X8 Drums Blog

They say that great things come in small packages, and that may be especially true when it comes to hand held musical instruments. Hand held and hand percussion instruments are fun and fascinating, especially considering that each one represents the unique culture from which it evolved into the products we see today. In this light, the kalimba is a phenomenal example of a truly unique instrument that packs a powerful, musical punch, even as it adds a bit of whimsy and nostalgia to the songs we l …

Learning to play a new instrument is always exciting. When the time comes to buy a new instrument, being sure that the instrument is the best fit is vital to the experience of playing music and adds motivation to continue to learn and grow as a musician. Ask any musician, drummer or percussionist how he or she feels when an instrument isn’t “right,” and it is clear to see that when buying a new drum, the decision is ultimately about the connection to the instrument, and not necessarily the visua …

With all of the different sounds in traditional African music and drumming, it can be confusing to know which drums create the different harmonic tones, especially when the sounds can be so similar as the drums vary in size, shape and design. For the novice or beginner drummer, determining which drum is the best for their needs is a process that can only happen through trial and error, by listening to the different sounds that each drum produces and deciding which sound, t …

The life of a drummer is a journey of music, rhythm and the chance to experience new and different drums and gear. Drum manufacturers love the ability to promote a product through the hands of a talented drummer, but, getting drum endorsements can be a tricky goal to achieve. As a great way to bring a performance to the next level, getting a drumming endorsement is a milestone in any drummer’s career… and, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love free stuff? Often times the ability to get drumming end …

“Hafla” is the Arabic word for a get-together, whether religious, ceremonial, or just families and friends. While Haflas can be very diverse, there is one thing in particular Haflas are known for: belly dancing. Belly dancing has gained a lot of popularity over recent years for being a fun and interesting way of self-expression and to stay in shape. This art form has a long history within Middle Eastern culture. While many modern dancers experiment with music choices, the traditional music for b …

The many benefits of drumming are rarely lost on anyone looking for a fun and expressive hobby. A drummer, whether on a drum set, a djembe drum or cajon drum has the opportunity to cultivate talent in music and rhythm and expand the mind through a simple (or complex) beat. With all of these perks, it’s no wonder that people are looking to start drumming. Still, there is a distinct hesitation in the face of family, friends or other drummers. So, how does a novice drummer take the leap and find t …

Whether from an injury, or a battle with chronic pain, there are many reasons that people turn to alternative treatments in order to increase wellness in their lives. Living with pain can cause stress, depression, anxiety and a loss of focus on the things that matter in life. Finding a way to manage or cope with pain can be a struggle in itself, exacerbating the issue with pain and creating situations that “snowball” drastically. However, there is promise in the activity of drumming for those se …

Like hula hooping to stability balls, drumming’s reputation as a fun and beneficial way to lose weight, gain strength and increase coordination is growing. Drumming can burn up to 270 calories per hour, and involves fine and gross motor dexterity. It is a bilateral workout that not only gives a physical boost, but also provides beneficial stress-reducing effects in the brain. An aerobic exercise, drumming provides a cardiovascular workout that can also increase core strength …

As a drummer or someone interested in drumming, some of the most versatile sounds and rhythms can be found in a set of bongo drums. These easily portable drums pack a wide range of tones and are perfect for an even wider range of drum and music styles. Whether a fan of a hot Latin beat, or to add some pop into rock or jazz music, the bongos can bring a certain flair to the entire experience of a song, jam session or drum circle. Learning these amazing drums is an experience i …

Thought of as the world’s oldest instrument, the didgeridoo is not only an icon of Australian culture, but an instrument that has been touted as a health and wellness tool for both the didgeridoo player, as well as those exposed to the unique sound of this instrument. When it comes to the didgeridoo, people are fascinated by the low, droning hum of the instrument and its long shape. More than that, the actual method of circular breathing required to play the didgeridoo ca …