Eschewing the massed ranks of percussionists so beloved of Rio style samba, samba reggaerelies on a stripped down drum only instrumentation in imitation of the sound of reggae. The basic set of drums for an afro-bloco is shown below . Often these are supplemented by Timbals a high pitched conga style instrument.

The whole band plays with one heartbeat, with each drum part though seemingly different, coming together adding to the unity of the beat and the unique feel of the music.

Caixa (Snare, Caisse Claire)

Rumba clave and off beat rhythms form the basis of Samba reggae, other variations are progressions from these. The caixa gives the upper-range of sound; the ‘white noise’ that makes up for having no ganzas or chocalhos – shakers that are present in “ Rio style” Samba Batucada. The caixa is the drum that can play with the most nuance and expression, whilst playing a killer groove!

Repinique (Rep, Hep)

Played with two flexi / whippy sticks. This drum helps to call in the breaks and provide a ’double layer’ of clave to add to the caixa. Probably 90% of the patterns played by the caixa and the repinique are the same. The difference is the sound made by the two sticks, lightening loud and like popcorn going off…

Dobra (Cortador, Deux baguette)

The mid-range sound, the melody drum. This smaller version of a fundo, played with two beaters, is unique to samba reggae. The shell of the drum is shallow and is increasingly being used by all styles of samba bands simply because they are easier to process with. The dobra has a particular pattern for each of the pieces, the offbeat pattern featuring regularly, creating the reggae feel. The dobra plays complex patterns of drumming that combine space and notes.

Fundo / Surdo (Bass drum, Marcacao)

The pulse and heartbeat of every samba band. Each drum is played with alternating beaters. Fundo 1 (Primeira) is tuned low and played on the first beat, fundo 2 (Segunda) is pitched higher and replies with the second beat. These ‘book-ends’ with their energy and insistent driving rhythm, push the beat forward and provide a solid base for other patterns from other sections to be wrapped around.