The Big Beat-Down

Watched the astonishing performance of the Wadaiko Yamato Drums last night at the PETA Theatre in Quezon City. An amazing show: incredible showmanship, infectious humour and enthusiasm, virtuosity of the drumming and massive, massive percussive force.

In other words, when you can feel the blood in your veins throbbing in time with the drumming as if overjoyed over hearing your heartbeat echoed throughout your body... Well, what more can you ask for?

The Wadaiko Yamato is one of the hottest Taiko groups in Japan and is known for its percussive force and spectacle. Founded by Masaki Ogawa in 1993, Yamato combines traditional Japanese musical formats with modern rhythms and themes. The Wadaiko Yamato Drummers are based in Nara Prefecture, the ancient capital of Japan. The name "Yamato" has special significance for this group. In the eight century, Japan was known as Yamato and Nara was the city where Japanese culture is believed to have started. (press release link)

Catch them tonight at the Riverbanks Center in Marikina City for free. It's their last night to play in Metro Manila before they fly to Cebu to play at the Ayala Center on January 14.