Alan van Kleef is a modern-day metalsmith who is carving his own niche in the world of custom drum builders. From his home workshop in Sheffield, England, van Kleef builds snares and kits from various metals such as copper, titanium, stainless steel, aluminum, and magnesium. He aims to emulate a vintage aesthetic using a modern approach, using metal as a means to expand the tonal colors of the drummer’s palette.