Drumming News :
Pearl believes that music should be accessible to everyone. This philosophy guides our ongoing commitment to supporting musicians of all backgrounds and abilities. As an instrument maker, we strive to break down barriers and create new opportunities, ensuring that the joy of making music is open to all.
-The Hammer-
Pearl artist Andrew Tkaczyk of the band The Ghost Inside lost his right leg in a tour bus accident, yet remained determined to return to the stage. Inspired by an idea from his father, Pearl developed an innovative bass drum pedal known as “The Hammer.” Designed to be played without a prosthetic leg, it offers a more comfortable and responsive playing experience. This project reflects our belief that the passion to play music has no limits.
Through innovation, collaboration, and compassion, Pearl will continue to create instruments and solutions that empower musicians and bring the world closer together through music.
Andrews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/illgrip
Pearl’s Promise : www.pearldrum.com/en/sustainability
The Back Story
On November 19, 2015, metalcore band The Ghost Inside faced a life-altering tragedy when their tour bus was involved in a head-on collision with a tractor-trailer along U.S. Highway 180 near El Paso. The crash claimed the lives of both drivers—Gregory Hoke and Steven Cunningham—and left all passengers on the bus with severe injuries. Among the most seriously affected was drummer Andrew Tkaczyk, who suffered multiple traumatic injuries and ultimately lost his right leg. Other members, including vocalist Jonathan Vigil and guitarist Zach Johnson, endured extensive surgeries and long recoveries.
In the immediate aftermath, the band canceled all touring plans and began a difficult, highly public recovery journey. Despite the devastating physical and emotional toll, their determination never wavered. Tkaczyk’s return to drumming—using a customized setup—became a powerful symbol of resilience. Nearly four years later, the band made a triumphant comeback performance at the Shrine Auditorium in July 2019, marking one of the most remarkable returns in modern heavy music. Their 2020 song Aftermath further reflected on the accident and recovery, cementing their story as one of perseverance in the face of extraordinary adversity.
