Bougarabou

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.

In modern drum circle situations, the Bougarabou is often used to back up djembes in the percussion group. The Bougarabou can be played as a single drum or in a set of up to four and are normally played with only the hands in a standing position.

Percussionists seeking a rich bass melody will choose this drum over a djembe. Combine this with a didgeridoo and you'll be deep in the bass line!

Bougarabou are a cousin of the djembe, with a very distinct and mellow soundscape. V-line shaped shells are skinned with cow hide, producing typically rich and melodic tones. You’ll find unique drums from Ghana, Ivory Coast, Mali and Banfora region in Burkina Faso in a range of timbers.