John Blackwell Signature 'Jia' Chinese Cymbal from Sabian
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(Click for a close-up) |
January 22, 2003
SABIAN's latest addition to its Signature collection of personalized cymbal sounds is the John Blackwell Jr. Jia Chinese model. Available in 18" and 20" sizes, the Jia Chinese is unique in that it has a lathed flanged edge but no bell. Aside from the flange, which readily explodes with dark and trashy accents, the rest of the cymbal is unlathed, with its thicker, raw bow area putting out a flat ride-like response of dry and definite sticking with deep and dark undertones. John 'Funky' Blackwell, who plays with the artist once again known as Prince is renowned for his flashy showmanship and features the Jia Chinese extensively in his performances, positioning it behind himself and playing it in an over-the-shoulder move that has become one of his trademarks.
Commented Blackwell: "I was looking for a very dark, trashy sound... something a trashier than the typical china cymbal. SABIAN gave me a flat-top prototype years ago, and that was the start of what has become the Jia. What impressed me most about making this cymbal was the many ideas and different versions they made for me to try out. It was such a big choice that it was hard to decide which version to go with! I named the cymbal after my daughter, Jia Kennie Blackwell. Jia means mercy, will and love in Japanese."
Commented SABIAN master product specialist Mark Love: "John was very specific about the need for more 'trashiness' in the sound. Our experience with creating Signature models for everyone from Mike Portnoy and Chester Thompson to Will Calhoun and Tony Verderosa means we're pretty adept at creating specific designs. Every concept is a challenge, but our team definitely has the unique skill to create cymbals with virtually any sounds. John's Jia Chinese is, like his nickname, definitely 'Funky'."
Fully handcrafted from SABIAN secret process B20 bronze, the Signature John Blackwell Jia Chinese is available in Natural and Brilliant Finish, and is quality protected by SABIAN's One-Year Warranty.
For more information, visit their web site at www.sabian.com. |
