast selection of exotic wood veneer finishes., the sound is so distinctive that VK Drums have become 'must-have' instruments in the arsenals of influential artists including Steve White, Thomas Lang, Matt Chamberlain, Matt Cameron, Dre "Energy" Boyd and many, many more.
Van Kleef's creations are designed to have the look and feel of a vintage instrument with the added appeal of metal construction. His patina copper technique involves leaving the copper drum shell exposed to the elements (along with other secret ingredients) for several months, allowing it to corrode before treating it to stop the corrosion. He then finishes it with a clear satin coat.
Many of the Van Kleef models feature a laser cut air hole logo instead of a normal badge. You can have pretty much any custom design cut into the shell, or any design laser etched onto the snare strainer.
Mike Dawson - Modern Drummer Magazine:
Adam Jones - Rhythm Magazine:
Van Kleef Custom Snares
VK 14x6.5'' Stainless Steel Snare Drum
VK 14x6.5'' Stainless Steel Snare Drum
VK 14x5.5'' Titanium Snare Drum
VK 14x5.5'' Titanium Snare Drum Available to order
VK 14x6'' Copper Snare Drum
VK 14x6'' Copper Snare Drum Available to order