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.
Unlike traditional mass marketed congas or “tambores”, these drums are made from one log of wood. Many different types of wood can be used. If possible Conroad will use found wood from fallen trees.
There is no glue or staves. The drum is turned on a lathe. There is no ring or ping common to one piece shells and the metal hardware is all “overbuilt” to maintain a long lasting working order.
According to Conrad, “a typical conga drums sound is compromised by the unevenness of the staves and also the glue. A one piece shell turned on a lathe has much more even tone”. Makes sense to me!
Some people say these are the best conga’s in the world! People I have talked to agree they sound much better then any commercial products out there right now including the Lp Giovanni series. They are the same weight as commercial congas and do not crack due to a soaking of the wood in a special solution which takes out any moisture, the cause of most cracking.
I have not played these drums yet personally but I can not wait to get my hands on them and give them a full test and review. Too my eyes these are definitely some of the most beautiful drums I have ever seen! Please check the link below and see what you think.
Spirit in the Wood Drums
1095 Washington Ave, P.O.Box 244
Wycombe, Pennsylvania, USA
215-598-0188
Email Conrad
conrad@spiritinthewood.com
PLEASE CLICK ON THE BROWN LINK BELOW TO SEE A YOUTUBE VIDEO OF THESE DRUMS BEING PLAYED