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Drums

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Surdu

Surdus are the heartbeat of every samba reggae band. Each drum is played with alternate beats. Surdu 1 is tuned with a low sound and plays in the first beat, Surdu 2 is tuned a little higher than the previous one and responds with the second beat. The heartbeat is the rhythm and conduction of energy, it pushes the rhythm forward and provides a solid foundation for the other patterns. The surdu players maintain the rhythm of the other members.

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Dobra

The Dobra is smaller in diameter than either of the surdos. It plays a mid-range tone and hits on the syncopated rhythm. The Dobra interacts with the Surdos and Repis to create some of Batala’s signature rhythms. These drums often lead the band's choreography.

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Repinique

The Repinique (also known as Repi) is a small, high-pitched drum played with flexible plastic sticks. The repinique is responsible for Batala’s fastest and most complex rhythms. Always accompanies the song melody with the dobra drum, with a series of dry and cutting sounds. Thanks to playing with two sticks, it has greater flexibility and marks the majority of changes.

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Caixa

The Caixa is a traditional snare drum worn low around the waist. Referred to as the engine of the band, the Caixa line maintains a constant rhythm beneath all of the other drums, driving the band's energy.

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