Bougarabou

In modern drum circle situations, the Bougarabou also spelled "Boucarabou") is often used to back up djembes in the percussion group. They are normally played with only the hands in a standing position and have a full, deep, rich sound producing a bass melody in the total rhythm.

The Bougarabou (alternative spelling “Boucarabou”) originates from the south of Senegal and the Gambia and is used during African celebrations. The shape and the cow skin covering creates the warm and resonant sound which reminds one of the Conga. The scale of tones ranges from deep, resonant bass to the high Conga-like tones depending on how the player tunes it.