During a sold-out world tour, hard rock band Mr. Big was hit by thieves in Frankfurt, Germany, who broke into their tour bus trailer and stole irreplaceable guitars worth over $10K and a premium collection of TELEFUNKEN microphones.
Drummer Nick D’Virgilio reports that the band’s TELEFUNKEN DC7 drum pack was stolen, which included three TEC Award-winning Dynamic Series mics, as well as a frequency matched pair of small diaphragm M60 FET microphones for cymbals and overheads, serial numbers TK60 S#: 2844/2845 and 4750/4753. Also included was a large diaphragm TF11 FET Stereo Set for overheads, serial numbers: TF11 #0980 and TF11 #0981.
DiVirgilio explained, “With Telefunken microphones on my kit, I have absolute confidence that my drums will sound incredible, no matter the stage. The clarity these mics deliver captures every subtle nuance of my drums and cymbals, making life a lot easier for our front-of-house engineer.”
Four guitars stolen from Paul Gilbert included three signature guitars and a Godin electric-acoustic. He has asked fans to keep an eye out for their resurfacing. The four guitars taken include a purple Ibanez FRM300 – a Paul Gilbert signature, complete with a makeshift slide-holder on the lower horn.
Current members of Mr. Big include Eric Martin, lead vocals, acoustic guitar; Billy Sheehan, bass, backing vocals; Paul Gilbert, guitars, backing vocals; Nick D’Virgilio, drums, percussion, backing vocals.
Drummer Nick D’Virgilio is best known as a one of two drummers chosen to replace Phil Collins in Genesis on the “Calling All Stations” album. He has also done session work with artists including Tears for Fears and Mystery, and is an official member of Big Big Train.
