Looks interresting. I've had every model OctaPad that Roland ever made up to the SPD20, and lemme tell ya ...... it's not easy playing like a drummer...even on pads.
I bought them as a control source for my studio to avoid the noise issue. Many great drummers love the playing surface, and the sounds are just awesome.
That Akai will let you hone your chops and do things with sticks that are more difficult with fingers,so good luck. Looks like a logical step for you, since you don't like programming by hand.
Take a few drum lessons to spark your idea factory, and go for it.
years ago, I took drum lessons to improve my bass skills. Can't hurt !