Mimic'ing? yup, definite factor...

as is power. I don't notice a big power advantage on my snare using matched grip but on the 'stretches'... the toms where I really have to reach then yes, definitely.

Just an aside.. this is meaningless, silly, but never the less I always feel a little 'pride'? not sure that is the right word...when I see a current drummer using conventional grip... today they are the 'outlaws'.