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The Istanbul Agop Mel Lewis 20" Ride Cymbal 1982 delivers a warm, dark and richly expressive ride sound inspired by the legendary jazz drummer Mel Lewis. Handmade in Turkey using traditional cymbal-making techniques, this distinctive signature ride offers articulate stick definition, complex overtones and an organic response designed for expressive playing.
The versatile 20" diameter provides an excellent balance of definition, responsiveness and tonal depth. Stick patterns remain clear and musical across the bow, surrounded by a warm, complex wash that gives the cymbal plenty of character without overpowering the articulation.
The Mel Lewis 1982 Ride is particularly responsive to changes in touch and dynamics. Played lightly, it produces delicate definition and subtle tonal textures, while increasing the intensity brings out a broader and more expressive wash. This dynamic character makes it particularly suited to players who want the cymbal to react naturally to their playing.
Rather than the bright and highly focused character found in many modern rides, the Mel Lewis 1982 has a more traditional, organic voice. Its combination of warmth, complexity and articulation makes it particularly at home in jazz, big band, fusion, acoustic music and studio environments.
20" ride cymbal
Mel Lewis 1982 model
Mel Lewis signature cymbal
Warm, dark and complex tonal character
Clear and organic stick definition
Rich, expressive wash
Excellent dynamic sensitivity
Responsive 20" diameter
Traditional hand-hammered construction
Organic, musical response
Ideal for jazz, big band, fusion and acoustic applications
Excellent for live and studio use
Handmade in Turkey
The Istanbul Agop Mel Lewis 20" Ride Cymbal 1982 is an excellent choice for drummers looking for a compact and expressive jazz ride with plenty of traditional character. Its 20" diameter keeps the response controlled and articulate while still providing the warmth and tonal complexity expected from the Mel Lewis range.
For players searching for a darker and more nuanced alternative to a conventional modern ride, the Mel Lewis 1982 offers a highly musical combination of definition, warmth and expressive wash.
As a traditionally handmade cymbal, individual Istanbul Agop cymbals can vary slightly in weight, appearance and tonal character. Want to hear this exact cymbal before ordering? Contact the Into Music team and we'll be happy to provide a sound file where available.