Drumming. Chanting. Billowing red costumes. Remesha Drums paraded into Olympic Plaza, 50 lb. drums on their heads, as hoards of onlookers stared. The group pounded out forceful and elaborate rhythms, trading off in a circular pattern. Three microphones helped to amplify the already thunderous drumming and accompanying vocals. As much athletes as artists, Remesha Drums ran, kicked, danced, and jumped (often a distance of 5 feet separating drummer from pavement), awing the crowd with their dexterity. Audience members were invited into the circle to dance to the Burundian drumming, engulfed by the whirlwind of music around them. Definitely a sight to remember, these Burundi musicians took our breath away and we are thrilled to have them joining us again at the Friday, August 13 “Music: Power and Purpose” Symposium and the Saturday, August 14 festivities at Prince’s Island Park (www.afrikadey.com/festival/events.html)! Were you at Olympic Plaza? What did you think of Remesha Drums? Fill out the “Leave a Reply” section to say your piece!
