Djembé man 
(Photo credit: MrFaber)
No, it’s not a physical ailment, but I’ve got it; I’ve been bitten by the hand drum bug. [Oh, BTW, that isn't me in the photo]
Last week, I purchased a custom-made Djembe, which is an African hand drum, and began lessons with a world-renowned Conga/hand-drummer who recently moved near to me from the UK. He is originally from Cuba, and grew up playing the Afro-Cuban rhythms.
I have to admit that I was caught off-guard by the subtleties that are involved in the hand positions of the various strikes. The techniques are so meticulous, and yet they flow when you watch a pro. He doesn’t hit hard, but the amazing tone comes out anyway.
I love the instrument. I never thought I would enjoy spending an hour playing a bass beat, alternating hands, working to ensure that I could not tell any difference between the sound of one hand over another. It is a lot harder than you might think!
Anyway, as any of you know who have attended “drum circles,” the effect, (when done correctly with a passion, not just a bunch of folks banging on drums; power comes through a purposeful pulse), is profound, primal, raw, hypnotizing and healing; The heartbeat of the earth.
This particular Djembe was carved from a single mahogany tree, from a government grown and controlled forest in Indonesia, so no part of the tropical jungle was harmed. Eco-friendly I guess you could say. It’s big and “bassy,” too, standing about 26″ high with a 13,” goatskin head, (traditional for the drum).
Anyway, I’ve got “Djembe Fever,” and I’m likin’ it
Many Blessings To All…
LOTD
