X8 Drums Blog

Drumming is a creative expression of one’s personality, emotions and a love of music that can reach into the hearts and souls of the audience or drum circle members. Even the most experienced drummer, however, can reach a point where inspiration is needed, and may wish to add new rhythms, drumming styles or performance techniques into an already stellar repertoire. When it comes to finding a new spark to drum, it can be as easy as following the beat of other drummers to g …

For many, music is an expression of emotion that is both personal, and can affect the lives of those listening. Through this basic belief in the power of music, an instrumental bridge, lyrical phrase or rhythmic expression can easily help to change a person’s mood or outlook. Many researchers study the effect of music on the brain, especially when it comes to disorders related to stress, anxiety or neurological issues such as Parkinson’s disease or Autism, trying to impro …

Most people understand the basics of how music can be used to treat various health and wellness concerns, particularly those where the mind is at the center of the issue. Disorders like chronic stress or anxiety, depression and insomnia can be particularly affected by the use of music, but what research has shown is that the benefits of using the brain’s own music can make great strides in reducing the impact of these wellness concerns.Brain wave music therapy is the pro …

Right now, in the cultural mecca that is Austin, Texas, an annual event is taking place that has been called, “life-changing,” by participants and “of the most influential happenings on the annual cultural calendar,” by CNN. South by Southwest, or SXSW brings together people from across the world for music, technology, art and so much more. But, perhaps, most importantly, is the presence of drummers and musicians throughout the event. Today kicks off SXSW’s music showcase …

The snow and cold temperatures are slowly changing into sunny days while the signs of spring are peeking through the earth. Much like the changes of the season indicate a new cycle has begun, many drummers are beginning to feel the familiar urge to get back into some serious drumming. These are the drummers that may have used the colder weather to practice in a more private manner, or who were unable to drum as much during winter due to holiday obligations or just the slo …

Everywhere you go, there is a rhythm that surrounds you. The songs on the radio or your iPod, the pace of your steps as you grab lunch or enter a classroom, the stop-and-go traffic pattern that signals your late arrival to work, again, are all measured reminders of the presence of the rhythm of life. These rhythms illustrate more than the string of activities experienced throughout a day, but also bring a sense of comfort and peace in the regular pace of life that continues …

Some believe that there is an instinctive connection between women and rhythm that is both mysterious and tangible. Women have long been part of musical celebrations throughout the world, bringing a mystifying essence that speaks directly to the hearts that are beating in time to the music. It is this connection to rhythm and drumming that has inspired groups of women to join together in celebration of the essence of femininity as can only be expressed through the beauty …

Belly dancing is an ancient form of dance that can be attributed to many cultures around the world. Sometimes thought as a “peasant dance” within different countries, belly dancing can highlight the traditions and values of a culture, era and the dancer him or herself. With the popularity of belly dancing on the rise, several traditions have grown out of the basics of the dance, bringing a wide variety of belly dancing styles to celebrations, haflas and gatherings. Most b …

Conga drums may be best known for the sound and image presented in 50’s television, or their appearance in various Latin festivals, concerts and performances around the world. However, the congas are some of the most versatile drums on the market today, and can be seen and heard in a wide range of music around the world. The snap and pop of the congas can accentuate even the hardest-hitting rock or metal song, or increase the soothing and peaceful vibe of jazz. Conga drum …

Learning music and rhythm is a process that requires time, dedication and the talent to pull it all together. Whether playing piano, saxophone, guitar or Djembe, most people are unable to pick up an instrument and begin playing it with a virtuoso touch. Instruments typically require a gradual pathway toward their mastery, beginning with basic rhythms, notes or a combination thereof. With any world drum, learning the traditional rhythms for the drum can not only help with the …