Caixas

There are many people who believe a drum is simply a drum – that one is the same as the next. These people, of course, are completely wrong. The complexities and little details involved in different drums help tell stories and bring your rhythm to life, and no two are alike. For proof of this fact, you need look no further than at a caixa. To the untrained eye, a caixa drum might be just another snare, but that could not be any further from the truth. The caixa, or caixa de guerra (meaning "war box"), is traditionally used in the Brazilian style of Samba music. Its distinct sound can characteristically be heard echoing through the streets of Rio de Janeiro while people dance during Carnival. The caixa features traditional style snares, often made from guitar strings. What helps set it apart is the use of a single set of snares, as opposed to multiple sets, giving it a punchy, bright sound. When choosing a caixa drum, you need to think about size, as different sized drums are better suited for different styles. Smaller caixa are great for taking on the go. If you are planning on playing on the street during festivals, or just for fun, then a Meinl Caixa is a viable option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more stationary drum, a traditional caixa, with an extra deep body and strong resonance, is an equally quality option. When it comes down to it, it is all simply a matter of preference. Regardless of your choice, you are going to love the captivating rhythms you can create on your caixa. Whether you are learning a whole new style or just trying to integrate some new rhythms into your existing kit, a caixa is an exciting drum that is worth checking out.