There are 3 styles of the Rumba Guáguánco pattern: this one originates from the Cuban province of Matanzas (to the east of Havana). “Rumba” is a Spanish term for a gathering of musicians, singers & dancers (what West Africans refer to…

Chris sent this track to me earlier today with the request that I add some percussion to it. I had something different in mind. After the first take I was afraid to return it to him, fearing that he would convert it to 23 edo or something…

The berimbau is a Brazilian instrument associated with Capoeira, which is a Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, sports, and music. It was created in Brazil mainly by descendants of African slaves with Brazilian native…

The island of Cuba was a Spanish possession for almost 400 years (1511-1898). The land-owning elite held social and economic power, supported by slaves, both indigenous and of South American and African descent, until slavery was abolished…

And then came a lion... Conga / Harmonica (key of D) improvisation. 4/4 90bpm

Here's proof. Proof that things are a bit mysterious in my studio. Late last night my Bass Cajon all of a sudden decided to start accompanying me on its own - without me touching it. At first I thought that some apparitional bass player had…

I couldn't resist crossing swords with Alex on this deft song of his which left me quite touchéd! *Inspired in part at least by accidental meat on meat.* Here's the original track.

Ilesa is a city located in the south west of Nigeria. This is a traditional rhythm pattern of the same name - but I'm not sure of the significance of the name. I played on 3 congas, accented with bell clave, block and cowbell, of course…

At a recent charity event held in my small town's train museum, I was admiring a massive brass train bell when the curator walked up to me. I commented that a bell would really rather be heard then seen, and he agreed. I offered to digitally record…

This spooky track utilizes the "Paulstretch" program to stretch recordings of gongs, chimes and bells to 8.04 times their native length: no other effects were made to these acoustic recordings other than to stretch them. The gongs utilized are…