Tropical Hammer Steel Drum Crafters

This was a very interesting experience.

I had two drums that needed tuning, limited time, and the closest tuner was three hours away. I was under stress. I called Tropical Hammer and spoke to Tom Reynolds and was immediately put at ease. Tom is extremely approachable and warm. I explained the distance that I was driving and I wanted to see if it was going to require a hotel stay or if I could get same-day service. He told me that I could "drop it off, enjoy lunch, then pick it up" for one trip total. I could already tell that I was dealing with a nice person vs. a cold company.

Driving into the place, it was very neat to see the full-size drums outside that Tom later explained that his son was making into instruments. After leaving my car I was greeted with the sounds of a drum being tuned behind Tom's Door. Tom met me warmly, and I was very surprised when I asked Tom if I could watch him work, and he said "Sure" with a smile. (It's really something else to see a guy whacking your beloved drum with a ball-peen hammer). My drums were absolutely singing when I left.

Okay, here's where it gets really cool - As Tom worked, I noticed the walls had a poster with a band from St. Croix. I asked about it, and Tom pointed himself out and spoke of how he came to learn the drum in that country. A few interesting stories then followed. There were also different pans around the room and one pan in particular I have been interested in hearing (the bored pan), and Tom played it for me upon asking, and explained the differences.

Bottom Line-If you need a drum tuned - Tom is the real deal expert tuner. He's very reasonable, and I feel lucky to have had him tune my drums. I would highly recommend. Ten out of ten.

Absolutely amazing place and wonderful percussion masters who brought back to life my hangdrum! Thank you so much!

Wow, what an awesome experience. Mr Tom transformed my ol frying pan into a work of art!
He finished my pan much quicker than I expected and at a price I could afford, plus I had several phone conversations with Tommy Rey and he is a gentleman in the first degree. From the coast of Georgia... thank you Tom !

I recommend 1000%! Very knowledge and brought my tenor pan back to life after sounding like an old Crix pan..lol Tom really knows his stuff. GREAT price as well!

Tom was great. Tuned up my pan and it sounds fantastic. Great work at a great price. Glad I found him.

If steel drums(steel pans) are your thing? Don't hesitate to visit Tropical Hammer. They can repair, make and tune any steel drum. This is definitely one of a kind shop!

Tom is a great guy! He provides quality service and is an expert at his craft. Thanks Tom!

Very talented artist with a true carribean history!

Tom and his son make great sounding pans.

The website is good. Just found it and from what I've seen it's good.