Anika Nilles Lunar Ride & Lunar Hats
Meinl Lunar Ride & Lunar Hats – Anika Nilles' Signature Cymbals, Debuted with Rush
When Rush took the stage at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles to open the Fifty Something tour, a new drummer sat behind the kit: Germany's Anika Nilles, formerly of Jeff Beck's band. The reception was overwhelming – fans and critics alike praised her playing. That same night, two brand-new cymbals made their live debut: the Lunar Ride 22″ and Lunar Hats 14″, developed by Meinl together with Anika herself.
These are no afterthought. The cymbals took shape over several months of work between Anika and Meinl's R&D team, with one clear goal: to hold together in a dense arena mix without losing warmth and musicality. That challenge shaped the weight, the bell and the whole voice of each cymbal.
Lunar Ride 22″ – built to cut through the mix
The Lunar Ride is an extra-heavy ride with a massive bell. The added weight gives a focused, controlled tone that carries even at the highest volumes, while the bell delivers a distinct, penetrating attack that pushes through a packed arena. Despite the weight, it keeps a warm, deeply musical character – this isn't just volume, but a ride you genuinely want to play melodically.
It's cast from B20 bronze, with Anika's own engraved artwork across the surface. As she describes it herself: a ride that speaks completely, as rich and luminous as a full moon at its peak.
Lunar Hats 14″ – a powerhouse hi-hat
The Lunar Hats 14″ is a heavy hi-hat with real authority. It delivers a crisp, energetic chick and powerful projection that stays clear even in loud settings, while keeping a warm, full-bodied core tone. Hand-hammered B20 bronze, a traditional finish and a narrow lathe give it a controlled, mid-bright voice with medium sustain. In short: a hi-hat that holds its place in the middle of the mix and doesn't disappear when everything else kicks in.
Limited edition and collector appeal
Both models are serial-numbered in a limited run – 2,112 pieces each. The number is no coincidence, but a deliberate nod to the Rush classic 2112. Each cymbal is individually engraved and numbered, making them as much a collector's item as an instrument. These are cymbals equally at home in the studio and on stage.
Price and availability
The Lunar Ride and Lunar Hats arrive in stores in September 2026. Pricing hasn't been confirmed at the time of writing, but details are coming soon. You can, however, pre-order right now – securing your piece from the numbered run before it sells out.
