Part athlete, part devotee, the performers of this ancient Japanese drumming art completely commanded everyone’s attention with their unique sound and energy. It was impossible to pass by without being drawn into the beat, and many stopped in their tracks for at least a song or two.

The large main drum is made from African hardwood. One performer commented that it had finally come home to raise its voice at the Parliament of the World's Religions, held at the great continent's southern tip.

The music is intense and called to a deep part of the soul that is seldom touched.

In some ways it is like a dramatic summer storm. It can start softly and sound almost melodic.

Then you are tossed around in the turbulence of passing sheets of rain. Thunder crashes and the wind howls.

In the end you feel a catharsis and serenity.