X8 Drums Blog

Every parent wants to help their child learn and grow to be the very best they can be. Recent studies show that music lessons, especially percussion lessons, can help children develop the skills they need to succeed. Learning to play the drums can help a child develop communication skills, improves behavior, and can even help them succeed in all areas of academics. Getting a child musically involved through drum lessons can be a way to introduce them to a world of music and a lifelong h …

“Busy” is the buzzword of today, between work and family and the pursuit of happiness, we are all trying to keep motivated and get it all done. Unfortunately, being busy all the time can lead to stressful living, and many people just can’t figure out how to break the cycle and still keep the motivation going in a positive, beneficial manner. Imagine, however, during those stressful times of life, having the ability to take 10 minutes off to reset your mind and body without medication. W …

A cajon drum is the epitome of “fun in a box,” especially where hand drumming and percussion is concerned. These drums keep popping up in the acoustic performances of favorite bands, as well as in drum circles and other community settings. Cajon drums may best be known as percussion instruments for Flamenco music, which is why it is perhaps so much fun to “dress up” a cajon drum with accessories. After all, what is Flamenco music without the proper look of its popular dancers? Cajo …

Encouraging a love of rhythm and music in a child may be the first image of what beginner drummers need to succeed, yet, age has nothing to do with exploring drumming and rhythm. Kids often represent the potential of the future, but, they are not the only beings able to learn a new hobby, especially drumming. Adults aren’t often considered beginner drummers, perhaps because the majority of drums and percussion instruments seem to be sized correctly for the average adult, or maybe …

You finally took the plunge and hit up a drum circle with a friend… and you were hooked. You were part of the rhythm, the community of drummers, and you were even able to sample a few different drums and hand percussion instruments. You are so in love with the drum circle vibe, you know you have to go back again, and again. Obviously, your next step is to buy your own drum, but, how do you choose which drum will best express your inner groove without breaking the bank? Choosing yo …

Awesome djembe demonstration of Naningo African Rhythm an X8 Red Black Ashiko Drum. Performed by NY/NJ percussionist and instructor, Dion Rivers. Djembe drum used in this recording session is the Ashiko Freedom Drum by X8 Drums. …

Percussion is the most vital element of African music. In African cultures, the beat of a drum is used to relay a message in what many understand as drum languages, or talking drums. Different African cultures use ordinary household items as instruments which developed into a wide variety of percussion instruments that we know today. One of these instruments is the Udu. The udu drum originated from the Igbo people of Nigeria. Unlike other percussion instruments, the udu drum was in …

African dance's popularity is due in large part to the involvement of djembe players. African dance is a means of creating community and of celebration. African dances teach people about their society and morals, while urging them to work and entertaining them. It is an important aspect of communication, as dance can be used to chastise or praise individuals. Dance is also used for religious festivals and prayers. Traditional dance emphasizes the collective, with groups of people …

The heart and tradition of African music is the drum. The original purpose of the drum for the people of Africa for communication between tribes. The type of drum used and rhythm played sent specific messages between neighbors. Three African drums with beautifully rich history are the sabar, kpanlogo and the most widely used today -- the djembe. Each one of these drums has its own song and story in African history. The most popular of the African rhythms are played upon the dje …

In the August issue of Downbeat magazine you'll find a great review of the new Toca Freestyle Djembes in Antique Gold and Silver. Below, we have included a copy of the piece as well as a transcription. Toca Freestyle Djembe: Full-Bodied Satisfaction Toca Percussion has retooled its award-winning Freestyle djembe - a chaliced-shaped, single-headed hand drum with roots in the West African countries of Guinea and Mali. Instead of employing the traditional method of carving …