Tag: percussion
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Solo Now, Learn Later. What Is A Djembe Solo?
Solo now, learn later! Beginning drummers often ask me or write in with the question, how do they express themselves and their inner rhythm on the djembe drum with in the traditional west african rhythm context? When playing traditional rhythms almost always, beginning drummers want to learn to solo at once. They want to move… Read More »
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Getting Real With Our Drumming
It Takes All Types! I met with a very old friend today, one of the first people I ever drummed with back in the early 70’s and some one who has inspired and encouraged me in the past as well. We were on the beach talking to some kids from Sweeden and he was telling… Read More »
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One on One Interview with Ryan Manito Wendel of Manito Percussion
As you may all already know, or if you have seen any of my videos or posts, I am a huge fan of the Manito Percussion solid shell one peice congas, bongos and natural drum skins. As a matter of fact, I have a set of Maple Ambrosia congas and also his black walnut bongos,… Read More »
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Giovanni Hildago, Zakir Hussain, Karamba Diabate And Our Group Rhythm Addicts, A Night To Remember
Last night was the celebration of the late Olatunji’s birthday. I am not sure how old he would have been. He was a man who changed my life and helped inspire me as well as countless others in the field of percussion and beyond. I was grateful to be part of an evening of celebration… Read More »
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PM Percussion: An Interview With Drum Builder Peter Musser
I recently went to the studios of Peter Musser in Petaluma, California to see what exactly he was up to and I was blown away by the incredible drums he is making! Anyone considering an “artisan” conga, a conga drum or set of congas from an individual craftsman, should definitely check out Peter’s work. Here… Read More »
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The Best Djembes: Professional Level Djembes And Where To Buy them
If you are in the market for a djembe drum you are faced with a huge variety of choices. There are djembes made in Africa, Bali and many different parts of the world. So what is the best djembe for you, for your needs and where do you get it? Which djembe drum should you… Read More »
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The Ten Best Bongos On The Market Today
Who makes the best top quality high end professional Bongos? In my opinion it is almost always the smaller companies where there is one person in charge, personal attention to detail is foremost and the goal of the artist is more about making a solid great sounding instrument then being a mass marketed production line… Read More »
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Gon Bops Rawhide Shekere Test Review
I recently got a hold of a Gon Bops Shekere as I was traveling and needed something very durable to withstand the rigors of my lifestyle. I would like to note that I also make Shekeres myself, but I always use hard shell gourds. The problem is that for me, gourds and traveling about do… Read More »
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Conga Skin (conga heads) and Djembe skins suppliers list
Here is a list of skin suppliers. I am sure there are some other suppliers but this will give you a great start if you are looking for some new skins for your conga drums or djembe drums. If you have any suppliers you would like to add please let me know and I will… Read More »
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The Ten Best Conga Drums, The Best Congas On The Market Today
It is amazing how few reviews there are on conga drums out there new or used. And many people think that the best drums made are from the major manufacturers such as L.P., Mienl, Toca and such. So today we will show you some solid alternatives that I am sure you will find eye opening… Read More »
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“Spirit In The Wood” conga drums, made from one log of wood. Worlds Best?
These are the new “Spirit In The Wood” brand conga drums. Made by an artist and musician in PA.,USA named Conrad. He has been building hand made drums for over 30 years and even the late great Baba Olatunji requested and played one of Conrad’s special drums. Read More »
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New How To Play Djembe on line (downloadable) Djembe and West African drumming Lessons now available!
My latest instructional series on how to play the djembe and west african drumming styles is now available for easy downloads at X8drums.com. This easy to follow tutorial series features easy to follow instructions, over the shoulder shots and special slow motion sequences to make your learning experience easier and fun! Please check it out… Read More »