Brandon Blake, a musician, educator, and animal rights activist, showcased a unique musical showcase on Facebook Live during the NAMM 2021 "Believe in Music" week. He demonstrated his versatility with a variety of instruments from the We Play Well Together collection, including Hokema Kalimbas, Metal Sounds Tongue Drums, feeltone Monochords, and Tinka Tongs, alongside his electric bass and live looping techniques. Brandon's approach is innovative, especially his technique with the Hokema Kalimba Sansula, where he simultaneously taps the drumhead and manipulates the metal tines with precision, even retuning on the fly with tiny magnets for instantaneous scale changes.

His live looping sessions create immersive soundscapes that merge the dulcet tones of kalimba, the rhythmic beats of tongue-drums, and the ethereal drone of monochords with deep bass grooves, crafting richly textured musical experiences that resonate on multiple levels. Beyond his musical talents, Brandon's energetic positivity and playful spirit serve as a reminder of the joy and spontaneity of embracing life's "bonus time"—the precious moments we're afforded to live with purpose and passion.

Brandon extends his musical explorations through weekly Facebook Live sessions and by hosting "The Kalimba Campfire" on Clubhouse, inviting all to join and share in the communal joy of music-making. For those interested in connecting with Brandon's work or joining his musical gatherings on Clubhouse, more information is available at his website, www.bonustimemusic.com, showcasing his innovative music and inviting others to explore their own creative expressions within the vibrant community he fosters.

Diving into the craftsmanship behind Metal Sounds' handpans and Zenko tongue drums in the South of France, this video offers a peek behind the curtain of meticulous care, artistry, and technical precision. It showcases the process from hammering and laser-cutting to tuning, capturing the essence of Metal Sounds' commitment to passion, integrity, and quality.

Featured are captivating performances, including contributions from the eclectic Canadian band Walk off the Earth, demonstrating the Spacedrum's versatility in various musical settings, from solo acts to classical ensembles. The video is a testament to the creative potential of Metal Sounds instruments in the hands of artists, inviting viewers into a world where music transcends boundaries.

This 30-minute showcase is a journey through the workshop's inner workings to the global stage, illustrating the Spacedrum's role in pioneering compositions and artistic projects. It's an invitation to explore the possibilities of adding a Spacedrum to your collection, with Metal Sounds offering a range of tunings to match any musical inclination.

"This particular handpan by Metal Sounds is one of the most beautiful that I've personally played before!" - Todd Boston, January 2021

Want to know how to record a handpan?

 

Stillpoint for the Solstice: A Gathering for Sound, Movement & Meditation

THE QUIET MIND

JOURNEY TOGETHER INTO THE SOUND

AND SILENCE

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Todd Boston, demonstrates the difference between a spacedrum Nitro and a spacedrum Evolution.