X8 Drums Blog
X8 Drums Staff Review of the Gretsch Marquee Drum Set
Matt from X8 Drums took some time to demo and talk about the Gretsch Marquee Drum Set, a brand new offering from Gretsch. After playing a couple of songs and getting a feel for the kit at Wunder Studios in Austin, TX, Matt is confident in saying that the Gretsch Marquee Drum set is currently the best value drum kit that Gretsch offers. It has a solid sound and a professional look that any drummer will appreciate.
The Gretsch Marquee Drum Set features an 8-inch tom, a 10-inch tom, a 12
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8th Sep 2019
A Note About African Djembes
Like the trees in a forest or the individual crafting a djembe by hand, traditional djembe drums are beautiful in the imperfections they hold. Understanding the history and culture of the djembe drum is as important as understanding how to play it, and it is this history and culture that is reflected to this day in the sight and sound of all traditionally-made djembe drums.
When it comes to buying a traditional djembe, understanding the process of creating these instruments is im
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25th Jun 2019
How to Tune Your Djembe
Due to the delicate nature of the materials used in a Djembe, it is
normal for the drum to need periodic maintenance and tuning in order to
produce its best sound and keep the drum in top form. If a Djembe
begins to sound dull when played, it is probably time to tighten the
head. The wood and skin of a Djembe are vulnerable to various weather
conditions and handling problems that can occur through regular use,
storage or transportation.
Tuning Djembe drums is more
tha
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24th Jun 2019
Key Tuned vs. Rope Tuned Djembe
There are essentially two types of tuning systems found on most djembe drums - key tuned and rope tuned. To help you make a more informed decision when selecting your new djembe, I will discuss each type of tuning system and touch upon some of the differences.
Key Tuned Djembe
Key tuned djembe drums tend to have a more modern feel and are tuned using a wrench to tighten the bolts around the djembe head. They are also known as 'mechanically tuned' or 'bolt tuned'. The distinguishin
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23rd Jun 2019
How a Djembe is Made: Wood Source & Lathing (Part 1 of 2)
Do you play the djembe? If you don't, you will want to! Having and playing an authentic handcrafted djembe, or introducing one to your own collection, is great fun!
At X8 Drums and Percussion, hand drums are our passion! Each environmentally-friendly, handcrafted djembe drum we build is a genuine masterpiece of design and makes an exciting conversation subject!
Originating in West Africa over a 1,000 years ago, the
djembe is played by hand using your fingers and palms. This
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23rd Jun 2019
How to Tune a Djembe
Learn how to tune your rope tuned djembe. In this lesson you will get step by step instructions on how to create diamonds with the extra rope on your drum in order to tighten the drum head. Understand what a tuned djembe should sound like and get advanced instructions on how to create a second row of diamonds for drums that need extra tightening. Lastly you will learn how to wrap the extra rope around your drum once you finish tuning. Instruction by Kenya Masala.
Features
Unde
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27th Nov 2018
Developing the Pulse: the Natural Beat of the Drummer
Some people have it, some people don’t: a pulse. No, that’s
not true, everyone has a pulse, but
not everyone knows that.Of course, we’re speaking rhythm, not your actual pulse… but
that’s a good place to start. If you put your hand on your heart, your neck or
wrist, you can easily feel your heart beating, or your pulse. Even just sitting
around, you can probably sense the beat of your heart as it rhythmically
nourishes your body and mind. Your pulse, the beat of your heart, is a reminder
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27th Mar 2018
NEW LP Raw Instruments
LP Raw delivers a completely new concept in percussion for percussionists!
Get the thunderous punch and explosive power of Street Cans and upcycled trash can lids that make the LP Raw instruments a must-have for beat masters everywhere.
LP Raw 14 in. Street Can
LP Raw 16 in. Street Can
LP Raw 18 in. Street Can
LP Raw Jangle Bell
LP Raw Sound Enhancer Jingle
LP Raw Sound Enhancer Shaker
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14th Oct 2017
Cajon Inspiration
Makarito Nicasio exudes groove in his extended cajon solo / jam on the Meinl Artisan Cajon. Watch his video and pick up some new moves for your next performance! Cajon from the video: Meinl Artisan Mohena Cajon
13th Oct 2017
Why and How to Play Didgeridoo with "Didge Man" Omid Aski Laridjani
Omid Aski Laridjani discusses the origins of the didgeridoo and how to get the most out of your playing.
The didgeridoo comes from the northern part of Australia. Many different tribes use this instrument for the same purpose; to connect to the energy and language of mother earth. The didgeridoo enables you to follow any rhythm like a shadow.
Highlights from the video:
1:17 The instrument is played by buzzing your lips and that creates a drone sound. To get started
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7th Jul 2017