jazz drums

Jazz drums refers to the drum kit as played in jazz music, or to the distinctive style of drumming that characterizes the genre.

Unlike rock drumming's steady backbeat, jazz drumming emphasizes swing rhythms, brush techniques, and interactive conversation with other musicians.

The drummer "comps" behind soloists, responding to and shaping the musical moment: He studied jazz drums with a bebop master.

The term sometimes specifically means the physical kit configured for jazz—typically smaller drums tuned higher, with emphasis on the ride cymbal.