From birth music was engrained into Armand, which roots as deep seeded
as his Italian heritage. The only child of musicians Lisa Polito
(vocalist/bassist) and Armand Polito Jr. (lead guitarists). Armand grew up
in Southern Maine, immersed in an environment of rich musical diversity.
Armand’s parents formed a band in their early teens along with his Uncle
Gino Grassi (drummer) and Uncle Chris Grassi (lead vocalist/guitarist)
playing out well into their twenties. Armand had a natural gravitation
towards the drums, before he could talk, he tapped and pounded out his
own beat on anything he could get his hands on. Armand credits uncle
Gino for helping his parents with getting him his first kit at the age of 7; his
passion for percussion began.
Like with many aspects of his life, Armand practiced diligently with
ferocious determination. He spent hours whaling away on his kit in the
basement, under the guidance of Uncle Gino. It was a labor of love at
times for his parents, but they never complained. Instead, they nurtured
Armand’s flame, encouraging him to embrace and develop his talent, often
jamming alongside him in support. With pride Armand recalls the first song
he learned to play start to finish, Paradice City by Guns N’ Roses,
accompanied by his dad on the base.
Armand has had several projects over the years, starting out playing covers
with Crooked River Band and then Toned Out. Since then, he’s expanded
his horizons and is presently the cofounder and drummer for Black Orange,
a classic hard rock band out of Windham Maine. Black Orange prides itself
on being a collaborative effort focused on creating unique original tracks
appealing to a variety of listeners.
Armand’s style and intensity on the drums is best suited for genres like
classic/hard rock, alternative and grunge, however he’ll give 110% to
whatever is asked of him. Armand has been influenced by some true
masters of their crafts Danny Carey, John Bonham, Mike Portnoy and Neil
Perth.
Drumming is not only a deep passion for Armand but an intricate part of his
everyday life. Sharing his love for the continuous process of learning,
diversifying his style, keeping a tight pocket and drive to create new music.
Armand has thrashed kits all over New England, he’s set his sights on

conquering the rest of the US and beyond; until then he’ll be beating on his
kit in his basement.

Please send us a short Artist Testimonial:
1)       What makes Soultone cymbals different from other brands you have tried?
Soultone cymbals are unique to other brands because they are versatile in live and
studio sessions, cut through clear, projecting amazing sound and are extremely durable.

2)       What do you love about Soultone Cymbals
                -  How are they better than other cymbals?
                - Why do you think other drummers should try them?
I love the many sizes and variety of styles of cymbals Soultone offers. They are
superior to other cymbals I have used in the past due to the overall projection, clarity,
cut, attack and wash they give to any musical situation.
I believe for any drummer new or experienced Soultone cymbals are a must. You won’t
be disappointed with the enhanced sound, versatility and overall creative abilities
necessary with writing new music.
3)        How has Soultone Cymbals helped you as a drummer? How has Soultone
 Cymbals Artist Relations treated you?
Soultone has helped me immensely in creating new confidence and supporting my
passion for drumming by their ability to understand what I’m looking for in a sound.
Artists Relations have been awesome with timely communication, answering questions,
and are able to give valuable input and advice from their personal drumming expertise.
Artist Relations have been very supportive, relatable and strive to build great
relationships.