Akira Jimbo

Akira Jimbo, also transliterated as Akira Jinbo (神保 彰), is a Japanese jazz fusion drummer, best known as the drummer for the Japanese jazz fusion band Casiopea in 3 separate stints (1980-1989, 1997-2006 and 2012-2022).

Aside from his work with Casiopea, Jimbo has also participated in side projects with Keiko Matsui, Shambara, and Brian Bromberg.

Akira Jimbo began drumming at the age of 18 when he joined the Keio University Light Music Society Big Band.

He became a member of Casiopea in 1980.

During his solo career, he formed Jimsaku, a duo consisting of himself and Casiopea's bassist Tetsuo Sakurai in 1989.

He has also worked with Hiroyuki Noritake from T-Square in the drum duo Synchronized DNA.

Jimbo uses a hybrid drumming style, combining elements of acoustic and electronic percussion, which is best demonstrated in his drum videos and at his drum clinics.

By using the DTX drum triggering system, he is able to play fully orchestrated songs without a backing track.

Jimbo has assisted in the design of K Custom Hybrid Series of cymbals by Zildjian.

His drum hero is Steve Gadd.

In 1999, he won second place in the British drum magazine RHYTHM for most popular drummer.

In June 2000, he became the first Asian drummer to be featured on the cover of Modern Drummer magazine.

He appeared in the Modern Drummers Festival in 2000.

One unique aspect of Jimbo's drumming is the setup of his drums.

Using acoustic drums together with Yamaha electronic drum triggers, Jimbo is able to create a live performance with an array of different sounds.

Apart from endorsing Yamaha drums and Zildjian cymbals, he also endorses Vic Firth drumsticks.

Jimbo has claimed that every sound is triggered by himself as part of a live performance, which was true in the past, due to the limitations of the trigger system technology.

As his career has progressed, however, he now uses various sequencing programs during some portions of his performances, such as during intense drum solos or particularly difficult arrangements.

Acoustic Drums

Cymbals

Electronic Drum Trigger

Drum Sets

Signature Snare Drums