Drum Overheads — A Stereo Pair Or Cymbal Spot Mics? | Production Expert

In a recent conversation among the team we were discussing what the thinking was behind the apparently common practice of using a spaced pair of cardioid mics, often facing inwards, as a pair of overheads on drums? If the idea of a pair of overheads is to capture a stereo picture of the whole kit, rather than be cymbal mics, then exactly what is this arrangement trying to achieve and where does it come from?

Good examples of how to capture a drum kit. Lots of examples and clear discussion.